Choosing a Home Inspector
While there is no formal licensing of home inspectors, reputable companies adhere to the rigid standards of practice established by the National Association of Home Inspectors. Many other associations impose standards as well. Our standards are published on this site.
Qualified inspection companies will provide a sample report to substantiate that they abide by industry standards. One of the key standards is that ethical inspectors neither perform repairs nor refer clients to repair companies (thus avoiding a conflict of interest). Obviously, inspectors who make repairs on homes they inspect are more likely to 'find' defects.
Once you have arranged for a home inspection, plan to accompany the inspector for the entire procedure. You have the right to be there, and leading home inspection companies will encourage your presence. Being there helps you to better understand the findings in the report, and will reduce post-closing hassles. Don't forget your list of questions and items of concern. A thorough home inspection covers more than 1,000 items-everything from foundation to roof-and takes two to three hours, depending on the size of the property. The report should reflect the condition of about 400 items.
To help you choose a qualified company that will conduct a thorough inspection of your property and provide you with an objective report on the condition of yor home, call several candidates and ask the following questions:
- Do you follow NAHI standards of practice?
- Are you willing to supply me with a sample report?
- Are you a full time home inspection company?
- What other home services do you offer?
- May I attend the inspection?
- How much time will the inspection take?
- When will the report be ready?
- Do you perform repairs on items you inspect?
- What will I receive with the inspection report?
- What will be inspected?
- How much will the service cost?
- Do you provide an inspection agreement which defines the scope of the inspection?
Also ask if they offer other benefits (such as repair manuals, maintenance guides, continued availability to answer questions), and will they provide a refund if you are not satisfied with their work. When you receive sample reports, ensure they are thorough, easy to understand, and narrative in format. How do they compare with reports sent by other companies? How do their fees compare with those quoted by competitors? Remember, you get what you pay for.