Finding a Home Inspection Professional

It's like finding any professional.

Recommendations Top the List
But that's not all you need.

You want to start with recommendations from people who have used the person before. However, be wary of inspectors recommended by the seller or seller's agent. You want someone who will be there representing you, not the seller. It pays to look around.

Credentials
They are critical!

Be sure to check credentials. Some states require licensing, others do not. If your state does, check it out. Make sure the license is current and that the inspector is in good standing. Look for professional certifications to add credibility. And look for membership in a professional organization like ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors).

What to NEVER Do...
If you want to protect yourself, your home and your wallet!

Do not hire an inspector who also performs repairs or works with someone who does. There is too much room for conflict of interest in this situation.

Tips for Hiring Success

Use this list as a guide:

• Interview several candidates and ask a lot of questions.
  
  
• Find out if the person is a fulltime inspector. Or does he hold down another job too?
  
  
• Ask what other home services he provides-this will help weed out the conflict of interest.
  
  
• Ask if he carries errors and omissions insurance to cover liabilities. Professional companies will have some type of liability insurance.
  
  
• Ask what will be inspected and make sure it is a complete list.
  
  
• Ask if an inspection agreement will be provided that defines the scope of the inspection.
  
  
• How soon will the report be ready once the inspection is complete? o How much will it cost? Prices vary from area to area, but usually range in the $250 to $500 range for typical homes.
  
  
• Will the inspector provide a refund if you are not satisfied with inspection itself, not the results?
  
  
• Will the inspector recommend additional tests, such as termite, radon, etc.? And, if so, will he be able to recommend or arrange such tests?

Since you are looking to this person to provide detailed information about your prospective home, you want to be sure he is reputable and trustworthy. Take the time to make some calls and check inspectors out before you have the inspection. You will be happy you did in the long run.

What About Hiring an Attorney?

Next step: What it takes to find a good one.

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