The Home Inspector
Qualifications.
Ask open-ended questions about the inspector's training and experience as it relates to home inspections. The inspector should have some training in construction and building maintenance standards and a track-record of experience in the home inspection business. Depending on the location and age of the home, you may need to hire an inspector who's qualified to deal with asbestos, lead-based paint or other potentially hazardous substances. You may also need to hire a geologist or structural engineer. Your inspector should not hesitate telling you additional inspections are recommended.
Scope.
Ask the inspector which components of the property are and are not included in his or her inspection. Will the inspector check out the roof? How about the swimming pool? The built-in appliances? Ask about their standards of practice.
Sample report.
Ask the inspector to provide a sample of his or her checklist or inspection report. Does the report include a narrative description or just check-off boxes? Is the information presented and explained clearly and completely? Does the report highlight any problems that could present a safety hazard?
References.
Ask the inspector for the names and telephone numbers of several homeowners who have used his or her services. Call those people and ask them whether they were satisfied with the report and other services they received. Be sure to talk to some people who have owned their home for a few months or longer. Some problems overlooked by an inspection can take a while to surface.
Memberships.
Many good inspectors don't belong to a national or state association of home inspectors. However, all else being equal, an association membership is often a plus. These groups provide their members with training and certification programs and up-to-date information about industry practices and inspection standards. Verify us. Some InterNACHI requirements.
Errors and omissions.
Even top-notch inspectors are only human and can make errors or overlook problems they probably should have noticed. Does the company or individual inspector stand behind the report? Many companies ask customers to sign a waiver limiting the company's liability to the cost of the inspection. Ask the inspector about their Recourse Policy. Does the company have insurance for errors and omissions? Ask about the company's policy in such situations.
