10 Questions to Ask Home Inspectors

Before you make your final buying decision, you should have the home inspected by a professional. An Inspection can alert you to potential problems with a property and allow you to make an informed decision.

1. Will your Inspection meet recognized standards? Some states have requirements the inspection must meet and some Inspectors comply with a standard of practice and code of ethics as adopted by the American Society of Home Inspectors or the National Association of Home Inspectors. You can view each online at www.ashi.org or www.nahi.org.
2. Do you belong to a professional home inspector association?
3. How long have you been an inspector? They should provide referrals upon request.
4. How do you keep your expertise up to date? Continuing education? Advanced training?
5. Do you focus on residential inspections? If you’re buying a unique property such as a historic home – make sure the inspector has experience with that type of property.
6. Can you give me estimates of needed repairs?
7. How long will the inspection take? Typical single family home will take 2 to 3 hours.
8. What’s the cost? Be sure to specify if you want water tests, radon tests, etc done – they will cost more. Also, if you want any outbuildings inspected. Please note that the inspector may indicate that you need a specialist to advise on certain issues: such as a roofing contractor, a septic inspector… always leave time in your contract to get advice from the next level of expertise — just in case.
9. What type of inspection report do you provide? And when will it be available? Many reports are uploaded on-line and can be sent to you electronically with photos.
10. Will I be able to attend the inspection? The answer should always be YES. This is a valuable education tool for the buyer.