How to Find a Good Home Inspector for Your Potential New Home

Finding a good home inspector is an important part in the home-buying process. Home inspectors examine the structure and systems of a home and alert buyers to any potential repairs and code violations. A good home inspector will thoroughly educate potential home owners about the home, so they are informed about the property in question.

Word of Mouth the Best Way to Locate a Good Home Inspector

The best way to find a reputable home inspector is to ask acquaintances who have recently had a home inspected about their experiences. This will let you know how well that inspector is currently performing. Be sure to ask how thorough the inspection was and what type of documentation was provided. It is also important to ask if they have experienced any major problems the home inspection missed.

If you don't know anyone who has had a home inspection, you may have to do a bit more investigating. Ask potential inspectors for references and call them. Check online to see if there are any reviews on the business. Call local banks or estate agents and ask them if they have had good experiences with certain inspectors.

What Will a Good Home Inspector Look At?

One way how to find a good home inspector is to know what the report should cover. When calling potential inspectors, be sure to ask them what they will be looking at. Your home loan may require extras, so be sure to ask the inspector if he does those.

A good home inspector will check and report on the conditions of the house's systems. These systems include heating, cooling, electrical and plumbing.

Structurally, a good home inspector will check the entire structure of the home. Roof, attic and insulation condition should be covered. The inspector should go through the interior of the house, checking ceilings, walls, floors, windows, doors. The foundation, basement and support structures should also be checked.

Extras on a home inspection may have an additional cost. These include septic and well inspection.

Documentation a Home Inspector Should Provide

A good home inspector will provide you with a variety of documentation after an inspection. There should be a checklist of what is to be inspected and the results. A detailed written report should also be provided. Pictures should be taken of any areas of concern.

Make sure you ask your inspector beforehand what types of reports you should expect. Make sure you are getting the level of thoroughness you need.

Background Questions to Ask Home Inspector Candidates

Ask your home inspector if they belong to any professional trade organizations in their field. Also inquire about their school, licensing and the last time they have attended any continuing education classes or seminars. This will let you know how seriously they take their trade. Keep in mind that lenders may have certain qualification requirements for a home inspector. Find out what these are and make sure the inspector you choose has them. You don't want to have to pay to have the home inspected twice, because of this oversight.

A Good Inspector Will be Insured

A good home inspector or not, it is in the home-buyer's best interests to have an insured home inspection. A good home inspector will carry errors and omissions insurance. This means that if your inspector is found liable for any errors or contract breaches, you stand a better chance of being repaid damages.

As with everything else in the process of finding a good home inspector, be sure to ask what their insurance covers. Certain inspections, such as radon, may to be covered by their policy.

Sources:

American Society of Professional Home Inspectors FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Errors and Omissions Insurance for Home Inspectors