How Do I Select A Good Inspector?

Is the inspector properly licensed and certified? Many new inspectors have entered the industry in recent years. Make sure the inspector is state-licensed, if required, or certified by a national professional association, such as the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI) or the America Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI).

Does the company carry General Liability (GL) and Errors and Omissions (E & O) insurance? Appropriate risk insurance protects businesses, clients, and property owners. Many new inspectors joining the industry do not carry insurance. Check the inspection company’s insurance status.

How are the inspection reports delivered? Inspection reports should be clear, concise, easy-to-read, and available quickly. You’ll want to have a firm understanding of the condition of the home prior to the contingency period of your real estate contract. Ask whether they deliver reports on site or via e-mail soon after the inspection.

Does the report provide a summary of defective items and pictures? The report should provide a summary of defective items. This "summary page" allows you to easily see what functional or safety concerns exist with the property. Additionally, digital cameras allow inspectors to effectively illustrate their reports, especially items that are difficult to describe. No other item has so positively affected communication of reports in recent years as the digital camera.

What is the inspector's experience and background? Inspectors should have attended an in-depth training course to learn how to perform home inspections. They should also have an excellent experience base and ideally be part of an organization with a strong continuing education program. Find out how long the inspection company has been in business.

Can you order more than one inspection at the same time? Check to see if the inspection company can save you time by offering additional inspections on the same day, such as radon and termite.

Is the fee too high? Too low? Newer inspectors tend to compete based on price; therefore you may have to pay more for an experienced inspector. The $25, $50, or $100 to hire the "right" inspection company is minimal compared to the thousands of dollars it could cost you by hiring the "wrong" inspection company.

Does the company encourage you to attend the inspection? Attending the inspection is a great opportunity for you to learn first-hand what is included in the inspection and about the systems and components in the house you are purchasing. Be wary of inspectors that do not include you in the inspection process.

Is it a well-established inspection company? Well-established inspection companies have more availability for inspections, especially for those needed immediately. Additionally, they have the resources to provide ongoing inspector training and comprehensive post-inspection customer service.