Key Tips to Finding the BEST Home INSPECTOR

Everyone knows that the home inspection process is perhaps the most vital element in determining whether or not you will purchase a home. The fate of the purchase carries a lot of responsibility and it all rests on the shoulders of the home inspector that you choose. Do you know how to choose the right person for the job?

With the home inspector being the only one standing between your purchase of a home in good condition or the avoidance of an unforeseen disaster, it is important to not just pick any inspector but the best one. Here are some important tips for the selection process.

Find an inspector who belongs to a professional organization. The National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI), the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) are among the most reputable. Members of these organizations have met training requirements and are required to follow procedural and ethical standards.

Interview a professional about his background and credentials. It would be advantageous to get copies of the inspector’s license and insurance documents, as well as to ask about the certifications he has earned. While each certification is earned by continued education and a pass on each exam,

The process to be a licensed inspector only requires a high school diploma, 120-hour pre-licensing course and a pass on a state exam. During housing booms (which we are in right now), individuals flocked to get a license and go into business to capitalize on the market demand. Many of which have little to no construction experience beyond the required course. This makes it very important to ask about the home inspector’s experience in the industry. Number of years as an inspector, what is their background and credentials, do they have any additional certification or training beyond the minimum requirements - these are all valuable pieces of information to confirm that the individual can give you the best possible inspection. While one may be able to pass the exams, the application of real world experience is the true test of a good home inspector. It’s not uncommon to come across an inspector who may be book smart on the subject but knows little practical knowledge in regard to a home.

Ask the inspector what their turnaround time is on sending the inspection report. Some report in 24 hours, while others take as many as five days or more. Knowing how quickly they complete reports will allow you to properly coordinate, discuss needed discovered issues, as well as gives insight into the level of speed and professionalism that which the inspector can deliver.

Search reviews on Angie’s List, Yelp, Google and social media. Thanks to the digital age in which we live, you can search and find almost anything, including first hand accounts of individual experiences. These are quick, easy tools that can assist you in your interview process and help avoid potential pitfalls others have encountered. While a referral from an agent or friend has value, why not leverage the power of the internet to get a deeper look as to the level of service from a company.

Following these tips not only help you find the best options of home inspectors in your area, but it will protect you from the consequences that could come picking the wrong person for the job.