How to Choose a Home Inspector
Everyone knows that it is a very smart move to get a home inspection before purchasing a home. A home inspector often discovers things that have been overlooked. However, when you need a home inspector on a short notice, it can be a challenge to find one. New home inspectors may be readily accessible and less expensive, but with so much at stake, you’re probably better off waiting until a seasoned home inspector has an open slot on their schedule. Here are some tips for choosing a home inspector so that you can get a home inspection that is worth the investment.
Let your fingers do the walking
Use the phone book or Internet to find home inspectors in your area and conduct brief telephone interviews. Have a list of questions or a “home inspector checklist” prepared ahead of time and pay attention to whether the home inspector answers questions directly or evades.
Tools of the trade
Once the home inspector arrives, look for obvious tools of the trade such as a flashlight and a clipboard for taking notes. Also, a home inspector should have devices to test electrical sockets and circuits, moisture detection meters, and other equipment to test levels of carbon dioxide and other gases.
Professional accreditation and certification
Even new home inspectors should have proper professional accreditation and be able to provide proof that they belong to professional organizations, such as the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI), the International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO), and others.
Home inspection experience
This might seem obvious, but its importance cannot be overstated. You will want to find a home inspector who has many years of experience inspecting homes and, also, building them. Which would you rather have when you need to get a home inspection? New home inspectors right out of college or an older fellow with decades of experience inspecting homes?
You get what you pay for
A home inspector that charges a bit more for their services will likely do a more thorough job and is probably worth the extra money. Your extra investment in their services might pay off in dividends if they spot a substantial flaw in the house that others may have overlooked.
Above all, trust your instincts when you need to get a
home inspection. Choose a home inspector using the same personal criteria that you use when selecting a dentist, real estate agent, lawn care service, or any other specialized service. Do they project professionalism? Do you believe they are legitimate? Do they make frequent eye contact? Use all these verbal and non-verbal cues to determine for yourself whether or not you feel you are making the right decision when you need to find a home inspector.