Questions to Ask a Home Inspector

Questions to Ask a Home Inspector

Detailed and carefully conducted home inspections are a priority before buying any property.  Here are a few questions future homeowners should ask a home inspector:

“How long have you been in business and how many home inspections have you performed?”

It is recommended you hire a home inspector with substantial work experience, such as someone working as a home inspector for at least 5 years.  A homebuyer should also ask an inspector about his professional certifications with nationally recognized industry organizations. It’s good to interview at least three inspectors and ask for a sample report and references from each.

“Can you tell me exactly what will happen during the inspection?”

This will eliminate any unpleasant surprises.  Ask your inspector whether you can follow him during the inspection. (But promise to stay out of his way.)  If the inspector is brief in the phone interview or personal interview, he may be hurried in his work as well.

“What will be included in my report and what type of format will you use for it?”

Too much information is never a problem in an inspection report. A professional home inspector should provide a homeowner with: 

•  an action checklist

• a customized narrative on the condition of all the home's major components and areas that are in need of maintenance

• the estimated repair and replacement recommendations

•  costs that will be involved if any work is needed.

“How soon will I get my report?”

Expediency is important with so many dates and deadlines to adhere to.

“If problems are found and then repaired, how quickly can you re-inspect the property so you can modify the original report?”

If time is a crucial factor for a homebuyer this information will be very helpful.

A professional home inspection can save a homebuyer thousands of dollars later.  Therefore, it is advisable to invest more before buying a house and don't necessarily hire the inspector offering the lowest prices on the market.

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