Inspect the Inspector

Don't forget to inspect the inspector

All home inspectors are NOT created equal. Choosing the right certified home inspection company is crucial. To make certain your home inspector is qualified and is a certified home inspection company, you need to "Inspect the Inspector". Follow this important advice and you will be able to make an informed real estate purchase with the assistance of a certified home inspector. The following information has been prepared to assist you in evaluating and selecting the best certified home inspection company:

Do they offer a guarantee?

The inspection firm you trust to inspect your home should offer certified home inspectors and guarantee their inspection. A written Limited Repair Reimbursement Guarantee assures you that your inspection will be both thorough and accurate. After all, why trust a home inspector who does not trust himself?

Questions to Ask:

• Do you provide a written guarantee to back your inspection findings?
• What happens if I find a new problem with the home after I move in?

Does the inspector receive training and on-going technical support?

When selecting a home inspection firm, make sure their inspectors have been formally trained by a recognized training organization such as NIBI (The National Institute of Building Inspectors®*). This type of professional training assures you that your inspector has been trained in the necessary areas of residential construction and understands the home inspection process.

You should also make sure that your inspector has access to on-going Technical Support and is a certified home inspector through a reputable certification program in addition to any local licensing and regulation.

*HouseMaster began NIBI in 1987 in an effort to standardize training and testing for HouseMaster inspectors. Today NIBI training and on-going support is open to individuals interested in the home inspection industry as well as existing home inspectors via classroom or on-line training.

Questions to Ask:

• What kind of training do the inspectors receive?
• What is the extent of the inspector's on-going training?
• How frequently are the inspectors tested?

What is the reputation of the inspector?

The certified home inspection company you select should be backed by solid experience and enjoy a reputation for satisfied clients. Building a favorable reputation takes years of dedication to inspector training as well as customer satisfaction. Ask real estate professionals and friends about their experiences with the various home inspection companies in the area.

Questions to Ask:

• How long has the company been in business?
• How many inspections have they performed?

Review a sample inspection report

Before you make a final decision on a home inspector, determine how much detail the inspection report will cover. There are several key areas you want to make sure are covered in the written report:

• What elements will be inspected
• Estimated ages and life spans of major systems, if appropriate
• What elements may require repair now or in the near future

Many home inspection firms simply provide a cursory report that only documents whether an element is functioning or not functioning. Your inspection report should not only provide you with an understanding of immediate concerns, but should also provide you with information that will assist you in maintaining and enjoying your new home.

Questions to Ask:

• Can I see a sample inspection report?
• Will the report provide detail on the types of systems in the home?
• How are the systems rated in the report?
• Will the report be made available at the end of the inspection?
• Do you post your inspections online at secure site?