Choosing a Home Inspector

Before you make the big decision of buying a home, it’s a wise idea to get a professional home inspection. They can prevent a lot of issues for both buyers and sellers. It’s important to select the best inspector for the job. Here are some tips to consider when choosing a home inspector.

Reputation
Word of mouth is key and it will help you select an inspector that has a good reputation and who is successful and honest. Ask for references and contact a few past clients before you hire them. 

See a Sample Report
Ask to view an example of the inspector’s reports and make sure they’re clearly written, include photos and how they identify any problems, explain why it’s important or how it can impact the home and list what should be done to fix it. It should provide enough information for you to make an educated decision about hiring them or not.  

Credentials
Check and make sure the inspector has formal training and is certified to do the job. The inspector must be licensed and insured. You can ask to see the inspector’s proof of insurance, which can protect you if they’re negligent. Make a not if they’ve taken any specialized courses. Ask about their experience also: how long they have been in business, how many inspections have they done, and if this their full-time job.

Making sure all of these points are in place before choosing an inspector will help you get the best person for this important job.