Ten questions to ask a home inspector:
Ten questions to ask a home inspector before you hire him/her:
Here’s a run-through on key questions you should ask a home inspector before hiring him/her:
1. What types of licenses, certificates or designations do you hold?
There are many state and national associations for home inspectors, including the National Institute of Building Inspectors (NIBI) or the American Home Inspectors Institute (AHII). There is no official government regulation of the home inspection industry, therefore, remember to request to see their membership ID. Certification by one of the major organizations guarantees that the inspector meets the proper guidelines.
A good home inspector will have years of experience and continue to pursue and update his/her education in the field. Related experience in construction or engineering is helpful, but not a substitute.
2. What is the scope of your inspection? How detailed will the inspection be?
The inspector should guarantee that their on-site inspection and report will meet all the applicable requirements set by the state and comply with recognized standard of practice and code of ethics. You can also identify specific areas in the property you want inspected.
3. How many inspections do you do per year on residential homes like ours?
Just to be safe, hire a full-time inspector who has been in business for more than five years. A good tip is to interview at least three inspectors and ask for a sample report and references before agreeing to one in particular.
4. How long does the actual on-site inspection usually take?
The average on-site inspection takes two to three hours for a regular single-family house. If the property is larger, additional inspectors may be brought in to make the process more efficient and timely.
5. Will you allow us to accompany you on the inspection?
This is essential: An inspector that refuses to allow you to accompany him/her raises a big, neon red flag. Don’t pass up the opportunity to look at your prospective home through the eyes of an expert.
6. What type of report will we receive and will it include estimates of costs to correct defects?
There are various types of reports given by home inspectors. Some include typed narrative and on the spot written reports for those who want and/or need the information as quickly as possible. But don’t accept a verbal report. Have the inspector give you a full written backup report so you can keep a record of his/her findings for future referral.
Make sure the report is detailed and not just a hand written checklist given to you at the end of the inspection. The checklist might not include details, information and engineering advice.
7. Do you carry errors-and-omissions insurance or give any warranties/guarantees?
Errors and Omissions Insurance is a malpractice-type insurance that protects the inspector and, indirectly, the home buyer against post-inspection legal problems. Keep in mind that home inspectors can’t see through walls and only makes educated guesses. Some things he/she might miss include hidden damages from insects, rot, water and construction defects (unless the symptoms are obvious or in plain view).
8. How much does inspection cost for a property like ours?
Costs vary depending on the region, size and age of the house, array of services, among other factors. A typical estimate may be from $300-$500.
9. How quickly can we get the written report?
This also varies depending on the inspector. Most inspectors provide a full report within 24 hours of the inspection, but it can also take them up to a week.
10. Do you have a list of past customers and clients that we may call as referrals?
The inspector should be able to give you his/her history in the profession and maybe a few referrals.
Hope this helps!
Thanks for reading this, Arna Freedman.
Arna is a Real Estate Broker at Homes of California.
Phone: (949) 244-0444. arna@ehomes.com
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Arna Freedman specializes in loan modification assistance and short sales in Ladera Ranch California. Ladera Ranch Loan Modification Help, Laguna Niguel Short Sales. Laguna Niguel Short Sale Realtor.Ladera Ranch CA Short Sales.Ladera Ranch Realtor.
