Not all home inspectors are equal — and on Long Island, where housing stock is old, environmental issues are real, and deals move fast, choosing the right one matters. These five questions separate thorough professionals from inspection mills.
1. Are You Licensed by New York State?
New York requires home inspectors to be licensed through the Department of State. Ask for the license number and verify it at the DOS website. Some people advertising inspection services are not licensed.
2. Will You Walk Me Through the Findings?
Some inspectors hand you a printed report and leave. Good inspectors walk you through the property and explain findings in context — what’s serious, what’s routine, what to watch over time. Insist on being present during the inspection.
3. How Quickly Do You Deliver the Report?
In a competitive market, inspection windows are tight. If your contingency period is 7 days, you need the report fast. Ask whether reports are delivered within 24 hours. Many buyers have lost negotiating time waiting on slow reporting.
4. Do You Inspect for Oil Tanks?
Underground oil tanks are a Long Island-specific risk. Not all inspectors offer tank scans. If the home is pre-1990 and converted from oil to gas, ask specifically.
5. Can You Add Mold, Radon, or Sewer Testing?
Coordinating ancillary testing through the same inspector is more efficient and keeps scheduling simple. The Inspection Boys offer all of these add-ons. Book at homeinspectionsli.com.
