To get the most out of what you pay for a home inspection, it is essential that, first and foremost, the home inspection company is legit and trustworthy. Second, do your research or ask for referrals from your real estate agent. You can also ask for recommendations from family members or friends.
Once you’ve listed some home inspection companies, you can look into the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) because they have a Find An Inspector tool, as does the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI). These association websites can help you to double-check on the referrals that you have.
In making sure that the home inspection is legit and trustworthy, it is essential to look for credentials. It’s ok to ask for certifications and even a sample of their written reports. You can also look at their websites to see their reviews from their previous clients.
What Should be Communicated to your Chosen Home Inspection Company?
Clarity is essential, especially in communicating with your chosen home inspection company. You can ask the following questions to the inspector or the home inspection company that you are looking into:
- What is your inspection process?
- How soon could I schedule an inspection?
- How soon will an inspector issue a report?
- How will I get the report? Will you email it to me, or do I need to pick it up?
- What’s the inspector’s name, and what is their expertise?
- Could you share references for your company/inspector?
- Does the inspector have particular experience with residential home inspections?
- What will the inspection cover?
- How long will the assessment take, and is it a problem if I attend?
- How much will the inspection cost?
- How Much Does a Home Inspection cost?
Do not hesitate to ask for clarity, especially with regards to the cost. For example, $300 to $500 is a reasonable cost for hiring a professional home inspector.
What Do Home Inspectors Look Into?
Home inspectors look at the totality of the house that you intend to buy. They inspect the actual condition of the house from the roof to the basement. The main components that home inspectors look at are:
- Structure, including the foundation
- Plumbing and electricity, to make sure the systems are working properly
- HVAC, including the air conditioner, furnace, and related equipment
- Kitchen, including appliances
- Exterior, such as driveways, porches, and other spaces beyond the residence
- Roof, gutters, and windows
- Attic, especially to find signs of mold and leaks
Being present during the inspection helps you become more aware since you see the house yourself. You can ask questions during the inspection to help you understand the actual condition of the house. But aside from that, the inspector will give you a written report of their assessment to look through it and make wise decisions out of that. It will help you during the negotiation process, so be sure to discuss it with your real estate agent. This will help you have a better negotiation regarding the repairs of the home you intend to buy.
Key Takeaway
A home inspection protects you from further major house issues that can grow from small if the home is not inspected by a home inspector now.
