Since everyone wants to be diligent, most real estate transactions will require a home inspection to complete the sale. Never link the payment of a home inspector to the outcome of a transaction. If you are serious about buying the house, spend the money on the inspection regardless of the result. Besides this piece of advice, there are several factors to keep in mind when choosing a home inspection service.
Most people will begin their search for a home inspector with the phone book. Remember, most home inspection firms will want to advertise their association with a government or industry licensing association. Often, their ads will make it very evident that they are legitimate and have been licensed or approved by an organization. Some organizations even require that inspectors provide proof of licensure in their ads and on their paperwork.
Experienced home inspectors are generally considered more qualified given the years they have spent in the business. Like proof of licensure, home inspection firms will often advertise their years of experience in the home inspection business. The more home inspections an inspector has conducted, the more prepared he or she will be to evaluate the structure in question.
A home inspector is not a repairman. Most home inspection organizations and associations have guidelines and codes of conduct when it comes to offering repair services. In most cases, inspectors are advised to not offer any repair services at all, and especially not to clients for whom they have been hired to carry out an inspection. You should suspect any inspector or inspection firm that offers repairs along with inspection services. The inspectors comments should be limited to observations and perhaps a little advice if it is solicited. However, all actual repair quotes should be obtained in writing from an independent source and apart from the inspection service.
Often, since regulations vary from place to place, it is prudent to read industry literature, such as a licensing organization website, to familiarize yourself with the standards and expectations for home inspectors in your region. Also, you can check to make sure an inspection firm has really received the license and approval of the regional home inspectors association.
Sometimes, several inspections will be required to fully guarantee a home’s soundness. Particularly with homes under construction, an inspection may be required for different components of the home or different stages of construction. Also, tests for water quality, mold toxicity, radon accumulation, and pests such as termites, are separate from standard home inspections. While a regular home inspection firm may offer such services, these tests are often carried out at a separate time from the general inspection.
home-inspection
