The purchase of a home is likely the largest financial expenditure you’ll ever make. And getting your home inspected is an essential step in the home-buying process. No one wants to buy a money pit – and once you have signed on the dotted line, there is no turning back. So, here are 10 questions to ask your home inspector.
The purpose of a home inspection is for the inspector to be able to tell you everything you need to know about the home you’re going to purchase so that you can make an informed decision.
Following are 10 key questions you can ask your home inspector before they’re hired to ensure the inspection will be completed professionally and thoroughly:
- Can I see your license/professional credentials and proof of insurance?
- How many years’ experience do you have as a home inspector? (Make sure they’re talking specifically about home inspection and not just how much experience they have in a single trade.)
- How many inspections have you personally completed?
- What qualifications and training do you have? Are you a member of a professional organization? What’s your background – construction, engineering, plumbing, etc?
- Can I see some references? (Make sure you also check the references.)
- What kind of report do you provide? Do you take pictures of the house and add them to your report?
- What kind of tools do you use during your inspection?
- Can you give me an idea of what kind of repairs the house may need? (Be wary if they offer to fix the issues themselves or can recommend someone else to complete the job cheap.)
- When do you do the inspection? (Let’s hope they don’t have a day job, and can only do them at night when it’s too dark to see the roof. It’s best to stay away from part-time inspectors.)
- How long do your inspections usually take?
I know some extremely reputable home inspectors if you are in need. I’d be happy to pass on their number.
