5 Things To Ask Any Home Inspector

Getting a home inspection done on your potential dream home can often seem like a 'no big deal' process upfront, but there are some key items you should ask any potential inspection company before hiring one.

1. What Will The Company Inspect?

This is important because any inspection report must cover all requirements needed in your particular state in order to be compliant. Ask other questions of potential companies you are considering such as, how long have they been in business, etc. Check them out online and see what information comes up in regards to their service.

2. How Long Will It Take Do An Inspection?

This one may seem off the wall, but you want to know upfront how long it takes them to do their home inspection. Generally speaking, a home inspection that is thorough will take 2-3 hours to complete. If you have someone doing one in 30 minutes, then you have an issue. No way can they have really done a thorough job.

3. What Is The Cost Of The Home Inspection?

Obviously, you want to know the cost, but you should also do some comparison pricing before deciding on a final choice. Prices will vary depending on which part of the country you live among other variables, but on average you are looking at a range of $250-$600 in most cases.

4. Ask If You Can Be Present During The Inspection

This is something that you may, or may not, want to do, but if you are told that you can NOT be present during the home inspection you may want to move on to someone else. There is absolutely no reason for any inspector to refuse you the opportunity to be present. Another great point to being there at the time is in how much you'll learn from observing and talking with the inspector as they go through the home.

5. Do They Specialize In Home Inspections?

This is a good question to ask because some companies may do mainly commercial inspections and not know everything needed in order to do a home inspection. The construction and engineering are different with homes than they are with commercial buildings. In addition, you want a company whose does this as a full time business and not as just a side job.

Keep these quick tips in mind when it comes time to get your home inspection done on your potential dream home. It will save you from possible problems down the road.