Why have an inspection?
To give you, the buyer, an independent professional assessment of the condition of your potential purchase. The Home Inspector is frequently the only person in the transaction who is working directly for YOU. It is critical to seek out the best inspector, just as you would any other service provider. There are also things you can do to get the best work from your inspector. Number 1, don’t be shy, ask questions!
Inspections Only
Does this person do other work? Is he/she a contractor looking for work?
KNowledgeable
What is the basis for this person’s knowledge? Have they been a builder, re-modeler, plumber, electrician? Manager? The broader their experience, the better for you.
ASHI Member
Your best choice, a member of ASHI - www.ashi.org
Professional
A professional inspector has no interest in the house beyond inspecting it. He/she will be taking courses and attending meetings and work shops to continually improve.
Experienced with Houses
What is the inspector’s experience with houses . . . Not bridges or office buildings, but houses?
Client Oriented
With a doctor one talks about ‘bedside manner’. It should be similar with an inspector. You want someone you can question and speak with, and get a civil response.
Teacher
Make your hours with your inspector valuable. Choose a person who enjoys houses and people, and who can pass on their knowledge.
Observant
This whole experience is about learning what this house can tell us. Your Inspector must be observant. If he doesn’t tell you about the hole in the wall, will he see the double tap?
Responsible
Your inspector is working for you . . . You are paying him/her. Your inspector should honor that, and get your go-ahead before talking to others. The information is yours.
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