Home Inspection Basics ...

How: Tips on Choosing a Qualified Home Inspector

There are a lot of factors that go into making a decision to purchase a house.  Decisions are only as good as the facts considered to make them.  A quality home inspector will provide you with the information you need to make confident decisions when completing your transaction. 

You may trust your real estate agent and they may recommend a quality home inspector.  But always remember that the responsibility, and the investment are your own... and it is unlikely that your real estate agent will be there for you if problems surface down the road.  We urge you to consider the following when choosing a home inspector: 

Ask to see one of their reports

The findings of your home inspection should be detailed in a written report covering the items inspected.  There is no standard format for this report and styles vary widely from a simple checklist to an extensive report detailing each of your home’s major components complete with digital pictures.  When a defect is found, the inspector should help you understand the magnitude of the problem, answer any questions and make recommendations on how or who should correct the defect.  Simply checking a box marked "poor" or "inadequate" will not provide you with the information required to understand the extent of the defect or what exactly needs to be repaired. 

Research their credentials

There is not a single national standard for home inspectors.  However, you can learn a lot about an inspector’s credentials by asking if they are a member of any accredited association of Home Inspectors.  Different associations have different requirements regarding training, experience, and continuing education.  The inspector’s level of membership can also tell you a lot about their qualifications. 

NAHI has one of the most rigorous certification programs in the Industry.  In addition, our Pennsylvania members receive education on specific laws governing home inspections in Pennsylvania and are required to be in compliance with them.  Check out NAHI’s Membership Requirements and you’ll see why a NAHIPA Member inspector has what it takes to do the job right. 

Ask for references

A reputable inspector should be happy to provide you with references from previous clients.  Call those references and ask them about their experience with their inspections. 

Make sure they’re insured

The state of Pennsylvania requires inspectors to carry ‘E&O’ and liability insurance. Additionally, the home inspector should be prepared to provide an insurance certificate to prove they have the required insurance. 

Don’t base your decision solely on price

Your home inspection will be an unbiased, professional assessment on the condition of the physical structure and various systems within the house.  You should make sure that you are hiring a professional with the knowledge and training necessary to provide you with the sound information you need to make informed decisions, and not make your decision based on price alone.  A highly qualified inspector will have put a large investment into the certifications, training, and continuing education required to provide a high quality service.  As with most things, when it comes to home inspections, you generally get what you pay for. 

We’re confident that when you consider those factors, that you’ll choose a NAHIPA Member Home Inspector for your next Pennsylvania Home Inspection. 

Links: Find a NAHIPA Member providing services in your county

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