Quality work protects agents from liability, buyers from 'terminal problems'
Buying a home is the largest financial decision most of us will ever make. Getting an accurate assessment of the condition of a home before you buy it is an essential piece of that decision-making process. Make sure your home inspector is licensed by the State of Texas and that his license status is active.
Ask your home inspector what type of training and experience he has. Direct, "hands-on" experience in building is one of the most important criteria to look for. Home inspection is a discipline that requires special training, knowledge and communication skills.
Ask if the inspector is a member of a professional Home Inspection organization. Most organizations require their members to adhere to strict standards of practice and continuing education. This information will also help to give you insight into the background, and depth of industry involvement of the Inspector you plan to hire.
What else can I ask a home inspector to help me make a decision?
- What type of report do you deliver?
- The best reports are created using home inspection software that include pictures and comments specific to your home.
- When and how do you deliver the report?
- Inspectors using home inspection software can often deliver the report on site or deliver the report thru the internet for quicker delivery.
- How long will the inspection take?
- The average is two and a half to three hours for a typical single-family home. Anything less may not be enough time to do a thorough inspection.
- What type of equipment will be used?
- Many home inspectors will using some of the newer technologies being introduced, and fully utilizing the best testing equipment available. Proper equipment should range from the more sophisticated testing devices (electrical circuit analyzers, electronic carbon monoxide dectors, digital moisture meters, digital cameras to document findings, etc.), all the way down to the more mundane but necessary equipment, such as ladders, flashlights, levels, etc.
- Does the inspector encourage the client to attend the inspection?
- This is a valuable educational opportunity. If the inspector refuses, this should raise a red flag.
Who is the cheapest? Inspectors all look at the same things right? Every inspector is different and comes with strong points and weak points. Usually, the best inspectors are not the cheapest. Find an inspector you feel comfortable with. A thorough and experienced home inspector is the best route to take.
It is important to ask yourself this question… "Do you really want to go bargain hunting for the Inspector who will do the job for the least amount of money?" -or- "Is it important to hire the most qualified?"
|