What to Look For In a Home Inspector

Buying a house is most likely the biggest monetary investment you’ll create throughout your life time. And since every property is totally different, it’s necessary to confirm you hire an expert home inspector to verify your investment call is sound before finalizing your purchase. Among different things, your inspector can evaluate major systems, as well as the inside, heating/cooling, electrical, plumbing, exterior and roofing. All findings are delivered in a very comprehensive report that becomes the property’s operations manual, that details deficiencies, safety issues, system shut-off locations furthermore as maintenance suggestions. Dig deeper to make sure you’ll trust that your home inspector is providing you the easiest experience before you get a home.

Key ways in which to hire the most effective inspector

Ensure your inspector is well trained. Did you know that the only jurisdictions in Canada that mandate home inspector licensing are British Columbia and Alberta? And many US states have state licensing but not all. That’s why it’s important to find an inspector who works under a company that operates as if licensing is already required regardless of jurisdiction to ensure you’re hiring someone with the highest training in the industry. This includes a rigorous training regimen comprised of technical training, in-field live inspections, business operations and ethics.

Find someone familiar with your type of home and specific issues you need to inspect. This is especially important if you’re buying a home requiring specialized attention to areas such as wood-burning systems, for instance. Wood-burning systems should be inspected by a WETT certified expert.

Ask questions. In addition to professional training, relevant experience and/or length of time in the business, find out if the inspector is a member of a professional association, such as InterNACHI, follows industry-leading Standards of Practice and is fully insured. Professional association membership offers added assurance of an inspector’s qualifications and training.

Inquire about value-added services. There are a number of value-added services that can enhance your home inspection experience and provide extra protection, such as a property warranty and client protection program to guard against surprises that show up after you take possession of your new home that weren’t evident at the time of inspection.