It’s possible that you think you have found the perfect house, but you don’t know the kind of problems the house could have underneath the surface. A home inspector can be very helpful. It’s important to understand what needs to be fixed and determine whether the house is right for you.
Make sure that you have done your research in advance. Asking friends and family members for recommendations is always a good idea. You’re likely to have a positive experience with your inspector if they did. Ask your inspectors the following questions before making your final decision and, certainly, before purchasing a home.
1. What Are Your Credentials And Certifications?
Find out if the inspector you are considering is a professional home inspection organization, such as the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI), the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), or the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. These organizations require their members to adhere to certain ethical and procedural standards during inspections. If you cannot find an inspector that is a part of any of the above associations, many states have their own home inspectors’ associations. These are good options if your inspector does not belong to one of these organizations. If you’re in the area, you might also consider consulting a Home Inspector in Bangor for expert local advice. It’s okay to ask to see the membership ID.
2. What Has Been Your Experience?
Ask how many inspections the inspector has conducted, for how long they have been in business, and what training they received. You will feel more at ease if you know that your inspector is well-versed in the work they do.
3. What Is The Cost Of An Inspection?
Costs of home inspection vary depending on the location, size, and construction year. Although costs can vary from $300 to 500, quality may be more important here than cost. You may end up spending more because of a lower-quality service if you bargain hunt. It’s still important to budget accordingly.
4. How Long Does The Inspection Last?
An average single-family house takes 3-4 hours to inspect thoroughly. If you are told that it will only take a few hours, this may be a warning sign.
5. What Are You Planning To Inspect?
Your inspector’s job is to look for things you wouldn’t see by just looking at a house. You want your inspector to check the attic, basement, roof, furnace, and electrical box.
6. Can I Attend The Inspection?
It’s a big red flag if your inspector says you can’t attend the inspection. You should not have any problems attending the inspection. It’s also a good way to learn more about the house you are interested in purchasing.
7. What Type Of Inspection Reports Do You Provide?
After your inspection, you can expect to get an inspection report within 24 hours. Ask your inspector to describe their style of reporting to ensure it matches the lender’s requirements. Ask to see sample reports to ensure you fully understand the reporting.
It’s better to find someone else if you don’t feel comfortable with the answers that an inspector gives to your questions. Checking reviews and references is also a great idea before choosing someone.