You’ve found the perfect home. You can already picture how the family photos will look on the walls and hiking trips you’ll take just minutes down the road. But before signing on the dotted line, there’s one more important step: hiring a home inspector. A home inspector will help ensure you’re making a smart investment by looking for any major issues in the home’s structure, plumbing, and electrical systems. Here are five questions you should ask potential home inspectors before signing up.
1. Are You Licensed?
Home inspectors need to be licensed in most states. It’s important to ask what certification they have, as well as their license number and the expiration date. Never hire an unlicensed home inspector!
2. How Long Have You Been in Business?
Your home inspection is a big purchase for a huge decision, and the inspector you hire will play a key role in that. Ask potential home inspectors what kind of experience they have and how long they’ve been in business. Longer track records usually mean better reviews, a better understanding of common defects, plus the experience of having seen similar problems in other homes.
3. Are You Bonded and Insured?
As in any profession, accidents can happen, so make sure your home inspector is bonded and insured. If your inspector causes any damage to the property, you’re covered and can go after the inspector for reimbursement.
4. What Type of Inspection Do You Perform?
A good home inspector should have a standard inspection procedure that includes looking at the home’s interior and exterior, foundation, structure, plumbing, heating and cooling systems, and electrical panels. Everything should be inspected thoroughly, including attics, crawl spaces, and any other areas. Ask your home inspector to provide a detailed inspection report when the job is done.
5. What Type of Warranty Do You Offer?
A good home inspector will provide a warranty. Most warranties offer a certain number of years of coverage, such as a five-year limited warranty. Be sure to ask your home inspector what kind of warranty they offer, and understand what the coverage includes.
Hiring the right home inspector can help ensure you are making a good investment in your home. Make sure you interview several potential inspectors and ask them the above questions. With the right home inspector on your team, you can be assured that you’re making the right decision.
