Questions to Ask Home Inspectors

In my business it's imperative to know some fab home inspectors. If you're a buyer considering a house, I urge you to start with a general home inspection, and then move into the specialists where needed. (Specialists being mold, roof, electrical, drainage, structural engineer, etc.) I have worked with many inspectors, and they are not all created equal. They are not licensed, so pretty much anyone can call themselves a home inspector. To protect yourself, whoever you hire should have the following minimum requirements (don't be afraid to ask!!!):

1. Licensed General Contractor with an Active California License (contractor's license, there is no home inspector license)

2. Has Performed at Least 750 Inspections

3. A Current Member of NAHI, ASHI or CREIA

4. Have a Professional Liability (E&O) Insurance of at Least $500,000

5. Have General Liability Insurance of at Least $500,000

6. Have Written Proof of Current Insurance Policy

7. Inspector Must Have Client Sign a Written Contract Prior to the Beginning of the Inspection for Insurance to be in Effect.

8. Inspector Must Produce a Written Inspection Report within 48 Hours of the Inspection.

9. It is Strongly Recommended that the Inspector Take Photographs

10. The Inspector Should Not Start Inspection Until the Buyer or Realtor are on Site.

11. All Comments the Inspector Makes Should be Put in Writing in the Inspection Report.

12. Inspector Must be Able to Provide Published Evidence of Defects or Code Violations Listed in the Inspection Report.

13. Inspector Should Not Perform Any Other Service (otherwise it's a conflict of interest).

Above Information Courtesy of John St. George, of California Construction Consultants, 818.784.9900. John is one of the general home inspectors I recommend to my clients. Other general inspectors I have used include, but are not limited to: Mike Bashforth of MB Inspections, 310-519-9970. Lance Hudson, 323-665-5515.

Comments

[Home Inspector Tampa FL]

This is a very interesting posting no doubt. Indeed I have often seen that people are not aware of a lot of things and miss many vital questions.

[Water Damage Tampa]

Thanks these tips really help...when we have to ask questions relevance makes the process very wise.

[Nyc Mold Inspections]

Good tips indeed...it is very difficult to make sure that the home inspection is looking after all the details that needs to be ensured for a mold free safe home.

[Black Mold Removal]

Very good tips here...difficult to find the correct questions true.And the report is most important...else you can not make him stand for anything and prove your point.

[chimney liner]

Those are all great tips for the home owner. I know I will be using some if not all of them for my home.

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