How to Choose a Home Inspector

Most people consider buying a house to be the most important investment they will ever make. A home inspector should be hired before you buy real estate. They will properly inspect the property and provide you with peace of mind. It is important to make sure that there aren’t hidden problems that could cost you in the future.

A home inspector inspects a home and takes detailed notes.

A good home inspector can save you money in repairs and make your life much easier. You can ask the seller to repair any damage found by your home inspector, or negotiate a better deal.

To review all deficiencies and recommendations and learn about the location of key items such as water shutoffs, main gas lines and other maintenance areas, we recommend you join your inspector during the last 60-90 minutes of the home inspection in brevard county. You should at least meet with your inspector to go over the summary and recommendations.

Seven Things to Consider when Choosing a Home Inspector

There are many home inspection companies, from large national chains to small independent businesses. Each company has its own certifications, reporting methods and policies. These are seven things to consider before you hire a home inspector.

Training and Experience

It’s important to have a home inspector that understands the workings of buildings when you invest in real estate. An inspector who has a background in construction, plumbing, electrical or other related industries will be better equipped to identify potential problems and have a deeper knowledge of the building system. Advanced training and accreditation in specialized areas such as water well, pool inspection, radon gas inspection, mold inspection, or commercial building inspection may make home inspectors more valuable.

No matter what their background, an experienced inspector will be more likely to spot a problem or require repair than a novice inspector. A home inspector with years of experience may be able save you money on repairs. Check out the length of time your inspector has been in business, and how many inspections they have done over the last year. Hire a full-time Home Inspector, not a part time worker. This will ensure your safety.

Credentials & Licensing

Asking about the credentials and certifications of potential Home Inspectors can help you learn a lot. You should get details about a qualified home inspector, such as their license number, advanced certifications and insurance, quickly. The qualifications range from basic membership in an association with no home inspection courses to advanced certifications and examinations by the government.

In British Columbia, all Home Inspectors must be licensed through Consumer Protection, pass the provincially-approved Canadian Home Inspector Exams as members of the Home Inspectors Association (HIABC), and conduct themselves in accordance with HIABCs Code of Ethics.

Accredited Home Inspector (AHI), is the highest possible level of knowledge and certification. AHI members must have completed advanced training and be able to show evidence of their work experience. It is a good idea to hire an AHI-certified home inspector.

Every tradesperson and certified inspector who inspects your property must have the appropriate insurance to protect you and your home. Home inspectors require at least $1 million of coverage for both Errors and Omissions with water intrusion and Commercial General Liability. All Step Above Home Inspectors have obtained their AHI designations. They also have adequate liability coverage.

Professional Reputation

Asking friends to refer you might find someone who needs a little bit of assistance, but not necessarily the most thorough. Buyers should conduct some research online using sites like Google, Yelp and Homestars before booking a home inspector. Good reviews from past clients and references online are proof of quality companies. You should not trust a company with poor reviews, negative comments or no reviews.

Home Inspection Technology

The technological advances in home inspections technology like thermal imaging, videography, and mobile reporting have made it easier to perform safer, faster and more accurate inspections. Inspectors without the latest systems can miss dangerous safety issues such as foundation cracks, roof problems or radon gas leaks. These are all things that inspectors may not be able to see.

Step Above uses the most recent photography, 360-degree imaging, infrared thermography and moisture detection systems to give clear evidence and inspect difficult-to-see areasthroughout both the interior and exterior.

• Images that are high-definition, zoomable, and 360 degrees
• Infrared cameras
• Digital gas meters and moisture-reading components
• Digital testing equipment
• You can share digital inspection reports with your family, realtors, and professional contractors

High Quality Reporting

A home inspector can be judged on their ability to find things, the services they offer and how they communicate those findings. You shouldn’t keep any secrets during or after your home inspection. It is your home.

Many home inspectors offer digital reports that include audio and video. Digital inspection reports are very useful when you need to share information with contractors for electrical work, roofing, or renovations. Digital inspection reports can be safely backed up to your computer or trusted cloud services.

Our home inspection reports include video and audio, 360-degree cameras and zoomable imagery. You can also highlight and write comments and share what you need with anyone outside.

Fees & Cost Schedule

Do not buy home inspection services from a company that charges less than the market rate. They may not be qualified and could not even be licensed. You should inquire about the costs of most Home Inspectors in your area before you book.

A single-family home inspection costs between $450 and $500, and takes approximately three hours. Take a look at our residential home inspection rates if you are thinking of buying or selling your house.

Some home inspectors travel!

You might find home inspectors who have more experience in small towns. Buyers should ensure that the inspector they choose is available to travel, especially if they live . Make sure you are able to travel to the area before you schedule time with a home inspection.