What Should You Expect From A Home Inspector Before The Report


What Should You Expect From A Home Inspector Before The Report




Getting a home inspection completed by a home inspector is a common practice in a real estate transaction. However, that has not always been the case before the early 1990s. Fewer buyers considered the idea of hiring a home inspector unless there was something that alerted their suspicions to do so. Most home buyers believed that home inspections were a waste of money that could be used for something more important.



As you can see, attitudes and mindsets regarding home inspections have evolved making it a very important part of the home buying or selling process. Which can be attributed to increased legal matters over the years, therefore real estate professionals quickly acknowledged the importance of having a home inspection prior to closing. Overnight, home inspection became a routine process of the real estate transaction.



With this in mind, there are steps that you can take to help you navigate the process of hiring a professionally qualified home inspector. In this article, we are going to show you what to look for when hiring an inspector and where to find a professionally certified home inspector.


What To Expect Before The Home Inspection Report?

Before you hire an inspector, ask what exactly they’ll do and how long it will take them to do it, you can often determine the thoroughness of inspector’s work by looking at sample reports they should readily supply if requested. Ask prospective inspectors about certifications they hold and inquire about their backgrounds. You’ll learn a lot about your potential “abode during the inspection. In addition to looking for and pointing out problems. Most inspectors use the section



Ask For Credentials and Qualifications.
Choose a certified inspector, ask your family and friends of a referral or your real estate agent for a recommendation. Make sure to research the inspector’s qualifications.



Make sure to get a sample report. Your sample report should be between 20 to 50 pages. While report lengths may vary, they should obtain photographs showcasing defects or problems. The main areas of the report that you should pay attention to should cover the following areas:
  • Mechanical
  • Structural
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing


Inquire about the length of your home inspection. Most home inspections take between two and three hours, and sometimes even longer. Anything significantly below the average would be equivalent to gloss-over observation. Make sure that you attend the home inspection. Use this opportunity to ask questions about problems or defects. By attending the inspection, you also have the chance to learn more suggested maintenance schedules and tasks.


How To Find The Right Home Inspector?


  •  Look for an inspector before you shop for a home. If you choose home first, time is critical and you may feel pressured to pick the first inspector you meet.

  •  Make sure your home inspector professional is objective, independent and does not have any affiliate with real estate agency selling the home.

  •  Be sure your inspector is familiar with the particular type of house you’re considering. Homes of different ages, designs, and materials each have special risks and special signs, symptom, and clues to hidden damage.

  • Choose an inspector who can deliver a completed report with plenty of time for review, request electronic copies as well.

Be sure your inspector is familiar with the particular type of house you’re considering. Homes of different ages, designs, and materials each have special risks and special signs, symptom, and clues to hidden damage. Choose an inspector who can deliver a completed report with plenty of time for review, request electronic copies as well.


Here are a few tips for hiring a home inspector:


  • Do a search in your favorite search engine for home inspectors in your area. Visit the prospective home inspector’s website. Skip the bells and whistles and look for the home inspector’s blog section. Many inspectors blog to share tips, valuable information and showcase their experience as a home inspector.


  • Ask a friend who has recently purchased a home for a referral. There a good chance that he or she might be a good fit for the job.


  • Consider hiring your home inspector through a trade association such as interNACHI. There are several national home inspector trade associations and some require annual continuing education. 


With these tips in mind, you should be well prepared for the home inspection hiring process and home inspection day like a pro. Contact S&J Home Inspections to schedule your home inspection or request a free quote.