#1 piece of advice - Don’t wait until you have an accepted offer to look for a home inspector. Allow time to interview several candidates to be sure they are an experienced professional.A home inspection is your one opportunity to get an independent assessment of the true condition of a property. Here is what to look for:
- If you trust your Real Estate Agent, follow their referral; just make sure there is no conflict of interest. If you are not sure, you'll need to research and interview.
- To find a reputable inspector, ask friends who have recently used an inspector. Find referrals through online communities like Angie's List, Yelp, or HomeAdvisors.
- You can find inspectors from professional organizations: the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI),, and the National Academy of Building Inspection Engineers.
- Search online to see whether there have been any complaints. Try a web search with the name of the company followed by as “complaints” and “reviews” or "Testimonials" Your local Better Business Bureau chapter may also may have information on the home inspector you’re considering.
- Hiring someone who’s certified by a professional organization will give you more assurance that the inspector is knowledgeable.
- ASHI, for example, candidates must pass an in-person National Home Inspector Examination and document 250 paid home inspections.
- InterNACHI’s certification requirements include passing an Online Inspector Examination and submit simulated inspection reports.
- By all accounts, the national exam is a rigorous test, and both professional groups do a pretty good job of ensuring their certified inspectors are knowledgeable.
- Ask for a sample copy of an inspection report he has done on a home that is similar to the one you are considering.
- If you are looking at an older home, look for extra training or credentials, like an architect’s or construction engineer’s license. And be prepared to pay more.
- Ask what is included in the price
- Inspectors without specialized credentials typically charge around $300 to $1,000, depending on the home’s location and size, the inspector’s experience, and the scope of the inspection itself.
- Some inspectors will add free services not covered by a basic inspection, such as using a drone to view the roof or placing an infrared camera on walls, ceilings, and floors to measure temperature differences that suggest the presence of damaging moisture. Others will charge extra for those services. Still others will refer you to an outside expert to do that work.
- Be aware that you may have to pay extra for specialized tests that aren’t covered by the initial home inspection. Common risks that may need more testing include termites, radon, and mold.
