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What to look for in a Professional Home Inspector
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Questions that should be asked of a prospective home inspector: |
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What is the inspector's experience? How many years have they been in the business and how many inspections do
they do a year? |
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Exclusively inspections? Beware of contractors who do house inspections "on the side"--they may be looking
for work! |
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What type of report? Will it be written or oral or both? Will the report contain suggestions for remedying
deficiencies? |
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How long will it take? A good house inspection should take between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the size of the
house. |
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What will be included in the inspection? See "What to look for in a professional home inspection"
below. |
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What certifications do they have? Are they ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) certified? |
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Does the inspector have Errors and Omissions Insurance? This gives you some level of protection should there be an "error
or omission" in the inspection--meaning the inspector missed something. |
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What to look for in a Professional Home
Inspection
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A competent and professional inspection will include a minimum
of the following: |
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Foundation:
How is the structural integrity of the foundation? Is there any evidence of cracks, shifting, or moisture problems? |
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General Construction: How is the quality of the general construction? |
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Exterior:
Is the house in need of exterior repairs or maintenance? |
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Plumbing:
How is the condition of the overall plumbing system? Any evidence of leaks or water pressure problems? |
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Electrical:
Do any dangerous electrical situations exist? Are there apparent code violations in the electrical system? |
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Heating and Cooling Systems: What are the ages of the systems? Are the systems adequate for the size of the house?
Have they been maintained properly? |
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Interior:
Do doors and windows open and close properly? Are floors firm and level? |
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Kitchen:
Are appliances functioning properly? Is the plumbing, including the dishwasher connection, in good repair? |
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Baths:
Is the floor solid? Are there any evidence of previous or current water leaks? Is the plumbing in good repair? |
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Attached structures: What is the condition of any attached structure (sheds, decks, garages, etc.) |
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Roof: What
is the approximate age of the roof? What is the estimated remaining life of the roof? What is the condition of
the roofing structure as well as the shingles? |
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 If
you are looking for a professional home inspector, Service Magic offers
a locator service throughout the U.S. Simply fill out their easy form and they will contact you will the names
of pre-screened Inspectors in your area. Click here. |
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What your personal
inspection should include
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