Xpert Home Inspector believes there are ten important questions you should have answered before you select your home inspector. If you have questions in addition to the 10 listed below, please type them in the comments section at the bottom of this page and we will address those as well. Make sure to include a return email address in the comments section in order that we can respond to you.
1. What does your inspection cover?
The inspector should ensure that their inspection and inspection report will meet all applicable requirements in your state and will comply with a well-recognized standard of practice and code of ethics. You should be able to request and see a copy of these items ahead of time and ask any questions you may have. If there are any areas you want to make sure are inspected, be sure to identify them upfront.
2. How long have you been practicing in the home inspection profession and how many inspections have you completed?
The inspector should be able to provide his or her history in the profession and perhaps even a few names as referrals.”
3. Are you specifically experienced in residential inspection?
Related experience in construction or engineering is helpful but is no substitute for training and experience in the unique discipline of home inspection. If the inspection is for a commercial property, then experience in this area should be asked about as well.
4. Do you offer to do repairs or improvements based on the inspection?
Arkansas state law forbids Home Inspectors to perform work on any home that they have inspected for a period of 12 months. This protects the client and prevents any conflict of interest.
5. How long will the inspection take?
The average on-site inspection time for a single inspector is 1 ˝ to 3 hours depending on the condition and size of the property. Anything significantly less may not be enough time to perform a thorough inspection. Additional inspectors may be brought in for very large properties and buildings.
6. How much will it cost?
Costs vary dramatically, depending on the level and type of inspection, the property floor area, property geographical location and the inspector’s qualifications. A typical range might be $325–$500 but consider the value of the home inspection in terms of the investment being made. Inspection cost does not necessarily reflect quality.
7. What type of inspection report do you provide and how long will it take to receive the report?
Ask to see samples and determine whether you can understand the inspector's reporting style and if the time parameters fulfill your needs. Most inspectors provide their full report within 24 hours of the inspection. Xpert offers a digital easy to read report with color photos within 24 hours of inspection. We use Home Inspector Pro software because our clients love it.”
8. Will I be able to attend the inspection?
This is a valuable educational opportunity, and an inspector's refusal to allow this should raise a red flag. Never pass up the opportunity to see your prospective home through the eyes of an Xpert.
9. Do you maintain membership in a professional home inspector association?
There are many state and national associations for home inspectors. Request to see their membership ID and verify that their state license is active.
10. Do you participate in continuing education programs to keep up to date on changing technology?
One can never know it all, and the inspector's commitment to continuing education is a good measure of his or her professionalism and service to the consumer. This is especially important in cases where the home is much older or includes unique elements requiring additional or updated training. It is also important that inspectors stay up to date on changing technology. Xpert participates in annual training every year.
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