How to Hire a Home Inspector

For most people, the purchase of a home is the largest investment they’ll ever make.  Getting an independent, expert opinion on the operability of the structure and its systems is a no-brainer. But not all home inspectors have the same experience, training, or certifications.

In New Jersey there is a Licensing process for Home Inspectors.  All home inspectors must complete a Home Inspection Program consisting of 180 hour curriculum, of which 40 hours will be dedicated to completeing home inspections under the direct supervision of a licensed home inspector.  Also they must pass the National Home Inspectors Exam.  All home inspectors are required to carry E & O insurance.

When shopping for a home inspector, it’s vital that you do your homework and interview each inspector based on the checklist below.

  • Do not price shop.  When hiring a home inspector, you’re basically hiring an advocate with your inerests in mind to give you their expert opinion on the home’s condition. With that in mind, making sure that you’re hiring an inspector with plenty of knowledge and training means not shopping for one br price alone.  Training, certifications, and continuing education don’t come cheap to the inspectors and therefore, their expertise isn’t going to be cheap either.  A properly performed home inspection can save in thousands of dollars in the end, if performed properly.
  • Research their services. Online reviews are good sources of information. It allow past customers to express their like and dis-like about their experences.
  • Call and interview the inspector.  Ask how long have they been in business, what is there background. They should be easy to communciate with, and in a professional and businesslike manner.  Mature and conscientious inspectors give you the feeling of genuine empathy and are sincerely interested in you getting the most for your money.  You are paying for quality inspecting and communication, orally and in writing.  Lastly, ask if the person you are talking to, are you going to inspect the home yourself or one of your associates.
  • Ask if you can attend the inspection. You should be able to attend the inspection, you also should follow the inspector around the home.  Ask questions? If you don’t know how something operates or if there is a defect.  The inspection is an invaluable learning experience, so plan on being there the entire time.
  • Ask to see a sample inspection report.  Inspectors should be willing to provide you with a sample report.  Some reports are written and sent in hard copy, others are sent in electronic form.  Either is fine.  Find out what type of report the inspector offers.  On-site or verbal reports are NOT recommended.  These are skimpy at best and don’t provide the level of information you need to make an intelligent decision.  If an inspector tries to “sell” these types of reports, keep looking for another inspector! Just how much detail and time is involved in an on-site or verbal report? You do want to avoid a simple checklist type report.   This is very minimal, and does not give you a good picture of the property.  A narrative report, with digital pictures that includes some checklist type items is ideal.  Most websites provide a link to a sample report.  If not, ask for one.

A professional inspector should have three goals: 

  1. To find readily accessible, major defects in the house.
  2. To provide the client with the cause and effects of such defects that will help the homebuyer develop a clear understanding of what repairs are needed and or are on an “immediate or deferred” repair plan.
  3. To educate the homebuyer about the house.  For example, the inspector should point out where the main water, electrical disconnect switch,  gas and heating system are in case of an emergency.