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Choosing The Right Inspector
When shopping for a home inspector, it's important that you do some homework along with also interviewing the inspector. The first question most people ask is "How Much do you charge?". If your looking for the cheapest inspector, then you won't hire me. If you call me I will be happy help you and answer any questions you may have. I'll also be happy to give you the name and numbers of other Home Inspectors who serve the area where your new home is located. They will probably charge you less and they will follow the bare minimum requirements required by the state. If your satisfied with a bare minium inspection then you'll be happy with their service. If, however you want an inspector that will take his time and exceed the bare minimum requirements, then you may want to consider using my services. I will take the time to to cross check serial numbers, manufacturer and government defect and recall lists, and make sure you understand exactly what I'm doing and why. If you want someone that will work for YOU, not the realtor, bank or mortgage company, then consider using my services. Listed below are several factors to keep in mind while shopping for an inspector.

1. Do Not Price Shop. When hiring a home inspector, you’re basically hiring a professional that will keep your interests in mind and give you their expert opinion on the condition of the home and it's systems and components. Keeping that in mind, you should make sure you are hiring an inspector with plenty of knowledge and training. An inspectors training, certifications, and continuing education isn't cheap and therefore, their expertise isn’t going to be cheap either. Shopping by price alone could end up costing you more money in the long run. As with most things you get what you pay for.
2. Check Their Credentials. A good way to find out about an inspector's qualifications is ask what associations they belong to. Keep in mind that not all associations are created equal. Some associations only require minimum training, experience,and continuing education. Check out the associations’ minimum requirements. The best associations require that the inspector pass yearly exams and obtain a specific amount of continuing education credits. A little research in this area will help you choose the right inspector.
3. Ask For References. A good inspector should be happy to provide you with 2 or 3 references from previous clients. Call those clients and ask them about their experience with their inspections.
4. Make Sure They Are Insured. A professional inspector should have E&O insurance. Commonly known as errors and emissions. This means that if the inspector misses something during the inspection, you can file a claim against that insurance for the repairs of the problem. Also, check the inspector’s contract for limited liability clauses that limit their responsibility for damages.
5. Ask To See A Sample Report. Reports can vary widely from a simple checklist report to a complete narrative report with photos. Inspection reports can be difficult to understand, so it’s important that you check out a sample report.Make sure that the report always specifies the exact problem and recommended repairs. Items marked as “fair”, “poor”, or “inadequate” without any further explanation will not help you understand what the problem is or what exactly to repair.
6. Make Your Own Decision. Based on your research, make your own decision. Just because your realtor recommends a home inspector doesn't mean it's the best choice. A little research on your own will allow you to feel comfortable knowing you made the right choice.
   
   
   
   2006 Steve's Precision Home Inspection LLC