Must-Ask Questions During Your Home Inspection

As a home inspector, my main goal is to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the property and its structure. If you're purchasing a home, it's important to have a clear understanding of what to expect during the home inspection process. Here are some questions that you should ask me, the home inspector, to feel more confident in your home purchase.

1. What are my credentials and experience? As a licensed and experienced home inspector, I am affiliated with organizations like InterNACHI, FABI, or ASHI. I have completed numerous inspections and have the necessary state licensing, if required. You can check my reviews on Google, Facebook, or Yelp to learn more about my services. 2. What does the inspection cover or exclude? During the inspection, I will evaluate the property's condition and report on the general condition. You should ask if the inspection includes the pool, sprinkler system, attic, roof, crawlspace, and if I use thermography during the inspection. I can also inspect detached buildings or garages for an additional fee. 3. When will I receive the report? I understand that you may be on a time crunch, so it's important to know when to expect the report. You should also ask about the length of the report and if it includes pictures. I can provide you with a sample report for your review. 4. Do you have an agreement I need to sign? All home inspectors should require the client to sign an inspection agreement. The agreement outlines what the inspection includes and what it does not include. If the inspector does not provide an agreement, this is a red flag. 5. How long does the inspection take? On average, a single home inspector can inspect 1,000 square feet per hour. You should be cautious of inspectors who claim to complete an inspection too quickly or too slowly. 6. Will I receive a summary after the inspection? I will provide you with a summary after the inspection is completed. You can ask me questions and review the pictures from the inspection. You can also use a notepad or a note-taking app to keep track of your questions during the inspection.

During the inspection, you should also ask me, the home inspector, the following questions:

1. What is the condition of the roof and what is the life expectancy? Knowing the condition and life expectancy of the roof can help you negotiate the price of the roof in your deal and plan for future expenses. 2. What is the condition of the HVAC system and what is the life expectancy? Replacing the air conditioning and heating system can be costly, so knowing when to expect this expense will be helpful. 3. What is the condition of the electrical system and will it need updating? Older homes may require updates to the electrical panel or wiring, which can be a significant expense. 4. What is the condition of the plumbing system and will it need updating? You should ask this question to determine if you need to update cast iron or polybutylene plumbing to get insurance on the home. 5. What is the condition of the home's structure? I will report on any signs of potentially serious structural or foundation problems. 6. Does water flow away from the home and are there any grading issues? Water ponding can cause costly repairs, so it's important to ensure that water flows away from the home.

In conclusion, hiring the right home inspector is crucial to make informed decisions about your investment. Use these questions before and during the home inspection to ensure that you receive a comprehensive evaluation of the property and its structure. After the inspection, thoroughly read the report and contact me if you have any additional questions.