Turner Home Inspection Services 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 if applicable 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. When Is Payment Due ?
Payment is due on inspection day. Cash, check, or credit card payments are accepted. Please note the final report will not be released until payment is received.
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 this should be asked about as well.
4. Do you offer to do repairs or improvements based on the inspection?
Some inspector associations and state regulations allow the inspector to perform repair work on problems uncovered in the inspection. Other associations and regulations strictly forbid this as a 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 $225–$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?
Normally the reports and contracts are sent via email to you. With a copy of the report also going to the Realtor or your insurance company. If you wish arrangements can be made to furnish you with a printed bound copy of your inspection report (additional fees may apply). I also have print copies of the contract that can be signed the day of the inspection. When scheduling your inspection let me know of any concerns you have and I will do my best to accommodate you to make your experience as enjoyable as possible.
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 this opportunity to see your prospective home through the eyes of an expert.
9. Do you maintain membership in a professional home inspector association?
I am a member in good standing with InterNACHI.
10. Do you participate in continuing education programs to keep your expertise up to date?
One can never know it all, and the inspector's commitment to continuing education is a good measure of his professionalism and service to the consumer. I complete a minimum of 24 hours annually in continuing education in the field of home inspections.
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