What is a home inspection and what does it include?

Home inspections may not seem like a necessity, but they are absolutely critical in the long run.  A new house may look like it is in great shape at first glance, but there may be some serious problems that could cost the home buyer a small fortune in the long run. 

Home inspectors are professionals trained to evaluate structural oversights and repairs needed ensure well being for your home in the future.  A home inspector will usually provide you with a number of alternatives to any problems found in order to keep your home in good condition.
 

A home inspection is a must. However, there are home inspectors that are more competent and thorough than others.  

Here is how to find a qualified home inspector:

• What is included in the home inspection?  Do they inspect structural items, roofing, or plumbing?  It is so important to ask these types of questions when hiring a home inspector so you know exactly what you're getting.  If you end up having to hire a second inspector to inspect an area that was not included by the first inspector, it could end up being pretty expensive.  
  
• Find out about their qualifications.  Where did they go to school?  How long have they been doing home inspections?  Ask questions pertaining to the inspectors track record, experience, and years in the business.  Keep in mind that only certain inspectors are qualified to deal with hazardous materials such as lead based paint and asbestos.  These materials can be detrimental to a persons health and should be evaluated, especially if it is an older house.  For more information about lead based paint, read our article on lead based paint disclosure.
  
• How descriptive and inclusive are their reports?  Many home buyers will ask for a sample report before hiring an inspector to see what is included. Any credible inspector will have no problem sending you samples of their work.  Expect an average of 30-50 pages of detailed analysis containing multiple photographs of the problems found.  An inspector providing anything less than this is suspicious.
• Ask for references from the inspector.  This is a great way to determine whether or not you should hire this person.  Call home owners who have used the inspector in the past and ask if they were satisfied with the reports.  If any of the previous clients had a bad experience with the inspector they will not hesitate to tell you.