Are you planning to purchase a new house? Unarguably, it’s a major investment, and therefore you should leave no stone unturned to ensure you are making the right decision.
Getting a home inspection is one way to achieve this. A professional home inspector provides an objective, third-party evaluation of the condition of a property. From major or minor repairs to health hazards, a home inspector is trained to identify any issues with a property. A quality home inspection reveals key details about the house that can make or break your purchasing decision.
As home inspection plays such a crucial role in determining any faults in the house, you have to choose a home inspector with due diligence. Here are some tips that you should keep in mind when looking for a home inspector-
Get Recommendations
If you’re unfamiliar with home inspections, ask someone who has hired a home inspector in the past. You can get trustworthy recommendations from your real estate agents, friends or colleagues.
Do Your Research
The time and cost of an inspection will vary depending on your property and the kind of inspection you need. Do your research to learn an estimated cost and time it would take to conduct a home inspection. This will safeguard you from getting ripped off.
Collaboration and Communication
It is better to conduct a home inspection in your presence. If you want to get the most out of a home inspection, choose a home inspector who brings you along for the inspection. The right home inspector will patiently and clearly answer any questions you might have.
Look Through Reviews
Put your internet to use and look through customer reviews to make an educated choice. You can head over to platforms such as Angie’s List, Google Reviews and Yelp to learn past client’s experiences. Whether you need a Building Inspection in Sydney or a Timber Pest Inspection, you can analyse a company on the basis of their customer reviews.
Request a Sample Report
A complicated, jargon-filled report won’t be of much use. Request a sample report and assess its comprehensibility. It should clearly convey an inspector’s observations, suggestions and should include high-quality images.
Enquire About Experience
Enquire about the inspector’s experience in the industry and the number and types of projects he/she has undertaken.
Ask for License and Insurance
It’s not smart to trust an unlicensed and uninsured home inspector. Always ask for a copy of license and proof of insurance.
Check Qualifications and Accreditations
Always check a home inspector’s qualifications and accreditations. Also, ask if he/she has completed any specialised courses.
Opt for Comprehensive Inspection Services
Home inspectors either specialise in a particular area or provide a general inspection. For instance, if you’re concerned about the property’s drainage system, look for a home inspector offering relevant expertise. If you require more than one type of home inspection, make this clear ahead of time and hire someone offering comprehensive inspection services. This is a convenient and cheaper option than hiring separate inspectors for different inspection needs.
View Portfolio
Take a look at home inspectors’ past clients to get an idea about the kind of properties they have experience in.
Professional Organisation Memberships
It’s a positive sign if a home inspector is a member of a professional inspector’s organisation.
In conclusion, it’s imperative to hire a qualified home inspector to check the house for any problems. Especially if you’re a first-time homebuyer, a home inspection will help you understand repair and maintenance requirements of the property. It’s important to note that your decision to buy a house doesn’t solely depend on the inspection report, but it is certainly influenced by it.
