HOW DO I FIND A HOME INSPECTOR?
Your realty agent is one source. But keeping them independent from the agent may be a good idea. Inspectors are listed in the yellow pages or you can ask for referrals from friends. Ask to see the inspector’s credentials, such as a contractor’s license or engineering certificate. Also, check out their references. One can usually find an inspector by looking in the phone book, by inquiring at a real estate office or sometimes at an area realtor association. Rates for inspection services vary greatly. Many inspectors charge about $400, but costs go up with the scope of the inspection.
Word of mouth, the experiences and referrals from friends and neighbors is one of the best ways to find a home inspector. Someone who has used a home inspection service and is satisfied with the level of customer service and professionalism of that service will likely recommend a qualified professional.
The best source is a friend, or perhaps a business acquaintance, who has been satisfied with and can recommend a home inspector they have used. In addition, the names of local inspectors can be found by searching the American Society of Home Inspector s online database (www.ashi.org), or in the Yellow Pages where many advertise under “Building Inspection Service” or “Home Inspection Service”. Your 1st Home Realty agent can provide you with a list of names from which to choose. Whatever your referral source, you will want to make sure that the home inspector is a Member of the American Society of Home Inspectors® (ASHI®) in order to be certain of his or her professional qualifications, experience, and business ethics.
You can ask friends or business acquaintances to recommend a home inspector they have used. Or, you can use the Find An Inspector search tool for a list of home inspectors in your area who belong to the non-profit professional organization. To have a list mailed to you, call 1-800-743-ASHI (2744). Also, real estate agents and brokers are familiar with the service and may be able to provide you with a list of names from which to choose. Whatever your referral source, you can be assured of your home inspector’s commitment to professional standards and business ethics by choosing one who has membership in ASHI.
You can ask friends or business acquaintances to recommend a home inspector they have used. Or, you can use the Find An Inspector search tool for a list of home inspectors in your area who belong to the non-profit professional organization. To have a list mailed to you, call 1-800-743-ASHI (2744). Also, real estate agents and brokers are familiar with the service and may be able to provide you with a list of names from which to choose. Whatever your referral source, you can be assured of your home inspectors commitment to professional standards and business ethics by choosing one who has membership in ASHI.
