INSPECTORS | REPUTATION
INSURANCE | REPORTS
As in other areas of business, not all Home Inspection companies are equally qualified or offer the same quality service. That is why it is important for you to choose your inspection company carefully.
Certified or Formally Trained Inspectors
Because there are a variety of systems in a home, such as plumbing and electrical, the home inspector you choose should have formal training involving all areas of the structure. Technical knowledge in one specific area does not make a great home inspector. The home inspector you choose should be trained and familiar with all areas of the home.
Some Questions You Should Ask:
- Are your inspectors state licensed?
- What kind of training do your inspectors receive?
- Are your inspectors required to continue their education?
- What qualifications do your inspectors have?
Reputation
The company you select should be experienced, have a good reputation, and be known for their professionalism and thoroughness.
Some Questions You Should Ask:
- How long has the company been in the home inspection business?
- How many inspections have they performed?
Insurance
One of the most commonly unasked questions and misunderstood areas in selecting a Home Inspection company is what types of insurance are carried. General Liability Insurance protects you should the inspector damage an item while performing the inspection. Workers Compensation Insurance protects the inspector against injuries while working at the property on your behalf. Errors & Omissions (E & O) insurance covers any negligence by the inspector. You should select a Home Inspector with all of these insurance policies to limit any liability on your behalf.
Some Questions You Should Ask:
- Are your inspectors covered by E & O Insurance?
- Does the company have General Liability Insurance?
- Is there Workers Compensation Insurance coverage?
The Inspection Report
The Inspection Company you choose should encourage your attendance at the inspection and provide you with a written Report of the inspector's findings. You should verify that the Report accurately describes all the major systems. The Report should also include the approximate age of the all the major appliances and systems as well as an estimated life span of those appliances and systems.
Some Questions You Should Ask:
- May I accompany the inspector on the inspection?
- What type of Report will I receive and when will I receive it?
- What does the Report cover?
- Is the Home Inspection performed in accordance with the standards set forth by both New Jersey and the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI)?
