Durham: Real Estate

Q: What should a buyer consider when hiring a home inspector?

A: Savvy homebuyers know that having an inspection done before you purchase a new house is a critical step in the home buying process. But many homebuyers do not realize that choosing the right home inspector is just as important as the inspection itself. Many buyers may be tempted to ask their Realtor for a recommendation and hire the first person on the list. Ask for two or three names and take the time to check out and interview for the best choice for your needs. Buyers should make the effort to choose someone who is qualified for the job and you are comfortable working with.

When you are considering potential home inspectors, your first question should be, “Are you licensed?” Tennessee and Georgia have laws requiring a person offering inspections and advice on the condition of a home to be licensed as a home inspector. Licensure can help you feel confident that the person who will be inspecting one of your most valuable possessions has all the knowledge needed for the job.

Home inspection covers many areas. Interior systems like plumbing, electrical and heating & air systems should all have a thorough once-over. Exterior elements like roofing, siding, windows and foundation are also methodically inspected for problems and structural defects. Ask your inspector if he will be climbing onto the roof for a close look, or getting in the crawl space to examine the foundation. After all, if the potential home inspector is unwilling to get into these areas of the property to make sure your home is in tip-top condition, do you really want to hire them? You want a home inspector that will perform a complete and thorough inspection.

Find out what type of homes or buildings the inspector generally works with. An inspector who most often deals with new construction may be used to looking for different issues than one who specializes in historic homes. Also, commercial buildings have different code requirements than residential homes. A person qualified for a commercial building may not be the right inspector for your potential home. Relying on someone who is not used to your type of property may lead to additional inspections. Some home inspectors specialize in several areas or expertise. In other words, some home inspectors can perform structural inspections and offer certification and lender required letters, if needed.

There are some types of inspections that are very specific and are not conducted in a general assessment. If you are worried about serious issues like lead paint, mold or radon, be sure and ask whether or not your candidate is able to perform the task. Often they will be able to bring in the equipment necessary for the job, or can refer you to qualified inspector. Keep in mind these usually require an extra fee.

You might want to ask what type of information you will get in your copy of the inspection report and how soon you will get it. Some inspectors are very thorough, detailing every little thing even if it is not strictly necessary for the report - cosmetic issues, for instance, are not a part of the inspection. This may be great for you, or you might want a more basic report that has the major issues listed. It may also be important to you when you get the report. Some inspectors make notes while they are conducting the assessment at the property then go back to their office to write it up neatly and mail it to you. Most home inspectors will e-mail you the report promptly. Some inspectors have the ability to print out your copy of the report right at the inspection site.

Taking the time to interview potential home inspectors is as important as the inspection itself. Your choice can make the difference in your home buying experience. Asking the right questions before you hire a home inspector will give you the peace of mind that your new home will be safe and worry-free.

Get answers to questions you might have about real estate from Randy Durham, who is president of the Chattanooga Association of Realtors and a broker with Keller Williams Realty. His column appears on Sundays. Send your questions to Business Editor John Vass Jr. at jvass@timesfreepress.com