All Home Inspection Companies Are Not Created Equal
Provided by U.S. Inspect

Purchasing a home can be stressful enough, and then your agent suggests using their home inspector... Choosing the right home inspector doesn't have to cause heartburn. The checklist below will show you, the prospective homebuyer, what to look for when shopping for a professional home inspection company.

Does the inspection company carry E&O insurance?
Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance will compensate you if the inspector misses
something in the inspection.

Are the reports delivered clear and timely?
Inspection reports should be clear, concise, easy to read and available either on-site or within a few days of the inspection.

Does the report provide a summary of defective items?
Your report should provide a summary of defective items. This "summary page"
allows you to easily see what functional problems exist with the property.

Does the report provide cost estimates for defective items?
Although not required by the Standards of Practice of the American Society of
Home Inspectors, some inspectors will indicate approximately how much a defective item may cost to repair or replace. This extra feature allows you to budget accordingly.

Is the inspection company well established and strong?
The inspection company should have been operating in the area for many years. Our firm has done over one million home inspections. A well-established inspection firm may indicate experience and strength that will benefit you.

Does the inspector belong to industry organizations?
Various associations in the home inspection industry promote professionalism. It is recommended that you choose an inspector who holds a membership in an organization such as ASHI.

Will the inspector be available after the inspection?
Your inspector should be ready to assist in person even after the home inspection. This enables you to ask questions that you may not have had during the inspection.

Is the fee too low? Too high?
Although the price is always a consideration it should not be the primary factor. The $25, $50, or $100 extra to hire the "right" inspection company is minimal compared the thousands it could cost you by hiring the "wrong" inspection company. The company you hire will be accepting the liability of your prospective home.

Does the company encourage you to attend the inspection?
Attending the inspection is a great opportunity for you to learn first hand what is included in the inspection and all about the systems and components in the house you are purchasing.