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It's a good idea to take a close look when choosing a home inspector — how do you decide who to choose, and what should you expect?
First of all, a recommendation by your Realtor is a good place to start. Although some buyers are wary of Realtor referrals — sighting stories about a friend of a friend who heard of inspectors and Realtors “in cahoots.” While rare cases of this may have occurred, it is certainly not the norm for any inspector or Realtor who wants to stay in business. The truth is if you've picked a reputable realtor he or she is a good source for reliable referrals. Your Realtor knows which inspectors have made the commitment to operate professionally under industry guidelines. Certified inspectors at NACHI (National Association of Certified Home Inspectors) or ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) must pass national home inspector exams, meet continuing educational requirements, comply to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards, and must perform hundreds of inspections prior to gaining full membership. Be sure your inspector is a member of one of these organizations.
Local Realtors also know which inspectors have experience in our mountain community. Although inspectors on the Front Range are nearby, our long winters and high elevations pose a uniquely different set of issues. Hire a local, experienced inspector who understands homes in the High Country.
Once you have a local referral, call the inspector. Ask questions: Do they enter crawlspaces and attics? Do they walk the roof? Who will actually perform your inspection? A good inspector is professionally trained to inspect homes, but they must also be able to communicate their findings. The inspection report should provide clear, accurate, and unbiased observations.
The inspection will explain the condition of the home's components — structural, exterior, roof, plumbing, heating, electrical, interior, bathrooms, kitchens, insulation, fireplaces, and safety features. The report will also explain the severity of the condition. Does it need immediate attention, or is the problem just emerging. Some problems require immediate attention while others may not. It's important to note that there is a limit to what inspectors can ascertain. All of this is stated in NACHI and ASHI Standards of Practice for Home Inspectors. Limitations do exist. Inspectors point out the status of the home on the day it is inspected. One day, or one week later, something may have changed. Not every problem can be foreseen.
It's not the inspector's job to tell buyers what they should or shouldn't do about items noted in the inspection report. Every buyer is different. While a dripping bathtub faucet might annoy one buyer, another buyer may be planning a remodel and not concerned. Your Realtor will discuss how the inspection results may or may not impact the transaction.
Finally, if you are unable to attend your inspection, a verbal consultation with your inspector is a must. Call after you've had a chance to review the inspection report. Communication is key.
Patrick Wathen and Joni Ellis are the owners of Independent Property Inspections, Inc. For more information about home inspections call (970) 468-9400 or visit: www.mtninspector.com
First of all, a recommendation by your Realtor is a good place to start. Although some buyers are wary of Realtor referrals — sighting stories about a friend of a friend who heard of inspectors and Realtors “in cahoots.” While rare cases of this may have occurred, it is certainly not the norm for any inspector or Realtor who wants to stay in business. The truth is if you've picked a reputable realtor he or she is a good source for reliable referrals. Your Realtor knows which inspectors have made the commitment to operate professionally under industry guidelines. Certified inspectors at NACHI (National Association of Certified Home Inspectors) or ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) must pass national home inspector exams, meet continuing educational requirements, comply to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards, and must perform hundreds of inspections prior to gaining full membership. Be sure your inspector is a member of one of these organizations.
Local Realtors also know which inspectors have experience in our mountain community. Although inspectors on the Front Range are nearby, our long winters and high elevations pose a uniquely different set of issues. Hire a local, experienced inspector who understands homes in the High Country.
Once you have a local referral, call the inspector. Ask questions: Do they enter crawlspaces and attics? Do they walk the roof? Who will actually perform your inspection? A good inspector is professionally trained to inspect homes, but they must also be able to communicate their findings. The inspection report should provide clear, accurate, and unbiased observations.
The inspection will explain the condition of the home's components — structural, exterior, roof, plumbing, heating, electrical, interior, bathrooms, kitchens, insulation, fireplaces, and safety features. The report will also explain the severity of the condition. Does it need immediate attention, or is the problem just emerging. Some problems require immediate attention while others may not. It's important to note that there is a limit to what inspectors can ascertain. All of this is stated in NACHI and ASHI Standards of Practice for Home Inspectors. Limitations do exist. Inspectors point out the status of the home on the day it is inspected. One day, or one week later, something may have changed. Not every problem can be foreseen.
It's not the inspector's job to tell buyers what they should or shouldn't do about items noted in the inspection report. Every buyer is different. While a dripping bathtub faucet might annoy one buyer, another buyer may be planning a remodel and not concerned. Your Realtor will discuss how the inspection results may or may not impact the transaction.
Finally, if you are unable to attend your inspection, a verbal consultation with your inspector is a must. Call after you've had a chance to review the inspection report. Communication is key.
Patrick Wathen and Joni Ellis are the owners of Independent Property Inspections, Inc. For more information about home inspections call (970) 468-9400 or visit: www.mtninspector.com
