Buying a new home or commercial building is hands down one of the biggest investments most of us will make in our lifetimes. It’s right up there with retirement savings and college funds for the kids. And we all know how nerve-wracking those types of major money decisions can be!

Before you finalize any real estate deal, it’s absolutely critical to get the property thoroughly inspected from roof to foundation by a qualified professional. Doing so gives you crucial peace of mind that there are no hidden defects, structural problems, faulty electrical or plumbing systems, termite infestations – you name it – that could end up costing big bucks down the road. I’m talking the potential for thousands of dollars in unexpected repairs and headaches. Not exactly how you pictured move-in day, am I right?

The problem is, not all building inspectors are created equal when it comes to experience, training, and expertise. That’s why you’ve got to do your homework when choosing an inspection company. Making sure the business and its inspectors are properly certified and licensed gives you greater confidence that issues won’t be overlooked during the inspection process.

In this article, I’ll walk through exactly how to research and verify inspector credentials, smart questions to ask potential inspectors, what to watch for during the actual inspection, red flags to be aware of, and tips for following up when the inspection is complete. Taking these steps will help ensure your next real estate purchase or investment gets thoroughly evaluated by a building inspection company that’s competent, ethical, and operating legally.

Let’s get started!

Why Proper Licensing and Certification Matters

In most states, home and building inspectors are required to hold certain licenses to operate legally. There are also numerous certifications inspectors can obtain through industry organizations and training programs. These credentials show inspectors have gotten standardized education and training and adhere to established inspection practices and ethical guidelines.

Now, licensing requirements and allowable services can vary a lot between states. Some states have zero statewide regulations. That makes thoroughly researching an inspector’s qualifications extra important.

Improper or incomplete inspections could allow major hidden defects to be overlooked. That can leave buyers inheriting expensive surprises down the road, like faulty wiring or leaky roofs. Using an unqualified inspector also reduces the chance you’d be able to pursue legal action for negligence.

Confirming licensure and certification gives assurance that:

– Inspectors have received proper education and training for conducting thorough, unbiased inspections.

– They adhere to ethical standards and best practices supported by the industry.

– They are operating legally in compliance with state and local regulations.

– There is greater opportunity for recourse in the case of a botched or negligent inspection.

While credentials do not guarantee perfect inspections, they do reduce risks and give the process far more legitimacy.

Researching and Verifying Credentials

There are several steps buyers and investors should take to verify the credentials of a building inspection company:

Check for Proper Licensing

– Determine what your state’s specific rules are for home or building inspector licensure. Some states require inspectors to pass exams and/or meet experience requirements.

– Ask inspectors to provide their license number and confirm they are registered in good standing by contacting your state’s licensing authority.

– Check that the company is licensed to operate in your state and locality if required.

– Avoid inspectors who are unable or unwilling to provide valid license information.

Look for Relevant Certifications

There are many recognized certifications that can demonstrate an inspector’s expertise:

– ASHI – The American Society of Home Inspectors certification is one of the most widely recognized. ASHI standards are based on over 40,000 field inspections.

– InterNACHI – The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors offers certifications based on time in the field, inspection reports completed, and an exam. 

– NAHI – The National Association of Home Inspectors offers the NAHI Certified Professional Inspector (CPI) designation.

– International Code Council – ICC inspectors are certified in conducting inspections based on IRC codes.

Ask inspectors which certifications they currently hold and confirm they are active and in good standing.

Search Company and Inspector Background

– Search online for company reviews, complaints, disciplinary actions, and other background information. Be cautious of completely blank or questionable histories.

– Ask for references from recent customers and call them to inquire about their experience. 

– Search inspector names specifically to uncover background details, reviews, and any disciplinary history.

Avoid companies or individual inspectors with concerning complaints or violations. The state licensing authority may also have records of infractions.

Questions to Ask Potential Inspectors

Thoroughly vet inspectors and companies before committing to hire them. Here are some key questions to ask:

What Specific Training and Experience Do You Have?

Look for inspectors who have undergone formal training, certification, continuing education courses, and have conducted hundreds of inspections in your type of property. They should be able to describe their experience knowledgeably.

What Certifications Do You Hold? 

Ask for details about any professional certifications the inspector has obtained. Look for relevant, recognized certifications like ASHI, NACHI, ICC, etc. that require rigorous testing and continuing education.

Are You Properly Licensed for This Work?

Confirm the inspector is registered with your state and allowed to operate legally. Be wary of any hesitance to provide license numbers or other key details.

Do You Carry Errors and Omissions Insurance?

Reputable companies carry E&O insurance to protect you from mistakes or oversights made during the inspection. Ask for proof of active coverage.

How Long Have You Been Performing Inspections?

Look for inspectors with at least 3-5 years of experience conducting inspections in your type of building or home. They should have completed at least 200-300 inspections.

How Many Inspections Do You Conduct Annually?

Inspectors who conduct a high volume (200 or more) of inspections regularly are best able to identify issues accurately and efficiently. Rusty or inexperienced inspectors can miss things.

Will You Provide References From Recent Customers?

Professional inspectors should readily provide references who can vouch for their thoroughness, professionalism, and expertise during their inspections.

Follow up with these references to confirm the inspector delivered quality, thorough service.

What to Look For During the Inspection

On inspection day, take note of the following signs of a diligent, skilled professional:

Thoroughness

They should methodically inspect every room, system, component, roof, foundation, electrical panel, drainage, appliances, etc. A rushed inspection signals potential oversights.

Professionalism 

The inspector should be focused, meticulous, and act in a dignified manner. Unprofessionalism can equate to sloppy work. 

Knowledge

It should be apparent the inspector possesses deep, specialized knowledge from their observations, testing, and explanations provided to you.

Communication Skills

Clear communication skills ensure you understand what is being inspected and any issues found. Lack of communication can leave you in the dark.

Attention to Safety Protocols

At all times inspectors should exercise safe practices, use appropriate protective gear, and point out any hazards.

Watch out if inspectors cut corners or fail to exhibit these qualities during the inspection.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Be wary of the following problematic signs when evaluating inspectors:

Lack of Licensing or Certification

Improperly licensed or uncertified inspectors should be an immediate deal breaker. Only work with properly registered, certified professionals.

Unable to Provide References

Quality inspectors should be able to readily furnish customer references. A lack of references could signal trouble.

Rushed Inspection

Hurried, haphazard inspections are likely to overlook defects. Ensure yours takes however much time needed to be thorough.

Major Oversights or Errors

Beware inspectors who miss obvious defects or provide erroneous information. They likely lack the necessary skills.

Pushy Sales Tactics 

Avoid high-pressure pitches for unnecessary added services. Stick to inspectors who focus solely on an objective inspection.

Following Up After the Inspection

Your diligence does not end once the inspection is over:

Review Full Report Carefully

Scrutinize the complete report and flag any concerning vagueness, errors, omissions, or recommendations that differ significantly from others.

Research Any Questionable Findings

If you suspect any misinformation in the report, consult an alternative specialist to get a second qualified opinion.

Consult Another Inspector If Needed

If you have any lingering doubts about the inspection, consider hiring a separate respected company to conduct a second inspection.

Insist on full transparency and clear communication with inspectors throughout the entire relationship. Do not ignore questionable findings or tactics.

Conclusion

Choosing the right home or building inspector goes a long way towards identifying latent defects and avoiding unwanted surprises from your next real estate purchase. Take time to research a company’s licensure, certification, experience, reputation, and expertise before entrusting them with this critical task. 

During the inspection, note if they exhibit thoroughness, professionalism, communication skills, and a diligent attention to safety. Follow up meticulously afterwards to clear up any uncertainties. 

By heeding these guidelines, you can gain peace of mind knowing one of your biggest investments has undergone rigorous evaluation by a qualified, credible inspection company. With large sums of money at stake, never cut corners when it comes to choosing building inspectors.