Home Inspector: How to Pick a Home Inspector

Get a Referral
The best way to find a qualified home inspector is through referrals. Check with these major home inspection associations that credential their members: the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI) and the California Real Estate Inspection Association (CREIA). Ask friends or colleagues who have recently purchased a home if they recommend their inspector. Most real estate agents regularly refer inspectors or inspection companies, as well. You can also find home inspectors listed in the telephone book under "Home Inspection Services" or a similar category.

Choose an Inspector
Interview the inspector or inspection firm about their qualifications, track records and errors-and-omissions insurance. Avoid inspectors who want to do any repair work for you, because that may influence their analysis.

Work with Your Inspector
Schedule your inspection during daylight hours. All utilities should be switched on. Attend the inspection yourself if you can, or ask your agent to go. You may also want to ask the seller's agent to attend. That way, if the inspection turns up any significant defect everyone will have a chance to see it. Bring a flashlight, notebook, tape measure, any prior inspection reports from the seller and any seller disclosures to review with the inspector. Expect to get a full report back in just a few days.