Many people think that it’s the duty of their real estate professional to hire a home inspector during their transaction.  It’s true that agents usually have several inspectors on speed dial, but you’re the one responsible for due diligence.  You’re the one responsible for signing the contract and paying the inspection fee. Knowing how to choose a home inspector can help you get the quality of service you expect and deserve.

Simply choosing an inspector based on a cheap home inspection fee may or may not give you what you expect.  Likewise, finding the most expensive inspector may not bring the best home inspection results for your situation.

I recommend that, just like any contractor you hire, you select an inspector that is qualified and licensed. I also recommend selecting one that is committed to maintaining the highest standards in service and communication.  Certified home inspectors show this commitment by earning and maintaining certifications through continuing education and national trade association membership.

The State of Arizona regulates the home inspection industry. You can verify inspection firm registration and individual inspector licensing if you choose to do so. This will help you determine if a firm or inspector is operating legally in the state.

The Home Inspector Interview

The quality of service and communication skills of your chosen inspector is paramount. The details in an inspection report can make or break one of your largest financial transactions.

• Do they answer the phone right away, or return your call quickly?  Are they always available, or do they turn off the phone outside of business hours?
• Are they responsive, or dismissive, to your questions or concerns?
• Do they seem like they’re trying to rush you off the call? Do they keep talking about having three inspections to get to that day?  Or do they give you the time and attention you deserve?
• Do they talk down about their competitors, or do they speak of their own qualifications to get the job?
• Is a walk-through summary included on the day of the inspection to show you their findings and answer your questions? Or do they just tell you it will all be in the report?
• How much continuing education are they completing?  Are they committed to staying on top of today’s ever-changing home technology, new systems and components, and building techniques?
• Will their report include only defects, or will it also include maintenance suggestions and tips? How about suggested upgrades to improve safety or convenience?
• How soon will you receive your report?  Same day reports can be rushed and may contain errors or unverified information.  Much more that 24 hours after the inspection and you risk cutting into your contracted inspection period. Today’s inspection periods can be between 3 and 10 days.

A Sea of Home Inspectors in Our Area

There are many great home inspectors in our area to choose from.  Some have a ton of customer service experience.  Others may have more experience in homebuilding, remodeling, or technical trade work.  Your search will turn up both old timers and newbs. Most, if not all, are capable of providing a basic home inspection report. The best home inspectors are good at spotting the details and communicating the severity of defects. Having years of building or remodeling experience doesn’t necessarily make a good inspector. After all, home inspectors are regularly hired to identify defects in the workmanship of homebuilders and remodeling contractors. Good communication skills and the ability to accurately report details in a report makes a home inspector you can trust.

You’re relying on your chosen home inspector’s service. It’s important to select the one that you jive with the best.  Don’t just go with the one who answered first, and don’t just accept the one your agent recommends just to save time.  Make sure your home inspector will be there to further explain any findings or suggestions when you need it. Five days or five years later, they should be there for you when you need something explained in your report.

Getting Ahead of the Game

Get ahead of the game and choose your home inspector before you make an offer on a home. Don’t be afraid to tell your agent that you’ve already chosen your inspector. Your agent will appreciate that you’ve taken charge and already prepared.

Don’t forget that you’re the one investing a huge part of you and your family’s future in a home. Everyone else involved in your transaction is there for a paycheck.  It’s up to you to make sure that you receive the service and home inspection report you expect and deserve. Knowing how to choose a home inspector helps keep you in charge of your transaction.

AZ Pro Inspector Service is Your Certified Home Inspector

If you’re ready to schedule a home inspection now, I would truly appreciate your business! You can call Danny at 480-252-7455 or click here to schedule your inspection online.

If you’re outside of my service area, click here to find an InterNACHI certified home inspector.

AZ Pro Inspector Service is based in the Anthem at Merrill Ranch neighborhood between Florence and San Tan Valley.  Your Certified Phoenix Home Inspector services the entire Phoenix area, including Chandler, Gilbert, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Apache Junction, Gold Canyon, Queen Creek, San Tan Valley, Florence, Coolidge, Casa Grande, Arizona City, Eloy, Maricopa and everywhere else in Maricopa and Pinal Counties.