Making a Purchase Offer | Find a qualified home inspector
It is important that your home inspection is performed by a qualified professional with training and experience in a field such as engineering, architecture or construction. To find a qualified home inspector, ask your broker or lender to provide names of reputable companies.
If you are unable to recommend a reliable home inspector, you can search for any member of the American Society of Home Inspectors (American Society of Home Inspectors, ASHI). This nonprofit organization was created in 1976 as a voluntary professional association.
To be accepted as members of ASHI, inspectors must pass a series of tests to assess their technical and professional knowledge. Also, to formally join this organization, they must perform at least 250 home inspections, professional (paid) in accordance with the standards of practice of ASHI, and undergo a trial period and review of one year. All ASHI members must adhere to the Code of Ethics of the society every year and get credit for a continuing education program.
Standards of practice of ASHI inspectors require the state to assess a series of structural and mechanical components of a home, and to submit a written report to the buyer. Some of these components are:
- Central heating and air conditioning.
- Electrical and plumbing systems within the home.
- Walls, ceilings, floors and stairs inside the house.
- Isolation visible.
- Ventilation systems.
- Foundation, basement, attic and roof.
- Wall coverings, flashings and trim, drains and downspouts.
- Windows and doors.
- Drainage and grade requirements.
Should insist that all these points are covered in the detailed report provided to you. It is recommended to accompany the home inspector when the inspection takes place. This will give you the opportunity to ask questions about any damage that exists in housing and to obtain an estimate of the cost of repairs. It also will provide an opportunity to ask questions about home maintenance.
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