Questions to Ask Your Home Inspector When Buying a Home

A home inspection is an invaluable tool for evaluating your current home and / or the potential of a new home.  While the process seems fairly straightforward, there is one thing homeowners and home buyers often overlook: asking questions.

Below I've listed the top 4 questions you shouldn’t hesitate to ask your home inspector.

1. How long have you been a home inspector?

It might just sound like some friendly conversation, but this is a very important question!  One of the most valuable qualities in a home inspector is experience.  It is a bonus if they are a part of a professional organization such as the Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors.  If your inspector is a part of a professional organization, you will be able to find the required credentials and it will give you a better idea of the educational background and experience of your inspector.

2. How long will the inspection last and how much will it cost?

The time it will take to complete an inspection and the overall cost is, of course, dependent on the size and age of the home.  An experienced home inspector will be able to give you a rough estimate in advance of your inspection.
A typical home inspection will take anywhere between one and a half to three hours, and will cost between $250 to $500.  When comparing the potential costs that could arise from an issue with the home, the cost of an inspection is very affordable.

3. Could you point that out/explain that?

The Home Inspection Network always recommends that buyers and homeowners attend their home inspection appointment and ask questions of the inspector as they go.  A qualified and experienced home inspector will walk you through the house and point out areas of interest (good and bad).  You should feel comfortable in asking your inspector questions as you go.
If you’re unable to attend your home inspection appointment, when you’re reading through the inspection report – you should feel free to ask the inspector follow-up questions if any sections require further clarification.  There are no silly questions when it comes to understanding the home.

4. What should I fix first?

When reading the inspection report the scope of the work involved for each repair or fix might not be readily apparent, and neither will the cost, so it is better to get an idea of this and what areas might be most important to address by discussing it with your home inspector.  Home inspectors can help you to prioritize the work that you need to have done on the home and make the best decisions for your health, safety, and peace of mind.

It is important that you have an active and vocal part in the home inspection process, as this will only increase the insight you will gain from your home inspection.

Contact me today for a free home evaluation report or home staging advice.