When choosing a home inspector, there are several green flags you should look out for. These include:
Experience: Look for an inspector who has a significant amount of experience in the field. Ask how long they have been inspecting homes and how many homes they have inspected.
Certifications and Licenses: Check if the inspector is certified and licensed by a reputable organization such as the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI).
Insurance: Make sure the inspector carries errors and omissions (E&O) insurance, which will protect you in case the inspector misses something during the inspection.
Referrals and Reviews: Look for referrals from friends, family, or your real estate agent, and check online reviews on platforms such as Google and Yelp.
On the other hand, there are also some red flags to look out for when choosing a home inspector. These include:
Lack of credentials: If the inspector is not certified, licensed, or insured, it may be best to find someone else.
Rushed inspections: An inspector who rushes through the inspection or seems to be cutting corners may not be thorough and could miss important details.
Conflicts of interest: Be wary of an inspector who also offers repair services or has close ties to a contractor.
Poor communication: If the inspector is not willing to answer your questions or explain the inspection process to you, it may be a red flag.
It's essential to take the time to find a reputable home inspector who you feel confident will provide you with a thorough and unbiased inspection.