A prudent home inspector can be the difference between buyer satisfaction and buyer's remorse. Home inspectors are hired for one of three purposes:

* Determine the state of a home before putting it on the market
* Assess the value of a home for mortgage approval
* Inspect a newly constructed home, prior to the expiration of the 1-year warranty

What are home inspections? Home inspections are a visual assessment of the systems and structures that comprise a home:

* Air conditioning
* Attic
* Basement
* Ceilings
* Doors
* Electrical systems
* Floors
* Foundations
* Heating and ventilation
* Plumbing
* Roof
* Surface insulation
* Walls
* Windows

Obtaining the truth necessitates a qualified inspector. A viable home inspector will identify, project and detail what predicament(s) may evolve from fixing or ignoring a house malady. Even better are the ones who offer direction. Use the following consumer tips provided by TheConsumerJournal.com questions to qualify the expertise of a prospective home inspector.

Home Inspection Question Checklist

1) How many years have you been licensed to inspect homes?

Novice home inspectors do not have the expertise of more seasoned inspectors. To verify a home inspectors license, visit your state’s local chapter of Department of Financial and Professional Regulations

2) Annually and on average, how many inspections do you conduct?

Generally, full-time inspectors average 300 home inspectors a year.

3) Do you have a proof of business liability insurance?

The vast majority of inspectors’ contracts are limited to the liability of the home inspection. Despite the fact that some inspectors have insurance for damage incurred during the inspection, other inspectors are carrying an “errors and omission” policy for losses resulted from the home inspection. (Nevertheless, home inspections should not be misconstrued with an insurance policy or warranty against any pricey defects unfurled after a sell or buy).

4) Are you associated with any home inspection associations?

The American Society of Home Inspectors and the National Association of Home Inspectors have discerning standards in licensing.

5) How much time is needed to conduct the home inspection?

A standard home inspection takes approximately two and half to three and half hours.

6) What is your fee assessment?

Home inspections range in price, from $350 to $475.

7) May I see a sample copy of your home inspection form?

A comprehensive form is a telltale sign of how thorough the home inspection will be.