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The more prepared you are to ask questions of someone
you don't know, in a
field you know absolutely nothing about, the more confident
you will feel. Schedule the
interview over the phone or in person and treat the
process in a professional manner. During the interview,
if the inspector makes you feel like you are being
silly
by asking questions, don't be put off. Professional
inspectors readily understand the economic importance
of hiring qualified home inspectors. Those inspectors
with less than sterling credentials will probably try
to make light of your questions or skirt around the
issues. If this happens, be polite but firm and insist
that they answer your questions. Also, make sure the
inspector provides you with references and proof of
their credentials. Then check the references.
People often make the mistake of assuming that the
length of time a home inspector has been in business
equals competency. Just because a home inspector has
never been sued does not necessarily mean the inspector
is competent. If the market is large or turbulent enough,
incompetent inspectors can stay in business as long
as competent inspectors.
Before you hire a home inspector, here are some questions
you might ask during an interview:
- Are you a code certified inspector? (If yes, ask
for proof.)
- Are you both licensed and insured? (If yes, ask
for proof.)
- Can you provide references? (Ask for one in the
last 90, 120, and 180 days. Make sure the references
are not relatives or friends of the inspector.)
- Are you a member of any professional organization?(e.g.,
National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI) or
the Southern Building Congressional Code International
(SBCCI))
- How long have you been in business?
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