A home inspection is a vital aspect of the real estate closing process. However, countless soon-to-be homeowners have either gone down the route of buying without an inspection. This can be a monumental mistake.
Similar to any other role in the real estate closing process, you want to ensure that your resource is qualified and has enough experience to perform the job at hand. Without properly vetting your home inspector, you could leave yourself open to unidentified issues all for the sake of closing the deal.
What to Look for?
In general, home inspectors must meet state certification and licensing requirements to perform a home inspection service. For instance, along with submitting your application and mandatory state fee, Illinois requires you to do the following:
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Complete a preapproved licensing course with five field inspections.
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Pass the Illinois Home Inspector Licensing Exam.
Anyone who doesn’t meet these bare essentials should immediately trigger red flags. But there’s more to inquire about than just state prerequisites.
For instance, does the home inspector that you’re speaking with claim to be capable of making repairs as well? If the answer is yes, then this is another red flag.
Although the initial reaction may be to assume that this makes them more capable around a home, it’s actual a an indicator that they’re more so a general contractor. Ever hear the phrase, “jack of all trades, master of none”?.
Although home inspectors can be considered “generalists” in their own right, good inspectors still have an in-depth knowledge of what to examine when out on the job. But anything beyond examination is best left to a specialist. For example, a home inspector can point out a termite infestation, but they’ll probably recommend that you contact a pest control expert to remedy the problem.
Aside from interviewing home inspectors about their skill set, make sure to inquire into their experience. Ask questions, such as:
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“How many years have your been doing this?”
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“What certifications do you have?”
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“Have you been to any continuing education programs for home inspectors recently?”
By delving more into their background, you’re bound to quickly learn who’s fit for the job and who isn’t. And if you’d like to learn more about Illinois Property Inspections’ background, send us a message.
We’re not afraid to answer the tough questions.
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