Questions & Answers    

Q.  I've read that consumers should make sure to hire a "licensed"  home inspector.  Who licenses inspectors and how can one be sure that the inspector they are hiring will do a good job? 

A. To answer your question, as of May 1, 2001 all home inspectors in Massachusetts must be licensed in order to inspect properties in the state of Massachusetts.

One helpful screening mechanism would be to check if the Home Inspector holds a membership in the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), which is one of the only national trade organization representing home inspectors.  Many professional trade organizations claim to certify their members, but in our opinion, an ASHI certification actually means something in terms of the members education and the experience requirements which are needed prior to becoming a full member.

Length of time in business is another important consideration when you're selecting a home inspector which is a good indication of their experience in the home inspection business.  One of your most reliable third party recommendations for inspectors will come from an Buyer’s Broker.  (Please note:  Traditional  real estate brokers (by law) are not allowed to recommend any home inspectors due to the inherent conflict of interest they have while representing a Seller).  If you don't know anyone who has dealt with the inspector in the past, ask for references and call them. You should also check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there has been any complaints filed by unhappy consumers.

Make sure the home inspector has errors and omissions insurance...  If he makes a mistake or gives you mis-information, then hopefully his errors and omissions insurance carrier will cover the suit.

Once you have selected the home inspector, you want to be sure you understand what the inspector will do for you.  A good inspector should explain, in detail, what the home inspection will cover.  The inspector should also provide a written report after the inspection; never hire an inspector who isn't willing to document his findings in writing.

Always make sure that you are present during the inspection and that you take lots of notes and record with digital photos or video tape the entire home inspection - if possible.  This information might become invaluable at a later time in helping you remember how to take care of something that he/she said during the home inspection.

Finally, to find an member of ASHI, you can check the Yellow Pages, (some members include the ASHI designation in their ads) or you call ASHI's New England office at 1-800-248-2744 and they will provide you with the names of members in your area.

by Nick Rioux, CRS, ABR...  Best Choice Realty, Inc.