Ten Commandments of Inspection
1: What kind of formal INSPECTION training have you had?
I am a Certified Home Inspector with two National Home Inspection Associations; the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) and the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI). This training includes classroom and field training along with on-site test completion of the Structural, Mechanical and Health and Safety components of a home. Correct evaluation of these components is required in order to pass the National Home Inspection Examination.
2: Are you a member of any inspector’s trade associations?
Since there are no state licensing required in MT to become a Home Inspector, the buyer must beware of those without proper credentials. Be sure to ask them for the name and phone number of the accrediting Association, as well as their own certification number. Then call and verify. I am a certified member of the American Society of Home Inspectors (1-847-759-2820, member #251366) and National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI).
3: Can you make repairs if they are needed?
If they say “yes” — BEWARE! They may have a vested interest in the outcome of their report. I don’t do repairs and I don’t make estimates. I have a strict Code of Ethicswhich forbids any actions that could be interpreted as a conflict of interest.
4: How long does your inspection take?
Our structured inspection takes 2 to 4 hours to complete. I strictly adhere to the Standards of Practice outlined by A.S.H.I. and the extra investment of time assures you of not only the highest quality inspection but the same thorough inspection every time.
5: Do you have a written guarantee that your report is accurate?
Most home inspectors have nothing but disclaimers, or they are simply unaware of the liability they are assuming. I have a service agreement that clearly outlines my responsibilities. I perform a visual inspection and evaluate the condition of the components of the home based upon the simple criteria of durability and serviceability. The standards that I am responsible to report are contained in the Standards of Practice as published by A.S.H.I.
6: What happens if you honestly miss something?
We strive to do our very best, yet realize that occasionally situations may occur and conditions may not be observed. If notified of these conditions, we will amend our report to reflect conditions as they exist.
7: Do you go over the report in person with the buyer?
I prefer that the buyer be at the property during the inspection. If they cannot be present during the inspection, they should be at the inspection for the last hour of the inspection, so they can personally observe the conditions of the components of their property. When the buyer is out of the area, I will go through the report with the buyer over the phone.
8: What kind of report do you use?
I have a state-of-the-art computer generated report, with digital photography. I am able to take advantage of laptop technology to create a report that is easy to understand and quite comprehensive. This type of report points out the strengths and weaknesses of the home.
9: When do I get the report?
Our clients will receive their Home Inspection Report within 24 hours of completing the certified home inspection. We typically send the report via e-mail to our clients so they can access it at any time. We also have the fax and mail options available.
10: How much will the home inspection cost?
This is the first question that I get asked and yet it tells the least about the quality of the inspection. I have always felt that the buyer deserves the highest value for the investment dollar. Our fees are set according to the size, and components of the property. See our Fee Page.