Home Inspectors: A True Value
Published on September 23, 2019 by Kaylee Verhoeven
A home inspection report generated by a professional home inspector can be the most important part of buying a home. As a home inspector you know that the inspection is intended to give home buyers an unbiased, knowledgeable account of any identifiable issues within the home. All homes have defects. When you are on an inspection it is important to have the home buyer accompany you so you can show them the little nuances or big projects that will come along, to prepare them for purchasing the property. The best report suggesting any improvements or repairs is required of you and by doing so you become irreplaceable to that buyer.
Knowing what home buyers are looking for in an inspector will help you market yourself and your company. Your first step is making sure you are a member of the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). This designation will give you a leg up when home buyers are searching for an inspector.
Every inspector does their inspection a bit differently, but the objects of inspection are universal. Here’s what needs review, according to the American Society of Home Inspectors’ (ASHI):
- Heating system
- Central air conditioning system (temperature permitting)
- Interior plumbing and electrical systems
- Roof
- Attic, including visible insulation
- Walls
- Ceilings
- Floors
- Windows and doors
- Foundation
- Basement
- Structural components
You may wish to offer additional inspection services that can bring in additional work and customers. Some options are mold and mildew, WDO (Wood Destroying Organisms), roof and chimney and lead paint. Most of these additional services can be offered after receiving a certificate from taking a state approved course. Clearly you are not going to tear the home apart to inspect wiring and piping, but the more you have access to, the better your final report will be. You may also offer to return once correction work has been done to sign off that the listed issues have been fixed to code.
Builders Training Institute offers state-approved pre-license education and continuing education courses that are available online from any internet enabled device – which means your classes are available when you are. We offer OSHA & Industrial Safety Training, HUD Approved Manufactured Housing, A 4hr Lead Paint Refresher course and licensing required courses in most states!