Buying a home is one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make, and ensuring the property is safe, sound, and well-maintained is crucial. A thorough home inspection provides you with the insights you need to make an informed decision, and it all starts with hiring the right inspector.

At Q&A Home Inspections, LLC, we believe that transparency and open communication are key to earning your trust. That’s why we encourage you to ask questions upfront to understand who we are, what we do, and how we can help protect your investment. Here are the top 10 questions you should ask any home inspector before hiring them—because your peace of mind starts with being informed.

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Experience & Qualifications

1. Ask about credentials & experience

When hiring a home inspector, it’s crucial to ensure they have the right credentials and experience to give you the best insight into your potential new home. Start by asking for their state license number and make sure they meet your state’s licensing requirements. A qualified inspector should also be committed to ongoing education, so ask how they stay updated with the latest industry standards and practices. Whether it’s through certifications, workshops, or seminars, continuous learning ensures they are on top of any changes in regulations and inspection techniques.

Additionally, find out if they are a member of any professional associations, like the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI). These memberships show a commitment to maintaining high standards and adhering to ethical practices in the field.

Another important factor to ask about is insurance. Make sure the inspector carries Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance, which provides protection for both you and the inspector if a defect is overlooked or missed during the inspection. It’s a safeguard that gives you peace of mind knowing you’re covered if something falls through the cracks.

Finally, experience counts. Ask how long they’ve been in the business and how many inspections they’ve completed. A seasoned inspector has likely encountered a variety of properties and situations, giving them the ability to spot issues that others might miss. If the inspector is newer to the field, they should be able to explain their training, whether it’s shadowing more experienced inspectors or completing an apprenticeship program. Either way, their ability to demonstrate their learning process and the knowledge they’ve gained will give you confidence in their skills.

2. Ask about references.

Word of mouth is one of the most powerful ways to find a trustworthy home inspector. Start by asking your real estate agent for recommendations. Realtors often have a network of inspectors they’ve worked with who consistently deliver quality service and thorough reports. If you have friends or family who’ve recently bought a home, ask about their experiences too. Personal recommendations can give you valuable insight into the inspector’s reliability and professionalism.

Next, take a look at the inspector’s website. A well-maintained website should provide you with an overview of their services, experience, and credentials. Many inspectors also feature customer testimonials or case studies, giving you a sense of their reputation and the quality of their work.

Don’t forget to check out independent review platforms like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). These sites allow past clients to share their honest opinions about the inspector’s work. Be sure to pay attention to how the inspector or company responds to feedback—engaging with reviews shows they care about customer satisfaction and are committed to addressing any concerns.

Finally, don’t hesitate to give the company a call. Ask the questions outlined in this post to get a better sense of their qualifications and approach. A professional inspector will be happy to answer your questions and provide clear, straightforward information.

Inspection Services

3. Ask about what their basic home inspection entails.

Understanding what’s included in a home inspection is key to ensuring you’re getting a comprehensive evaluation. A qualified inspector will conduct the inspection based on the licensing organization’s Standards of Practice (SOP) and Code of Ethics. This means they’ll focus on evaluating the major systems and components of the home to give you a clear picture of its overall condition.

Typically, a home inspection will cover these areas:

It’s important to note that the inspector will assess the apparent conditions of these systems and components at the time of the inspection. They won’t dismantle equipment, move personal property, or navigate areas that are hazardous or unsafe. The goal is to provide you with a thorough evaluation based on what’s visible and accessible during the inspection, not to perform invasive or unsafe procedures.

Be sure to ask the inspector if there are any additional services they offer (like mold or radon testing), and confirm that you’re on the same page about what will be covered in the report.

4. Ask about inspections on new construction.

Many homebuyers assume that newly constructed homes don’t need a home inspection. After all, the house is brand new, right? However, consider this: during the construction process, numerous contractors are involved—plumbers, electricians, framers, roofers, and more. With so many different tradespeople coming in and out, mistakes can easily happen or things may be overlooked

Even the most well-constructed home can have issues that are hard to spot without a detailed inspection.

A fresh set of eyes, specifically looking for potential defects, is invaluable in uncovering hidden problems. For example, in one inspection of a new build, turning on the faucet in an upstairs bathroom caused moisture intrusion into a downstairs closet. It was later discovered that a pipe behind the drywall had been improperly connected, creating a problem that would have gone unnoticed without an inspection.

Had the issue not been caught, the buyer could have inherited significant water damage to the walls, floor, and personal belongings. Over time, the undetected leak could have even led to mold growth. This is just one example of why a home inspection on a new build is so crucial—it can protect you from future headaches and costly repairs that could have been avoided.

5. Ask about additional services you may need, and whether they offer them.

When hiring a home inspector, asking about additional services can provide valuable insights into your home’s condition and help you avoid costly surprises. These extra tests go beyond the basics and equip you with the knowledge to make confident decisions. Here are some important services to consider:

Wood-Destroying Insect Inspections

Pests like termites can cause extensive damage to a home’s structure, often without obvious signs. That’s why many lenders require a Wood-Destroying Insect Report (WDIR). A pest inspection can identify active infestations, past damage, and any treatments that have been applied. Addressing these issues early can save you thousands in repairs and may provide leverage during negotiations with the seller. Some pest control services even include warranties for additional protection.

Radon Testing

Radon is an invisible, odorless gas that’s also a known carcinogen. It can enter your home from the ground, and testing is the only way to determine if levels are elevated. Even neighboring homes can have vastly different radon levels. By adding a radon test to your inspection, you’ll get reliable results from a trained professional who uses proper techniques and equipment. If high levels are found, mitigation steps can reduce the risk and create a safer environment.

Water Quality Testing

If your home uses a private well, water quality testing is essential to detect harmful contaminants such as bacteria, lead, arsenic, or nitrates. Even homes on public water systems can benefit from testing if the plumbing is outdated. A comprehensive water test offers peace of mind and allows you to plan for any necessary filtration or treatment systems to ensure your water is safe and clean.

Mold Testing

Mold can thrive in older homes, humid environments, or properties with water damage—even if there are no visible signs. A professional mold test can uncover hidden mold and identify specific types that may affect health. This service is particularly useful for those with allergies or compromised immune systems. Detecting mold early helps you avoid significant health risks and costly remediation efforts.

Check for Qualifications and Certifications

Keep in mind that not all home inspectors are certified to perform these additional tests. Ask about their qualifications and training to ensure they’re equipped to deliver accurate and reliable results. Partnering with a knowledgeable professional gives you the confidence to make informed decisions about your home purchase.

6. Ask about the cost of a home inspection.

Home inspection costs can vary, so it’s important to ask the inspector about their pricing. Typically, inspection fees start around $300, but the exact cost depends on factors such as market conditions, the home’s age, and its size. Older homes and larger homes often require more time and effort to inspect, which can increase the price.

If you’re considering additional services like radon testing or pest inspections, keep in mind that these will add to the overall cost. However, many inspectors offer bundle discounts if these services are scheduled alongside the primary inspection. Be sure to discuss these options to get the best value while ensuring comprehensive coverage.

Inspection Process

7. Ask how long the inspection will take.

The length of a home inspection varies depending on the inspector and the home itself. On average, a standard inspection takes between 1½ to 3 hours. Factors such as the home’s size, age, and condition all play a role. For example, older homes and neglected properties may require more time because of additional issues the inspector needs to document and evaluate.

Specialized services, like mold testing or pest inspections, can also extend the duration of the visit. However, your inspector should be able to provide an estimated timeframe once they have details about the property. Clear communication about the scope of work ensures you can plan accordingly and get the thorough inspection you need.

8. Ask whether you can attend the inspection.

While it’s not mandatory for clients to attend the inspection, being present can provide valuable insights and peace of mind. Observing the process firsthand allows you to better understand any issues identified and their significance. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions, which can be helpful when negotiating repairs or understanding potential future maintenance.

To ensure a smooth inspection, consult with your inspector about the best time to join. Generally, it’s recommended to arrive during the final portion of the inspection. This approach allows the inspector to focus on their work without distractions and ensures you have their full attention when they review findings and answer your questions.

Plan to bring your real estate agent along for this part of the process. Their experience and insight can further clarify the inspection’s findings, helping you make informed decisions about your potential new home.

9. Ask whether you can attend the inspection.

The timing of your home inspection is critical to staying on track during the homebuying process. Inspections and subsequent negotiations typically need to be completed during the due diligence period, so it’s important to ask how soon the inspector can schedule your appointment. Ideally, you’ve already vetted potential inspectors before going under contract, allowing you to save time by booking your preferred choice right away.

Also, inquire about when you can expect the completed inspection report. Most inspectors are required to deliver the report within three business days after the inspection. However, some inspectors, like Q&A Home Inspections, often provide reports much sooner—sometimes as quickly as the next business day. This quick turnaround can be especially beneficial if you’re approaching the end of your due diligence period. Clear communication about timing ensures a smoother process and helps you meet critical deadlines.

10. Ask about repairs and recommendations.

An unbiased opinion is crucial for maintaining credibility, which is why home inspectors should avoid offering to make repairs for any defects identified during the inspection. Most licensing bodies, professional associations, and ethics codes strictly prohibit this practice, as inspectors are required to remain neutral and objective.

A reliable inspector will take the time to address all of your questions—even after the report has been delivered. Additionally, many inspectors offer re-inspection services once repairs have been completed. This can provide added peace of mind, ensuring that all issues have been adequately addressed and documented. By choosing an inspector who values transparency and thorough communication, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions throughout your homebuying journey.

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By asking these questions, you’ll gain clarity, confidence, and assurance in your choice of home inspector. At Q&A Home Inspections, we’re here to make the inspection process smooth, informative, and stress-free. Contact us today to schedule your inspection or ask us your own questions—we’re happy to Partner for Peace of Mind!