Professional Credentials:
It is recommended to look for a professional inspector who is a member of a reputable professional organization such as the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). Another popular organization is the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI), and then there also is the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI). These organizations have specific standards and requirements that members must meet to maintain their membership, which can provide an added level of assurance for the quality of the inspection.
Experience:
Choose a home inspector with experience in the field who is knowledgeable of your desired county. They should thoroughly understand a home’s various systems and components and any potential issues that can arise. Experience does pay here. Check and see if the inspector is part of a team. The team approach allows additional resources to identify concerns or areas of attention.
Insurance:
Ensure the home inspector has proper insurance, including liability insurance and errors and omissions insurance, to protect against any accidental damage or mistakes made during the inspection.
Communication Skills:
A good home inspector should be able to clearly and effectively communicate their findings to you, both in writing and in person.
Availability:
Consider the availability of the home inspector when scheduling the inspection. You want someone who can fit the inspection into your schedule and provide a timely report.
It is also good to ask for references and read online reviews to get a sense of the home inspector’s reputation and quality of work.