You’re in the process of buying a home and finding a quality home inspector to help you in the process. However, before hiring a home inspector, our Inspecticore team encourages you to ask a potential home inspector these five questions.

1. What is covered during the home inspection?

Make sure the home inspector’s services meet the minimum state requirements and that he or she has the proper certifications. The inspection company may offer some additional services beyond what’s required or give you the option to add specialty services, like a mold inspection or termite inspection, at an additional rate.

2. May I be at the inspection?

If a home inspector answers “no” to this question, turn around and walk the other way. You should always have the option to be present at the time of the home inspection, and we at Inspecticore highly recommend that you be there to see and hear firsthand from your home inspector.

3. Do I need to be aware of home concerns specific to this region?

Many people move to Long Island from other parts of New York or the United States. Different regions are known for having common house concerns, and you want to be aware of what these concerns are and whether your home inspection covers them. For example, if your area is known for flooding, you want to know how the inspector checks the home’s foundation or whether additional services like mold testing are necessary.

4. How long is a typical home inspection?

You will likely set aside time from your job or have to arrange for childcare in order to be present at the home inspection. Be sure to ask how long an inspection usually lasts so you can make the proper arrangements and are not caught off guard.

5. What type of inspection report do you provide?

The next steps in your home-buying process depend on the inspector’s report. Therefore, you want to have a detailed, written inspection report available in a timely manner—ideally less than 24 hours. Make sure that the home inspector is also willing to go over the details of the report with you and answer any questions or concerns you might have.

If you’re purchasing a home in the Long Island, NY area, be sure to contact Inspecticore at (516) 524-0673. We’ll gladly answer all your questions so you can confidently move forward in the home-buying process.