Your inspection must be done by the buyer (not your Uncle Fred the contractor) or by a licensed Home Inspector. Unless you already have one selected, I'll provide you a short list of licensed inspectors I can recommend to you. I recommend that you consider the following 5 areas when choosing the right home inspector:
 

1. Qualifications – Ask about his/her experience, credentials, continuing education and areas of particular expertise. Ask what will be included in your inspection and if the age or location of your home may warrant specific additional special inspections.

2. Sample Reports – Ask for a sample inspection report so you can review how thoroughly your inspector will be inspecting your new home. The more detailed the report, the better in most cases. Be aware, however, that your inspection is not about minor blemishes, but about material facts and defects that may be revealed.

3. References – Do your homework: ask for phone numbers and names of past clients whom you can call to ask about their experience with this inspector.

4. Memberships – Not all inspectors belong to a national or state association of home inspectors, and membership in one of these groups should not be the only way to evaluate your choice. Membership in one of these organizations often means that continued training and education are up to date. You want an inspector who is always learning.

5. Errors & Omission Insurance – Find out what the liability of the inspector or inspection company is once the inspection is over. The inspector is only human after all, and it is possible that he/she might miss something that should have noted.
    

Ask your inspector if it’s okay for you to tag along during the inspection. You might find it instructive. Ask questions during or after the inspection work is completed.

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Don’t be surprised to see your inspector climbing on the roof or crawling around in the attic, on the floors and in the crawl space. The job of the inspector is to make thorough observation and to identify any issues with the home, including but not limited to the roof, plumbing, electrical components, appliances, heating & air conditioning systems, ventilation, windows, the fireplace and chimney, the foundation, and more.
                    

Bottom Line

They say ‘ignorance is bliss,’ but not when investing your hard-earned money into a home of your own. Work with a professional you can trust to give you the most information possible about your new home so that you can make the most educated decision about your purchase.