|
|
CREIA Offers Top Ten
Tips for Retaining a Professional Home Inspector
May 2003 (Palm Springs, Calif) — The
California Real Estate Inspection Association (CREIA) offers the
following tips on retaining the services of a professional home
inspector.
- Talk with
three or more inspectors before making your decision; question
them as to their training, how long they have been performing
inspections, and how many inspections they have completed. Check
references.
- Ask for a
sample home inspection report.
- Find out how
knowledgeable and familiar the inspector is with your neighborhood
and similar homes.
- Make sure the
inspector will allow you to attend the inspection and provide time
for you to discuss the report when it is completed.
- Don’t confuse
a background in construction trades, general contracting,
engineering or other building fields with the qualifications of a
properly trained and experienced home inspector.
- Make sure the
inspector has access to the entire home and that all the utilities
are turned on.
- Ask questions
before, during and after the inspection to gain a full
understanding of your home’s systems and components.
- Compare the
inspection report to the seller’s and real estate agents’
disclosure statements; differentiate whether problems listed are
material defects or cosmetic issues.
- If an
inspector offers to repair any problems that are discovered, it is
a violation of state law.
- Inquire if the
inspector is a member of the California Real Estate Inspection
Association (CREIA).
|
Since
1976, CREIA, a non-profit voluntary membership organization has been
providing education, training, and support services to the real estate
inspection industry and to the public. Inspectors must adhere to CREIA's
Code of Ethics and follow the Standards of Practice developed by the
association. These Standards of Practice have been recognized by the
State of California, and are considered the source for Home Inspector
Standard of Care by the real estate and legal communities. |
