An Angie’s List poll revealed almost two-thirds of AngiesList members have been involved in a home inspection within the last two years. Sixty-eight percent found their inspector through their real estate agent. The cost of an inspection depends on a number of factors including the size of the house, its age, and other services such as septic and radon testing. Nearly three out of five Angies List members say they spent over $300 for a home inspection.

According to Angies List: A home inspection is an important step in the home buying process. According to a recent nationwide poll of AngiesList members, 30 percent said their home inspector’s oversights ended up becoming a major expense down the road. Some of the costly mistakes included mold, asbestos, termites, leaking roofs, even rats on one member’s property!

Home inspections are typically the “last look” a buyer will get before making what will be their largest single investment. That’s why it’s important to take the time to find a qualified, experienced professional who is going to do a comprehensive inspection that you can rely on.

Drawing on the real-life experiences and feedback from its more than 500,000 members in 124 cities across the U.S., AngiesList has put together its own list to help consumers:

Angie’s List Tips:

• Always do your homework: Angies List can provide you with experiences other members have had with local home inspectors. Check your home inspector’s credentials. Ask to see proof of state certification or proof of membership in either the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI) www.nahi.org or the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) www.ashi.org Keep in mind that the home inspector industry is not regulated in some states, so proof of professional membership may be your best indication of an inspector’s qualifications.


• Check their experience: Both NAHI and ASHI require a minimum of 250 inspections, however most experienced professionals will say it’s better to find someone who’s performed at least 1,000 inspections and has at least three-to-five years of full-time experience.


• Are they insured? Do they have general liability and errors and omission (E&O) insurance? Ask to see physical proof of coverage before you commit.


• Get involved: While it’s not required that you attend the inspection, it’s a good idea that you’re there to ask the inspector any questions about areas that need repair. Typically, a home inspection takes about two to four hours.


• Know what an inspector should be looking for. This includes structural problems; roof damage; fire hazards, such as improperly vented chimney flues; electrical safety issues, including old wiring; and problems with plumbing and major appliances, like the HVAC system and hot water heater.


• Ask to see the home inspection report: Many inspectors provide the report the same day as the inspection. The report should be thorough and easy to understand. If the inspector notices problems with the house, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy it – you’ll know in advance what to expect and the seller may agree to fix those repairs.


• Home inspections aren’t just necessary for old homes: Newer homes can have just as many problems as an older home. And, if you are building a home, inspections at key points during construction should be a part of the process.


• Check www.angieslist.com for reviews and ratings of Home Inspectors in your area..

For more Angie’s List tips check out Angieslist.com and click on the Angies Tips tab on the top of the page. (http://www.angieslist.com)