FAQ

Battaglia Home Inspections believes there are ten important questions you should have answered before you select your home inspector. If you have questions in addition to the 10 listed below, please type them in the comments section at the bottom of this page and we will address those as well. Make sure to include a return email address in the comments section in order that we can respond to you.

1. What does your inspection cover?
2. How long have you been practicing in the home inspection profession and how many inspections have you completed?
3. Are you specifically experienced in residential inspection?
4. Do you offer to do repairs or improvements based on the inspection?
5. How long will the inspection take?
6. How much will it cost?
7. What type of inspection report do you provide and how long will it take to receive the report?
8. Will I be able to attend the inspection?
9. Do you maintain membership in a professional home inspector association?
10. Do you participate in continuing education programs to keep your expertise up to date?

The inspector should ensure that their inspection and inspection report will meet all applicable requirements in your state if applicable and will comply with a well-recognized standard of practice and code of ethics. You should be able to request and see a copy of these items ahead of time and ask any questions you may have. If there are any areas you want to make sure are inspected, be sure to identify them upfront.

The inspector should be able to provide his or her history in the profession and perhaps even a few names as referrals. Newer inspectors can be very qualified, and many work with a partner or have access to more experienced inspectors to assist them in the inspection.

Related experience in construction or engineering is helpful, but is no substitute for training and experience in the unique discipline of home inspection. If the inspection is for a commercial property, then this should be asked about as well.

Some inspector associations and state regulations allow the inspector to perform repair work on problems uncovered in the inspection. Other associations and regulations strictly forbid this as a conflict of interest.

The average on-site inspection time for a single inspector is 1 ½ to 3 hours depending on the condition and size of the property. Anything significantly less may not be enough time to perform a thorough inspection. Additional inspectors may be brought in for very large properties and buildings.

Costs vary dramatically, depending on the level and type of inspection, the property floor area, property geographical location and the inspector’s qualifications. A typical range might be $225–$500, but consider the value of the home inspection in terms of the investment being made. Inspection cost does not necessarily reflect quality.

Ask to see samples and determine whether or not you can understand the inspector's reporting style and if the time parameters fulfill your needs. Most inspectors provide their full report within 24 hours of the inspection.

This is a valuable educational opportunity, and an inspector's refusal to allow this should raise a red flag. Never pass up this opportunity to see your prospective home through the eyes of an expert.

There are many state and national associations for home inspectors. Request to see their membership ID, and perform whatever due diligence you deem appropriate.

One can never know it all, and the inspector's commitment to continuing education is a good measure of his or her professionalism and service to the consumer. This is especially important in cases where the home is much older or includes unique elements requiring additional or updated training.

Get in Touch with a Certified Home Inspector in Conway, PA

Battaglia Home Inspections provide inspection services to clients across Conway, Cranberry Township, Warrendale, Wexford, Beaver, New Brighton, and Ellwood City, PA. Call: (724) 987-3770 or Email: jimbattaglia69@gmail.com for home inspection inquiries.