Here is a list of questions you should ask any home inspector you are interviewing before you hire them.
Questions to Ask a Home Inspector
- Are you a full-time home inspector?
- Yes. We are a full-time inspection company. Home inspections are our primary focus—not a side business.
- What is your background and experience?
- Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, combined with over 25 years of hands-on construction and home improvement experience.
- Are you state licensed?
- Yes. We are licensed by the State of Wisconsin.
- What does your inspection report include, and when will I receive it?
- You’ll receive a detailed, computer-generated, full-color report with annotated photos, diagrams, narratives, and summary sections—typically delivered the same day and always within 24 hours.
- Do you complete continuing education?
- Yes. We complete at least 25 hours of continuing education annually to stay current with building practices and inspection standards.
- How long does a typical inspection take?
- Most inspections take between 2.5 and 4 hours, depending on the size, age, and condition of the home.
- Do you carry insurance? (Not required in Wisconsin)
- Yes. We carry errors & omissions insurance and business liability coverage to protect our clients.
- How do you inspect attic spaces?
- Attics are entered and inspected when safely accessible. Areas without access or deemed unsafe are documented accordingly.
- How do you inspect windows and doors?
- All accessible doors are operated, and a representative number of windows are tested on each side of the home, with additional operation when conditions allow.
- How do you inspect electrical receptacles?
- All accessible receptacles are tested for proper wiring, grounding, and GFCI protection where applicable.
- How do you inspect the roof?
- Roofs are walked when conditions are safe. Steep, multi-story, icy, fragile, or otherwise unsafe roofs are inspected from alternative vantage points.
- What standards do you follow?
- Wisconsin Standards of Practice for Home Inspectors.
- Do you follow a code of ethics?
- Yes. We follow the InterNACHI® Code of Ethics, which requires inspectors to act independently, avoid conflicts of interest, protect client confidentiality, and place the client’s interests first.
- What tools do you use?
- Professional-grade inspection and testing equipment, including carbon monoxide detection, combustible gas detection, and other specialized tools as appropriate.
- Do you provide support after the inspection?
- Yes. We offer post-inspection phone and email support to help you understand the findings and next steps.