Don’t buy a house without having a Building Inspection by a professional home inspector. A home inspection can not only educate you on the current condition of the home, but also, can minimize costly surprises in the future.

Here are four things you really need to know about home inspections:

1. Be sure you hire a qualified inspector with an excellent reputation. How long has he been in business? Can he give you referrals? Has he had any formal training? Is he licensed by the State? Does he carry Errors & Omissions Insurance?

2. Request a copy of a sample report. Check that it appears thorough with clear and easy to understand explanations; pictures are really helpful. Also, ask how long it will be before you receive the report.

3. Inspect the other systems and conditions. Some companies will also offer septic system inspections, testing for radon water or radon air, pest inspections, water tests, mold screening, lead testing, or uranium and arsenic testing. As a minimum, inspect the septic and test the water for quality and the presence of radon. Educate yourselves so you can decide if want to do any of the other testing which is available.

4. Be sure to go along on the inspection, if at all possible. (Be wary if the inspector discourages you from coming!) The inspector can be very helpful in explaining how to operate the home’s various systems and will often provide helpful tips on maintenance or energy-saving. Going along on the inspection will also make it that much easier to understand the final report.

Have fun and good luck!

These tips appeared in HouseMaster and appeared in RIS Media in April, 2010.