Are You Recommending an Inspector That Protects Your Client?
When working with clients who are buying or selling a home, you want to provide them with the best service possible. From showing them the houses that will fit their lifestyle and budget to getting a professional and accurate inspection, every step of the way counts. Home inspections are a necessary and significant part of the process. With the many inspectors vying for your client’s work, you want to be sure to point them in the right direction. Protect your client by recommending an inspector with these important characteristics.
Experience
Finding an inspector with a wealth of experience will ensure your clients get an accurate and thorough inspection. An inspector who has diversified experience that relates to the industry is best as opposed to someone who has primarily done only inspection work. Ideally, you’d like to find an inspector who has spent time in the construction industry. The inspector who has built homes will have an eye for the intricate details of a house. Couple that with many years in the field and you have the start to the ideal candidate.
Credentials & Certifications
In the home inspection industry, credentials matter. Some associations and certifications have high standards and formal training that requires diligence and competence. Being certified through the State of Florida and being a member of InterNACHI (The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors) are essential to staying current on the home inspection industry and technology trends.
The Home Inspection Report
Part of protecting your client is making sure they (and you) get a home inspection report that is clear, concise, and easy-to-understand. This is how you will get the information you need to negotiate with the seller. A modern home inspection report should allow you to quickly get the information you need in a visual, clean format. A 50-page PDF takes more of your time to sift through the report and potential miss something.
Great Reviews
Nothing speaks louder than customers do. Whether they are happy or upset, you can learn a lot from the reviews you read about a home inspection contractor. You want to refer your clients to inspectors that have an impeccable record with clients. As you read the reviews, look for such comments about:
- Expertise
- Available for questions
- Integrity
- Prompt
- Explains everything to the client
- Thorough
- Fair
Errors & Omissions Insurance
Inspectors need to have errors and omissions insurance. This type of insurance is professional liability insurance. It ensures that any errors or omissions discovered by the homeowner will be covered. Check to find out how much the coverage the inspector carries for this type of insurance.
Worker’s Compensation Coverage
It’s relevant that your inspector has worker’s compensation insurance as well. This shows responsibility and provides an extra layer of protection. In addition, contractors in Florida who have more than four employees are required by state law to carry worker’s compensation.
Vetted by Local Realtor Groups
The Northeast Florida Association of Realtors (NEFAR) vets home inspectors for you so that you don’t need to do the work. Check out their database of inspectors who have been background checked and know you are referring your clients to reputable contractors.
Certified Master Inspector
When you recommend your clients to a certified master inspector, then you are truly referring them to the top inspectors in the country. This certification is only given to those who meet strict guidelines. The certification is awarded by the Master Inspector Certification Board and means you gain an experienced, established, and professional inspector. In order to meet the requirements, inspectors must meet the following criteria:
- Completed a minimum of 1,000 hours of inspections or training/education or a combination of both.
- Finished professional education requirements.
- Passed periodic criminal background checks (this can happen at any time and is ongoing).
- Must have been in business a minimum of three years.
- Abides by the Master Inspector Certification Board’s code of ethics.
Helping your client experience a smooth transaction selling or buying that home is a win for both sides. Find an inspector with the necessary credentials, work ethic, and testimonials and you will be helping your client. Anything less than the best will be a hindrance to the process.
At Inside & Out Property Inspectors, you can expect to get superior work for your clients. With over 20 years in the construction industry building homes, they understand the intricacies of homes. In addition, they have a certified master inspector available. Find out more information today.
