Like most states, Michigan has NO LICENSING for independent home inspectors. The consumer must sift through the advertising claims of dozens of companies in order to find someone genuinely qualified to inspect their home. Here are the most important criteria
Experience as an independent home inspector differs markedly from code inspection on new homes, construction work, remodeling, or appraisal. Background in those fields is helpful, of course, but you need to know that the inspector who will be working with you has considerable experience in examining existing structures, analyzing their mechanical systems and patterns of wear, and communicating this information their client in a useable form.
Is this the inspector's full-time occupation, or is it just a sideline to some other business? How long has the inspector been in this field? How long has the company been in business? The local Better Business Bureau may have information or complaints filed against an individual or company. Call them at 248-644-9100. Automated reporting is available 24 hours a day.
There are several national organizations for home inspectors. The American Society of Home Inspectors(ASHI) has been recognized by HUD, the National Association of Realtors, our Federal Courts and other government agencies, as the leading authority in this field. Persons applying for ASHI membership must complete hundreds of home inspections, pass specially designed written tests, adhere to clear Standards of Practice and subscribe to a strict Code of Ethics. These standards must be met BEFORE a person is certified as a member. Maintaining a rigorous program of continuing education is another ASHI requirement. Other organizations have less demanding standards for admission; some require only an application fee. If you are considering a particular inspector, find out what membership in their professional organization requires.
An understanding of local soil conditions and construction styles can help an inspector interpret the sometimes-subtle clues that meet his/her eye. For example, an inspector whose training is concentrated on newer buildings may be completely unfamiliar with that 1920's steam boiler in your dream home. Familiarity with the neighborhood housing stock is a necessity!
No inspector should offer to repair a problem he finds during a home inspection. No inspector should offer or accept compensation from any other party in the transaction (kickbacks). These practices cast serious doubt on the inspector's objectivity! These and other issues are covered in the ASHI Code of Ethics.
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