Who Do You Trust 3

Inspection Procedure:
• usually only a relatively brief walk through
• seldom goes on roofs or into attics (unless a roofer)
• often concentrates only on the system(s) in which he/she is trained
• rarely provides a detailed (or even brief) written report
How Reimbursed:
• may do the inspection for very little or nothing if there is a possibility the client may hire him/her for future contract work
• may be recommended by a real estate agent or agency who may have other dealings or agreements with the contractor
• may depend upon future contract work for reinbusement

6. Friend or Relative

Speciality:
• a friend or relative
• may be a specialist in some particular area but probably not the one you need, if they are offering their services for little or nothing
-because of the high liability (and costs) involved, professionals often will not do free specialized work for friends or relatives
Inspection Procedure:

• usually only a relatively brief walk through
• seldom goes on roofs or into attics (unless a roofer)
• may not be aware of or familar with all the areas requiring a specific inspection
• rarely provides a written report

How Reimbursed:
• may do the inspection for very little or nothing
• often just an appreciative thank you

7. Professional CAHPI Home Inspector

Speciality:
• specifically trained to do professional home inspections

Inspection Procedure:
• usually spends two to four hours or more, at the home
• includes a brief view of the surrounding property to determine its affects on the home (slope of the land, trees, drainage, etc.)
• inspects under decks and steps and goes on roofs, if possible
• visually inspects the entire exterior of the home (including the foundation)
• often begins the interior inspection in the basement (if present)
• inspects all the permanent home systems and visible parts of the structure
• frequently concludes the inspection in the attic (if present and accessible)
• provides the client with a full and detailed written report at the completion of the inspection