The Most Important Quality of a Home Inspection

​It is very important for you to hire an inspector that knows all the technical stuff. They must be able to identify potential problems with all aspects of the house, but for most inspectors, that is the easy part!  Communicating that information to the client in a clear and accessible way is what makes an inspector stand out.  Here is what good communication looks like:

• Verbal communication at the inspection:  A successful home inspection starts with the client taking an active part in the inspection, observing and asking questions.  Many issues that look serious to a new home buyer may not be a big deal.  An inspector with good verbal skills can clearly explain each issue and set the client’s mind at ease.  Conversely, if the inspector discovers a potentially serious problem, the implications and the solutions can be explained to the client right there at the inspection. 
• Written communication in the report:  A well laid out report with plain language goes a long way to helping clients understand what they are buying.  A good report should include three things for each problem identified; a description of the problem, the implications of the problem, and a recommendation of how to address the problem.  If the clients have already walked with the inspector, they will have a deeper understanding of the problem.
• Visual communication using photographs: The old adage is still true today: “A picture is worth a thousand words”, but only if it includes good annotation in the form of a caption, and arrows or circles clearly identifying the issue.  This is where organized and clear report formatting is key. 

Good communication enhances a home inspection experience, but poor communication can actually be damaging.  A home inspector’s code of ethics prohibits any recommendation to buy or not buy a house.  The inspector who overreacts to a problem and does not clearly communicate the implications of that problem to the client could potentially scare the client away from the sale.  Not a good thing.
Read an inspector’s reviews on Angie’s List or other sources.  Look at a sample report on the inspector’s website.  This research will help you identify and inspector who is skilled at good, clear communication which is by far the most important part of an effective home inspection.