Credentials and quality in the home inspection industry vary dramatically from company to company.
There is no licensing for home inspectors in most states including California. There is also no particular background which provides the knowledge necessary to evaluate the many varied conditions that may be encountered in a home.
The California Real Estate Inspection Association (CREIA) provides training and requires annual recertification through obtaining a minimum number of continuing education credits. Master CREIA Inspector (MCI) is the highest level of certification. There are less than 100 MCI's in the state of California. Professional certifications obtained through rigorous testing by the International Code Council (ICC) are also highly regarded and require renewal via education credits and testing.
The Building Performance Institute (BPI) provides standards, as well as regulated written and field exams regarding building science and performance, as well as energy conservation. Only a handful of inspectors have earned these credentials. Choose an inspector who has earned credentials for competence and professionalism and ensure the inspector you select offers post-inspection advice, if needed. Questions to ask:
Beware of inspectors who don’t want you present during the inspection process. This is your opportunity to obtain knowledge of your future home’s systems, learn maintenance tips, better understand items that will be in the written report and ask the inspector pertinent questions.
The inspector conducts a visual examination of the home you have placed an offer on. Jim Comstock will evaluate all the major elements such as the roofing system, structure, exterior siding, electrical system, plumbing system and heating and air conditioning systems, as well as built-in appliances. A thorough inspection usually takes 2 ½ to 3 ½ hours for an average sized home. Larger homes will take longer. The inspection time frame can also be longer if ancillary inspections are ordered, such as a swimming pool inspection.
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Phone: 619-938-3740
Fax: 619-938-3740