Checklist: 10 questions to ask your home inspector

March 19, 2024

Get the most out of your home inspection by asking the right questions that will help you feel empowered during the home buying process.

Second to having your offer accepted, the inspection is probably the most stressful part of the home buying process. Whether it’s a brand new or century-old home, there’s no way to know the scope of possible problems until you peek behind the paint.

Remember, there’s no such thing as a perfect home. But the information you discover during an inspection may help you negotiate a lower price with the seller. It can prepare you to tackle issues once you move in or aid in your decision to walk away from the deal. Make sure you’re getting the most out of the inspection by asking these 10 questions.

Before the inspection begins

Make sure you’ve hired the right person for the job and know what to expect.

1. What credentials do you have? More important than the cost of service and availability, you want to make sure your home inspector is qualified. Unfortunately, not all states require home inspectors to be licensed, so doing your own research is key. Ask about experience and professional affiliations. Two examples are the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors or American Society of Home Inspectors. Request a sample report and read online reviews from previous customers.

2. Can I shadow you during the inspection? Being present for the home inspection is a great opportunity to learn more about your home and ask questions. Typically, it will take two to four hours. It’s a major red flag if the home inspector denies your request to follow them during the inspection.

3. What does the home inspection cover? While thorough – covering heating and cooling systems to the foundation and insulation – there are some items that won’t be on the inspector’s checklist. It’s important to know what an inspector will and will not do. That way, you can call in the appropriate specialists if necessary.

4. Can you also run these tests? If you’re concerned about problems like radon, mold or lead paint, ask your inspector if they can examine those items too. Many will offer these optional services for an additional fee.

During the inspection

Now is the time to get all of your questions answered.

5. Can you explain this to me? As you and the inspector review the home – or when issued the final report – you may uncover unfamiliar technical jargon. If there’s something you don’t understand, follow-up with questions like “What does that mean? Can you explain that?”

6. Is this a major or minor issue? Home inspectors are required to note every problem they find throughout the house. This could mean even minor issues may sound more serious than they actually are. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarity on the severity of their findings.

7. How should I fix that? By asking this question, you’ll discover which problems you can fix yourself and which require a professional. Either way, your home inspector may have some easy DIY tips so you can run to the nearest hardware store and fix the problem yourself. Or they might offer up a list of recommended experts. They should never offer to do the repairs themselves, as that would be a conflict of interest.

8. Can you show me how to work that? Being present during the inspection is a golden opportunity to learn how to work some important features of a house. This can be paramount for first-time homebuyers who have likely never come across an HVAC unit or a circuit breaker. Home inspectors are used to explaining these basic systems, and they should be happy to do so.

After the inspection

Take time to make sense of the final report. Discuss what you see with the inspector and then your realtor.

9. Overall, what are your biggest concerns about the house? This will give you the inspector’s take on nice-to-repair items versus must-repair, and how quickly to address the problems. Home inspectors can’t advise you whether or not to purchase a home. But with the information they share you and your realtor can discuss what’s worth negotiating with the seller. 

10. I have a follow-up question. Can you answer this? The inspector will go through their findings with you in person. But once you receive the final printed version, you may have some additional questions. Be sure to get contact information should any inquiries arise.

Upgrade your home after the inspection with these home improvement investments.

Related content

Is it cheaper to build or buy a house

6 questions to ask before buying a new home

Should you buy a house that’s still under construction?

8 steps to take before you buy a home

Military homeownership: Your guide to resources, financing and more

Are professional movers worth the cost?

What to know when buying a home with your significant other

Mortgage basics: How does your credit score impact the homebuying experience?

Mortgage basics: 3 key steps in the homebuying process

Mortgage basics: How much house can you afford?

Mortgage basics: Buying or renting – What’s right for you?

Mortgage basics: Prequalification or pre-approval – What do I need?

How you can take advantage of low mortgage rates

Mortgage basics: Finding the right home loan for you

Home buying myths: Realities of owning a home

Tips for realtors to help clients get their homeownership goals back on track

How I did it: Turned my side hustle into a full-time job

Closing on a house checklist for buyers

How I did it: Bought a home without a 20 percent down payment

Changes in credit reporting and what it means for homebuyers

Checklist: 10 questions to ask your home inspector

Pros and cons of a personal line credit

3 tips for saving money when moving to a new home

Know your debt-to-income ratio

Checklist: 10 things to look for when touring a home

Overcoming high interest rates: Getting your homeownership goals back on track

For today's homebuyers, time and money are everything

Crypto + Homebuying: Impacts on the real estate market

How I did it: Bought my dream home using equity

Buying a home Q&A: What made three homeowners fall in love with their new home

How I did it: Built living spaces to support my family

Saving for a down payment: Where should I keep my money?

Your guide to breaking the rental cycle

Checklist: 6 to-dos for after a move

What are conforming loan limits and why are they increasing

Uncover the cost: Building a home

The lowdown on 6 myths about buying a home

4 ways to free up your budget (and your life) with a smaller home

Get more home for your money with these tips

First-time homebuyer’s guide to getting a mortgage

How do I prequalify for a mortgage?

Disclosures

Start of disclosure content

Loan approval is subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Not all loan programs are available in all states for all loan amounts. Interest rate and program terms are subject to change without notice. Mortgage, Home Equity and Credit products are offered through U.S. Bank National Association. Deposit products are offered through U.S. Bank National Association. Member FDIC.