A home inspector, above all, should be extremely versatile to adapt to a wide variety of properties, with comprehensive industry knowledge, education and extensive experience.

A property includes diverse structural, plumbing, electrical and framing components, in all of which the inspector should have expertise to evaluate safety issues, material defects, substandard installations, inoperable equipment and systems, and equipment end of life expectancy.

Continuing education to learn about changing building codes, latest construction materials, installation methods and equipment are also required. The continuing education should be documented by certificates and available for client’s inspection online and in print.

The home inspector should be a member of a home inspection association and in good standing, should personally conduct the inspection rather than delegate it, and have comprehensive insurance coverage.