Here are some important and considerations and questions to ask when hiring an inspector.
You should not only know if they are properly licensed and Certified in Oregon, but also what their hands-on building experience is. Some have little or none. It is important that their experience includes building in this coastal environment. Without an understanding of the harsh conditions on the coast the inspector will be at a distinct disadvantage to protect your investment. I have over 20 years of building experience on the Oregon coast. Please see my resume.
In my opinion, if a home inspector is actively promoting themselves as an expert in everything and offering to do multiple specialty inspections, it could be motivated more by increasing their bottom line than protecting yours.
Seriously consider it before you hire a general home inspector to be an all inclusive specialist. Being a knowledgeable, competent generalist is a specialty unto its’ self.
Here are some things to consider when interviewing an inspector:
1: Qualifications: What kind of training and experience do you have?
Many inspectors have a long list of letters & designations after their names. Among these are: Certified Master Inspector, or Certified Senior Inspector, and others. How did they “earn” these titles? There are many web sites, including inspection associations, where these “titles” can be acquired with very little effort. Often it takes no more than spending some time taking on-line courses and self directed, “open book” tests. Some of these designations are not particularly meaningful. I am an Oregon Certified Inspector. Oregon has some of the most stringent certification standards in the nation; far exceeding most other states. Continued education is required. Not all inspectors are state certified. Ask about construction background. Not all certified inspectors have equal building experience. Some have Little or none. It is critical to have hands-on experience building in the harsh coastal environment. With over 35 years in the building and inspection fields, 20 in Coos County, I have the experience that will benefit you. My first construction job was in 1966 and I started inspecting and estimating buildings in 1973.