What should I check about a home inspection firm’s report templates and past reports?

Request a spread of reports from different inspectors and different years. Read them as a client would. Are findings explained plainly, with photos? Do the inspectors describe limits of the inspection? Wide differences between inspectors suggest a weak standard.

Study the template itself. Who wrote it and who owns it? If it was built by the seller or licensed from another party, ask your lawyer whether it can transfer to you. Check whether the wording was reviewed by a professional, and whether there are disclaimers that make sense.

Ask about storage. Reports and photos form a record that may be needed years later if a client disputes a finding. Find out how they are kept, backed up and protected, and who can open them. Ask your lawyer how long records should be kept. Finally, ask for claims, complaints and insurance history linked to reports. How were they handled? Past reports often show how the firm would stand up to a dispute. Look at whether the reports are written in a way the next owner can improve. Plain wording, clear photos and a logical order help keep disputes down. If the templates are weak, plan the time and cost of updating them after the purchase. Ask how often the template has been revised and who decided on the changes.

Key takeaways

• Read reports from several inspectors and years.
• Confirm who owns the templates and the stored files.
• Ask about complaints and claims connected to reports.