Maryland

Maryland Home Inspector

Buying a home is exciting, but can also be overwhelming. It is likely one of the biggest purchases you’ll make. Before investing a large sum of money, it’s a good idea to have a home inspection completed. Although fees for inspections vary, many inspectors charge according to the size of the home or by the asking price of the home. However a Maryland home inspector determines fees; it will likely be a good investment and help you avoid purchasing a home with unknown problems.

A disclosure form is required by law when selling a home in Maryland. This means the seller has to inform potential buyers about problems with the home. However, a home inspection is not required by law and specific home inspection forms are not legally required to be used.

Although it may not be a requirement, getting a home inspection completed is a wise decision. Maryland home inspectors can identify damages and problems throughout all areas of the home. Maryland does not have specific laws regarding how and what home inspectors must check during an inspection. However, most inspectors check the roof and overall structure. Home inspectors also look at the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system, and electrical system. Further, home inspections include inspection of the foundation, sheet rock and fireplaces.

Not only are all areas of the outside and inside of the home inspected for damage, but if the property has a deck, unattached garage, pool or spa it will also be evaluated.

In the US, not every state requires home inspectors to be licensed. However, in the state of Maryland, home inspectors are regulated and licensed through the Commission of Real Estate Appraisers and Home Inspectors. Hiring a licensed Maryland home inspector indicates he or she has obtained at least the minimum education and experience required for licensure.

Maryland home inspectors must be high school graduates and need to complete a minimum of 72 hours of an approved home inspector course. Inspectors must than pass the National Home Inspector Exam and carry a minimum of $150,000 of liability insurance. The Maryland home inspector license must be renewed every two years.

Home buyers can locate qualified inspectors through HomeInspector.com. Buyers can also find inspectors through the National Associations of Home Inspectors. This is a professional organization of home inspectors nationwide. Additionally, home owners have the option to contact the Maryland Association of Home Inspectors.

Once you find an inspector, you can verify licensure and determine if any complaints have been filed by obtaining the inspector’s license number through contacting the Maryland Commission of Real Estate Appraisers and Home Inspectors.