Virginia

Virginia Home Inspector

When seeking the most qualified home inspectors in the state of Virginia, it is imperative that you look for a home inspector that has taken the time to get certified. This is important because there are no licensing requirements in the state when it comes to conducting home inspections. However, voluntary certification is available and the requirements are rigorous, so anyone who has become certified will know what they are doing. And, when it comes to something as important as your home inspection, you don’t want to put that in the hands of someone that is unqualified.

In order to qualify for Virginia home inspection certification, the potential inspector must either complete 35 hours of classroom instruction and perform 100 inspections, or complete 70 hours of classroom instruction and perform 50 inspections. In addition, the successful candidate must be a high school graduate, pass the National Home Inspectors Exam and carry at least $250,000 in general liability insurance coverage. After proving their knowledge, a Virginia home inspector is granted certification by the Virginia Board of Asbestos, Lead and Home Inspectors.

Your certified home inspector's reputation can be further verified by his good standing in respected national organizations, such as The American Society of Home Inspectors or the National Association of Home Inspectors. Both of those organizations are good places to start your search for qualified home inspectors.

The advantages of getting a home inspection are obvious to the prospective homebuyer in terms of heightened confidence, but sellers should consider an inspection to be an equally good investment. In today's highly challenging real estate market, sellers can gain a huge advantage by being able to confidently offer full disclosure of possible problems. Showing you had an inspection before putting the property on the market can also yield a quicker and smoother transaction. Besides, isn't it better to know your home's defects before anyone else does? That way, you can hire a contractor before the for-sale sign even goes up, or figure any defects into your asking price and willingness to negotiate.

An interior and exterior inspection by a Virginia-certified home inspector should reveal the condition of a home's roof, foundation, fireplace, attic, HVAC system, visible insulation, wiring, plumbing, windows, doors and other structural elements. A properly conducted inspection of a home of average size should take somewhere between two and four. Ask your Virginia home inspector upfront about cost, the timing and the procedure for getting a report.

Whether buying or selling, your home is likely to be the most important investment you ever make. You deserve an honest and credible appraisal of its condition.