Hiring an Iowa Home Inspector

As your Realtor, one of our responsibilities is to protect your real estate investment, even if it means advising you against purchasing a property.  One way we can help to protect you is to urge you to hire a home inspector before you buy your home or property in Des Moines.

A home inspector will check the house for many flaws and problems. Usually this will include foundation problems, electrical dangers and plumbing problems, evidence of water damage, leaks or roofing problems, mold, and the liklihood of termites. Usually an inspector can also check for the presence of radon for an additional charge.

Choosing a Home Inspector

The state of Iowa does not have a licensing program for home inspectors at this time. When you choose an inspection company, look for years in experience and references before you contract for the service.  The Department of Housing and Urban Development, better known as HUD, has a webpage about home inspectors, with ten questions to ask before you hire. Some of these questions include:

What does the inspection cover?

• How long has the inspector been in business and how many inspections has he done?
• Is the inspector experienced with residential home inspections first and foremost?
• What type of report does the inspector provide?
• Does the home inspector belong to any of the several professional organizations that are there to protect the public?

These and more questions are listed and detailed on HUD's website, and we will go over this information with you if you decide to pay for this service.

The cost of a home inspection is usually around $300-400, and is not commonly paid by the seller, although there are some exceptions.  Also, some mortgage companies require a home inspection prior to closing the home loan.

We can give you a list of local home inspection companies and help you decide if this is something you feel is necessary for your peace of mind and safety when buying a home in Des Moines.  Please ask us about it!

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