Make sure you hire a home inspector who is well-qualified and will work well with you. You can print this checklist and use these questions to interview several before you make a choice.

• Do you work full-time or part-time as an inspector?
  
  
• How long have you (or your company) been in business? Work with an experienced inspector, especially if you are a first-time buyer.
  
  
• Do you carry errors-and-omissions insurance? This protects you from a missed defect or other inspection flaw. Don't work with an inspector who doesn't carry insurance.
  
  
• Do you have any special qualifications? Home inspectors are not licensed, but many have engineering, architectural or contractor licenses. Membership in a professional trade association such as the American Society of Home Inspectors is a plus. Avoid inspectors who also do repairs; it may tarnish their judgment.
  
  
• How many inspections did you conduct last year? Full-time inspectors do about 200 a year.
  
  
• What does your inspection cover? A good inspection covers all of a property's major mechanical and structural systems, top to bottom.
  
  
• How long does your inspection take? Typical inspections take several hours.
  
  
• What type of report do you prepare? A detailed written report is best. Ask to see a sample.
  
  
• How much will it cost? Most inspections cost between $200 and $500.
  
  
• May I be present for the inspection? It's worth your time to attend the inspection, so work with an inspector who will agree to it. You will get a much clearer picture of the house you want to buy. If you can't go, ask your agent to attend.