This is from the HUD web site http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/insp/inspfaq.cfm

HUD comments are in black, HSS Property Inspection comments are in green.

1. What does your inspection cover?

The inspector should ensure that their inspection and inspection report will meet all applicable requirements in your state if applicable and will comply with a well-recognized standard of practice and code of ethics. You should be able to request and see a copy of these items ahead of time and ask any questions you may have. If there are any areas you want to make sure are inspected, be sure to identify them upfront.

Ohio has no licensing or requirements for home inspectors. I comply with the Residential Standards of Practice, Commercial Standards of Practice and the Code of Ethics of the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI)  

2. How long have you been practicing in the home inspection profession and how many inspections have you completed?

The inspector should be able to provide his or her history in the profession and perhaps even a few names as referrals. Newer inspectors can be very qualified, and many work with a partner or have access to more experienced inspectors to assist them in the inspection.

I started doing inspections about 1973 and have done inspections off and on for the past 37 years. I started HSS Property Inspection in 1999 in Maryland after I quit teaching for the Home Builders Institute (HBI) and then moved my business to Ohio in 2001.

3. Are you specifically experienced in residential inspection?

Related experience in construction or engineering is helpful, but is no substitute for training and experience in the unique discipline of home inspection. If the inspection is for a commercial property, then this should be asked about as well.

I strongly disagree with HUD’s statement on the no substitute for training and unique discipline of home inspection. Most inspection schools are 40 to 80 hrs and then they give you a certificate that says you are a home inspector. It takes years of experience in the construction trades to know what you are inspecting. Without a background in construction the inspector has no knowledge or experience on which to base what he/she is inspecting. I have 37+ years in residential and commercial construction trades, either as a worker, supervisor, teacher, inspector or owning my own construction company.

4. Do you offer to do repairs or improvements based on the inspection?

Some inspector associations and state regulations allow the inspector to perform repair work on problems uncovered in the inspection. Other associations and regulations strictly forbid this as a conflict of interest.

NO; this is unethical and a conflict of interest.

5. How long will the inspection take?

The average on-site inspection time for a single inspector is two to three hours for a typical single-family house; anything significantly less may not be enough time to perform a thorough inspection. Additional inspectors may be brought in for very large properties and buildings.

Inspection time is based on several factors; square footage, age of home, foundation, condition of the home and any other buildings. Average on-site inspection time is 2½ to 4 hrs with some taking as long as 8 - 10 hrs. 

6. How much will it cost?

Costs vary dramatically, depending on the region, size and age of the house, scope of services and other factors. A typical range might be $300-$500, but consider the value of the home inspection in terms of the investment being made. Cost does not necessarily reflect quality. HUD Does not regulate home inspection fees.

Cost average: $250.00-$400.00 for the average home in this area. You can get a cheaper inspection from someone that is less qualified; they will spend about 1-1½ hours on the inspection and 20-30 minutes on the report and charge $175.00 to $225.00. 

7. What type of inspection report do you provide and how long will it take to receive the report?

Ask to see samples and determine whether or not you can understand the inspector's reporting style and if the time parameters fulfill your needs. Most inspectors provide their full report within 24 hours of the inspection.

My reports are narrative, not checklist, and contain explanations of all noted defects, with digital photos. Your home inspection report can be delivered electronically, by mail, or fax.

The most important part of any inspection is (The Inspector) then the report, on a residential inspection the report is usually sent or delivered to the client within 24 hours. Remember, you may be investing many, many thousands of dollars in the house and a thorough report, complete with pictures showing the issues that may be in question, is the best way to become educated so that you may make an informed decision.

8. Will I be able to attend the inspection?

This is a valuable educational opportunity, and an inspector's refusal to allow this should raise a red flag. Never pass up this opportunity to see your prospective home through the eyes of an expert.

YES; I advise all clients to be at their home inspection, it’s not just an inspection but an education about the home you are buying. 

9. Do you maintain membership in a professional home inspector association?

There are many state and national associations for home inspectors. Request to see their membership ID, and perform whatever due diligence you deem appropriate.

I am a member of the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (ID# NACHI06020291), the International Code Council (ICC) membership # 5317828, the International Assocciation of Certified Indoor Air Ccnsultants (IAC₂) and a member of NACHI OHIO.

10. Do you participate in continuing education programs to keep your expertise up to date?

One can never know it all, and the inspector's commitment to continuing education is a good measure of his or her professionalism and service to the consumer. This is especially important in cases where the home is much older or includes unique elements requiring additional or updated training.

Most associations require at least 24 hours of continuing education a year; InterNACHI is the best association for providing Accredited Continuing Education Courses. I try to do between 30 - 50 hours a year. I also teach several hundred hours of adult education a year at Vantage Career Center.
Construction trades (resdential & industrial electrical, plumbing, masonry ect).