Hey there! Buying a home is likely one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make. Having a professional home inspection done before finalizing the sale can potentially save you thousands by identifying issues early. But not all home inspection services are created equal. Choosing the right home inspector takes some research. Here are the top 5 factors to keep in mind when selecting the best home inspection services in Chicagoland for your upcoming purchase:

1. Experience and Certifications

When evaluating home inspectors, you’ll want to look for several years of experience inspecting homes in the Chicagoland area specifically. Examine their certifications to ensure the inspector has proper licensing and training. Some key certifications to look for include:

• International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) certification – InterNACHI is one of the inspection industry’s most reputable certification bodies. Their inspectors must pass exams, adhere to standards of practice, and pursue continuing education.

• American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) certification – ASHI sets rigorous standards for home inspection qualifications, report writing, and ethics requirements. Certified ASHI inspectors are up-to-date on inspection techniques and maintain insurance coverage.

• State licensure – Illinois and many other states require home inspectors to hold a state license to practice legally. Check that they have an active license in good standing.

Choosing an inspector with the right certs and experience inspecting Chicago area homes ensures you’re getting an expert assessment based on extensive, up-to-date qualifications.

2. Technology and Tools Used

Home inspection technology has advanced a lot in recent years. You’ll want an inspector who has invested in high-quality tools and uses the latest techniques. Here are some of the key technologies the best home inspectors have in their toolkits:

• Thermal imaging cameras – Identify moisture issues, electrical faults, and potential energy loss areas invisible to the naked eye.

• Moisture meters – Pinpoint excess moisture present behind walls, under floors, etc. that could lead to mold, rot, and structural damage.

• Carbon monoxide detectors – Test for lethal gas leaks from furnaces and other fuel-burning appliances.

• Combustion gas analyzers – Sniff out issues with gas appliances that could release dangerous gases into the home.

• Blower door test equipment – Evaluate how leaky or drafty the home is and where exterior air may infiltrate.

• Endoscopes – Snake tiny cameras into walls, crawl spaces, attics, and ductwork to assess hidden problems.

Ask about all the tools and technologies your prospective inspector uses. The more advanced their equipment, the more thorough their inspection will be.

3. Detailed Inspection Process

A comprehensive home inspection looks at the roof, exterior, structure, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC, and much more. The best home inspection services in Chicagoland will follow clear, established inspection processes and standards of practice to evaluate all aspects of the home systematically.

Some things to look for in their process include:

• Home Inside and Out appraisal – They should inspect both interior and exterior of the home in a logical sequence.

• Attic Inspection – Carefully check insulation, ventilation, leaks, animal infestation, and structural issues in the attic space.

• Roof and Siding Assessment – Use binoculars and/or a drone to inspect the roof condition plus look for siding damage, leaks, flashing issues, etc.

• Crawl Space and Basement Checks – Assess the foundation, look for pests/water damage, check for proper ventilation, etc.

• Electrical, Plumbing and Appliance Testing – Test receptacles, switches and fixtures, assess plumbing leaks, water pressure/drainage, run diagnostic tests on HVAC and appliances.

• And more – Dryer vents, garage door, landscape drainage, pool/hot tub, fireplace, carbon monoxide detectors, and every other aspect on your property.

Ensure the inspector will follow industry standards and their own proven checklist to evaluate all elements of the property. This reduces the risk of missing trouble areas.

4. Detailed Reporting

You should receive a comprehensive written home inspection report documenting all findings, including small issues that may seem insignificant now but could turn into major headaches later.

Here’s what to look for in the inspection report:

• Overview summarizing the home’s overall condition, significant defects found, any recommendations for repairs, safety concerns, etc.

• Component-by-component breakdown describing findings plus digital photographs documenting issues.

• Color-coded repair priority system indicating minor cosmetic issues vs major functional defects.

• Cost estimates for repairs so you can negotiate with the seller based on inspection findings.

• Appendices with additional technical details, equipment specifications, maintenance recommendations, and more.

A professional, well-documented inspection report allows you to make an informed buying decision and arms you with information to request repairs or credits from the seller.

5. Responsiveness and Communication

Even after the inspection, you may have follow-up questions or need clarification on aspects of the report. Choose an inspector who excels at communication and makes themselves available to answer questions. Signs of good responsiveness include:

• Detailed responses to all inquiries in a timely manner.

• Offer to walk through the home again to discuss inspection findings in person.

• Provide their direct contact information so you can reach them anytime.

• Quickly return calls and emails, even outside normal business hours.

An inspector who takes the time to explain their findings, answers all your questions, and gives you their full attention during the process will give you greater confidence and peace of mind.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing the best home inspector takes a little homework, but it’s worth the effort. Thoroughly evaluate experience, certifications, technology/tools, inspection process, reporting, and responsiveness when selecting the best home inspection services in Chicagoland for your upcoming purchase.

Taking these factors into account helps ensure you’ll get a comprehensive, professional inspection by a knowledgeable expert. That allows you to make your home buying decision with full insight into the property’s condition and potentially avoid expensive surprises down the road.