Home inspectors help prospective homeowners determine the condition of a house before they buy it. They may also provide a list of recommended repairs to the buyer or seller. As such, the profession is highly valued and a lucrative career option. It is particularly appealing to people who enjoy problem-solving and have an interest in real estate or construction.

The house inspection industry is regulated by the New York State Division of Licensing and requires licensing for professionals. In addition, many professional organizations exist to promote high standards of practice and to ensure that consumers get the most from their inspectors.

A good house inspector will be able to identify problems that may have been overlooked by the seller or even by the builder, and can recommend ways to resolve them. This can save the homeowner a great deal of time, trouble and money down the road.

Typically, an inspector will examine the structure of the house and look at how its parts work together. This can include a check for signs of water penetration (like caulk that needs replacing), sagging roof beams or other structural issues, and whether the foundation is sinking or shifting. The inspector will also check the heating and air systems to make sure that they are sized properly for the home and are functioning well. He or she will also test the electrical system to see that it is safe and provides enough power for all of the appliances in the house, as well as check the wiring to make sure there are no exposed dangers. The inspector will also examine the plumbing to see if there are visible leaks and that the plumbing is properly sized and located.

The inspector will usually not test the air and water quality in the house, as these tests are usually done by specialized companies. However, he or she should be able to recommend a reputable company that can do these tests.

While a house inspection is not mandatory in all areas, and some people buying apartment buildings opt out of them because they are only purchasing what’s inside the walls, it’s a smart move for anyone thinking of becoming a homeowner to have one. Not only will an inspector spot major problems that might cause you to lose a big chunk of your budget, but he or she can show you how to maintain your future home and point out simple maintenance tasks you should be doing.

Having a home inspection before you sign on the dotted line can help you renegotiate with the seller, or walk away from the sale if it isn’t a good fit for you. It can also save you money by helping you avoid costly repairs down the road. However, be careful not to over-react to any problems that are identified. Cherry-picking the small things that are easy and inexpensive to fix can dramatically shorten the list of defects that a report turns up, and may make it easier for your sale to close without quibbles.