What a Cheap / New Inspector Might Offer (and Why Someone Picks Them)
Lower cost up front. Many home inspections — especially by newer inspectors trying to build business — may be priced on the low end of the typical range (somewhere around the lower bound of ~$200–$300).
Might be OK for simpler, newer homes, or situations where you feel confident in the home’s condition (or plan to do specialized inspections later). For example, if the home is relatively new and appears well built, you might think fewer “hidden issues” exist.
Could work if your risk tolerance is high (i.e. you’re okay if something is missed, or you plan to double-check suspect areas yourself or with specialists).
What You Risk (and What Cheap Inspectors Often Lack)
Less experience, training, or credentials. That can mean unfamiliarity with building codes, typical problem signs, or nuanced defects.
Shorter/less thorough inspections. Cheap inspectors may rush through inspections, spending only 1–2 hours, doing a basic visual check, minimal testing, few photos, and quick, generic reports.
Lack of specialized tools or techniques. Thorough inspections often require more advanced tools (e.g. moisture detectors, thermal imaging, inspection of crawlspaces/attics, roof access, electrical testing, etc.). Cheap inspectors may skip these because of cost or lack of expertise.
Risk of missed defects — structural problems, hidden water damage, code violations, faulty wiring/plumbing, poor workmanship (especially in “flipped” or recently renovated homes). Missed problems can lead to thousands (or tens of thousands) in repairs down the line.
Limited liability, protection, or recourse if issues are missed. Some cheap inspectors may skip proper insurance (errors & omissions, liability) — meaning you may have no protection if something goes wrong.
Poor or inadequate reports — maybe with few photos, vague language, or insufficient detail. That reduces the usefulness of the inspection report as a negotiation tool or maintenance guide.
What an Experienced / Professional Inspector Brings (and Why It’s Often Worth Paying More)
Experience and expertise: They’re more likely to recognize subtle or non-obvious signs of problems (foundation issues, hidden leaks, structural stress, code concerns, poor workmanship, etc.). Experienced inspectors often have done many inspections and seen more problem types.
Thoroughness of inspection: They usually take adequate time (multiple hours), inspect all major systems (structure, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, roof, attic/crawlspace, etc.), may use advanced tools (moisture detectors, thermal imaging, roof/drones, etc.), and provide a detailed, photo-rich report.
Better documentation and reporting. A good inspector will give you a comprehensible, well-organized report — with photos and explanations, helpful for negotiations or future maintenance.
Accountability and insurance. Reputed inspectors often carry proper insurance (liability, errors & omissions), giving you more protection if they miss major defects.
Peace of mind: Given that buying a home is likely one of the largest purchases you’ll make, a thorough inspection reduces risk of expensive surprises, giving you more confidence in your decision.
When Might Cheap/New Be OK — and When Should You Insist on Experienced?
Cheap / New inspector might suffice
For simpler homes with less complexity (single-family, standard build, no special features).
If you plan to supplement with specialized inspections (e.g. structural, HVAC, plumbing) separately.
If you’re aware of the increased risk and are prepared to accept it — maybe because price is the overriding constraint.
Experienced inspector is strongly recommended
If the home is older, has complex systems (historic wiring/plumbing, multiple HVAC zones, additions, basement, crawlspace, etc.), or you suspect past issues (water intrusion, renovations, weird layout).
If you want a thorough inspection as part of your due diligence, particularly if you're buying a home for long-term ownership.
If you want a solid report to negotiate with the seller, or want to avoid unexpected costly repairs after purchase
My Take — What I’d Do if I Were You (Given Risk vs. Reward)
If I were buying a home — especially in a place like Ohio (where older houses, variable foundation/soil conditions, or intermittent HVAC/plumbing quirks are common) — I’d opt for an experienced, well-reviewed inspector. The extra cost upfront is often far less than what a single missed issue can cost you later.
If budget is tight, I’d still try to get a middle-of-the-road inspector (not necessarily the cheapest, but with a few years of experience and proper credentials). And I’d ask for a sample report, ask about what’s included, ensure coverage of major systems, and check for proper licensing/insurance.
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