Home inspection is a multi-faceted business that requires basic knowledge in every aspect of home construction and environment.  Since in many places, licensing is not a must, there are many individuals and small operators offering inspection service to sellers and more importantly - potential owners expecting to be told what they are getting into. 

The largest inspection company around would be Home Master inspection services. A long established, licensed, bonded company, that provides extensive training for it's personal. The learning period, including classes and on the job training can last up to 7-months and covers the know-how in identifying hundreds of trouble and danger areas. 

A thorough inspection can take from 2-4 hours to survey, both interior and exterior of the premises.  The consumer will then receive an 18 page report, summarizing his observations.  The inspector should begin by walking on the roof and inspecting from the Attic down to the basement in a systematic manor.

Checked and recorded should be the condition of the roof, insulation, plumbing, electricity, leaks of any kind (interior/exterior sources), operation of the furnace and other appliances when present.  The furnace should be operated including a carbon monoxide test of the air blowing from distribution ducts at the vents. 

Besides structural integrity, other aspects deal with evidence of surface mold and mold present in the environmental air.  There may also be a termite and pest inspection, septic tank inspection and much, much more. 

The company that a home owner chooses may make the difference when it comes to choosing an equitable investment and living in a safe, healthy environment, as well as the long term maintenance cost.