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How do I pick a good home inspector?

Pick the type of inspection. See what it costs here, how to check them, what to ask. Then score up to 3 quotes.

What they do
When you need one
Bay Area price
How to verify

Prices are Bay Area estimates from 2026 price lists. Size, age and access change the price.

Compare up to 3 quotes

Enter what each inspector told you. The score updates as you type.

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Best pick score
0 /100
Score out of 100: price 30, credential checked 25, insurance 15, reviews 15, warranty 10, how soon 5. Not checked = max 60.
None of these credentials is checked yet. Look them up (ASHI, InterNACHI, CREIA, or the engineer license board) before you book.

10 questions to ask

Tap a question to see why it matters. Tick it once you have the answer.

Progress

Red flags: walk away

Coming soon

Ken's trusted list

Ken is putting together inspectors his clients have used and liked. Until then, text him and he will send names that fit your home and city.

Text Ken for a referral

Next steps

  1. Check the credential first: InterNACHI, ASHI or CREIA. Engineers: BPELSG license lookup. Roofers and plumbers: CSLB.
  2. Book inside your inspection contingency (17 days in the standard C.A.R. contract). Aim to have reports by day 10.
  3. Go to the inspection. Ask the inspector to show you the top 3 issues in person.
  4. Not sure which inspections this house needs? Use T70. Termite: T81.

Common mistake: Thinking California licenses home inspectors. It does not. There is a practice law (B&P §7195–7199), but no state license. So check membership and training yourself, and ask for a sample report.

Ask Ken Watch 15-sec video

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Ken will reply with his take on the quotes. No spam.

Or text: 408-666-2825