When choosing a home inspector, it’s essential to understand the unique qualifications they bring to the table. One of the key advantages of working with a home inspector who is also a licensed general contractor is the depth of experience they provide. At 1st Choice Inspection Services TREC#9175, our team, led by Michael Hill, brings both inspection expertise and years of hands-on construction knowledge. While general contractors cannot legally repair any issues they’ve inspected, this combination of skills adds considerable value to the inspection process.
General contractors have extensive experience working on homes from the ground up. They understand how every system in a home—structural, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and more—interacts with one another. This experience allows them to provide a more in-depth evaluation during a home inspection. When a general contractor performs your inspection, they have the insight to see beyond the surface, assessing not only individual components but how well the entire home is functioning as a system.
For example, spotting minor issues in a foundation may seem routine, but a contractor-inspector will be able to recognize whether these small cracks are part of normal settling or indicate a more significant structural issue. Their ability to distinguish between cosmetic concerns and serious defects gives you a clearer picture of your home’s true condition.
Another advantage of working with a home inspector who is also a general contractor is their extensive knowledge of building codes. As professionals who actively work in construction, they stay updated on local and state codes, ensuring that homes are built to meet safety and performance standards.
When inspecting a property, this knowledge proves invaluable. While standard home inspectors check for visible problems, a general contractor’s background enables them to spot any discrepancies between the construction and the required building codes. This is particularly important when reviewing recent renovations or additions, as poorly executed work may not be up to code. By identifying these issues early, you can avoid potential fines, safety hazards, or costly repairs.
While inspectors can identify problems, general contractors have the added ability to estimate the scope and potential cost of repairs more accurately. When an issue is found, such as a roofing problem or faulty electrical system, a contractor-inspector can provide a detailed explanation of what the problem entails and what it might take to fix it.
Though contractors are prohibited by law from offering repair services on homes they’ve inspected (to prevent conflicts of interest), their expertise gives homeowners a more comprehensive understanding of the issue at hand. This detailed knowledge can guide you as you seek out quotes from other contractors for repairs, making sure that you’re not caught off-guard by unexpected costs after the inspection.
In addition to finding mechanical or structural problems, general contractors are well-equipped to assess the overall quality of construction. Whether it’s a newly built home or one that’s undergone major renovations, having a contractor with an eye for craftsmanship can be a significant advantage. They can spot poor workmanship, shortcuts, and subpar materials that a less experienced inspector might miss.
For example, a general contractor will notice whether the roof flashing has been properly installed, if the framing is adequate, or if the plumbing system meets current standards. By identifying these issues early, you’re better equipped to negotiate repairs or even reconsider the purchase altogether if the construction quality doesn’t meet your expectations.
Because of their experience in the construction industry, general contractors can offer valuable advice on the long-term maintenance needs of a home. Beyond identifying immediate problems, they provide insights into what areas of the home may require attention in the future, such as aging HVAC systems, old plumbing, or an aging roof.
This forward-thinking approach helps buyers plan for the future and budget for upcoming repairs or replacements, ensuring that you’re fully prepared for the responsibilities of homeownership. Having this information up front can be crucial for homebuyers, allowing you to make an informed decision with a clear understanding of potential long-term costs.
At 1st Choice Inspection Services, Michael Hill’s background as a general contractor brings unmatched expertise to the home inspection process. With decades of experience in both construction and home inspections, our team understands what makes a home safe, functional, and built to last. We pride ourselves on delivering thorough, unbiased inspections that give our clients a complete understanding of their property’s condition.
While we cannot repair the homes we inspect, our ability to recognize and explain potential problems helps homeowners avoid unexpected surprises and gives them the tools they need to address any issues with confidence.
Choosing a home inspector who is also a licensed general contractor gives you the benefit of expert construction knowledge, detailed assessments, and a deep understanding of building standards. At 1st Choice Inspection Services TREC#9175, we’re dedicated to providing comprehensive, transparent inspections that go beyond the basics, ensuring you have all the information you need to make an informed decision about your home.
When it comes to the safety, value, and quality of your home, trust the experts who understand every aspect of how it’s built. Contact us today to schedule your inspection with our knowledgeable team.
By law, general contractors are prohibited from repairing any home they’ve inspected to prevent conflicts of interest. This ensures that the inspector remains unbiased and provides an objective report on the home’s condition.
General contractors have hands-on experience with home construction, giving them a deeper understanding of how systems work together. This allows them to provide more detailed evaluations and spot potential issues that might not be obvious to a standard inspector.
A general contractor-inspector brings specialized construction knowledge to the inspection process. They can assess the quality of construction, identify building code issues, and offer insights into the scope and cost of potential repairs.
By evaluating the condition of key systems like the HVAC, plumbing, and roof, a general contractor-inspector can help you understand what areas of the home may need attention in the near future, allowing you to plan and budget accordingly.
While the cost of an inspection can vary, working with a general contractor provides added value through more comprehensive evaluations, making it a smart investment to protect your home and avoid costly repairs in the future.
