Starting out as a home inspector can be both exciting and daunting, especially when it comes to choosing the right tools for the job. But don’t worry – assembling your toolkit doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Whether you’re prioritizing personal preferences or meeting specific job requirements, having the right gear ensures you’re prepared for anything. From essential basics to safety gear and advanced detection devices, here’s what you need to be inspection ready.
Basic Home Inspector Equipment
Deciding which tools doesn’t need to be overwhelming, but the following list includes essential ones for new inspectors like you to get up and running:
- Flashlight: Although it’s tempting to rely on your phone’s flashlight during inspections, bring a backup light source especially when the job requires you to enter dark, confined spaces
- Ladder: You’ll never regret having a sturdy ladder on your side to prevent injuries. Invest in a multi-functional, telescoping, or a folding 15-foot ladder to safely access areas high above ground
- Screwdriver Set: Versatile and handy for tasks like removing electrical panels and probing for moisture, a set of screwdrivers in various sizes is necessary for different jobs during an inspection
- Tape Measure: Precision is key during home inspections. A tape measure helps in providing exact dimensions and verifying compliance with safety codes, such as door heights, railing banisters, and more
Safety Equipment for Home Inspectors
Safety is a top priority, and the following items are essential for protecting yourself on the job:
- Respirator: A certified respirator is crucial for safeguarding your health especially because these filter out harmful particles like carcinogens, mold, asbestos, and fungus. At a minimum, keep a handful of N95 masks with you at all times. Dust masks are insufficient for this purpose.
- Safety Glasses or Goggles: This probably goes without saying but protect your eyes from falling debris and electrical sparks with reliable protective eyewear.
- Gloves: Durable work gloves go a long way in keeping your hands protected from various hazards like splinters, insect bites, and nails.
Other Recommended Equipment for Your Toolkit
These items help you provide a more complete inspection and add value for your clients in the process:
- Moisture Meter
- Infrared Thermometer
- Infrared Camera (for heightened detection capabilities)
- Voltage Sniffer
- Handheld Carbon Monoxide Detector
- Handheld Gas Detector
For new inspectors, there’s no worse feeling than being on a job site and not having the necessary tools to complete the job. When the goal is to provide clients a thorough inspection report in a timely manner, it’s critical that you have a complete toolkit at all times. As long as you comply with state and federal guidelines, you’re free to customize your toolkit as you see fit.
