It’s always a good idea to hire someone to inspect the home during the buying process. Across the United States, those independent contractors call themselves “home inspectors” and are almost licensed on a state-by-state basis. Home inspectors sometimes prefer to work alone. However, if asked, the inspector should allow the prospective homeowner to observe the actual inspection process. After all, a consultant cannot consult when no one is there to listen. And mailing a report after the inspection does not provide adequate explanation of inspection findings.
Although buyers have the right to insist on their own presence at the inspection, they cannot forbid sellers from remaining in their own home when the inspection is taking place. Some sellers willingly leave for a few hours; some remain home without involving themselves in the inspection; and still others become actively involved in the process, engaging the buyers in lengthy conversations or shadowing the inspector every step of the way.
