Find a home inspector in Des Moines, IA
A home inspector examines a house's structure and systems and writes a report on problems and safety issues. Buyers hire one before closing, and sellers sometimes order one before listing. A good inspector is independent, thorough, and explains which issues are urgent and which are normal wear.
How many home inspectors are in Des Moines?
Another 22 self-employed businesses in building inspection services are based in Polk County, the kind of one-person operation the employer count leaves out.
Half of Des Moines's homes were built before 1960, and 40% of households rent, which shapes the kind of work local pros see most.
| Self-employed, Polk County | 22 Census NES 2023: building inspection services |
|---|---|
| Median year homes were built | 1960 ACS 2023 |
| Households that rent | 40% ACS 2023 |
| Population | 212,464 ACS 2023 |
What do home inspectors in Des Moines help with?
- Pre-purchase inspections
- Pre-listing inspections
- New construction inspections
- Radon testing
- Mold testing
- Sewer camera inspections
- Termite and wood-destroying insect inspections
- Pool and spa inspections
- Roof and attic checks
- Annual maintenance inspections
How do you choose a good home inspector in Des Moines?
- Check the inspector's license where your state requires one.
- Ask to see a sample report.
- Choose an inspector you hire yourself, not one tied to the sale.
- Ask what the inspection includes and what costs extra, like radon or sewer scope.
- Attend the inspection if you can.
- Ask about errors and omissions insurance.
Many states license home inspectors, and some do not; ask for a license number where one is required. See how licensing works for home inspectors in Iowa.
Questions to ask before you hire
- Are you licensed and insured?
- What does the inspection cover?
- Can I see a sample report?
- How long will it take?
- When will I get the report?
- Do you offer radon, mold or sewer testing?
Red flags to watch for
- Offering to do the repairs they find.
- A very short report with no photos.
- Rushing through a large home.
- Ties to the selling agent that are not disclosed.
What changes the price?
- Home size
- Age and condition
- Add-on tests
- Travel distance
- Type of property
- Report turnaround
Get two or three written quotes for the same scope of work; prices vary a lot between businesses.
Questions people ask
How many home inspectors are there in Des Moines?
The Census employer count for Des Moines, IA is too small to report, plus 22 self-employed businesses in Polk County.
Do I need a home inspection for a new house?
It is still a good idea. Even new homes can have defects.
Can a house fail an inspection?
No. An inspection reports findings. You and the seller decide how to handle them.
Should I go to the inspection?
Yes, if possible. You will learn how the house works and what needs attention.
Home Inspectors in nearby cities
Home Inspectors in other cities
Sources: US Census Bureau ZIP and County Business Patterns 2023, Nonemployer Statistics 2023 and ACS 2023 5-year estimates. Census industry groups can include closely related businesses. Expert Helper is a free matching service, not a home inspector.