Tools We Use :
A comprehensive though not complete list of tools we use and why to help guide the new home inspector in the buying process.
You may currently have an item or a version of an item on the list. You also don’t have to have everything below in order to complete a successful home inspection. Most importantly is you do want back ups of several of the items below. I once completed a home inspection where all the outlets of a 2000+ home were ungrounded, only to figure out that the outlet tester had gone bad. Luckily, I had a back up.
A common misstep along the way is to over purchase or brand purchase. You don’t have to have the Cadillac of certain tools. Buy the tool for your needs. Remember, you are not there to be the electrician, plumber, or HVAC tech. You are there to find defects, not diagnose how to remedy them. Invest in tools that meet your needs and buy two, verse a tool that has a ton of bells and whistles you’ll never use.
Software - HomeGauge
We use HomeGauge due to its versatility and more importantly how the report is displayed to the buyer. There are other Software options out there, some which are more useful to the inspector - but we put the buyers before ourselves
Computer -
Any Computer will do - HomeGauge requires a PC or a Mac running Parallel - We use a PC dedicated to inspections with no personal use - This prevents Malware, Memory cramming, and off duty mishaps. Plus, the Computer just lasts longer. We ensure the computer has the appropriate ports for our needs, sized appropriately, and has a large touchscreen monitor for presentation during walkthroughs.
Currently Using - Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3x (15″ Snapdragon) Laptop
Camera -
We use an Olympus 870 Tough camera. I’ve dropped this camera off a roof and it still keeps going. There are newer models which are designed in such a way that it doesn’t allow me to stick the camera in small areas or doesn’t have the screen that moves, etc. This is one of those Goldilocks cameras that has and does everything we need without being to big and bulky. It’s just right. As far as using a phone to take pictures - I may entertain using an old small smart phone in the future but DO NOT recommend using a current phone business or personal. If the phone breaks, falls down a dryer vent, gets lost in an attic buried under insulation, left in a tight crawlspace, or just Fritzes out. That is your line of communication, your internet hotspot, the lifeline of business coming in, etc. Keep your phone safe and out of your hands during an inspection. If you use an old phone be sure you can walk away from that inspection without it anymore. On that note - have a back up camera. Two cameras are cheaper than one phone. Tablets are too big and cumbersome to get the really good photos.
Thermal Camera
For those just getting into the business don’t look at a thermal camera as an additional source of revenue. Look at a thermal camera as just a tool in your tool belt. It is far too valuable a tool to leave in your bag because they didn’t pay for a “thermal inspection”. Buy one and use it on every home. You will catch far more items that you would have never been able to see or know about unless you did. A thermal camera is not a money maker, it is a life/money saver.
Currently using two models - no preference for one over the other (except price)
FLIR C5
HSFTOOLS P2W
Ladders -
We use multiple ladders - Current preference is Gorilla - is slightly lighter and easier to use than the other brands. I recommend only getting an “A” Frame ladder or if you have a roof rack an extension ladder. Stay far far away from telescoping ladders if you can. I have had a telescoping ladder break a safety latch and it was the last time I touched that type of ladder.
I have 3 different sizes in my truck at all times. The one that is most versatile is the 18 foot ladder. The 18 foot ladder can handle 95% of my needs. The 21 foot ladder is the least used and probably only gets brought out less than 1% of the time. My favorite is the 15 footer and is the most used, I use it 80% of the time. So even though the 18 footer is more versatile, the 15 footer is lighter and it is easier to manage, especially in tight areas. If you can only buy one ladder buy the 18 footer, if you can buy 2 get the 15 footer and you’ll still use the 18’ from time to time. Once you are established and have a couple extra bucks that’s when you spring for the 21 footer.
Flashlight -
I have a had a StreamLight in my hand since I started. I have experimented with other different brands and type but when it comes down to it nothing else has held a candle to my StreamLight. There are brighter but sometimes you need less light (StreamLight is dimmable). There are more versatile (all you need is illumination). And most common There are smaller/less cumbersome ones, but this is truly where the StreamLight shines. Now you should never carry a hammer - cause anything you want to you a hammer on you should not be hammering during an inspection. We are visual inspectors not fixers. If it needs hammering write it up. That being said sometimes it’s nice to have a tool (flashlight) that can take a beating. Whether it is to dig a little deeper around the foundation, to knock on a vent pipe of a 1970 house to see if it plastic or metal, to knock your muddy shoes off before slipping on your shoe covers, or even to fend off a dog, bird, crazy body. Sometimes it’s just nice to have a big stick. Do not skimp on a cheap fragile flashlight - you will regret it.
Currently Using - Ultrastinger LED
Shoes -
This one is truly personal preference - Just be sure to get sturdy shoe that has great tread. Stay away from tennis/basketball shoes or slick bottom shoes. Hiking shoes are our preferred type. Also stay away from overly large, heavy, cumbersome boots. You’ll be on your feet all day sometimes going through some tight spots, you are not going into combat. You can never predict the weather so water proof or water resistant shoes should be bought. On that note, carry a fully set of back up clothes and shoes down to underwear. You will get caught in a down pour, fall into a pool, or simply sink ankle deep into an oversaturated lawn. It is far easier to change your shoes than to try and scrape and wash off all that dog poop you just stepped in while taking pictures of the water damaged eaves.
I have found Columbia outlet stores my go to - usually buying two at a time and go through about two pairs a year.
Equipment Bag -
We used to carry oversized back packs, and they worked well. The attache, rolling brief, or pilot bag does everything the backpack did but give that added touch of professionalism. Which ever you choose, You want a bag that will carry 90% of what you’ll need into the house. Not everything. Your truck/vehicle is just outside so that 4 foot level that only gets brought out every tenth inspection, leave it in the truck. If you are not using a tool every inspection it should have a home in your vehicle.
Currently using - Alpine Swiss 17” Attache rolling briefcase
Code Books -
These are a must. I get it all the time - I can look it up on my phone. Yes you could - If you have service, if you have battery, of you haven’t dropped or damaged your phone during an inspection. Having the code book in your bag is your reference manual, you’ll be amazed on how much you’ll not only use it but also learn from it. As you’ll be looking up one item you’ll read the code from multiple different sections and just have these AH HA moments. These also get updated every few years so ensure you are carrying the most recent version.
Currently using - Code Check Complete 3rd Edition.
Moisture Meter -
This id one of those tools you can spend $20-$200. There is no reason to have a moisture meter text you a photo of the meter readings. You are only using this to verify or show proof of moisture. More than likely you already know it’s wet you just want to show it in pictures. I have a pin model and a pin less model. The pin less model has proven more reliable, in my opinion. This is one of those tools that’s better to have two.
Currently Using ET140
Wire Sizing Guide -
Unless you were a seasoned electrician before coming into inspection you will need a guide to verify wire gauges for the first thousand or so inspections and even then it still gets pulled out ever so often. I started with the Home Depot self made wire guide bundle but these are a far better, safer, and cheaper way. Plus takes a better photo.
Pitch Guide -
I used to use a 2X4 ruler and a level. For less than $10, this changes the game. I know phones have this app for free, but I have had sellers question the validity of the app and never had this questioned. Worth it especially for the cost.
Tool Belt -
Like shoes - this is the one tool you will probably go through a few before finding “your” tool belt. I’ve gone through all the types, clasps, materials and was the last one I got right. you will be in constant contact with the belt for the majority of your day, so if it isn’t right try again. Expect to buy multiple different belts. I found leather belts were the most comfortable and durable. The pinch type clasps seemed great until you bend forward and the belt pops off.
Currently using - Style n Craft 3" Leather Work Belt
Tool Belt Bag(s) -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Electrician Screwdriver -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Outlet Tester -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Voltage Tester -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Pressure Guage -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Mirror -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Disposal Wrench/Key -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Shoe Covers -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Microwave Tester -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Expandable Magnet -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Child Lock Magnet -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
12 inch and 48 inch Level -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Mini Pry Bar -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Clamp On Multi-meter -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Combustible Gas Detector -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Shoe Covers -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Coveralls -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Folding Stool
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Folding Table
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Extension Cord -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Accessories Bag -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Mini broom and dust pan -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Mini Vacuum -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Sharpies/Pens
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Wipes -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Toilet Paper -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Cooler with Water -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
Batteries and Case -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%
2 X 4 -
When it come to a bag you want one that will carry 90%