What Home Inspection Equipment Should I Buy First?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Sep 26
- 2 min read
Starting a home inspection business is an exciting venture, especially with the growing demand for property assessments in both residential and commercial real estate. But before you can begin inspecting homes, you need the right tools. Choosing the right equipment upfront not only helps you deliver professional results—it also protects your investment and ensures you meet industry standards.
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping home inspectors protect their businesses with tailored insurance programs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential home inspection equipment you should buy first, and how insurance plays a role in safeguarding your tools and operations.
1. Basic Tools Every Home Inspector Needs
These are the foundational tools you’ll use on nearly every inspection:
Flashlight or Headlamp
A high-lumen flashlight is essential for inspecting crawl spaces, attics, basements, and dark corners. Rechargeable models are ideal for long-term use.
Moisture Meter
Used to detect water intrusion in walls, ceilings, and floors. Moisture issues can indicate mold, rot, or structural damage.
Infrared Thermometer or Thermal Imaging Camera
Helps identify temperature differences that may signal insulation gaps, HVAC issues, or hidden leaks.
💡Read More: InterNACHI’s thermal imaging guide.
Electrical Tester
A non-contact voltage tester or multimeter helps you check outlets, switches, and electrical panels safely.
Telescoping Ladder
Compact and easy to transport, a telescoping ladder allows access to roofs, attics, and elevated areas.
2. Inspection Software and Reporting Tools
Digital tools are just as important as physical ones. Look for:
Inspection report software with templates and photo integration
Mobile apps for scheduling, note-taking, and client communication
3. Safety Gear
Protect yourself during inspections with:
Gloves and masks (especially in older homes or mold-prone areas)
Coveralls or protective clothing
Boot covers to maintain cleanliness in client homes
4. Optional but Valuable Add-Ons
As your business grows, consider investing in:
Drone for roof inspections (especially for steep or inaccessible roofs)
Sewer scope camera for plumbing inspections
Radon testing kit
Carbon monoxide detector
Don’t Forget Equipment Insurance
Your tools are a major investment—and they’re exposed to wear, theft, and damage. That’s why equipment insurance is essential. At Wexford Insurance, we help home inspectors find coverage that protects:
Moisture meters, cameras, and ladders
Inspection software and mobile devices
Drones and specialty tools
We also offer:
Conclusion
Investing in the right home inspection equipment is the first step toward building a professional and profitable business. From flashlights to thermal cameras, each tool plays a role in delivering accurate, reliable reports to your clients. And with the right insurance coverage from Wexford Insurance, you can protect your equipment and your business from unexpected risks.
Ready to get started?
Contact us today to learn more about insurance programs designed specifically for home inspectors.
