Q: I have a good deal of knowledge about construction, why can't I do my home inspection myself? A: Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector who has inspected hundreds, perhaps thousands, of homes. An inspector is familiar with the elements of home construction, their proper installation, and maintenance. They know how the home’s systems and components are intended to function together, as well as why they fail. Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the home they really want, and this may affect their judgment. For accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial third-party opinion by an expert in the field of home inspection, even on new construction.