It is always helpful to have another person to hear what the inspector says and to ask questions. However, the seller should not be present at the time of the inspection since the inspector may not feel as free to talk to you in the presence of the homeowner, especially regarding observations of improper maintenance or repairs. If you are buying the house with another person and you can’t both be present at the inspection, you may wish to carry a portable tape recorder with you and record the comments of the inspector during the inspection, for later review and discussion.
