Home inspections are always optional and up to the Buyer.  They are ALWAYS recommended though.  Even on new construction homes.  It is entirely up to the home Buyer to select the type of inspection(s) performed, the company to be hired, as well as pay for the work up front.  The findings and inspection report strictly belong to the Buyer and require their permission to be shared.  The results can be reason to terminate the deal, renegotiate the terms or of the contract, or simply ask that certain items be repaired.  

Read "Buyers Beware" for the different types of inspections.