When you are considering buying a home it is a huge investment and time on your part.
Do you think it is wise to have the home inspected by a person who represents your interest and only your interests?
Some people will say Oh my father in law or my brother will look it over for me. Or its going to be inspected by FHA anyway so why bother.
well if you Dad or friend is a qualified trained,insured inspector then sure go ahead and have them look the home over for you. If not you really need to consider a private home inspection by a professional.
Very rarely do you find an individual with knowledge of all the systems in a home. You need to know is the electrical, Plumbing,ventilation and structure all that you think it is.
FHA does not appraise the house with you in mind they are looking out for their own interests not your.
So when it comes time for the do I need and Inspection or not question, the answer is fairly simple. No you don't need an inspection, you should want an inspection.