When I joined the CCPIA about 5 years ago, I think I read that it is mandatory for an Inspector to perform a drive-by or preliminary inspection before quoting an estimate for the Inspection cost to the client. Is this carved in stone somewhere? I don’t see it anywhere in the COMSOP. I can see the practicality if you are inspecting a 200-unit apartment complex. But if you are inspecting 8 or 16 units located 4 hours distant, that drive-by adds an extra day to the otherwise one-day exterior inspection and walk-through.
Hi David– The ComSOP doesn’t have any stipulations for pricing or the proposal process. However, we do cover a few approaches inspectors can take in our online and in-person classes. One involves conducting an on-site visit, while the others focus on performing online research. The choice is up to you. We cover this in our online course here: How to Determine Inspection Prices and Write Proposals - CCPIA
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Thanks, Maggie!
Hi David,
We very rarely do a pre-site visit for a commercial proposal. As you mentioned, it is simply not a productive way to utilize time. Arieal’s, street view, loopnet, tax records you can get a pretty good feel of the property nowadays. Plus, there is often additional documents like OM’s, market flyers, listing links, etc. that even help paint a picture more.
Looks like you are in my neck of the woods, feel free to give me a ring, anytime. I’ve tackled just about every commercial type property there is!
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