Choosing what type of commercial vehicle you use for an inspection business is an important decision. You’re vehicle should be appropriate to carry all your tools and equipment safely, provide access easily to needed equipment, and be presentable, well maintained and clean.
A good customer experience best practice is to include images in the final report of critical systems depicting them operating satisfactorily. Doing so can add an aspect of positivity to the report and also minimize liability to the inspector if a system that was functioning properly at the time of inspection, fails shortly after move in.
Home maintenance books are a great way to set a home inspection company apart. By providing these books to buyers, we empower the buyer to educate themselves about the operation and maintenance of the home systems, reducing call backs to the inspector and adding value to the inspection experience for the buyer.
I like to end my inspections with a couple gifts before I leave. One is the home inspection book from InterNACHI, and the other is a gas valve shut off in case of emergency. This leaves the client with something tangible while he waits for my report and lets them know I have their best interests at heart.
Attic Ventilation
It is common for homes to have a lack of ventilation in the attic. Proper ventilation is crucial to the health of the home and the comfort of the inhabitants. An attic can conduct heat into the living space of the home if there is not proper venting. Poor venting can also result in moisture and the problems that come with moisture like insects and increased deterioration of the homes construction materials. Moving air through the attic will reduce the temperature in the attic and the house. Most homes are equipped with a passive venting system: Soffit vents, gable vents and ridge vents. It is important to understand that in order to create air movement, the correct combination of vents needs to be in place.
I currently work as a Sales Rep of New Construction Homes. A lot of times Im meeting with potential buyers and we are walking homes that are still under construction so they can be a little dirty or muddy. I like to wear nice pair of khaki pants with a dress boot and a well fit polo shirt. The dress boot shows professionalism and allows me to walk on construction sites with out ruining dress shoes.
The first impression you give to your client is extremely important. This is likely the first time you have met them and they are investing their trust in you to perform an efficient inspection. You should always be prepared to give your best appearance and utilize your social skills with confidence when you arrive to the inspection site for the first time.
For my essay I chose the topic of phone etiquette. Usually the first contact your client will make with you will include either your voice on the phone or a message. You should always try to answer your phone if at all possible and be ready to give a positive reinforcing conversation with your potentially new client. If it does go to voicemail be sure your message is professional, accurate and succinct and be sure to return the call as soon as possible.
When an inspector arrives at a residence for a home inspection the first impression is crucial. Arriving in clean work clothes is a must. Also having proper hygiene and a clean face and teeth will go a long way to helping you have a great inspection.
Getting to know your client is a very crucial part of the home inspection. Calling them by name makes them feel more comfortable in dealing with you. Also using the proper words in explaining what you have found will go a long way.
Asbestos is a cement based siding that was super popular in the 50s and 60s. Around the 70s is when asbestos because know as a cancer casing material. Asbestos is brittle and break causing dust particles which can become airborne. Extra precautions should be taken when dealing with Asbestos.
Website communication can be a very valuable tool for today’s customer’s service and communication. The front page is the potential clients’ first impression of a lot of today’s inspectors. I website should convey trust, professionalism, and knowledge at first glance. This helps make people confident in their choice in choosing you for there home inspection.
Present versus past tense in report writing. In the article, it suggests that we write our reports in past tense to help in case of lawsuits. It will imply that at the time of inspection something had been observed. whereas if you write in in present tense it infers that its the current condition and may imply a warranty of some respect.
Social Proof. Having testimonials on your websites will provide invaluable proof to prospect clients above the caliber and quality of work you produce. Customers who see you performed well for others are very likely to give you their business and invite you in.
Video Testimonials. They are great at helping you increase conversions. Although some are skeptical as to whether or not they work, it is believe that video tell a 1,000 words. There are many customers who prefer to watch a short video compared to reading a long page/article.
This is my 2004 model inspection truck. I keep her immaculately clean and impeccably maintained. She still runs and drives as good as the day I bought her 15 years ago. I think she still looks great but what do my clients think? Do clients pay more attention to the age as a bad thing or do they appreciate the attention to detail, care and maintenance on an old truck?
During a home inspection I test all electrical receptacles in wet locations to confirm proper grounding, polarity and GFCI protection. I only test a random sampling of receptacles in other locations. If a safety deficiency is discovered in the random sampling I do further testing and investigation.
Interacting with the client and real estate agents are some of the most important aspects of the home inspection. Maintaining a professional rapport with these individuals will not only improve your business contacts but increase your business resources. Your client is seeking a person that is an advocate for their concerns. Always keep interactions on a positive and professional manner.
Interacting with the client and real estate agents are some of the most important aspects of the home inspection. Maintaining a professional rapport with these individuals will not only improve your business contacts but increase your business resources. Your client is seeking a person that is an advocate for their concerns. Always keep interactions on a positive and professional manner.
