During one of my training inspections we were in a house were the buyer and seller were both present. The current seller was trying to get us to ommit things from the report, and sway it in his favor. We easily resolved this situation by explaining to him that we had an obligation to our code of ethics, and our client to report everything we find big or small; and to please give us some space to work.
During an inspection, the real estate agent informs the inspector that he doesn’t need to inspect the hot water heater because it is brand new and was just installed by the homeowner. He advises the agent that it is his responsibility to perform a thorough and complete inspection of the home. With the homeowner installing the hot water heater and not a professional, it could be an immediate hazard especially if the proper pressure relief valve was not installed.
Before an inspection is performed, the client should read and sign all inspection agreements and contracts. This will help the client understand upfront the terms of the service provided, the limitations of those services, and help the inspector manage and meet the clients expectations.
The seller asked the home inspector to go easy on the homes roof covering condition. An InterNACHI Home inspector could explain to the seller that InterNACHI inspectors must meet or exceed the Standards of Practice set forth by InterNACHI and must report fairly on all observable conditions of every home inspected.
Education is an asset when concerned with avoiding lawsuits. InterNACHI provides many levels of training. From entry level training to training for becoming a master home inspector. Education allows inspectors to understand the industries expectations for home inspecting and reporting. Even though wrongful suits can be filed, an inspector is likely to prevail and avoid lawsuits when properly educated according to InterNACHI.
A home inspector named Jordan has been studying, training and working for a home inspection company for 2 years. Jordan decided to branch off and launch his own home inspection company. Within his relatively new experiences as a home inspector and entrepreneur, Jordan was approached by a professional plumber who offered him payment for each plumbing video inspection he was able to provide for the plumber. Jordan initially thought that the proposition sounded like a great idea but it dawned on him that the agreement might be in breach of the home inspector’s code of ethics. Jordan could have accepted the plumber’s offer but he decided to do the right thing and respectfully decline. Jordan told the plumber that while he appreciated his offer, he would be happy to refer the plumber for video inspections based on the quality of his work and his professionalism.
When inspecting a panel sheeting your report should include the type of sheeting used. If it was properly laid. What the nailing pattern was used and what size the nails were used for fastening. A list of all visual defects should be included.
In the article regarding tips to avoiding lawsuits, there are 21 great tips as well as much detailed support provided by InterNACHI. Any home inspector would be greatly benefited by taking advantage of these online support sources. Within the 21 listed tips, I found the idea about taking pictures of the water meter to be very helpful. As simple as the idea may seem, it may not be a standard procedure for many inspectors. This method is a great way to not only make sure you turned off all of the water fixtures, but it is most helpful in determining if there are any unseen water leaks within the home or on the property. I would recommend this technique to all colleagues and will commit to putting forth more effort to executing this method at every inspection.
When inspecting a panel sheeting your report should include the type of sheeting used. If it was properly laid. What the nailing pattern was used and what size the nails were used for fastening. A list of all visual defects should be included.
When inspecting a home one should always use Nachi standard of practice guidelines. We should take as many training courses as we can. The smarter we are the less likely will mare a mistake that they can use against us . We should use caution signs and take plenty of photos.
You can not go easy on any portion of your inspection, if you find a discrepancy or item that needs repairs done then you must report it. When doing an inspection you should look at items as if you are buying this home or building.
Found out that if your doing an inspection and something brakes you should re frame from offering a discount or anything of the sort, it is your job to find these kind of thing out before your client moves in.
Fiberglass has been used as viable product and is used in many industries including residential homes and commercial buildings. In residential applications, fiberglass insulation is used to trap pockets of air which slows the transfer of heat, cold and sound. Another benefit fiberglass has the that it does not pose any fire hazard.
Fiberglass insulation can be installed in several parts of a building. Commonly found in rolls or batts, which that are stapled into place. It is also able to be blown into attics and walls. When installed correctly the fiberglass batts create a continuous membrane reducing the chances air passage.
Fiberglass is a good insulator; however, it does come with hazards. Small particles that come into contact with skin can become stuck in the pores causing an itchy, rash like irritation. If inhaled, small particles may cause coughing or other respiratory issues.
It is important to wear protective items when disturbing fiberglass insulation. Wear gloves, long-sleeved shirts, pants and googles. A respirator with a particulate filter should also be used to prevent inhalation.
By reading this article I was able to learn several things. As human, all inspectors will eventually miss something in an inspection. What is important is that if/when it happens the miss is one that the inspector can explain. Inspector will be accused of missing something in most inspections. Inspectors need to do the absolute best educate the customer of what to expect from an inspection. Such things to be discussed are things that are included in the inspection and the things that are excluded. Communication is the most important aspect of working with your clients
The house seller knows that his hot water heater is leaking and has rust damage. He asks for me to overlook the problems and to cut him a break since in his view it is a minor leak. I explain to the homeowner that in my home inspection business I follow all the standards and practices of a InterNACHI certified home inspector and that I will not put my certification or reputation on the line. I am kind and curtious yet true to my convictions.
I would inform the home seller that my report would be honest. The report would include all information both the bad and the good. I would tell them that the inspection is not only to ensure the structural aspects of the roof but also the safety aspects.
The first step into avoiding a law suite is by joining InterNACHI. First start by completing all the training material so you can prove that you are a professional. Using the service agreement provided will also help negate law suites. Using a survey can also remind them how they felt on that day after the inspection.
Your Essay
During a home inspection you will come across many different scearnios that comes across the property as far as conditions such as roof, electrical ,etc. The seller and the sellers agent will ask you not to be detailed on everything on the inspection as they are in a crunch to sell the house as is.
Your essay
It is important to research everything that is law related that can protect your business from lawsuits by following guidelines and procedures that is set in your required state. It will benefit your business in the long run.
I am a new student member out in Portland, Oregon. I have signed up for a two week course in February to get my license. I am starting my studies now. I’m very excited.