Not using Spectora, I am not sure how much input I can have here. My inspection and report writing time for a 3bd, 2 bath 1400sqft house on crawlspace in Texas took about 5 hours (3 hours on inspection just taking pictures of everything, and then 2 hours writing the report).
I take pictures of everything for CYA situations in case someone comes back and says I broke something or didn’t inspect something, but it definitely sounds like your boss has been burned.
Wow! I can’t imagine working for someone that I couldn’t talk to.
I think someone else asked: "Have you thought about working for someone else?…or, yourself?”
Dennis, I’m a new inspector as well. One year on July 20th. I’m about the same age as you. Personally, I include several pictures. I record all data labels, mark all gas and electrical shut-offs, insert videos explaining where regular outlets that are protected downstream are reset, etc… At first, I was taking at least 4 hours. Now, I complete a 2,500 sq ft home in about 3 to 3.5 hours. I agree with many of my fellow inspector’s comments. Developing a systematic process of how you move through a home and building a system-based template is important. Best of luck to you sir!
Ive been doing inspections for over 35 years, over 20k inspections. Ive learned where time is wasted during inspections. Start small. Make small adjustments. For instance, dont stop to talk when you dont have to. Keep it moving. Most of the things you will say to buyers you will say a thousand more times in the future so say them on autopilot while walking. Think about dividing tasks. If you are two inspectors, leave it to one of you to go solo and just input data, such as the things you are required to describe. IF your software allows, you can merge your reports later. Wear a watch. Be aware of the time and be conscious of time elapsed, but dont let anyone rush you. Lastly, have your partner watch you and taken notes, writing down any suggestions on what practices to trim. What comments need not be made. Have him film you and watch it later.
Rob B
Sorry I missed replying to you a month ago, but since you’ve been much more interactive than the average newby in this thread I wanted to give you an answer.
Training from the owner or supervisor is really what’s needed. There are as many styles of inspecting and reporting as there are inspection companies. Your boss really needs to be coaching you on site.
The company I work at has hired both experienced inspectors as well as totally new people just getting their license. In all cases they do ride alongs until everyone (not just the owner) is comfortable with their skills. The new guys obviously work with a buddy much longer, but everyone has to learn the software and style of writing so that reports can be reasonably consistent from inspector to inspector.
Honestly this is one of the things that initially attracted me. Some other outfits would pretty much throw new people to the wolves to sink or swim on their own. That just made no sense in an industry with such high potential liabilities.