Ken,
3.2 What are “representative observations”?
Representative observations, refer to a sampling of same items. For instance, if there are 1000 windows in a building, no one reasonable expects the inspector or consultant to actually inspect and operate all 1000 windows. To do so would require the correct application of $$ to the process on tha part of the client. Representative observations is astandard concept found in E2018-01.
4.4 Uncertainty
Inspector and Client should attempt to define the acceptable level of uncertainty when defining the terms of the contract.
In E2018-01, there is a section dealing with uncerainty. realistically, and translated from their verbiage, the clause means that the inspector cannot guarantee that all defects and deficciencies will be discovered. Nothing new here. BUT, a commercial inspection may also deal with deffieiencies related to deferred maintence, fatigue, wear, and neglect. remember, a commercial inspection may not only be likited to the building, but may also involve equipment used in business.
A report is only the written communication of the observations made and research conducted by the inspector. The report contains those items which in the inspector’s opinion are likely to be of interest to his/her client. This should be defined in the contract.
No, this should be defined in a Scope of Work, as mutually discussed and agreed to by the client and the Consultant /Inspector… It isnt enough, IMO, to report on items of interest (as determined by the Inspector). Some items are REQUIRED to be included in the report, as defined in our standard and in the E2018 model. Nothing new here. Ither items are those as mutually defined by the parties.
4.5 Subjectivity
Will using moisture meters or other instruments negate this and open inspectors to liability? Why not include language which leaves the use of instruments to the inspector’s discretion and make it clear that it’s not a technically exhaustive inspection.
NACHI went a step further in setting the Client’s expectations here, by specifying that we arent required to use specialized tools. ANY tools for that matter. It is a good inclusion, and is pretty clear. Although E2018 doesnt specifically exclude specialized tools, it doesnt INCLUDE them, either. Bottom line is that in both standards (NACHI and ASTM), the engagement is outlined by the Inspector and the Client, and ancillary activities, SME’s, etc may require more $$. So, to answer your question, NO it wont negate the clause, but anytime you exceed a Standard of Practice you could open yourself up for liability. So, be careful!. If you want to exceed the standard, and assume the riisk, its on you.
5.3 Documents to be reviewed and included in the inspection report
The inspector should review all documents provided by the client and owner. only relevant documents.
The client, as a part of the engagement, and defined within the SOW, may want the Inspector to gather doce. I do it for around $75 an hour. There are specific timeframes for delivery of docs requested (10 business days), where if you request them and they arent delivered, you may still get paid if its part of the scopw of the inspection. In all cases, the only doicuments we should review are the ones we agree are part of the engagement, and are being compensated for.