Originally Posted By: Jeffrey Fox This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
and in the inspectit one i saw something i didn’t agree with. It says in the improvement recommendation highlights "The asphalt roofing on the entire house is nearing the end of its life cycle. With proper maintenance, this roof covering could last up to three years. " Now i haven’t been around long or even done an inspection but i would think an inspector would be assuming some liability by saying how long something should last. When a roof is near the end it can fail at anytime and i don’t think i’m in any position to “guess” how long it will last. Someone please correct me if i’m wrong.
Originally Posted By: gbeaumont This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Hi Jeff,
I have to agree with you on that one, I to have been looking at reporting systems and find some of the “boiler plate” comments not to my liking, not the least of which are those that offer life expectancy’s on components. I don’t thing any HI in their right mind (if we ever have one!) would try to predict how long anything will last, it’s the fastest way to get sued I can think of. It does go to show that even with reporting systems that you have to look very carefully at what you’re saying, and how you’re saying it.
Originally Posted By: lfranklin This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
I cant tell the future either. The new stuff will wear out fast, the old stuff will last for ever. Next day it will be the opposite. What I predict is always wrong.
Originally Posted By: jmyers This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Jeff,
One word will cure your blues, "ESTIMATED". You can also give the age and life expectancy in a range, such as an estimated 1 to 3 years, instead of just 3. This is absolutely one area that you do not want to be specific about because of all the variable involved.
Originally Posted By: ecrofutt This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Get a computerized reporting system. Dump all the canned commentary that comes with it and write your own. Takes a while to get it right and I’m still adding to it but I’m much happier with my reports that way.
I use the Palm-Tech system with a HP Jornada 728. Basically a mini-laptop with other programs such as Microsoft Office on it.
Originally Posted By: Brad Chasse This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Hey Erby, I checked out your sample report on you site. Nice site by the way. Do you generate these narative reports on-site? And if so, how long does it take you? Seems like allot of work to do on-site, but then I only use 2 fingers
Originally Posted By: Brad Chasse This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Phewwww! Thanks Erby…I wAs Staartingg tO DOubT my Tiping SkIllS
I'm also doing my back at the "Office" (spare bedroom). I consider myself fairly computer literate but I was never any good with someone looking over my shoulder, if you know what I mean. In fact, I'm finding that most of my clients are not expecting the report immediately anyway.
I simply explain at some time during the inspection that I prefer to take my time back at the "Office" so as to make sure I produce the best possible report for their benefit. I fax or mail it out within 24 hours and have'nt gotten a complaint yet.
Originally Posted By: Brian Maloney This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Erby,
I was also just checking out your sample report. I was glad to read all the information you posted above about the way you get that report out. And again, you have an impressive site. I bet it builds a lot of credibility and trust with your clients.
