Sump Pump with Check Valve

Have an inspection report that states that the sump pump is leaking (water exits through a small hole above the discharge flange) and must be replaced. The pump has a check valve and according to the manufacturer’s instructions you need to drill a 3/16" hole above the discharge to prevent a air lock. Inspector insists pump is bad, is this typically called out as a defect?

From the pump manufacturer faqs:

‘MY PUMP IS HUMMING BUT NOTHING IS BEING PUMPED. WHAT’S WRONG?

‘The pump is probably air locked. If you have a check valve in the system make sure your 3/16” (5 mm) vent hole has been drilled and it is not clogged. If it has not been drilled, disconnect your pump from the power source and drill the hole (See questions #1&4).

{http://www.zoellerpumps.com/en-ap/faqs}.”

It is typically called out as a defect by inspectors who don’t know any better