We are case managing for a physically disabled individual in the South River, NJ area. We’re in need of a Home Inspector to go onsite and obtain media for possible bathroom renovations. We will not need any formal report. However, we do ask that you assist us with measuring the hallways, doorways, and obtaining a few still pictures.
We like to use licensed home inspectors as they are used to going to houses and obtaining media. Also, we would need to do either a Facetime or GTM with you when you’re onsite. In this particular instance, we ask that you use earphones or a headset as we’d like to be able to have a private conversation while onsite. We find this helpful for ease of hearing, and also confidentiality.
I don’t have the homeowner availability yet, just checking to see if you’re willing to assist and, if so, the cost? However, we would like to get onsite this week, if possible. If you are able to help us out, please let me know your availability and pricing. Thank you, and we look forward to working with you.
That’s a tough one to know how long it would take in order to price it.
Also, if you Facetime with them while on site, it seems that they’ll get the information they seek at that time. So, paying you after getting the “media”/information they want may be problematic.
Once you know where the job is and specifically what “media” they will want, it may be easier to price it with your hourly worth. And, until you have worked with them and trust they will do what they say they will do, you may want to get paid in advance since your leverage is gone once they have what the want while you are on site.
That’s a tough one Pete. It is technically not an inspection but more like fact finding. Depending on how big the home is, I would just estimate the amount if time and charge my usual hourly rate.
As Larry said, once they get the information there is no rush to pay you. I agree with Larry that you should ask for payment in advance.
It may turn into additional work moving forward.
Let us know what you do.
Using the term “media” in this way is a bit odd, in my opinion. I would suggest payment upfront, $xxx per hour, to include drive time (or charge mileage). It might be a good deal if that does not run them off.
Sounds like a limited ADA inspection. Price accordingly and specify performance limits in your contract. They might be better off specifying their needs to a contractor for a free estimate as it sounds like changes will be needed.
Seems legit Peter. I would definitely follow up and engage them with some of the questions presented here about payment methods. I have considered getting the CAPS certification through the NAHB just to be able to provide these type of inspections for individual homeowners. With the Baby Boomer population exploding into retirement age, this may be the future as to an ancillary service to provide.
You’re correct that hours can’t be donated, but expenses resulting from the volunteering, such as mileage, parking and tolls, trips, uniforms and other out-of-pocket expenses, can be claimed.
I agree with with Randy. Sounds like a variation of the we’ll send you more money so you can pay the mold guys…will be the next conversation…Yep 98% sure it is a scam.
