Inspector Just Wants to Be Left Alone

I recently attended a seminar on home inspections, and the instructor made reference to some slight trouble he had gotten into when he did not follow his usual pattern of inspection.

The setting was that the buyer and family, the seller and family and the agents were present and constantly asking questions (some relating to the inspection and some not), thereby distracting him from his usual order and pattern of inspection. I and several of my colleagues have also found this on different occasions. This is no excuse ... but if the buyer wants the best inspection, let the inspector inspect.

All of us have our routines, and if they are interrupted, we may forget to inspect something or forget to include it in our report.

Some Realtors are aware of this and therefore ask what time during the inspection would I prefer the buyer to arrive at the home. It is usually at the end, so that we can routinely conduct our inspection and then confidently report on our findings. It is at this time that all questions can best be answered.

The buyer may also bring up concerns he or she has previously noticed and has particular interest in. A list of these concerns, prior to the inspector’s arrival at the home, would be helpful. After all, the buyer is paying for the best inspection possible, and constant interruptions can only detract from ... quality service.

BOB CHERRY Big Bear City