What You’re Home Inpector Won’t Tell You!

This article appeared in the Wall Street Journal market watch section. For the whole article click here: What Home Inspectors Won’t Tell You

In this post, we’ll list the 10 main Talking Points of the article, and in italics respond to author Daniel Goldstein’s claims.

1. “The house is fine, but I could make it look bad.”  This is what Realtors usually refer to as a “Buyer’s Inspector” – and, someone that’s trying to influence the process may not be a reputable inspector. It’s also a good reason for Sellers to have their inspections upfront of putting their house on the market – and, avoid any surprises – and have greater control over the negotiating process.

2. “Get the house, not the inspection”  If you’re caught up in a multiple offer scenario, and you’re trying to make the best offer possible, be very careful making an offer without any inspections – you could possibly be taking on risks you might not be happy with.

3. “Qualifications? I may not have any.”  In California, no license and no classes are required to become a home inspector.  Make sure whoever is doing your inspection carries liability or errors and omission insurance.  And, ask for references!

4. “My credentials are easy to obtain.” Just go online and print them out. (I hope not) Always check references. Most Realtors will know who’s reliable and trustworthy when hiring an inspector, the operative word in this statement is “most.”

5.”I’ll cut corners to keep the agents happy” Some Realtors try to influence inspectors, and inspections, which is unprofessional, and unethical. Anyone stupid enough to do this may find themselves at the end of some nasty litigation. When in doubt – disclose. Whenever there’s anything that could materially affect someone’s perception of value – disclose it.

6. “Feel Free to Watch”  I always recommend being at the Inspection.  If you cannot be there for the inspection you should be there at the end of the inspection for the inspector’s summary. What can be shared verbally at this time can prove invaluable.  And, if you have any questions, you can address the inspector directly while at the subject property.

7. “You should bring me in earlier”  As explained in the answer to 1 above it may be to the seller’s advantage/ protection to have inspections done upfront before listing their home for sale.

8. “To Find A Serious Problem, you may need someone else.”  Inspectors are limited to inspecting areas of the home that are “readily accessible.” If an inspector notices something beyond their area of expertise they should be able to recommend someone who can assist in a new investigation.

9. “New Construction? New Problems.” Always conduct full inspections on any home you’re considering purchasing, even if it’s newly built. New homes sometimes have issues that might go unnoticed. You’re best chance to resolve any issues is at the front end, before closing.

10. I can make money from the problems I find.”  Contractors need to be careful in recommending other contractors. The ASHI code of conduct prohibits members/contractors from doing contracting work on a property they’ve inspected until at least 12 months after the inspection.

Santa Barbara Homes and Estates