Thursday, April 18, 2013

A fine line between code inspector and a home inspector....my daily problem


 

When builders use the old excuse of “the city already approved it” they end up looking like weasels. Everyone knows that municipal building inspectors can’t possibly catch every little defect; no one can. When a municipal inspector approves a permit, it means they didn’t find any defects; it doesn’t mean they’re putting their blessing on something that was done wrong. When a builder tries to talk a home buyer out of having a home inspection done, it’s a huge red flag for the home buyer and the home inspector.
Builders should welcome a home inspection. If the home buyer is nervous about the quality of construction, this is a perfect opportunity for the buyer’s fears to be assuaged. If the home is truly well built, a good home inspector will say so. While there may be a handful of overly zealous, hyper-critical home inspectors, most of us aren’t. Most home inspectors appreciate neat work and best practices, and we love pointing this stuff out to clients.
 
A home inspection is a PR opportunity for the builder. If the home inspector comes up with a list of construction defects, the builder has a golden opportunity to fix the issues with a smile. This creates trust and goodwill with the buyer, which can lead to referrals.
When a builder welcomes a home inspection, they’re telling the home buyer that they’re confident in their work. This concept seems obvious to me, but only the best builders seem to understand this.