e071023 Inspecting for real estate agent/spouse

Identifier: e071023

Date: 10/23/2007

QuestionDoes inspecting a home for which my wife is the buyer's agent violate the Code of Ethics?  She is careful to recommend other inspectors besides me.

Response 

The Code of Ethics is clear that to avoid a conflict of interest, "inspectors shall not inspect properties for compensation in which they have, or expect to have, a financial interest."  It is generally accepted that an individual's financial interest includes immediate family members. The inspection results in this instance could clearly have an impact on the sale of the inspected property and therefore have an impact on the financial interest of the inspector in violation of the Code.  Clients need to know that their interest in an honest and objective inspection is not potentially compromised by possible financial gain on the part of the inspector or his/her immediate family. 

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