Subtle Ways to Impress on A Home Inspection

It’s amazing what we get complimented on during a home inspection. We go to great lengths to improve our process, and in many cases things go unnoticed. I thought it would be fun to write an article on some small steps I do that do get noticed. Anyone using a telescoping ladder can probably relate to this phenomenon, as almost every time you bring it out, people are amazed. “That’s an amazing ladder; how cool,” is a phrase I have heard many times just using my everyday ladder.
Unexpected Tools
The first thing I think of is my little dustpan. I have what I would call a camping broom I carry in my tool bag. It doesn’t take up much space, and anytime I go into a dirty knee wall or attic I make a point to sweep up any cellulose insulation or debris I dragged out with me. Others use vacuums and similar setups, and regardless of what you prefer, it’s the thought that counts. I have heard multiple real estate agents say I was their new favorite inspector just for showing a little care and respect for the property.
Flip the Lights
Another small thing I do is turn off the lights. As most of you know, the listing agent typically goes through the home and wakes up the house turning lights on and getting everything ready. I usually start in the basement and work my way up into the attic. When I leave the attic, I make sure to turn off the lights and do the same thing for all floors as I make my way back down to the basement. The only floor I usually leave lights on is the first floor because the agents are there for the end of the inspection. I double-check that the stove is off and thermostats are back in their original setting, and then I offer to do a final conversation about the property with the client outside.
The last thing I say to the listing agent is something like, “I appreciate all your patience, and I got the lights in the attic and basement; the thermostats are back to where they were, and the oven is off.” I certainly don’t pander to agents, but I can tell you everyone appreciates a little mutual respect, and it never hurts.
No Dirty Shoes
On the subject of respecting the house, a small but essential thing in my mind is footwear. I have a pair of shoes I bring that have never been worn outside, or I bring booties—every time. Even if it’s a radon test, it’s important to show respect for the homes we are inspecting. Even in some houses where the homeowners were present and I consider them “messy,” the gesture is appreciated.
Another trick I love is to use my booties under the attic foldout staircase to protect the hardwood. Like clockwork, someone typically mentions this not being my first rodeo. I think most homeowners would prefer shoes be removed in their homes, even if they don’t say so.
Extra Care
Your tools can easily cause unexpected damage. I am always very careful going by things with my tool belt, for example. We need to get in a lot of places that we don’t necessarily fit well in, and I would hate for a screwdriver to scratch a cabinet or something along those lines. I put felt pads on my telescoping ladder because I usually use it indoors. I even bring a small hand towel, which I use to protect things I lay on a counter to limit scratching the surface of any counters. A towel can be very useful—I have used it for various other issues, like leaks or other problems.
Attitude
This may seem like an obvious one, but I try to be very pleasant. There are no rules saying you can’t tell the buyer the house is collapsing with a smile. We are there to deliver facts, notopinions or emotions, and I try to keep that in mind. When I first had kids, I started to realize what a difference a positive attitude will have on your interactions. I try to be happy to be involved, and it is a pleasure to deliver whatever news the house has to offer. Our temperament has a huge effect on our clients, and if you’re having a bad day and display it, they could interpret your findings differently or incorrectly.
Availability
This last one is going to be a hot topic for some of you, but I offer my direct info to everyone. I tell every client they can contact me after they get the report or even when they move into the property. This sounds like it is a lot to offer, and some may picture my phone ringing off the hook. I am always amazed how few people take me up on this, particularly when I am doing a good job explaining everything onsite. Believe it or not, my phone rarely rings with calls from prior customers. They probably don’t need you if you did a thorough job in the first place, so why not offer in case they do?
You probably do a lot of this already. This is what works for me, and I would love to learn new tips, too. These steps have little to do with my actual inspections, but I find them to be the actions that are most routinely appreciated and commented on by the parties at the inspection. I hope this is helpful for inspectors, particularly newer inspectors, as I think the general theme is respect. We may be the “expert”, but we can also give a good name to our profession by respecting all the involved parties.
Opinions or statements of authors are solely their own and do not necessarily represent the opinions or positions of ASHI, its agents, or editors. Always check with your local governmental agency and independently verify for accuracy, completeness, and reliability.
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