Speed limits we understand, or at least I hope we do, why they are put in place on each stretch of road. Exceeding a certain speed increases the chance for bad things to happen. I learned this simple principle when in manufacturing. Speed was always the first priority. The faster you went, the more production was accomplished. Higher production translated to more money in a given week. But, there is always a but, at a certain point speed increases defects, negating any gain. Like most things in life, there was always a balance between speed and keeping up quality. You can't have both. Although I have been told numerous times I'm wrong.
With home inspections it is absolutely no different. This is where I have been told I'm wrong.
Again and again.
Some how many inspectors believe they can cram in several inspection a day, a week and maintain a level of high quality. I think that depends on your definition of quality and your business model. Sticking strictly to the applicable standards for an inspectors particular area of business will certainly lighten the work load...and significantly lower the quality of the job. One old timer I know, says this;
"It's the worst job you can do and get away with."
I would agree.
On a recent home inspection, when I was greeting the buyer and having our initial conversation, the woman stated a few concerns she had based on the first inspection report. Apparently the house had been previously inspected, but the deal fell through due to financing issues, not from the inspection, or so the story went.
Her first concern was with the deck. She said according to the first inspection report, the deck wasn't bolted to the house. I couldn't help but let out a chuckle. I had already looked over the exterior before she arrived. As is my custom, the deck gets closely scrutinized based on many past experiences.
I informed her it wasn't necessary. The deck was a free standing structure. The builder, who is apparently a smart and skilled person, had recognized he would not have been able to use the old porch structure to support the new deck. He wisely chose to build the structure using a set of three beams supporting all the framing. No need for bolts. The house and porch do not provide any structure support in this instance.
All in all the deck was one of the better ones I have inspected in quite some time. She was relieved.
Soon after the second issue reared up while we were in the kitchen. She said there was something wrong with the sink drain in the half bath. According to the report, the sink lacked the required P trap. Opening the vanity, sure enough, no trap. Knowing this was an older house, experience has taught that the trap may very well be below in the basement.
And that is exactly where it was.
My issue with the drain was the newer PVC glued to the older ABS. No idea if that was caught on the last inspection, but I wrote it up.
I will confess that I am familiar with the company that performed the first inspection. I have followed behind them on a few occasions, with similar results. The inspectors are on a schedule. They are allotted just so much time per inspection. To me it is a production type business model. Quality will suffer.
Although I have been told I'm wrong.
Comments (48)Subscribe to CommentsComment