Home Inspection in Virginia Beach

Gene, it would have been more accurate to state the reading and that it was possible the toilet was leaking. If he paid someone to set them, he can get that person back out to be sure it was done properly.

I agree with Frank and Sharon above. Wording is everything in the business of home inspections.

I have been a home inspector in the Los Angeles market for the past 11 years.

In this case if the toilet did have an active leak it should have been called out. It's true. If not than the inspector could have also stated that no active leak was detected however readings from my moisture meter would indicate moisture trapped in the vinyl and sub floor. Bowl wax should be further inspected by a plumber. It is possible moisture is from a past leak as no water was observed.

Sellers and Realtors must do their part also. Good communication is key. Had the seller told the Realtor or Home inspector of the bowl wax being changed out the report may have worded differently.

Sometimes it's experience and professionalism that prevent most miss-understandings.

Home inspectors can only go with the information they have.  If they are not privy to the information that there had been a leak and it had been repaired and his moisture meter readings were reading "left-over" moisture that will in time dry out, they would be remiss in not stating that moisture was indicated by moisture meter at the time of inspection.  Recommending further evaluation/repairs by a plumber would be prudent.  If the agent/seller can then tell the buyer that yes there was a leak and it has been fixed----where is the problem?  Would not everyone be satisfied in that situation?

I would also add that the "is leaking" wording is not the most desirable way to word it:)

Well, a realtor who knows where to come for answers and opinions!  Congratulations, Gene.

I agree that the inspector should have written it differently, but it did need to be written with a recommendation to find out WHY!

I'm all for more fact (the moisture meter said it was wet) and less assumption (the toilet is leaking).

 Thanks for asking and giving us the opportunity to reevaluate how we, ourselves, write stuff!

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