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When things don't work. Time to replace.

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Home Inspector with Desert Sun Home, commercial Inspections 10072923

When things don't work. Time to replace.

Performing home inspections is a very challenging profession.

We inspectors have to know what we are doing for the client's we serve, each and every time we are at a home for the client.

Wording is important.

When filling out a report for a buyer or seller. The wording is very important.

Take for instance if the smoke detectors do not work at all and they are old.

Do not write in the report, "Smoke detector's are bad and crap, replace the smoke detectors before you have a fire".

In My opinion This is what I would add to a report for non working smoke detectors.

" Several smoke detectors are in non working condition. These detectors are over ten years old and should be replaced for safety reasons. The expected life for a smoke detector is ten years. Recommend replace existing detectors".

This gives the buyer a good explanation for the replacement of the item in question.

Micheal Thornton and I talked about this a little but yesterday.

But it works now!

If there is something in or on the home that is supposed to be working and does, may be worn out or simply not functioning in the proper manner.

Finish the installation.

For example the huge number of exhaust vents from the kitchens and bathrooms.

Even though the vent fans are operational they are not correctly installed.

Reporting is like walking a tight rope. Many readers of the report can perceive the wording in several ways.

Keep it simple and never over analyze the issues. This could lead to confusion  and distrust with the buyers and sellers. Not to mention the agents.

Have a great day every One.

Posted by

 

Clint  McKie

Owner of Desert Sun Home Inspections Carlsbad, New Mexico. Eddy County's only certified home inspection service WITH OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE. Serving all of South East New Mexico. We inspect the homes entire structure from the roof to the foundation, and everything in between. Most reports within 4-24 hours from time of inspection completion. We issue a PDF report with pictures Starting at $250.00 for each home inspection. Why settle for less when you can have the best?

Also included is a Appliance recallcheck and a 90 day warranty with all full home inspections.

When it comes to Quality home inspections. Simply put, we are the best.

1-575-706-5586   www.carlsbad-home-inspector.com Call me for the latest specials.

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Show All Comments Sort:
Dorie Dillard Austin TX
Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899 - Austin, TX
NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones

Good morning Clint,

Wording is key for an inspection. Stating the facts and not interjecting personal opinions is paramount!

Apr 13, 2014 12:07 AM
Anita Clark
Coldwell Banker Access Realty ~ 478.960.8055 - Warner Robins, GA
Realtor - Homes for Sale in Warner Robins GA

Clint: Keeping things simple and always taking emotion out of the report will help keep all parties from going off the deep end.

Apr 13, 2014 03:31 AM
Jay Markanich
Jay Markanich Real Estate Inspections, LLC - Bristow, VA
Home Inspector - servicing all Northern Virginia

Observe and report.

As to smoke detectors, if old replace, but always within the same brand.

If they are different change them all to be of the same age and brand.  I include verbiage from the National Fire Protection Association with same.

Observe and report.

Apr 13, 2014 06:08 AM
Rob Thomas
Prestige Homes of The Tri Cities, Inc. CALL....423-341-6954 - Bristol, TN
Bristol TN-VA & Tri Cities Agent, ABR, GRI, e-Pro

Clint ...anytime you can talk to Michael it has to be a good day!

You do a great job in Carlsbad!

Apr 13, 2014 06:36 AM
Clint Mckie
Desert Sun Home, commercial Inspections - Carlsbad, NM
Desert Sun Home, Comm. Inspection 1-575-706-5586

Hi Dorie,

Got to keep it simple in my opinion. I have seen reports that go way overboard. This will confuse the buyer and agent.

Have  good afternoon in Canyon Creek.

Best, Clint McKie

Apr 13, 2014 07:46 AM
Clint Mckie
Desert Sun Home, commercial Inspections - Carlsbad, NM
Desert Sun Home, Comm. Inspection 1-575-706-5586

Hello Anita,

This is true. I try and write my reports with a "layman's" terminology. This way every one can understand what I mean.

Have a nice evening in Warner Robins.

Best, Clint McKie

Apr 13, 2014 07:48 AM
Clint Mckie
Desert Sun Home, commercial Inspections - Carlsbad, NM
Desert Sun Home, Comm. Inspection 1-575-706-5586

Hi jay,

So true. Just report the facts and let the home stand on it's own merits.

Have a great day and a very Happy Birthday as well. It's grillin' time!

Best, Clint McKie

Apr 13, 2014 07:50 AM
Clint Mckie
Desert Sun Home, commercial Inspections - Carlsbad, NM
Desert Sun Home, Comm. Inspection 1-575-706-5586

Hi Rob,

We talk often. He would like me to come over there. But the wife is not liking the idea.

Have a nice evening in Bristol.

Best, Clint McKie

Apr 13, 2014 07:51 AM
Tom Arstingstall, General Contractor, Dry Rot, Water Damage Sacramento, El Dorado County - (916) 765-5366
Dry Rot and Water Damage www.tromlerconstruction.com Mobile - 916-765-5366 - Placerville, CA
General Contractor, Dry Rot and Water Damage

Funny how the wording is important Clint. I bet you see a lot of unfinished jobs.

Apr 13, 2014 03:32 PM
Clint Mckie
Desert Sun Home, commercial Inspections - Carlsbad, NM
Desert Sun Home, Comm. Inspection 1-575-706-5586

Hi Tom,

Wording is vital. Not wanting to cause anger by any one.

Have a good week ahead in Placerville.

Best, Clint McKie

Apr 13, 2014 09:21 PM