Investing In A Better Home

While many property owners dread building inspections, they needn't be a stressful event. In fact, it is better to view building inspections as a learning opportunity that can help you protect and maintain the property.

With a positive attitude and a little bit of preparation, you can make the most of your upcoming inspection. You may even obtain better results for your efforts.

Contact the Inspector a Week Before the Inspection

It is always a good idea to phone the building inspector a few days to a week before your scheduled inspection. Keep the phone call brief (you do not want to take up much of his or her time), but try to establish a rapport and gain an understanding of the inspector's way of conducting inspections. Find out if you will be permitted to observe the inspection process and if there is anything you can do to facilitate the process.  

It may not always be possible to get the inspector on the phone, particularly if he or she is overworked and understaffed, but a little friendly interaction can get the inspection started on a positive note.

Put the Building's Best Foot Forward

Be sure the property is immaculately clean before the inspector arrives. You should keep your building tidy as a matter of practice, but it is especially important to do so before inspections. Clutter and debris can represent safety hazards, and you do not want such things sullying your building's inspection report. Additionally, as building inspectors are only human, disorganization and filth will surely influence his or her perception of the property.

Be as Prepared as Possible

Be sure that the inspector can easily access all portions of the property. Be sure that you have keys to any locked doors, crawlspaces and fences, and that the power is turned on in all applicable areas. Consider adding temporary lighting to any unlit areas, such as storage buildings, basements or attics, to facilitate the inspector's efforts.

Be sure that all security and operations staff are made aware of the inspection, and are prepared to expedite the process.

Take Notes or Record the Inspection

As long as the inspector is comfortable with the notion, take notes or record the process. This will help you address any problems found during the inspection and remember to correct anything the inspector suggests, whether it ends up on the final report or not.

Additionally, because building inspectors are uncommonly familiar with buildings and the way people interact with them, he or she may share valuable tips for maintaining your building. Recording the session or taking notes during it will help you make the most of the inspector's insight. Contact a business, such as the Home Inspection Associate, for more information.