Do I need to be present during the inspection?
- 20/20 Inspections
- Jul 19, 2024
- 3 min read
Included in this article:
One common question we receive is whether clients need to be present during the property inspection. While the short answer is no, you are not required to be present, the following are some key benefits to attending your property inspection:
Direct Communication with the Inspector
Visual Learning and Understanding
Opportunity to Address Concerns or Problem Areas
Able to Share Your Records and Relevant Documentation
Immediate Feedback and Recommendations
One common question we receive at 20/20 Inspections is whether clients need to be present during the property inspection. While the short answer is no, you are not required to be present, there are significant advantages to attending your property inspection. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of being present, what you can expect during the inspection, and how to make the most of this opportunity.
Benefits of Being Present During the Inspection
1. Direct Communication with the Inspector
Being present allows you to communicate directly with the inspector. You can ask questions in real-time and receive immediate clarification on any concerns. This direct interaction can provide you with a clearer understanding of the property’s condition and the inspector's findings.
2. Visual Learning and Understanding
Seeing the property firsthand during the inspection can help you better understand the issues identified. Visual learning is powerful, and observing the inspector's process can make the findings in the final report more comprehensible.
3. Opportunity to Address Concerns
If you have specific concerns about certain aspects of the property, being present allows you to point these out to the inspector. This ensures that your worries are addressed during the inspection.
4. Able to Share Your Records and Relevant Documentation
You can submit any policy or property documentation to us in advance. Providing these documents beforehand allows our inspector to review and prepare for a more comprehensive inspection.
5. Immediate Feedback and Recommendations
An on-site presence allows you to receive immediate feedback and preliminary recommendations from the inspector. While the full report will follow, having a discussion during the inspection can give you an early idea of potential issues and necessary actions.
What to Expect During the Inspection
Preparation
Before the inspection, review any documents related to the property, such as disclosures, previous inspection reports, or repair records. Make a list of any specific questions or concerns you have about the property.
During the Inspection
Arrival: Arrive on time and meet your inspector. They will likely begin with an overview of the inspection process.
Walkthrough: Accompany the inspector as they examine the property. They will assess various systems and components, including the roof, foundation, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC, and more.
Questions: Feel free to ask questions at any point. The inspector can explain what they are looking for and why certain aspects of the property are important.
Documentation: Take notes or photos if necessary, but remember that the inspector will provide a detailed report after the inspection.
After the Inspection
Summary: The inspector will typically provide a verbal summary of their findings at the end of the inspection. This is a good time to ask any final questions.
Report: Within a couple of weeks, you will receive a comprehensive written report detailing the inspector's findings, including photos and recommendations.
Making the Most of the Inspection
To maximize the benefits of being present during the inspection, consider the following tips:
Be Prepared: Bring any documents or notes you have related to the property.
Stay Focused: Pay attention to the inspector’s explanations and take notes.
Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or more information about any aspect of the property or the inspection process.
Follow Up: After receiving the written report, review it thoroughly and contact the inspector if you have any additional questions or need further explanation.
While it is not mandatory to be present during your property inspection, attending offers numerous advantages. It allows for direct communication with the inspector, a better understanding of the property’s condition, and the opportunity to address specific concerns. By being present, you can make informed decisions about your property and ensure you fully understand the findings and recommendations provided by 20/20 Inspections. If you have any questions or wish to schedule an inspection, please contact us. We're here to help!
