Methodology and Flow of Inspection

What's comfortable for you every single time, so you don't miss anything?

Do you go clockwise, counter-clockwise, top to bottom, etc.?

If the realtor or buyer calls for you to come to a different part of the building, how do you remember where to go back, where you left off?

I usually tell clients I have a particular system I use to inspect and not miss anything, and we can chat about an area when I get there. Usually I will make a note. Clients will understand. As far as method here's something I wrote a while back, and still valid today.

Mike Casey wrote:I usually tell clients I have a particular system I use to inspect and not miss anything, and we can chat about an area when I get there. Usually I will make a note. Clients will understand. As far as method here's something I wrote a while back, and still valid today.

Thank you, Thank you, and Thank you Mike Casey. This will help me in more ways than one. Awesome.

Mike Casey, I can relate to all of that.

Question #1): Do you personally go clockwise or counter-clockwise (Exterior)?

Question #2): Do you personally go clockwise or counter-clockwise (Interior)?

Michael Altizer wrote:Mike Casey, I can relate to all of that.

Question #1): Do you personally go clockwise or counter-clockwise (Exterior)?

Question #2): Do you personally go clockwise or counter-clockwise (Interior)?

Does not matter to me, outside usually I start to the right so moving counter clock. Generally I just go to the gate which is usually right. Inside generally I like to get the kitchen first, then other rooms.

Thanks. As far as collecting payment for services, I know it's before the report is released but what about going over the report summary with the buyer's? Do you have payment required before going over the report summary or after?

My contract says no report until payment. However, 95 percent of the time I have payment already before I even leave for the job (credit card) or they hand me a check when I arrive. Some ask when they should pay me and I say "before I get in the truck to leave" and never had a problem. I'll do the wrap up sometimes, then at the end tell them to call with questions, and all I need now is a check (or cash or CC) if I have not seen payment yet.

Thank you.

Set up a routine you feel comfortable with and do it the same way every time.

Troy Pappas wrote:Set up a routine you feel comfortable with and do it the same way every time.

Yes Sir.

Like Troy said, "routine and repetition" will keep you consistent and out of trouble. Don't let people upset your routine. Personally, although it takes a few more steps sometimes, I like to inspect by systems whereas some cover everything in their path as they progress thru or around the home. I don't like to multi-task on a home inspection. Inspect roof, make notes. Inspect exterior, make notes. Inspect garage, make notes. Inspect electrical system, make notes. Works for me.

great article, Mike. thanks for sharing.

William Chandler wrote:Like Troy said, "routine and repetition" will keep you consistent and out of trouble. Don't let people upset your routine. Personally, although it takes a few more steps sometimes, I like to inspect by systems whereas some cover everything in their path as they progress thru or around the home. I don't like to multi-task on a home inspection. Inspect roof, make notes. Inspect exterior, make notes. Inspect garage, make notes. Inspect electrical system, make notes. Works for me.

Yes Sir.