9) Don't expect speculation
If inspectors can't determine the exact cause of damage to a component, or if they suspect concealed damage, they will likely not speculate on what caused it. Speculating may open inspectors to liabilities should they be wrong, so they are unlikely to give you a cause of damage unless they are completely certain. The inspector will recommend additional investigation by an appropriate professional (electrician, plumber, HVAC technician, etc) when the scope of the repair is unknown, if it is suspected that there is concealed damage, or if the subject area is beyond the scope of the inspector's expertise.
If you're concerned about an inspector's credentials, ask what professional trade organizations they belong to. There are many home inspection organizations at the state and federal level. Most have education and ethics requirements, and some may be more strict than the Mass. standards of practice requires.
• American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI)
• ASHI New England Chapter
• National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
• National Association of Home Inspectors
If inspectors can't determine the exact cause of damage to a component, or if they suspect concealed damage, they will likely not speculate on what caused it. Speculating may open inspectors to liabilities should they be wrong, so they are unlikely to give you a cause of damage unless they are completely certain. The inspector will recommend additional investigation by an appropriate professional (electrician, plumber, HVAC technician, etc) when the scope of the repair is unknown, if it is suspected that there is concealed damage, or if the subject area is beyond the scope of the inspector's expertise.
If you're concerned about an inspector's credentials, ask what professional trade organizations they belong to. There are many home inspection organizations at the state and federal level. Most have education and ethics requirements, and some may be more strict than the Mass. standards of practice requires.
• American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI)
• ASHI New England Chapter
• National Association of Certified Home Inspectors
• National Association of Home Inspectors
(Aram Boghosian Photo for The Boston Globe)
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 The Big Move is online. Check out the chat schedule and upcoming features at boston.com/bigmove, and pick up The Big Move section in The Boston Globe on Sunday, Sept. 14.
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