TOPIC: City Home Inspections

I just read an article about one town I service is going to require all home buyers to get a home inspection.  The inspection will be performed by the city at a cost of $40.

http://www.koco.com/news/17500822/detail.html

The idea is great for what they are trying to do, but it really undercuts us as inspectors.  I guess I can look at the positive side of things, I don't have to worry about inspected 60-70 year old trashed out houses!!!    Down side is, what city is next?

Is this a full inspection or a quick code inspection like the city does for new buildings?

The article mentioned plumbing and electrical.  I'm not sure of what all it entails to be honest.

"Del City has hired a full-time inspector for the program. It will be put into effect sometime after the new year."

Must be one small city. They hired ONE full time inspector? It looks like a basic 10 minute insurance type inspection. Check out major systems. Pass/Fail.

Yeah Del City isn't that big.  It's intertwined with Mid West City and everyone calls it Mid-Del.  Its an old town too.  The only reason people still live there is Tinker AFB.  And there's no way for it to grow anymore due to its surrounding area's.

I hope nobody here reads this, but Mid-Del are the least important towns on my list.

Heah 'tis -- "the city will come out to inspect" - you get what you pay for...

And "a full-time inspector for the program" -- one guy for all city inspections?

I'd love to see his product!

Here's how you fight back - get a copy of one of his "reports."  Find a way, newspaper article, op-ed, whatever, to compare his product to your product.  Make the point that price is the allocator of scarce resources and that rarity demands a higher price - you charge a higher price because your product is unimpeachable, complete, high quality and provided by a certified inspector who answers directly and only to the client.  Your time is scarce and your service is personal.

Tell them not to compare apples and oranges, or, in your case, diamonds!