I am a relatively new home inspector. As part of the licensing process and in my current contractual relationship with another inspection firm, I have worked jointly with 12 inspectors. In all cases, I have been impressed by their professionalism, thoroughness, and knowledge. Each provided the clients with detailed insights, as well as a comprehensive written report to help them accurately assess the condition of the home, based on the limitations of a visual inspection.

In the more than 70 home inspections I have been involved with thus far, the homebuyers have been well informed about key issues with the homes they are considering for purchase. All inspections have been performed in accordance with the Standards of Practice established by the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) and by the Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). The modest fees we charge represent tremendous value for the client, as I and other inspectors strive to educate buyers (and their real estate agents) about the condition of the home and its systems, and alert them to the many functional and safety issues that were discovered. There has yet to be “perfect” home without any issues.

If a bill like SB 627 were to pass, it would subject home inspectors to frivolous lawsuits. In fact, SB627 removes any type of limitation of liability clause from the contract, which provides at least some level of protection from meritless claims. These types of litigious pursuits would threaten inspectors’ ability to remain in business, jeopardizing the entire inspection industry and the valuable services it offers. Both buyers and the well-being of the real estate community would be negatively impacted.

Home inspectors are “generalists” in the sense that we have three to four hours to inspect the property and discuss its condition with the buyer and the agent. We then spend additional time to prepare a written report, incorporating pictures and narratives of both marginal issues and defects that are more serious. The inspection follows a prescribed set of steps to evaluate the home, based on the Standards of Practice. Further, the inspection and its verbal and written report are a “snapshot” in time that is non-invasive and visually limited.

SB 627 would have many unintended consequences, could jeopardize the safety of uninformed homebuyers, and would have an overall detrimental effect on the real estate industry in Virginia. For these reasons, I strongly urge dismissing further consideration of SB 627.

Sincerely,

Alex Aderton
Merit Home Inspectors LLC