National Home Inspector Practice Exam

How should an inspector respond to a seller's claim that all appliances are in working order?

1. Take the seller's information for granted, and do not test any appliances.

2. Say nothing about the appliance in the report.

3. If you inspect appliances, tell your client that you will check them out.

4. Assume the seller is hiding a problem, and report your suspicion to the client.

The correct answer is: If you inspect appliances, tell your client that you will check them out.

An inspector should communicate with the client about the intention to inspect the appliances, as outlined in the correct response. This approach ensures transparency and sets the right expectations for the client regarding the inspection process. By informing the client about the inspection of appliances, the inspector acknowledges the seller's claims but emphasizes the necessity of verifying those claims through thorough testing. Inspecting appliances is crucial for ensuring they are functioning properly. Appliances can sometimes appear to work at first glance but may have underlying issues that are not immediately noticeable. By testing them, the inspector provides a more reliable assessment, which ultimately benefits the client who is relying on the inspector’s findings to make informed decisions about the property. Furthermore, this stance fosters a professional relationship with the seller while maintaining integrity. The inspector does not dismiss the seller's assertion but rather approaches it with due diligence and thoroughness, aligning with best practices in home inspection.