National Home Inspector Practice Exam

What should you tell a seller who asks for details about your inspection findings?

1. A) Explain in detail what you found

2. B) You are not allowed to discuss your findings with them

3. C) Tell them that nothing serious was found and not to worry

4. D) You may discuss your findings if they are willing to fix any problems

The correct answer is: B) You are not allowed to discuss your findings with them

The appropriate response is that you, as a home inspector, must maintain a professional standard of ethics and confidentiality when it comes to discussing inspection findings with sellers. This confidentiality protects the relationship between you and your client, typically the buyer, and helps avoid any potential conflicts of interest. Home inspectors are generally obligated to provide their findings to the party that hired them, rather than to a seller who did not engage their services. Additionally, sharing inspection details with the seller could lead to misunderstandings or disputes regarding the condition of the property, especially if the seller takes actions based on those details without the full context provided to the buyer. This practice supports transparency and fairness in real estate transactions, ensuring that all parties have access to objective and complete information. Ultimately, it is crucial to adhere to the established ethical guidelines that govern home inspections to maintain integrity and trust in the profession.