out of state client

[Linda J. Foster]

Ask to include it with closing, or to come out of the earnest money (I think that can be done ?)
Include an additional carrying fee, too.

[Frank M. Carrio, CMI]

Originally Posted by Matt T. Batson

He seems to be in a hurry for me to send the report.

I asked via email what his due date for the due diligence is. Reason being, I went out to do the inspection the day after he called, so I would think he still has several days before he must make a decision.

When he called me originally, I told him I need to collect payment before releasing the report.
If you told him he needed payment before you release a report and he is trying to weasel a report out of you before he pays then I would be extremely cautious.

I guess there is no recourse with adding the inspection fee onto the closing paperwork if he doesnt pay?

As president of the New Hampshire state chapter of NACHI I hear all kinds of "War stories" about our inspectors get ripped off.

Some of the stories are:
1. The check is in the mail!
2. I left my checkbook at home so I will mail you the check.
3. I will mail you the check after I receive the report "
4. I will pay you at closing!

I have seen some inspectors who agreed to "get paid at closing" not get paid at all when the customer:
1. could not get financing or
2. changed their mind at the last minute.
3. or found a "better house"


The bottom line is you are running a business and not a paid finance company and we certainly are not a charity!
Many of us will not even start an inspection unless we are paid in full as soon as we arrive at the house.

I never conduct an inspection without a signed contract and payment in full.
If the contract is not signed you have no legal protection and if you have not been paid in full all I can say is good luck