I see the distinction between “identifying” a component, “describing” the component" and “inspecting” its condition.
Personally, as an inspector, I did not limit myself to doing just one. For every component and system, I often found myself doing all three simultaneously. I saw no value to my client in doing just one without the two.
For example (using above pictures of a fuel tank):
According to the SOP, I am required to identify and describe the fuel tank, but I’m not required to inspect it.
According to the SOP, I agree that is what it appears to say. I see the dilemma that Ben is pointing out though. How do you describe it, if you aren’t somehow inspecting it?
I can describe Mark Nahrgang by reading to you his resume and showing you his picture.
But if I had to report to you…and be accountable for how I reported to you…his effectiveness as a home inspector (his “condition”, if you will), that is a difference that I do not want to accept responsibility for.
Fuel leaks can create environmental conditions of epic proportions. I don’t want to be connected with that and my SOP provides me the distance.
By describing it, in the clients eyes, you have inspected it. If you do not note any defects for it, you are taking ownership of it (regardless of what the SOP states.) I think Ben’s observation that there is (at least an implied) contradiction is correct.
That’s a good point, however I’m not “noting” everything in the house. I’m only noting the things I am inspecting. If I note something, the inference is that I am also inspecting it (unless I specifically disclaim it in the report.)
After we stop talking…Ben will undoubtedly introduce a training video that will teach members on how to report on something else that falls outside of the SOP. In that regard, much of our discussion will be rendered moot by those who claim to “exceed” the SOP.
Still, the point will remain that those who inspect in accordance with the SOP need not report or be accountable for the condition of fuel tanks.
I would note the existence of fuel outside of the tank and possibly on the tank. I would recommend that a qualified expert be hired to trace the source of the fuel leak and to report on the condition of the tank.