Jeannette & Unregistered (which are more than likely one and the same)
Firstly, let me say that your experience may not be typical and complaining in this forum will not add resolution to your issue. You will have to work your issues out between the inspector and yourself. Being an InterNACHI member means nothing to the independent firms responsibility for their inspection. This is only a membership association.
Second, you stated in many posts that your roof is 16 years old yet did not express anything from the actual report you were provided. Did they make any comments at all on your roof or are you just upset about what you and a technical expert may have an opinion about what should have been found or reported.
Third, let’s talk about those receptacles you speak of. I find it hard to believe they would actually influence your decision to buy the dwelling. In fact, as someone already stated, they are not required to check every receptacle in the dwelling. However, many inspectors do and i am one of them that tests (or used to) them all but is not required.
As for the AC Unit, you have to understand that the seller would not replace a working AC unit just because you would like it changed due to age. The HI will check the temperature differentials in the dwelling and if the unit works he would not report otherwise…except that it works. I have sold quite a few homes (I move around alot) and I would never offer to replace an HVAC unit that actually works and I am more than sure the seller in your case would not either.
So even if the HI did not get the right unit inspected outside I am more than 100% sure they took readings inside, checked the differential temps and established the HVAC system was working fine…if it is NOT and they reported it working then you have an issue and a case for a claim. HOWEVER - An inspection is a “Snap Shot” in time…6 months later you have no (zero) basis for any action or claim otherwise.
Now, as for the leaking skylight…many of them are sealed with Tar, even with flashing. As you stated the individuals who came “opened” up the roof to notice the issues. An inspector is not going to dismantle things, it is not like you see on “Holmes on Homes” on TV. Inspectors do not open up wall finishings or roofing material, it is a visual inspection and if the day is DRY and no signs of leaking evident then how are they to report anything otherwise.
I am not here to defend the HI as all HI’s are different, are at different levels of knowledge and quite frankly some are better than others. As you ask about would someone mention the tar on a roof…well in many cases that may be an acceptable way to make a repair…again the roof was 16 years old and we have no idea what the inspector posted in his report as you have no shared that information.
Best of luck in your efforts. The inspector may have been in error but nothing you post on this forum is going to better your situation.