Gerry Loesch, PE
In part one, part two, part three and part four of this series I gave you some background on Gerry Loesch as well as his informative E-View TM.
Now we’ll finish with the final post of his E-View TM:
Q-What should a consumer look for when choosing a building inspector?
A-In my opinion, when selecting a building inspector the following things should be considered:
a. Is he a member of ASHI? You want an inspector who subscribes to, and follows, a recognized Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.
b. Experience- As you well know, there are many inspectors who may be members of the right organization but who do not have the experience needed to provide a valid and knowledgeable opinion as to the conditions that exist within a home.
c. Report-What type of report does the inspector provide and how functional and “usable” is it? I myself prefer a narrative style report.
d. E&O- Does the Inspector have Errors and Omissions Insurance (E&O)?
e. If there are specific concerns, such as a foundation or other structural issue you may want an inspector who is also a licensed Professional Engineer.A- This is difficult to answer, however I will try:
Q- I realize a lot of things that turn up on inspections are relatively minor, but also know that there are some hidden issues that left undiscovered can be major andthat a good inspector would find these things. Can you give me some examples of this?
A- This is difficult to answer, howver I will try
a. The existence of a roofing material that is not leaking at the time but is near the end of its functional life. Furthermore, there my multiple layers of roofing material which will complicate and increase the cost of the new roof when the time comes.
b. Plumbing & Electrical repairs and updates that were done, often-times in the basement, without obtaining the required permits by an “uncle Louie”.
c. Basement seepage, which over the long term can create mold and other issues.
d. A slow leak in the plumbing can create large issues down the road.
e. Old furnace and air conditioners, that although functioning at the moment are prone to go bad soon.
f. Foundation issues that were not noticed by the buyer and the seller was unaware of.
If you would like to contact Gerry direct, he can be reached via email at gloesch@bpgwi.com , or by phone at (314) 249-8370.
LINKS TO HELPFUL RESOURCES:
American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI)
Links to All Posts In This Series:
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