My Favorite Report Disclaimers

Inspector Toolbelt Talk

The power of well-crafted disclaimers can save home inspectors from costly legal battles and unreasonable client expectations.
• Disclaimers about differing professional opinions protect inspectors when specialists later suggest more extensive repairs
• Clear language about inspections being limited and visual only sets appropriate client expectations
• Statements clarifying that inspectors cannot find every defect help manage client expectations about minor issues
• Code compliance disclaimers prevent inspectors from being held to varying and changing building codes
• Environmental hazard disclaimers limit liability for potentially harmful substances unless specifically tested
• Statements placing responsibility on clients to follow up with specialists provide crucial legal protection
• Language discouraging DIY repairs helps avoid liability when homeowners attempt their own fixes
• Including disclaimers as tabbed sections maintains report readability while providing necessary protection
Always have your disclaimer language reviewed by a qualified attorney to ensure it's appropriate for your specific jurisdiction and business model.
Check out our home inspection app at www.inspectortoolbelt.com
Need a home inspection website? See samples of our website at www.inspectortoolbelt.com/home-inspection-websites
*The views and opinions expressed in this podcast, and the guests on it, do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Inspector Toolbelt and its associates.

Chapters

1. My Favorite Report Disclaimers (00:00:00)

2. Welcome and Listener Feedback (00:00:18)

3. Introduction to Report Disclaimers (00:01:17)

4. The "Opinions of Others" Disclaimer (00:02:28)

5. Limited Visual Inspection Disclaimer (00:06:00)

6. Not Finding Every Defect Disclaimer (00:08:23)

7. Code Compliance Disclaimer (00:11:39)

8. Professional Examination Recommendation (00:18:22)

9. No DIY Repairs Disclaimer (00:22:13)

10. No Guarantees or Estimates Disclaimer (00:23:53)

11. Specialist vs Standard Inspection Disclaimer (00:25:34)

12. Environmental Hazards Disclaimer (00:28:09)