What is the Code of Ethics for a Home Inspector?
In continuing the topic of the February 2024 article, What are things that a Home Inspector should not do?, there is an official Code of Ethics for Home Inspectors.
Why have a Code of Ethics?
As professional home inspectors, it’s our responsibility to adhere to certain ethical standards, ensuring each inspection is conducted with the utmost integrity and objectivity.
Since Hawaii does not require inspector licensing, we are still bound by ethical requirements dictated by national associations like the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI).
Abiding by these ethical guidelines is not just a matter of moral code; it often aligns with legal expectations.
Key Points from the ASHI Code of Ethics
- Avoiding Conflicts of Interest: Inspectors must maintain impartiality and not engage in activities that could compromise their objectivity. We must not have any financial interest in the home sale, be compensated based on inspection outcomes nor accept financial kickbacks from referrals.
- No Repair Services for Inspected Systems: To avoid conflicts of interest, inspectors should not offer to repair systems they have inspected for at least one year after the inspection.
- Prohibition Against Paying for Referrals: Home inspectors are forbidden from paying for referrals or leads from Realtors® or real estate offices, ensuring their impartiality and objectivity.
- Acting in Good Faith: Inspectors must accurately report their findings without understating or overstating the significance of an issue. They should operate within the bounds of their training, experience, and qualifications.
- Avoiding Harm to the Public and the Profession: Inspectors should market their services truthfully, reflecting their actual qualifications and avoiding actions that could harm the public or discredit the home inspection profession.
For any questions on this topic, please call Oscar Libed of Inspect Hawaii at 808-728-5707 or send an email to oscar@inspecthawaii.com
