National Home Inspector Practice Exam

Which type of inspection finding can be shared with a seller post-inspection?

1. A) Findings related to safety hazards

2. B) General condition of the home

3. C) No findings can be shared regardless of the type

4. D) Only findings related to minor issues

The correct answer is: C) No findings can be shared regardless of the type

The option indicating that no findings can be shared regardless of the type is based on the principle of confidentiality and the relationships involved in the inspection process. Home inspectors are typically bound by ethical guidelines and state laws regarding the confidentiality of their findings unless expressly authorized to share information by the client—usually the buyer who hired them. In many jurisdictions, the inspection report is considered the property of the client, and sharing it with the seller or any third party without explicit permission from the client would breach confidentiality and could lead to legal repercussions. This ensures that the inspector maintains an impartial stance and a clear boundary between the interests of the buyers and sellers involved in the transaction. Other options suggest sharing findings based on their nature, but those relationships and rules would take precedence, thus supporting the stance that sharing any findings with the seller without consent is not appropriate. Therefore, it's critical for home inspectors to adhere to established professional standards that prioritize confidentiality.