"Inspector was pretty understanding once I showed I wasn't trying to dodge the rules."
Yeah, most inspectors I've dealt with are reasonable if you're upfront about things. Did yours make you redo any inspections, or was it just paperwork and fees?
I've actually found inspectors can be hit or miss... some seem chill, others have been super nitpicky about tiny things. Maybe it depends on the inspector or even the city? Curious if anyone else has noticed this inconsistency.
"I've actually found inspectors can be hit or miss... some seem chill, others have been super nitpicky about tiny things."
Haha, you're definitely not alone there. I've had inspectors who barely glance around and others who whip out a magnifying glass like they're Sherlock Holmes hunting for clues. Honestly, it feels like a lottery sometimes—depends on their mood, the weather, or maybe if they had their coffee yet. Hang in there though, most of them are reasonable once you get past the initial nitpicking stage.
Haha, totally relate to the Sherlock Holmes thing. I've noticed inspectors also get pickier if they sense you're rushing or cutting corners—like they have a sixth sense for shortcuts. Had one inspector grill me over a minor drywall seam once... I ended up chatting with him about his fishing trips for 20 minutes, and he eased up after that. Sometimes it just helps to build a little rapport and show you're genuinely trying to do things right.
Inspectors definitely have a radar for rushed work. Had one guy zero in on a tiny paint drip behind a cabinet once—no idea how he even spotted it. But you're right, chatting them up a bit can go a long way. I've found most inspectors just want to see you're putting in genuine effort and care about the details. Building rapport isn't always my strong suit (I'm more of a straight-to-the-point type), but even I have to admit a little small talk can smooth things over. Good move with the fishing convo... whatever works, right?
