That folder of photos is a smart move—wish I’d started that sooner myself. Inspectors can get hung up on the oddest things, and it’s never consistent. I’ve had one breeze through a property and the next guy nitpick every outlet and junction box. It’s frustrating, but you’re right: documenting everything up front saves time in the long run. Honestly, I just assume I’ll have to “prove” something every time now... kind of sad that’s the default, but it is what it is.
Tell me about it—last time I had an inspector, he spent twenty minutes measuring the gap under a door but didn’t even glance at the actual tile work I’d just finished (which, by the way, was a masterpiece). I swear, it’s like they have a secret bingo card for random things to flag. Now I take photos of literally everything, down to the screws. It’s a little over-the-top, but hey, beats ripping out drywall because someone’s feeling picky that day...
I get where you’re coming from, but I actually think the hyper-focus on stuff like door gaps is because those are the things that can cause real issues down the line—energy loss, code violations, you name it. Ever had an inspector catch something tiny that ended up saving you a headache later? I’ve had it go both ways. Sometimes I wonder if we’re just too close to our own work to see what they’re looking for.
Sometimes I wonder if we’re just too close to our own work to see what they’re looking for.
That hits home. I remember one flip where I thought the inspector was being way too picky about a tiny gap under a closet door. I was annoyed at first, but a month later, the buyer called about cold air leaking in—right through that spot. Ended up fixing it for free, which stung a bit. Now I try to remind myself those details really can matter, even if it feels nitpicky in the moment. Still, sometimes it does feel like they’re just looking for something to ding you on...
Still, sometimes it does feel like they’re just looking for something to ding you on...
Man, I swear some inspectors have a sixth sense for finding the tiniest thing you missed. I once had a guy point out a “potential tripping hazard” because my doormat was a little too thick. I mean, really? But then again, I guess it’s their job to catch stuff we’d never notice. Ever had an inspector flag something that just made you shake your head?
