The Home Remodel “Safety Net”

March 2008 (Palm Springs, Calif.) — The California Real Estate Inspection Association (CREIA), a nonprofit consumer benefit corporation, advises homeowners to hire an independent real estate inspector when remodeling their home. Even if you hire a licensed contractor, obtain building permits and have regular inspections by the city, substandard and unsafe conditions are too often overlooked. City building inspectors, most of whom are very good, simply do not have the time to do a thorough inspection.

New building products are being introduced almost daily and building codes are revised on a three year cycle. Most construction workers learn from other workers and improper or outdated methods are often passed on and repeated. Proper training in the installation of new materials and systems is slow at reaching the average trade person. Improper installation can reduce performance, shorten service life, void manufacturers’ warranties and create unsafe conditions.

CREIA recommends retaining the services a Certified CREIA Inspector (CCI) or a Master CREIA Inspector (MCI) who has also earned the CREIA New Construction Specialist designation (CNCS) to reduce the risk of improper conditions going undiscovered. For maximum benefit a qualified inspector can review your plans and specifications and perform incremental inspections before work is concealed. At minimum, an inspection after completion and before final payment to the contractor is advised for your protection.

Established in 1976, CREIA is the largest and oldest state inspection association in the country. CREIA inspectors must adhere to CREIA's Code of Ethics and follow the Standards of Practice developed and maintained by the Association. Recognized by the State of California, these Standards of Practice are considered the source for Home Inspector Standard of Care by the real estate and legal communities.

CREIA is dedicated to consumer protection and education. To locate a qualified CREIA inspector near you go to www.creia.org/find-an-inspector

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