Professional Practice, Reporting and Business Operations
This domain tests the contract-to-report workflow: what you agree to do, how you document it, how you communicate it, and how you protect the client, the public and your business. Exam items often hinge on scope discipline, report language and recordkeeping rather than technical knowledge.
Before the inspection
Use a written pre-inspection agreement that identifies the client, property, fee, standard being followed, scope, exclusions and limitations. Confirm access, occupancy and safety conditions. Disclose conflicts and any ancillary services. Explain verbally what is and is not included, and record any agreed variation in writing. Verify that your insurance, certification and business licensing are current for the jurisdiction.
Reporting and records
- Use consistent categories such as observed, not observed and not inspected rather than vague or alarming language.
- For each material deficiency, state the observation, its implication and a recommendation, without prescribing a specific repair method you cannot verify.
- Support findings with dated photographs and notes that identify location and limitation.
- Deliver the report within the agreed time and retain records for the period required by your province, insurer and privacy obligations.
- Protect personal information under PIPEDA or applicable provincial privacy law; store and transmit reports securely.
Worked example
A client asks whether dark staining on attic sheathing is mould. The inspector reports dark staining consistent with moisture staining or mould-like growth, states that the cause was not determined, recommends correction of the moisture source and assessment by a qualified indoor-air-quality or mould professional. The reasoning is scope discipline: the Standards of Practice do not require environmental sampling, and a laboratory conclusion is outside the visual inspection.
Traps that cost marks
Relying on a verbal scope change. Using disclaimers that contradict the Standards of Practice. Overpromising a warranty or a code inspection. Delivering a report with no photo or limitation record. Sharing the report with third parties without consent. Failing to document a re-inspection or a later correction.
Key points
- Use a written agreement covering scope, standard, exclusions, fee and limitations.
- Write findings as observation, implication and recommendation, with dated photo support.
- Record limitations and do not exceed the agreed scope.
- Retain records and protect client information under privacy law.
- Keep insurance, certification and business licensing current.