Let’s assume you have decided not to park in the driveway of the home you are inspecting – a good decision in our opinion. Here’s a terrific way to make this situation go wrong fast. Knock on the front door 5 to 10 minutes late (Home inspectors should never be late!!) and say, “I’m so sorry – I am never late for an inspection, but there is absolutely no place to park around here!” As the client digests this important new information, it’s probably safe to say the agent and seller will not be offering you water or coffee as do your inspection.

By the way, if I’m going to be late for an inspection or any appointment, I make sure to call and at least leave a message apologizing and advising when I will arrive. What do you do?

Parking your inspection vehicle should be a simple thing. But we have gotten into trouble with this a few times. When you arrive at a home there is often parking available in the driveway, and sometimes not a convenient spot on the street.

We suggest you not park in the driveway. Why? The client and real estate agent may be annoyed that they are not able to park there, or may park behind you, making a graceful exit at the end of the inspection difficult. Agents don’t like being interrupted to move their car when they are focused on getting the client to waive the home inspection clause in the offer, or getting ready to re-negotiate the sale based on your findings.

The seller may come home and not be able to get into their garage because you are in their way – not a great way to make a first impression, especially with someone who is a prospective client – sellers are often buying a home! It’s equally awkward if the seller is home and needs to get out of the garage while you are parked there.