What should home inspectors report if a structural component is found to be damaged?

A home inspector is expected to provide a thorough and accurate assessment of the property they are inspecting. When a structural component is found to be damaged, it is essential to report the specifics of the damage as well as recommendations for repair. This detailed reporting serves multiple purposes: it informs the potential buyer about the current condition of the home, helps in making informed decisions, and advises on necessary repairs to ensure safety and structural integrity.

Detailed descriptions allow for a clear understanding of the issue, which can be crucial for budgeting repairs or negotiating with the seller. Moreover, repair recommendations, if within the inspector’s scope, guide homeowners or prospective buyers on the next steps to take, whether that involves consulting a specialist or considering certain repair options.

Providing vague or general opinions about the home's condition does not fulfill the inspector's obligation to report accurately. Likewise, instructing on unrelated matters like painting is outside the scope of reporting damage. Simply stating that everything is fine without detail disregards the inspector's responsibility to protect the interests of the buyer and can lead to significant issues being overlooked.