I. STANDARDS of PRACTICE
Definitions & Scope

A. Real Estate inspection is a non-invasive physical examination, performed for a fee, designed to identify material defects in the systems, structures, and components of a building as they exist at the time of the inspection. The specific systems, structures and components of a building to be examined are listed in these Standards of Practice.

B. A material defect is a condition that significantly affects the value, desirability, habitability, or safety of the building. Style or aesthetics shall not be considered in determining whether a specific system, structure, or component is defective.

C. These Standards provide inspection guidelines, make public the services provided by private fee-paid inspectors, and define certain terms relating to these inspections.

D. Sections 1 through 10 of these Standards are a mandatory part of all such inspections. Sections 11 through 12 are optional.

E. Unless otherwise agreed between the inspector and client, these Standards shall apply to the primary building and its associated primary parking structure. The inspection shall be limited to those specific systems, structures and components that are present and visually accessible. Components and systems shall be operated with normal user controls only and as conditions permit. Inspections performed in accordance with these Standards are not intended to be technically exhaustive.

F. Inspection reports shall describe and identify in written format the inspected systems, structures, and components of the building and shall identify material defects.

G. Inspection reports may contain recommendations regarding conditions reported or recommendations for further evaluation by appropriate persons