Inspection reporting reference library · powered by InspectorData.com
Home / Guides / Liability-Safe Inspection Comment Examples

Liability-Safe Inspection Comment Examples

Side-by-side examples of risky vs. defensible inspection comments. The exact phrasing patterns that distinguish professional, defensible reports from ones that invite legal exposure.

01 · Section

Risky: 'The roof is bad.'

Defensible: 'Moderate granule loss observed on the south-facing slope of the roof, consistent with end-of-life shingle wear. Functional at the time of inspection but nearing the end of typical service life. Recommend evaluation by a licensed roofing contractor.'

02 · Section

Risky: 'Outlet not safe.'

Defensible: 'No GFCI protection observed at the kitchen countertop receptacles. Current code requires GFCI protection at kitchen counters. Recommend GFCI installation by a licensed electrician.'

03 · Section

Risky: 'Big crack in wall.'

Defensible: 'Stair-step crack pattern observed in the east foundation wall. Crack width approximately 1/8 inch with no visible displacement. Recommend monitoring with crack monitors and re-evaluation in 12 months.'

04 · Section

Risky: 'Water heater needs replaced.'

Defensible: 'Water heater manufactured 2009 (16 years old at time of inspection). Functional at the time of inspection but nearing end of typical 10–15 year service life. Plan for replacement.'

Next Step

Want to turn this into a fully interactive inspection report?

Import your existing PDF into InspectorData. Keep your categories, your comments, your workflow.

Import your template →Start 90-day trial

90 days free · no credit card · $69/month after

People Also Search For

LM

About the Author

Lisa Meine, Certified Master Inspector

12+ years of home inspection experience. Co-founded InspectorData to give working inspectors a modern reporting system that respects their existing templates and workflows. InterNACHI member.