What is required from the owner before an inspection can be conducted?

Before an inspection can be conducted, obtaining written permission from the owner is essential. This requirement ensures that the owner formally agrees to the inspection being carried out on their property. Written permission serves multiple purposes, including providing legal protection for the inspector and ensuring that the owner is aware of and consents to the inspection process. It establishes a clear understanding between the inspector and the property owner, avoiding any potential disputes regarding unauthorized access or inspections.

In various regulatory frameworks, including those related to septic systems, having documented consent is often mandated, reinforcing the ethical and legal standards in practice. Verbal agreements may not hold up in a legal context, and fees or previous inspection reports are typically administrative aspects related to the process but do not serve the primary purpose of ensuring consent for the inspection itself.