07/13/1995 Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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today's buyers and sellers are more astute than ever before. She thought that the city might have ` problem recommending an inspector to a consumer and wondered what the city's liability wo e since an mspector rendered an opinion which differs from a contpctor who is obligated to do a job that meets code. Mr. Burk responded that the city would have a list of licensed inspectors. She explained the disclosure laws, and concluded that there were better ways to help the residents understand the need for a qualified inspector. Mr. Guardi was sworn in at this time and stated that most companies are training real estate agents to be diligent in this area. The system is working fairly well at present, the buyer hires the inspector and his report is confidential, if a municipality is involved, and there is a law suit, the city would be drawn into it and the tax payers would be forced to pay for it. Ms. Mykytuk, representing the Cleveland Area Board of Realtors, was sworn in, and advised that the Board supports ongoing inspections wluch would catch the homes with continuiug probleins. Some sellers refuse a contract with an inspection clause which slows down the transfer of property. Mr. Sebring, presented a statement (see attached) and asked what was the need for this and who is going to administer it. He noted the graphs (see attached) and questioned if there was a need and, if so, asked that these figures be made public. He aTso wanted all information published ou the department which will administer such a program so that they cau be judged on their competency. It was noted that the city was not on triai and, and that the members would study his statement. Mr. Coger, a Realtor, was sworn in at this time, and advised that of the 50 or 60 inspections that he has been involved in, and he has never been disappointed in an inspector. Since most ofthe people who need an inspector are young, first time home buyers, the additional cost could be a burden, and home inspections will be lost. He believed that this could raise the cost by 50%. He stated that incompetent inspectors are removed from the list made up by the Realtors, and this is a self regulatiug operation. He clarified that a buyer cannot be forced to have an inspection, but they do recommend that it be done. Mr. Rindfleisch mentioued several ways that home buyers can be encouraged to do home inspections and he will be willing to suggest these later on. He reiterated that licensing an opuuon does have some legal liability. Chauman Burk advised that the members will be holding work sessions, and the members of the audience asked to be notified of the next work sessiou. Mr. Rindlfeisch stated that he would attend_ W. Piar moved that the licensiug of home inspectors be left up to the State. Nir. Engoglia stated that tlus was premature. The motion died for the lack of a second. VII. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjoumed at 9:20 p.m. Mr. Christopher Fox had presented a letter to the board regarding problems with his home, however this matter is in court and is not a matter for the board at tlus time. R. Burk, Chairman B. Oring, Clerk of Commissions. 4