A Guide for Lender and Inspector Roles in On-Site Inspections

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What To Expect When You’re Inspecting:

Built’s guide to a successful on-site draw inspection experience

Built’s Inspector Network aims to maintain an average turnaround time of two (2) business days from the “Requested For” date*. Success depends on everyone’s collaboration—each role makes a difference!

The Lender’s Role:

  1. Provide a Clear Budget – A detailed line-item budget is required for consistent & efficient inspection results. Budgets should aim to have 30-60 line items (Exceptions: modular and mobile homes)
  2. Share Appraisal & Site Docs With Inspector – An appraisal is required, but include site plans, access instructions, etc. when applicable.
  3. The "Elevated Access" setting –This is required to ensure inspector visibility into the budget for accurate reporting.
  4. List Key Contacts – Ensure phone number and email address for loan admin, builder, borrower are included on the People’s Tab and an on-site contact is provided in the request when appropriate.
  5. Confirm Access Codes – Verify lock box/gate codes with the builder and/or borrower before requesting an inspection.
  6. Add Site Details – Note occupancy, special access, or site conditions in “Notes to Inspector.”
  7. Limit Scheduling Requests – Only instruct inspectors to schedule access if the home is occupied or requires special arrangements. Remember, inspectors are independent third parties and the value is rooted in their unbiased expertise. Lenders must utilize the “Note to Inspector” to communicate this request.
  8. Communication –Keep all feedback, information, and coordination within Built comments to maintain a clear and trackable record.
  9. Call Before Canceling An Active Request – Inspectors may already be on-site.
  10. Avoid Requesting Status Updates – Avoid contacting inspectors for updates within the 2-business-day SLA*, as communication is only necessary for delays beyond this timeframe.
  11. Project/Budget Changes – Ensure any changes to the project or project budget that would impact the appraised value should be updated on the Built Budget to ensure alignment between the budget and the work completed on site.

The Inspector’s Role:

  1. Comprehensive Review – A review of all budget line items is required, not just the requested ones.
  2. High-Quality Photos – At least 20 photos per inspection are required (subject to site conditions e.g. empty lot, land clearing, foundation only), including address/permit photos if available.
  3. Commentary – Provided when visible concerns exist or when photos do not adequately depict the site conditions (e.g., construction issues, presence of squatters, etc.). Commentary will not be given for each individual line item or photo.
  4. Limitations – A draw inspection does not include (1) Material quality assessment (2) Budget-to-appraisal verification (e.g., square footage) (3) Credit for uninstalled materials (e.g., on-site materials, soft costs) (4) Funding recommendations.  An appraiser is needed for these.
  5. Optional Credits – Inspectors and lenders should collaborate to determine credit allocation for on-site materials and soft costs. While inspectors are not obligated to grant credit for these items, they may do so at their discretion.
  6. Professionalism – Inspectors must maintain professional conduct and attire.
  7. Punctuality – Target inspection completion within SLA. If an inspection exceeds SLA, the inspector will reschedule and update the lender in Built comments. The lender may assign a new inspector if delays persist.
  8. Scheduling – Inspectors provide an unbiased third-party review and only accommodate scheduling when: (1) the home is occupied or (2) special access is required (e.g., security guard, island property). When scheduling is necessary, it falls outside the SLA.
  9. Revisions – Inspectors cannot revise submitted reports in Built. If the lender or inspector notices an item is missed, open communication between both parties is encouraged to ensure accurate and complete results. If an update is needed, inspectors should leave a comment to verify progress, and lenders can update with a lender-submitted inspection.

The Golden Rule: Built’s software will not solve every single problem that arises when completing an inspection.                                                                        Loan admins and inspectors should communicate regularly and often via comments and calls to coordinate and share feedback.

*Two (2) business days are defined from the “Requested For” date, not the “Requested On” date. Business days do not include weekends and holidays. Same day inspection requests will automatically default to a “Requested For” date on the next business day.