I frequently see inspectors use instruments, such as lasers or infrared, and include that information in their reports. This can seem pretty cool to the client and make him/her feel like they are getting more for their money. But too often, the inspector is not certified to use the machine, or the equipment is cheap and inaccurate. In those cases, any information obtained may be useless.
Thermography is the method of using an infrared machine to capture an image of hot and cold patterns. This can be helpful in an inspection. For instance, excess heat in an electrical panel could indicate improper and possibly dangerous wiring. An image can also show hot or cold spots in walls which could be a sign of various problems with the HVAC or air flow. But without adequate training and experience, the user won’t know how to use the equipment or accurately interpret any findings.
The majority of thermal imaging I’ve seen was not performed per ITC (Infrared Training Center) or ASTM (American Society of Testing and Materials) standards. For example, when a report contains a picture of someone’s hand holding an infrared camera that is showing an image of a target being examined, such as faucet fixtures, I know right away that this inspector is not conducting a thermal survey that is standard to the industry. Very likely, this inspector is not certified.
Thermal images properly performed and presented.
Anyone operating a laser, an infrared camera or other gadget should be certified and they should use a high quality instrument. For infrared, Flir has good products and their software will allow you to capture the target, download an image and add additional information or make adjustments to ensure the data provided is being translated correctly and clearly.
Incorrect or missing information can cause unnecessary problems and you want your escrow to go as smoothly as possible. Make sure your inspector is certified for whatever equipment he is using. When an inspector invests his hard-earned money in high quality machines or invests his time to get certified, he will usually charge for this extra service but it is usually worth it.
I am Level One certified for infrared and I personally oversee all infrared inspections for Alliance Real Estate Inspections.
Robert Gaudreault
Level One certified in Infrared
Member of ASTM
ASHI and CREIA certified