If a licensee finds a defect in a property during an inspection, what must they do?

Reporting any defects found during a property inspection is a critical responsibility of a licensee. It ensures transparency and protects all parties involved in the transaction. By promptly informing the seller and potential buyers about the defect, the licensee helps the seller address the issue, which may affect the property’s value or safety, and allows buyers to make an informed decision.

Professional standards and legal obligations require accuracy and honesty in the representation of a property. Ignoring the defect or only mentioning it when asked could lead to liability issues and undermine trust. Additionally, attempting to fix the defect personally is not appropriate conduct for a licensee, as it may exceed their professional scope and responsibility while potentially causing further complications.