Terms Of Service

1. Scope of Inspection

A home inspection is a visual, non-invasive assessment of accessible areas of the property at the time of inspection.

The inspection may include observable conditions of:

• Structure and foundation (visible and accessible areas only)
• Roofing systems and external coverings (from accessible vantage points)
• Ceilings, walls, windows, and doors
• Electrical systems (visible wiring, distribution boards, fixtures, outlets)
• Plumbing systems (visible supply and drainage components)
• Basic mechanical systems where installed
• Interior finishes and safety features
• External elements, site grading, and visible drainage

Inspections are conducted in accordance with recognized professional inspection practices applicable to residential properties in Nigeria, including common building practices in Lagos and surrounding regions.

The inspection is not:

• A building approval or statutory compliance certification
• A LASBCA or local authority inspection
• An engineering, architectural, or structural design certification
• A guarantee or warranty of workmanship or future performance

2. Inspection Limitations

The inspection reflects the property condition only at the date and time of inspection.

The inspection does not include:

• Destructive testing
• Opening of ceilings, walls, screed, tiles, roofing sheets, or concealed components
• Soil testing or laboratory analysis
• Load testing of electrical or structural systems
• Verification of title, planning approval, or regulatory documentation unless separately contracted

Hidden defects, latent structural issues, concealed leaks, damp behind finishes, underground services, or workmanship covered by finishes are outside the inspection scope.

The Inspector does not predict future performance, structural movement, flooding events, settlement progression, or equipment lifespan.

3. Client Responsibilities

The Client shall ensure:

• Safe and reasonable access to the property at the scheduled time
• Availability of electricity and water where systems are to be tested
• Removal of obstructions limiting inspection access

Areas that are locked, obstructed, unsafe, or inaccessible will be excluded from the inspection.

4. Inspector Independence

HINL operates as an independent inspection and advisory firm.

The Inspector:

• Does not carry out repairs
• Does not supervise contractors
• Does not recommend specific contractors unless requested for general guidance

Responsibility for repairs, compliance, and implementation of recommendations remains with the property owner or Client.

5. Inspection Report

• A written report including observations, photographs, implications, and recommended actions will be delivered within 48–72 hours after inspection unless otherwise agreed.
• The report is prepared exclusively for the Client and is intended to support informed decision-making.

The report does not constitute:

• A warranty
• An insurance document
• A guarantee against future defects

6. Confidentiality

• The inspection report is confidential and prepared solely for the Client.
• HINL may reference inspection type or anonymized findings for internal quality assurance, training, or marketing purposes, provided no client-identifying information is disclosed without consent.

7. Limitation of Liability

HINL’s total liability for any claim arising from the inspection shall be limited to the inspection fee paid.

HINL shall not be liable for:

• Repair costs
• Renovation outcomes
• Contractor performance
• Regulatory enforcement actions
• Post-inspection alterations
• Latent or concealed defects

The inspection does not replace statutory supervision, regulatory inspections, or professional design review.

8. Payment, Cancellation & Site Delays

• Full payment is required before confirmation of inspection booking unless otherwise agreed in writing.
• Cancellation or rescheduling within 48 hours of the appointment attracts a ₦50,000 administrative charge.
• Failure to provide site access within 30 minutes of scheduled time attracts a ₦50,000 delay fee and may result in rescheduling.
• If the Inspector arrives and the site is unsafe or inaccessible, the inspection may be aborted and rescheduled subject to applicable fees.

9. Dispute Resolution

Any dispute arising out of or relating to these Terms or Services shall first be resolved through good faith negotiation.

Where resolution fails, the dispute shall be referred to binding arbitration under the Arbitration and Conciliation Act of Nigeria.

Arbitration shall:

• Be conducted by a single arbitrator mutually agreed by both parties
• Take place in Lagos, Nigeria
• Be conducted in English
• Be final and binding

10. Governing Law

These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

11. Modifications

HINL reserves the right to modify these Terms at any time. Updated Terms shall take effect upon publication on the official website. Continued use of services constitutes acceptance of the revised Terms.

12. Contact Information

For enquiries regarding these Terms or Services:

Home Inspectors Nigeria Limited (HINL)
Email: info@homeinspectors.ng
Website: www.homeinspectors.ng