David,

Every seasoned Property Inspector I have ever discussed things with exceeds their SOP for their given local at least a little. I have changed the way I inspect, and the things I inspect many, many times over the last 12 years (and will continue to do so). I make adjustments based on SOP's and their metamorphising, what is going on in the legal community regarding HI's, what others have advised, what my clients reasonable needs or expectations are, the type of construction I am looking at, etc. You will be modifying your scope as well over time.

I believe that SOP's are intended as a minimum and a guideline for all inspectors in your area. To what degree you exceed them will be your business decision. I know one thing for certain. Remain consistent! What you do for one client you had better do for all clients. If you're not willing to do it for all property inspections you had better not start doing it for one or a few. Your inspection reports will be more defensible in a court of law that way.

Just my small cents worth.

MPT