If the HI just mentions that it stunk like $hit, without making any recommendation, the seller can say to *your client* "even your inspector did not say anything had to be done, I'm not paying for anything".

Whether the seller pays or not, we, as HIs, should not care, however, we, as HIs, should not take from our client any tool they may have for recourse with the seller. Not making a recommendation takes away tools regarding the issue(s) where remediation action was 'not recommended'.

What I mean is close to Jerry’s comments. We are paid to act as a consultat. If you have no idea what it is say so. Research the smell, punt but give them direction. Put the course of action into perspective. What do you think about what you see and smell? If you’re clueless, direct them to find someone who has a clue. I’d do a little hunting for them, in your shoes. You look smarter and you were a help. What you got paid to be.

If you see rotted wood on a soffit do you report “fix the wood” or “Moisture damage was found in the over hangs of the house. The main areas included XXX. A qualified carpenter should further investigate the over hangs of the house for other areas of damage. While repairing this material, the source of the water should be investigated and corrected. A possible source to check is damaged shingles.”

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Charlie Sessums www.alphainspection.com
The greatest ideas are often met with violent opposition from mediocre minds. Albert Einstein