Third-party Inspections and Testing
Monterey at 6 AM, jobsite inspection at 6:30 AM.
It’s been almost 40 years since I hung out my shingle and during that time, I’ve operated by a simple code:
To always show independence, impartiality, integrity and professionalism.
To maintain a discreet and confidential relationship with both the first and second parties.
To act on behalf of the 3rd party company rather than the client or others. In other words, I do my research, I reach my opinions and I am an advocate for my opinion and not the opinion of others.
Being a third-party is not easy. It requires more than a passing fluency with a myriad of standards and processes. It requires great people skills and an exceptional ability to communicate. And curiosity – lots of curiosity.
Third-party inspectors and testing agencies are used in all industries and are used in any number of different ways. Back in medieval times, third parties were used as food tasters to ensure that the king or queen were not on the verge of being poisoned (rough work!). In more modern times, third parties review and consult on new product design and manufacturing; other third parties consult on processes; some third parties are used to monitor contract documents and agreements while other third parties become the “inspector of record”. And the list goes on.
I’ll work for almost anyone that wants to retain me: product manufacturers, owners, dealers and installers, insurance companies, attorneys, general contractors. Plaintiff or defendant. As long as I’m able to maintain my independence and integrity I’m a happy camper.
Most of my day is filled with claims inspections. A floor presents a problem; I’m asked to inspect and opine as to the actual cause of the problem and who’s at fault. That’s what I do. I observe, I research, and then I produce a written report detailing what I saw and how I interpret my observations. My research and my experience become the context for my opinion; my observations become the facts that underpin my opinion.
Every report that I write is sure to offend someone. But my experience has been that an opinion, offered with evidence and presented in a fair, impartial tone, is usually welcomed (albeit sometimes reluctantly).
I act in a similar capacity as “inspector of record” on larger projects. In the case of these larger projects, I’m not on site to find a problem. My function is to assist in the prevention of problems before they become future failures.
Concrete moisture testing is also an area that I’m very active in.
Many wonder about the need for a third-party concrete moisture testing agency. Why not just have the installation contractor do the test and be done with it? Here’s why.
Installation contractors do not have the requisite training to properly test and interpret the results.
Installation contractors have an interest in the outcome of the test.
Installation contractors are subject to pressure from others who also have an interest in the outcome of the test.
Yes, third-party testing is a little more time-consuming, and yes, it is generally more expensive, but it is compliant with current standards and best practices and it eliminates the potential of any future liability created by a conflict of interest. It is a professional approach and one that should not be ignored.