Inspectors refusing to inspect bldg -- bldg has bad rep?!

[Katrina P.]

Hi everyone, need some input. I am considering a small multifamily that apparently had a bad bed bug problem in 2012, at which time, the current owner vacated the building and spent $7k heat treating. Since then, he has maintained a regular bed bug prevention program. Here's my dilemma: during my due diligence period, I have scheduled the inspection twice. First inspector pulls out without explanation; second inspector emails me yesterday saying "sorry, I have to renig. Word has it that this bldg is a mess and has a bed bug problem and it just has a bad reputation in the inspector's community." So i call him and he reiterates the same thing over the phone, and suggests that I contact someone out of the area who doesn't know about the building to inspect it. So now, I am questioning should I go through with the purchase? I have never heard of such a thing!! And it's raising a major flag for me. So has anyone ever gone through this? Any advice?

Thanks!!

[Tom Mole]

Hi @Katrina P.

Have you considered that the inspector may not be afraid of the bugs as much as he may be afraid of the liability. If he tells you that there are no bedbugs, which is damned hard to determine with any degree of certainty, then you find the infestation persists, he could be held accountable for your problem.

You might talk to the inspector to determine if this is his real issue. He may be willing to inspect for everything else as long as he can get a waiver for any liability against this specific issue. You can have an actual pest guy inspect and remediate. Those guys are the experts in this arena.

I'd love to hear how this turns out for you.

Cheers!!