I hear you on the camera tricks—prepping ahead definitely helps. Still, I’ve seen virtual inspections miss stuff, especially with pipes tucked behind awkward corners or insulation. Sometimes you just can’t beat a set of eyes right there in the crawlspace, you know? But if it saves a trip and the inspector’s sharp, it’s not a bad compromise... as long as nobody’s hiding a leaky elbow joint behind the drywall.
Sometimes you just can’t beat a set of eyes right there in the crawlspace, you know?
Totally get that—there’s something about physically tracing a line or feeling for moisture that cameras just can’t replace. I’ve seen inspectors on video miss a compression fitting tucked behind some insulation because the angle was off. Still, when we did a virtual inspection last month, we prepped by removing some drywall and using a flashlight with a mirror to show the tough spots. Anyone tried using those scope cameras for tight bends? Curious if that covers more ground or just adds another gadget to juggle...
I’ve used those scope cams a few times—honestly, they’re handy for spotting leaks in weird spots, but the image quality can be hit or miss. Ever had one fog up on you mid-inspection? Wondering if anyone’s found a brand that actually holds up in damp crawlspaces...
Ever had one fog up on you mid-inspection?
Oh man, the fogging is real. Nothing like crawling under a house, finally getting the camera into that impossible spot, and then—bam—your screen looks like a steamy bathroom mirror. I’ve tried a couple brands, but honestly, even the “waterproof” ones seem to get condensation if it’s humid enough. I started keeping a little packet of silica gel in the case, which helps a bit, but it’s not foolproof.
As for image quality, I hear you. Some of those cheaper cams make it look like you’re inspecting your pipes through a potato. I splurged on a Ridgid once (wallet still recovering), and it’s held up better in damp crawlspaces than the Amazon specials, but even that one isn’t perfect.
I’d still rather deal with a foggy cam than try to convince the city inspector over Zoom that my pipes aren’t leaking. Virtual inspections are fine for paperwork, but when it comes to actual leaks, nothing beats someone getting their hands dirty.
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve actually had a couple virtual inspections go smoother than expected. Maybe I just lucked out with inspectors who were tech-savvy, but it saved me a ton of time not having to schedule around their visits.
Virtual inspections are fine for paperwork, but when it comes to actual leaks, nothing beats someone getting their hands dirty.
I hear that, but sometimes the hassle of coordinating everyone’s schedules just isn’t worth it for minor stuff. For bigger issues, yeah, in-person is better, but for the routine checks, I’ll take a Zoom call and a cup of coffee any day.