Home Inspection Through the Autism Lens

​April 2nd is World Autism Awareness Day, and this is a topic I feel passionate about almost as much as I do about home inspections. Why? Because your favourite inspector has been diagnosed with Autism, otherwise known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While Autism is classified as a permanent disability, I prefer to think of it as a different-ability, mostly because less than 2% of the population falls under the criteria for ASD. 

There are a lot of harmful myths around people on the spectrum, the worst being that they are incapable of being good employees or even being successful in life. Let's shatter that myth right now!

One of the motivations for starting my own company from the ground up was a desire to be a trailblazer: studies have shown that up to 65% of Autistic adults are unable to find employment and this is not because of any lack of talent or job skills: the entire job search process is often stacked against those in the autistic community, something I know and have experienced firsthand many times in my working career.

Here are a few reasons why, if all goes well in the coming years, it will be an easy decision to hire neurodivergent people if the opportunity arose. Being on the spectrum, I know what an untapped market this is!

Attention to Detail
One of the hallmark traits of autism is an acute attention to detail. For a home inspector, this can be a tremendous asset. Those on the spectrum often excel at noticing small discrepancies or irregularities that others might overlook. From identifying cracks in the foundation to pinpointing subtle signs of water damage, individuals with autism can offer a meticulous eye during the inspection process. I recently spotted an issue that turned out to be major, saving my clients about $8000 in repair costs!

Pattern Recognition
Individuals with autism frequently demonstrate a talent for pattern recognition. This ability allows them to discern underlying structures or trends that may not be immediately apparent to others. In the context of home inspection, this skill can be invaluable when analyzing complex systems such as electrical wiring or plumbing (I like to think of this as my greatest strength). By recognizing patterns in these systems, inspectors can more effectively identify potential issues and provide thorough assessments to their clients.

Sensory Sensitivities
Many individuals on the autism spectrum experience sensory sensitivities, meaning they may be more attuned to environmental stimuli such as light, sound, or texture. While this is often seen only as a negative trait, it can also offer unique insights during a home inspection. Sensory-aware inspectors may notice subtle cues – like the hum of an appliance or the feel of a draft – that could indicate underlying problems within the home's infrastructure. I have caught many issues because of my hypersensitivity. 

Communication and Client Interaction
There is a common belief that those on the spectrum are poor communicators and therefore can't make good home inspectors. While some individuals with autism may face challenges in social communication, many develop effective strategies for navigating interactions with others. Home inspectors on the spectrum can leverage their skills to provide clear explanations and address client concerns. Our direct communication style and ability to convey complex information in a straightforward manner can foster trust and confidence in clients. 

In the world of home inspection, diversity of thought and perspective is essential. By embracing neurodiversity and recognizing the strengths that individuals with autism bring to the table, we can enrich the field and better serve our clients. From their acute attention to detail and pattern recognition skills to their unique insights into sensory experiences, home inspectors on the autism spectrum offer a valuable perspective that enhances the quality and thoroughness of the inspection process. 

We at Inside Edge are a company that strongly values diversity and inclusion: it is not just a meaningless platitude, it is the backbone of the entire company based on direct, personal experience. Neurodivergent people can always feel comfortable around our company and if I am ever in a position to hire, there is no need to worry about being treated unfairly or having to pretend to be someone else.

In the meantime, just remember if you have met one person with Autism, you have met one person with Autism, likely someone with incredible untapped potential!