From Builder to Building Inspector: My Journey
As a former builder, Troy Profilio has always had a deep passion for the construction industry.
For most of Troy’s life, he worked alongside his dad, learning the ins and outs of the trade.
But as he got older, Troy started to feel the physical toll of the job.
The long hours, the demanding contracts, and the struggle to find reliable tradespeople began to wear Troy down.
That’s when he decided it was time for a change.
Troy had heard about the growing demand for building inspectors and the more he looked into it, the more it appealed to him.
The idea of being able to use his construction expertise in a new way, while also enjoying a better work-life balance, was incredibly enticing.
So, Troy did his research, explored his options, and ultimately decided to join the Jim’s Building Inspections franchise.
Why I Chose Jim’s Building Inspections
When Troy was considering his options, he looked at a few different franchises and companies in the building inspection industry.
But what ultimately drew him to Jim’s was the brand’s reputation, the support network, and the diverse range of services they offered.
The Jim’s brand is well-known and respected in the industry, and Troy knew that by aligning himself with them, he would be able to tap into a wealth of resources and expertise.
The comprehensive training program, both online and in-person, also gave Troy the confidence that he would be well-equipped to handle the job.
But what really sealed the deal for Troy was the opportunity to offer a wider range of services beyond just building inspections.
As a Jim’s franchisee, Troy’s able to provide pool safety inspections, asbestos testing, and even property depreciation schedules.
This diversification has been a game-changer for my business, allowing me to better serve my clients and generate additional revenue streams.
The Importance of Customer Service in Building Inspections
In the building inspection industry, customer service is paramount.
Homebuyers and property owners are often anxious and uncertain when it comes to the condition of their investment, and it’s Troy’s job as an inspector to provide them with the information and support they need.
That’s why Troy makes it a priority to go above and beyond for his clients.
He always aims to be transparent, honest, and thorough in his inspections, and he makes a point of walking them through the process step-by-step.
Whether it’s through FaceTime, WhatsApp, or good old-fashioned face-to-face interaction, Troy ensures that his clients understand exactly what he’s finding and why it’s important.
But it’s not just about the inspection itself – the follow-up is just as crucial.
Troy always makes a point of checking in with his clients after the inspection, answering any questions they may have, and providing guidance on how to address any issues that were identified.
This level of personalized attention and support has been a key driver of his business’s success.
Common Defects and Challenges in the Building Inspection Industry
As a building inspector, Troy have seen his fair share of issues and defects in the homes and properties he have inspected.
Some of the most common problems he encounters include:
- Moisture and Damp Issues: Rising damp and water leaks are a major concern, especially in older homes. Troy uses a combination of moisture meters, thermal cameras, and visual inspections to identify the source of the problem and determine the extent of the damage.
- Termite Infestations: Termites are a constant threat in many parts of Australia, and Troy takes great care to thoroughly inspect for any signs of activity or damage. He works closely with pest control professionals to ensure the issue is properly addressed.
- Asbestos Concerns: Older homes often contain asbestos-containing materials, which can pose a serious health risk if not properly managed. Troy conducts sampling and testing to determine the type and condition of any asbestos present and provide guidance on the appropriate remediation measures.
- Structural Issues: From cracked foundations to unstable framing, Troy is trained to identify a wide range of structural problems that can compromise the safety and integrity of a building.
One of the biggest challenges Troy face is helping clients understand the severity and implications of the issues he uncover.
It’s not uncommon for homebuyers to be hesitant about proceeding with a purchase after a thorough inspection, and it’s his job to reassure them that not all problems are deal-breakers.
By taking a measured and transparent approach, and working closely with his clients to develop practical solutions, he’s able to help them navigate these challenges and make informed decisions about the their property investments.
The Importance of Ongoing Training and Collaboration
As a building inspector, it’s crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest industry standards, regulations, and best practices.
That’s why Troy’s constantly seeking out opportunities to learn and grow, both through the comprehensive training and support provided by Jim’s, as well as through his own ongoing professional development.
One of the key benefits of being part of the Jim’s network is the ability to tap into the collective knowledge and expertise of fellow franchisees.
Whether it’s a complex technical issue or a challenging customer situation, Troy can always reach out to his colleagues for advice and guidance.
This collaborative approach not only helps Troy provide better service to his clients, but it also keeps him sharp and constantly improving my skills.
In addition to the support from his fellow Jim’s franchisees, Troy also makes a point of staying connected with other industry professionals, such as pest control experts, asbestos removalists, and structural engineers.
By building strong relationships and keeping communication open, Troy provides his clients with comprehensive, end-to-end solutions for all their building inspection needs.
The Rewards of Running a Building Inspection Business
While the building inspection industry can be challenging at times, the rewards of running his own business have been immensely gratifying.
Not only have Troy been able to leverage his construction expertise in a new and fulfilling way, but he’s also been able to enjoy a much better work-life balance.
Gone are the long hours and demanding contracts that were a hallmark of his previous career as a builder.
Now, Troy’s able to set his own schedule, take time off when he needs it, and focus on providing exceptional service to his clients.
And with the support and resources of the Jim’s network behind him, Troy’s been able to grow his business to new heights, expanding his service offerings and reaching a wider customer base.
But the greatest reward of all has been the opportunity to help his clients make informed decisions about their property investments.
Whether it’s guiding a first-time homebuyer through the inspection process or helping a seasoned investor identify and address critical issues, the sense of satisfaction he gets from knowing that he’s made a positive impact is truly priceless.
Advice for Aspiring Building Inspectors
If you’re considering a career in building inspections, Troy has a few pieces of advice to share.
- Do your research: Thoroughly investigate the different franchises and companies in the industry, and make sure you choose one that aligns with your values and offers the support and resources you need to succeed.
- Prioritize customer service: Building inspections are all about providing your clients with the information and guidance they need to make informed decisions. Focus on being transparent, honest, and responsive, and you’ll build a loyal customer base.
- Embrace ongoing learning: The building inspection industry is constantly evolving, so it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest standards, regulations, and best practices. Take advantage of training opportunities and collaborate with other professionals to keep your skills sharp.
- Diversify your services: Offering a range of complementary services, such as pool safety inspections and property depreciation schedules, can help you stand out from the competition and provide more value to your clients.
- Don’t be afraid to market yourself: As a building inspector, you’re the expert in your field, so don’t be shy about promoting your skills and expertise. Leverage your network, build relationships with real estate agents and conveyancers, and let your work speak for itself.
If you’re ready to take the leap and join the building inspection industry, Troy encourages you to explore the opportunities available with Jim’s Building Inspections.
With their comprehensive training, ongoing support, and diverse range of services, they can provide you with the tools and resources you need to build a successful and rewarding career.
So, what are you waiting for?
Take the first step towards a new and exciting chapter in your professional life.
Connect with Jim’s Building Inspections
To learn more about the Jim’s Building Inspections franchise and how you can get involved, be sure to check out the following resources:
Jim’s Building Inspections website
Jim’s Group YouTube channel
Jim’s Group Facebook page
Whether you’re a homebuyer, a property owner, or an aspiring building inspector, the Jim’s Building Inspections team is here to help.
So don’t hesitate to reach out and let us know how we can assist you on your journey.