Spotlight on: Inspector Kris

Area Serviced: Nelson/Tasman

Please list all of your relevant qualifications.

I’m a National Certificate holder in Carpentry and a Licensed Building Practitioner.

How long have you been in the building trade for?

I’ve been in the building trade for over 25 years now.

What led you to become a building inspector, and what do you enjoy most about the job?

After many years in the building trade, I wanted to take on a new challenge and explore a different aspect of the industry. Becoming a building inspector seemed like the perfect fit. I really enjoy meeting new people every day and helping them make informed decisions about their homes.

How do you build trust with clients during an inspection, especially when they might be anxious about potential issues?

Trust is key, especially in this line of work. I find that taking the time to talk to clients and explain the inspection process really helps. When people understand what’s happening, it eases their concerns and helps them feel more confident about the outcome.

What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career, and how has it shaped the way you conduct inspections today?

Early in my career, I was told that a person’s house is likely the biggest investment they’ll ever make. That advice stuck with me, and it drives me to do the best job I can for every client. I always remember the importance of what I’m inspecting and how much it means to the homeowner.

What does a typical day look like for you in your role? Are there any routine tasks or surprising elements you encounter regularly?

My day usually starts with breakfast with my family and feeding our pets. After that, it’s off to work. Each day is different, but the one constant is the variety of people and homes I get to see. It keeps things interesting!

Are there any common misconceptions about building inspections or the role of a building inspector that you’d like to address?

One thing I’d like people to know is that we’re here to help. Sometimes there’s a misconception that inspections are about finding faults or causing issues, but in reality, we’re just here to provide an honest and thorough assessment of the property.

How do you balance the technical and interpersonal aspects of your job?

Good communication is the key. While the technical side of the job is crucial, it’s equally important to make sure clients understand what’s going on. I try to explain things in a straightforward way that makes sense to everyone, regardless of their background.

How do you envision the future of building inspections evolving, and what excites you about it?

I believe the industry will continue to grow as more people recognise the importance of understanding what they’re buying or selling. It’s exciting to be part of an industry that plays such a crucial role in property transactions.

What skills or traits do you think are essential for someone in your role?

Being trade qualified is essential, but experience is just as important. The more years you’ve spent in the industry, the better equipped you are to notice the finer details during an inspection.

What do you hope to achieve in your role that will have a lasting impact?

I hope that when someone in the Nelson/Tasman area thinks of property inspections, they think of Kris at REDLBP. I want to be known for providing reliable, thorough reports that clients can trust.

Can you share an interesting or memorable experience you’ve had on the job?

One of the best parts of the job is the people I meet. I once met an older gentleman who told me about his adventures cycling around Australia. It was a fascinating story and a reminder that everyone has a unique journey.

How do you handle stressful situations or unexpected issues that arise during inspections?

Staying calm is the key. I try to relax and work through any issues methodically. It’s important to keep a level head and focus on finding solutions.

What aspect of your job do you find most fulfilling?

The most fulfilling part of my job is helping people understand what they’re buying or selling. Providing a clear and detailed report that gives them peace of mind is incredibly rewarding.

How would you describe the team culture at Red LBP?

It’s fantastic! The team at REDLBP is professional, experienced, and communicative. We work well together and support each other, which makes a big difference in the quality of service we provide.

What is it about Red LBP that you think makes it stand out amongst its competitors?

Our professionalism, industry experience, and excellent communication really set us apart. We take a proactive approach and have a team with a wide range of experience, which allows us to offer top-quality inspections.

Who has been the biggest influence or mentor in your career, and what did you learn from them?

A builder I worked with, Donald Peter, has been a major influence. He taught me to always do my best, no matter the task. That lesson has stuck with me throughout my career.

How do you balance your professional life with your personal life?

I’m lucky because I genuinely enjoy what I do. When you love your work, it’s easier to find that balance between professional responsibilities and personal life.

Do you have any favourite local spots or activities you enjoy in your downtime?

I love the outdoors, and I spend a lot of my free time hunting, fishing, and surfing. It’s a great way to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

How do you like to unwind or relax after a busy day at work?

A nice dinner and an interesting documentary are my go-to ways to relax after a busy day. It’s a simple pleasure, but it helps me unwind.

What’s one thing about you that might surprise people who only know you through your professional role?

I’m passionate about hunting. It’s something I love doing in my spare time, and it might surprise people who only know me as a building inspector.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? Do you have any hobbies or interests that you feel complement your professional skills?

Keeping fit is important to me, and it definitely complements my work. Staying active helps me stay sharp and focused, which is essential for conducting thorough inspections.

What’s a book, movie, or TV show that you recently enjoyed and would recommend?

I recently read White Water, Brown Water, which is about a solo kayak trip down the length of the Amazon. It was a great read and very inspiring.

What are your future aspirations or personal goals, both inside and outside of work?

I’d like to grow my franchise and help it reach its full potential. Personally, I’d love to do some travelling with my family—there’s so much of the world to see!

What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone who is selling their home?

Get a REDLBP property report. It will give you peace of mind and help you sell your home with confidence.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to people buying a home?

A REDLBP property report is invaluable. It helps you understand exactly what you’re buying, so you can make an informed decision.