"Next time, I'll at least pretend to have my act together."
Haha, pretending is half the battle. Honestly though, inspectors are usually looking for obvious red flags rather than a spotless garage. I've been through this circus more times than I'd like (high-risk driver here, unfortunately), and here's what I've learned:
First, clear out anything hazardous—paint cans, oil spills, random gas containers. Inspectors zero in on that stuff immediately. Second, keep your tools organized enough that it looks like you actually know how to use them. Doesn't have to be perfect, just not a total disaster zone. Third, make sure your car itself isn't leaking fluids or visibly damaged right before inspection day—sounds obvious but you'd be surprised how many people overlook it.
But here's something I'm still unsure about: how much does yard appearance really factor into their decisions? I mean, a messy garage I get... but weeds and tall grass? Seems kinda petty if they're judging us on landscaping now too.
Yard appearance might seem petty, but you'd be surprised how often it comes up. A few years back, I had a client whose inspection went sideways partly because his yard looked like a jungle. The inspector didn't outright say it was the deciding factor, but he did mention something about "overall property maintenance" being a reflection of risk awareness. I guess their logic is, if you're neglecting your yard, what else might you be neglecting?
Personally, I think it's a bit of a stretch—I've seen immaculate lawns belonging to people who drive like maniacs—but insurance companies love their data and correlations. So while tall grass probably won't tank your inspection on its own, it might tip the scales if they're already on the fence about something else.
Has anyone else had an inspector comment specifically on landscaping or yard upkeep? Seems like it varies quite a bit depending on who's doing the inspecting...
"Personally, I think it's a bit of a stretch—I've seen immaculate lawns belonging to people who drive like maniacs."
Haha, guilty as charged... my lawn's pristine, but my driving record? Let's just say inspectors have bigger worries. Wonder if they ever peek inside garages too—mine's a disaster zone.
Haha, my garage is a mess too... but honestly, I'd rather they peek in there than watch me parallel park. Lawn's decent though—maybe there's hope for my premiums yet?
Haha, I can relate to the parallel parking anxiety—though personally, I'd prefer they didn't peek anywhere at all. Still, you're onto something with the lawn. I've heard insurers sometimes factor in general upkeep as a sign of responsibility. Not sure how much weight it actually carries, but every little bit helps when you're trying to keep premiums manageable. At least that's what I tell myself when I'm mowing on a Saturday morning...
