Hidden Dangers: A Proactive Approach to Home Safety

In the world of home maintenance and repairs, many concerns lurk in the background, potentially causing safety hazards that go unnoticed until they escalate into significant issues.

Imagine you’re in a situation similar to our member Ryan’s recent service call. As an experienced electrician, Ryan had a service call where he discovered concerns with a few GFCI outlets with reverse polarity. He suggested options to the owner, who chose a Gold and Silver package for the repairs.

This scenario prompts the question: Could similar issues lurk elsewhere in the house? In this article, we’ll explore how to approach the conversation with homeowners to address this concern, offer solutions, and prioritize safety while maintaining a professional and respectful attitude.

The Gentle Approach to Hidden Safety Concerns:

When discussing potential issues with homeowners, it’s important to be careful with the conversation. Begin by highlighting the positive result of a recent solution. This sets the stage for a forward-thinking conversation about wider safety issues. Engage the homeowner in a conversation, acknowledging their role in decision-making and giving them space to make informed choices.

Offering A Courtesy Inspection:

Suggesting a review of other parts of the house is a forward-thinking action that shows your dedication to their security. But you want to avoid coming across as just looking for things to sell. Craft a respectful pitch, explaining how the same concerns that were addressed could exist in other areas.

Offer a complimentary inspection, emphasizing its value. Feel free to mention the usual cost while using this as an icebreaker. This approach respects the homeowner’s autonomy while providing them with the information they need to make an informed decision. It could look something like this:

Technician: Hi Kevin, do you have a minute?

Kevin: Sure, what’s up?

Technician: I wanted to let you know that the silver option you picked earlier was great. It allowed me to dive into that circuit and fix many problems that were occurring in the Area you are working in (e.g., the master bathroom), and because of that, you shouldn’t be having any more issues with this area for a long time to come. 

Kevin: That’s great news.

Technician: Yes, I think so too; however, As we were there working, I started thinking about something else. You see, we’ve been correcting these safety concerns in your [SPECIFIC AREA], and that made me realize that it’s likely you may have some similar issues in other areas of the house as well, and So, to ensure your home’s mechanical, safety and performance systems are operating correctly.

Since we’re already here, we’d like to offer you a courtesy inspection of those other areas. Typically, this cost would be over $200. However, because we are already here, we want to help you identify any other potential issues with your home’s Mechanical and safety systems.

I wanted to ask you if you would like us to perform that inspection for you to say thank you for using our company today; we would like to cover the cost of the inspection for you as well. Is it free of charge while I’m here today, or should I forget that we even thought of it? What should we do?

Presentation of Options:

Should the inspection reveal issues in multiple areas, it’s time to present solutions. Offering different packages for each room is the best way to structure the conversation. This approach allows homeowners to choose the level of service that aligns with their priorities and budget.

The Importance of Starting at the Top:

Avoid offering lower-tier solutions first. Instead, begin with the Platinum option, a starting point for discussions. This method helps property owners see possible dangers and solutions more clearly. Presenting options from best to worst makes each choice feel like a relief instead of a surprise.

Empowering Homeowners to Choose:

1.Remember, homeowners are capable decision-makers regarding their property.

2.Avoid making choices on their behalf or assuming what they can or cannot afford.

3.Respect their Position and empower them to choose solutions that fit their needs and priorities.

Ryan’s story highlights the importance of taking a proactive stance on home safety. By engaging in thoughtful conversations, offering informative inspections, and presenting options with respect and professionalism, homeowners can make informed choices to ensure the well-being of their homes and families.

As contractors, we must guide, inform, and empower while respecting our customers. After all, a safe home is a shared goal that requires collaboration and dedication from both sides. If you don’t ask, you don’t get!

Have questions? Call us or email us at 706.259.8892 | [email protected]