Hidden Dangers: A Proactive Approach to Home Safety

In the home maintenance and repairs world, many concerns often 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 skillfully presented options to the homeowner, who chose a Gold and a Silver package for the necessary 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 addressing homeowners about potential issues, it’s essential to approach the conversation thoughtfully. Begin by highlighting the positive impact of a recent repair. This lays the foundation for a proactive discussion about broader safety concerns. Engage the homeowner in a conversation, acknowledging their role in decision-making and giving them space to make informed choices.

Offering A Courtesy Inspection:

Proposing an inspection for other areas of the home is a proactive step demonstrating your commitment to their safety. 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 a great choice. It’s allowed me to dive into that circuit and fix many problems that were occurring In the (Area you are working ex: 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. It would be 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 approach gives homeowners a clearer perspective on the potential risks and the comprehensive solutions available. Offering options top-down ensures that each subsequent option is seen as a relief rather than a shock.

Empowering Homeowners to Choose:

1. Remember, homeowners are capable decision-makers when it comes to 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 | info@thenewflatrate.com