Spotlight On : Inspector Prashant

Name: Prashant Dholakiya
Years in the building industry: 7
Area Serviced: Auckland Central

Qualifications and years of experience
I’ve been in the building trade for seven years. I hold a qualification in Construction Management, and am an LBP in Carpentry

What led you to become a building inspector, and what do you enjoy most about the job?
I’ve always had a passion for construction and the safety aspect of buildings. Becoming a building inspector allowed me to combine these interests. What I enjoy most is the variety – every day is different, and I get to help people by identifying issues before they become major problems.

How do you build trust with clients during an inspection, especially when they might be anxious about potential issues?
Trust is crucial in my line of work. I focus on being transparent and explaining the inspection process clearly. I maintain a calm, professional approach and make sure to answer any questions the client might have. Clear communication helps ease their concerns and builds trust.

What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career, and how has it shaped the way you conduct inspections today?
The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is the importance of clear communication. I always aim to explain findings in simple, understandable terms, which helps clients feel informed rather than overwhelmed. This approach has shaped how I conduct my inspections, ensuring I build trust and address any concerns patiently.

What does a typical day look like for you in your role? Are there any routine tasks or surprising elements you encounter regularly?
A typical day involves conducting multiple inspections, documenting findings, and preparing reports. There are always surprises, whether it’s an unexpected code violation or creative construction solutions. Routine tasks include keeping my equipment charged and ensuring my calendar is up-to-date.

Are there any common misconceptions about building inspections or the role of a building inspector that you’d like to address?
Yes, many people believe that building inspectors are there to make things more difficult, but that’s not the case. Our role is to ensure safety and compliance. We’re here to help identify issues and guide clients on how to resolve them, not to cause unnecessary complications.

How do you balance the technical and interpersonal aspects of your job?
It’s all about staying up-to-date with building codes while also honing my communication skills. This balance allows me to accurately assess buildings and explain findings to clients in a way that’s clear and empathetic, which is important in building trust and ensuring they understand the next steps.

How do you envision the future of building inspections evolving, and what excites you about it?
The future of building inspections is exciting with advancements like drones and AI tools. These technologies will make inspections more accurate and efficient. I’m looking forward to seeing how they improve our ability to assess properties and ensure even better outcomes for clients.

What skills or traits do you think are essential for someone in your role?
Attention to detail is key, along with a solid understanding of building codes and construction practices. Good communication is essential, as is patience and problem-solving skills. A strong commitment to safety is also crucial for success in this role.

What do you hope to achieve in your role that will have a lasting impact?
I hope to promote a culture of safety and compliance in construction, ensuring buildings are not only up to code but also safe and sustainable for future generations. Making a positive impact on the safety of the community is a lasting legacy I’d like to leave.

Can you share an interesting or memorable experience you’ve had on the job?
One memorable experience was inspecting an eco-friendly home that used innovative materials and designs. It was inspiring to see how sustainability and creativity can come together in construction.

How do you handle stressful situations or unexpected issues that arise during inspections?
I remain calm and professional. It’s important to gather all necessary information before making decisions. I always communicate clearly with everyone involved, ensuring they understand the situation and potential solutions. Staying calm helps manage stress effectively.

What aspect of your job do you find most fulfilling?
The most fulfilling part of my job is knowing that I’m directly contributing to the safety and well-being of individuals and communities. Helping ensure that buildings are safe, compliant, and well-constructed gives me a great sense of satisfaction.

How would you describe the team culture at Red LBP?
The team culture at Red LBP is dynamic and inclusive. We all respect each other’s perspectives and work together towards common goals. It’s a collaborative environment where everyone’s contributions are valued, and that makes it a great place to work.

What is it about Red LBP that you think makes it stand out amongst its competitors?
Red LBP stands out for its commitment to clear communication and thorough, well-structured inspection reports. We ensure our clients fully understand the condition of their property. Our experienced team also provides valuable insights, and we offer quick inspection turnaround times, which is a huge advantage.

Who has been the biggest influence or mentor in your career, and what did you learn from them?
One of my colleagues has been a major influence. Their exceptional communication skills with clients taught me the importance of explaining complex technical issues in simple terms. This has greatly improved my ability to educate and assist property owners.

How do you balance your professional life with your personal life?
It’s all about setting clear boundaries and managing my time well. I make sure to schedule breaks and enjoy activities that help me recharge, like hiking and photography.

Do you have any favourite local spots or activities you enjoy in your downtime?
I love exploring the city’s historic architecture through walking tours. It’s a great way to satisfy my professional interest while enjoying the local culture. Spending time with my dog, Tuffy, is another favourite way to relax.

How do you like to unwind or relax after a busy day at work?
After a long day, I unwind by connecting with friends and family. Sharing stories and laughter helps me relax. Playing with Tuffy is another great way to de-stress.

What’s one thing about you that might surprise people who only know you through your professional role?
People might be surprised to learn that I love cooking. I enjoy experimenting with new recipes and cuisines. It’s a creative outlet that allows me to unwind.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? Do you have any hobbies or interests that complement your professional skills?
Outside of work, I enjoy photography and hiking. Both hobbies help sharpen my observational skills, which is useful during inspections. Capturing the beauty of nature also inspires me and enhances my attention to detail.

What’s a book, movie, or TV show that you recently enjoyed and would recommend?
I’d highly recommend Suits. It’s a legal drama filled with sharp dialogue and dynamic character development. The show follows the clever Harvey Specter and his unqualified associate Mike Ross, and it’s an engaging watch if you enjoy complex cases and relationships.

What are your future aspirations or personal goals, both inside and outside of work?
Professionally, I aim to continue enhancing my skills to provide even more valuable insights during inspections. Outside of work, I want to encourage lifelong learning and promote curiosity, inspiring others to explore new ideas and perspectives.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone selling their home?
The best advice I can give is to invest in staging and minor repairs to enhance the appeal of your home. First impressions are key. Pricing it competitively based on market research will also help attract more potential buyers.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to people buying a home?
Always prioritise a thorough building inspection before making any final decisions. It can uncover potential issues that may not be visible during viewings, helping you make a well-informed choice and avoid any costly surprises later.