Spotlight On : Inspector Mayur

Name: Mayur Kakadiya
Years in the building industry: 6
Area Serviced: Auckland Central

Please list all of your relevant qualifications:
Construction Management

What led you to become a building inspector, and what do you enjoy most about the job?
I’ve always been passionate about construction and people, and becoming a building inspector allowed me to combine those interests. What I enjoy most is the variety—every day brings new challenges and the opportunity to help ensure buildings are safe for people to live and work in.

How do you build trust with clients during an inspection, especially when they might be anxious about potential issues?
I believe trust is built through open communication. I make sure to explain things in simple terms and listen to any concerns the client has. By being transparent and offering clear explanations, I help reassure clients that I’m there to support them, not just point out problems.

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 patience and thoroughness. I’ve realised that taking the time to carefully explain each aspect of the inspection builds trust and ensures clients fully understand any potential issues.

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 by reviewing my schedule with Prashant and preparing for the inspections. One routine task is making sure my tools are ready and that I’ve checked any other provided documentts before arriving on-site. There are often surprising moments, like uncovering hidden problems that weren’t initially apparent or discovering creative fixes homeowners have tried to implement.

Are there any common misconceptions about building inspections or the role of a building inspector that you’d like to address?
A common misconception is that inspectors are out to find faults and make things harder. In reality, our goal is to ensure buildings are safe and compliant. We’re there to help, not hinder, and often our advice can prevent costly problems down the line. Another misconception is that inspections are a mere formality—they’re actually a crucial part of good due diligence on a home sale and purchase.

How do you balance the technical and interpersonal aspects of your job?
Balancing the technical and interpersonal aspects comes down to clear communication. While I rely on my technical knowledge to conduct thorough inspections, I make sure to engage with clients by explaining things in simple terms and answering any questions they have.

How do you envision the future of building inspections evolving, and what excites you about it?
I believe the future of building inspections will be shaped by new technology like drones and AI, which can make inspections more accurate and efficient. I’m excited about how these advancements will allow us to assess difficult-to-reach areas and provide quicker, more detailed reports.

What skills or traits do you think are essential for someone in your role?
Attention to detail is essential in this job, as well as a deep understanding of building codes and construction practices. Strong communication skills are equally important since we need to explain complex issues clearly. Patience and problem-solving abilities are also key, especially when dealing with unexpected challenges during inspections.

What do you hope to achieve in your role that will have a lasting impact?
I hope to contribute to a culture of awareness and excellence in construction. By conducting thorough inspections and educating clients on their homes, I aim to make a lasting impact on the quality buildings. It’s my goal to leave a positive mark on the community by ensuring structures are safe for years to come.

Can you share an interesting or memorable experience you’ve had on the job?
One memorable experience was inspecting a heritage property that had been in the same family for generations. During the inspection, I found some significant structural issues, and the owners were initially upset. However, after explaining how addressing these problems could preserve the home for future generations, they were grateful and willing to make the necessary repairs

How do you handle stressful situations or unexpected issues that arise during inspections?
When faced with stressful situations, I stay calm and assess the situation step by step. Clear communication is crucial—I explain the issue to the client in a straightforward way and offer possible solutions.

What aspect of your job do you find most fulfilling?
The most fulfilling part of my job is knowing that I’m helping to ensure people’s safety. Every time I complete an inspection, I feel good knowing that I’ve played a role in making sure a building is safe and up to standard.

How would you describe the team culture at Red LBP?
The team culture at Red LBP is very collaborative and supportive. Everyone values each other’s input, and we work together to ensure the best outcomes for our clients. There’s a strong emphasis on learning and improvement, which creates a positive and motivating work environment.

What is it about Red LBP that you think makes it stand out amongst its competitors?
Red LBP stands out because of its dedication to both excellence and client education. We don’t just provide inspection reports; we help our clients understand what’s happening with their property, so they can make informed decisions. This focus on transparency and our commitment to using the latest tools and technologies really sets us apart.

Who has been the biggest influence or mentor in your career, and what did you learn from them?
My biggest mentor was a senior inspector I worked with early in my career. He taught me the importance of integrity and attention to detail. His advice on how to communicate clearly and put clients at ease has stayed with me.

How do you balance your professional life with your personal life?
Balancing work and personal life is important to me. I manage this by setting clear boundaries—once work is done for the day, I make sure to switch off and focus on my family and personal interests.

Do you have any favourite local spots or activities you enjoy in your downtime?
In my downtime, I enjoy visiting the local parks and taking nature walks. I also enjoy spending time with family at local cafes, enjoying good food and conversation.

How do you like to unwind or relax after a busy day at work?
After a busy day, I like to relax by spending time with my family, maybe watching a movie or having a good meal together. I also enjoy listening to music or taking a walk.

What’s one thing about you that might surprise people who only know you through your professional role?
One thing that might surprise people is my love for cooking. I enjoy experimenting with different cuisines and trying out new recipes.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? Do you have any hobbies or interests that you feel complement your professional skills?
Outside of work, I enjoy gardening and photography. Gardening helps me develop patience and attention to detail, both of which are important in my work. Photography, especially capturing architectural details, complements my professional skills by sharpening my observation and appreciation for design.

What’s a book, movie, or TV show that you recently enjoyed and would recommend?
I recently watched the Bollywood film 3 Idiots. It’s a great story about friendship, life choices, and the pressures of society. The humour, emotional depth, and lessons about following your passion really resonated with me, and I’d recommend it to anyone looking for an inspiring film.

What are your future aspirations or personal goals, both inside and outside of work?
Professionally, I aim to continue growing in my role by staying updated with the latest trends and technologies in building inspections. Outside of work, I hope to travel more, explore different cultures, and keep improving my skills in gardening and photography.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone who is selling their home?
I would advise sellers to get a pre-sale inspection. It allows you to identify and fix any issues before potential buyers see the property, which can make the selling process smoother and build confidence with buyers. It’s a smart investment that can save you time and hassle in the long run.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to people buying a home?
Always get a thorough home inspection before finalising your purchase. It’s crucial to uncover any hidden issues that might not be visible during a viewing. An inspection can save you from costly repairs later and give you peace of mind that your investment is sound.