Spotlight On : Inspector Owen

Name: Owen Brown
Qualifications: (See Below)
Years in the building industry: 53
Area Serviced: Waitaki District/Riverton/Queenstown & Lakes District/Invercargill/Gore/Clutha District/Central Otago

Please list all of your relevant qualifications.

I hold a Trade Certificate in Carpentry & Joinery - Site 2, and I’m also a Trade Qualified Timber Machinist. My qualifications extend to Solid Wood Manufacturing, particularly in Timber Drying and Treatment. Additionally, I’ve earned a Diploma in Business Accounting, a Diploma in Operations & Production Management and an MBA. It's a diverse mix, but all of these skills come in handy in different aspects of my work.

How long have you been in the building trade for?

I've been in the building trade for 53 years now. It’s been quite a journey, and I’ve seen the industry evolve in ways I never imagined when I first started.

What led you to become a building inspector, and what do you enjoy most about the job?

After all these years, I wanted to stay actively involved in the building industry, but in a role where I could really make a difference for people. Becoming a building inspector allows me to do just that. The part I enjoy the most is helping people, whether they’re buying their first home or ensuring the safety of their current one.

How do you build trust with clients during an inspection, especially when they might be anxious about potential issues?

I find that taking the time to communicate openly is key. I always make sure my clients feel at ease. I explain my findings clearly, both before they read the report and after, to ensure they understand everything. It’s all about making them feel comfortable and informed.

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 important lesson I’ve learned is to be approachable and to listen carefully. Being thorough is crucial too. This approach has shaped how I conduct inspections today—I make sure to give every detail the attention it deserves, while also ensuring the client feels heard and understood.

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 quite a bit of travel—getting from one inspection site to another. One surprising element I encounter regularly is the poor driving abilities of some members of the public! It keeps me on my toes, that’s for sure.

Are there any common misconceptions about building inspections or the role of a building inspector that you’d like to address?

One common misconception is that building inspectors are there to make judgments. In reality, we’re simply documenting what is presented on-site using our experience. We’re there to provide an objective, detailed report—not to pass judgment.

How do you balance the technical and interpersonal aspects of your job?

The key is not to overcomplicate things. I always try to keep explanations simple and clear, ensuring that clients understand the technical details without feeling overwhelmed.

How do you envision the future of building inspections evolving, and what excites you about it?

The industry is constantly evolving, and it’s exciting to see it moving towards becoming more regulated. This shift will likely raise the standards and professionalism within the field, which can only be a good thing for everyone involved.

What skills or traits do you think are essential for someone in your role?

Communication is absolutely essential. You need to be able to connect with people at all levels and make them feel confident in the information you’re providing.

What do you hope to achieve in your role that will have a lasting impact?

I hope to build trust and transparency in every inspection I conduct. If my clients feel they can trust my reports and the advice I offer, then I consider that a lasting impact.

Can you share an interesting or memorable experience you’ve had on the job?

Every inspection is memorable in its own way because each property is unique. There’s always something new to discover, which keeps the job interesting.

How do you handle stressful situations or unexpected issues that arise during inspections?

I remain completely impartial, no matter the situation. It’s important to stay calm and focused, especially when unexpected issues arise.

What aspect of your job do you find most fulfilling?

The most fulfilling part of my job is presenting a thorough report that gives clients the information they need to make informed decisions. Knowing that my work helps them in such a significant way is incredibly rewarding.

How would you describe the team culture at Red LBP?

The team culture at Red LBP is fantastic—it promotes personal values and goals. Everyone supports each other, and there’s a real sense of camaraderie.

What is it about Red LBP that you think makes it stand out among its competitors?

Red LBP stands out because of our proactive approach, our diverse team with a wide range of experience, and our promotional activities that keep us engaged with our clients. It’s a dynamic environment that truly sets us apart.

Who has been the biggest influence or mentor in your career, and what did you learn from them?

My father has been the biggest influence on my career. He taught me the importance of always listening and being fair in my decisions and actions. Those lessons have stayed with me throughout my life.

Do you have any favourite local spots or activities you enjoy in your downtime?

Arrowtown in Central Otago is a favourite spot of mine. It’s a beautiful place to relax and unwind.

What are your future aspirations or personal goals, both inside and outside of work?

My goal is simple: to be a better person each day than I was the day before. It’s a mindset that drives me both personally and professionally.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone who is selling their home?

Make sure all general maintenance is up to date, so your property is presented in the best possible light. First impressions matter!

What is the best piece of advice you would give to people buying a home?

Do your homework—research the property through public records and visit it at least twice before making any decisions. And when it comes time for an inspection, ensure the inspector is not only qualified but also has ample experience to carry out a thorough evaluation.