What action should an inspector take if the thermostat is not programmed?

When a thermostat is not programmed, the most appropriate action for an inspector to take is to disclaim the inspection. This means that the inspector cannot accurately assess the functionality of the heating and cooling system because the lack of programming can lead to misinterpretation of how the system operates.

In this context, if the thermostat is not set up properly, the inspector could arrive at faulty conclusions about the system’s condition based on incorrect readings or performance. For instance, if the temperature settings are off or not programmed to reflect normal operating conditions, the system might not respond as expected during the inspection. Thus, disclaiming inspection is a way to clarify to all parties involved that any findings regarding the thermostat and heating/cooling systems could be unreliable due to the programming issue.

Taking such action helps to maintain the integrity of the inspection report and provides a clear understanding of what limitations were encountered. It ensures that information provided is truthful and reflects the system's status accurately, protecting both the inspector and the client from potential misunderstandings.