Establish informed consent:
We apraise the homeowner of difficulty-level, materials needed, and time required. We advise that a building inspector should certify the work; that a homeowner's permit will be required; and that the homeowner should get familiarized with with building code. The homeowner will direct every move. We thus proceed to install the UL-listed device, in accordance with enclosed instructions, on the basis of homeowner proficency in the areas of mechanical and electrical engineering; fluency with relevant building code; and after they have thoroughly reviewed both National Electric Code (NEC) and National Fire Prevention & Safety Association (NFPA) guidlines (these are available on-line, and at Loussak Library). Give the homeowner time for doing the necessary research. Only start work after they are ready. Preface each step with an explanation of how one might logically proceed. With each step, the homeowner must tell us exactly what to do. Following each step, the homeowner will verify faithful execution. The homeowner invites a building inspector whenever necessary.
Sample homeowner behavior pioneered by: Marty Messmer
Marty, a one-time boss of mine, used spin for appearing authoritative while perhaps clueless. Marty restated my every word as though to correct my folly. Initially unamused, I now see promise for this mannerism. I like it now because I had no final say on anything. My ideas were officially ignored---while also instituted. I really got the best of both worlds. I got to do what I thought was right. And code-compliance was Marty's responsibility. |
