What should an inspector do if they encounter a conflict of interest?

When an inspector encounters a conflict of interest, the most responsible course of action is to inform the customer of the conflict. This approach ensures transparency and maintains trust in the inspection process. By communicating any potential biases or interests that may affect the inspection, the inspector allows the customer to make informed decisions regarding their vehicle's safety evaluation.

Proceeding with the inspection, as suggested in one of the choices, ignores the ethical implications and could compromise the integrity of the inspection. Referring to another inspector can be a wise choice, but it should be done after the customer is informed of the situation to allow them to decide on how they wish to proceed. Ignoring the situation entirely fails to address the ethical standards expected in the field and can lead to mistrust or potential liability issues.

Thus, informing the customer of the conflict highlights the importance of adherence to ethical practices, ensuring that the inspector upholds professional standards while fostering a collaborative approach with the customer regarding their vehicle's safety.