While I won't further argue the point, one could construe that 43.15 does require the A&P or IA (depending on the inspection) to verify the paperwork and certificates are valid as they are part of what makes the aircraft "airworthy"
§ 43.15 Additional performance rules for inspections.
(a) General. Each person performing an inspection required by part 91, 125, or 135 of this chapter, shall—
(1) Perform the inspection so as to determine whether the aircraft, or portion(s) thereof under inspection, meets all applicable airworthiness requirements; and
Its a huge grey area and I personally would refuse to sign of an inspection on an aircraft that the airworthy cert of the registration is not correct and valid.
Charles
