Question 1

Why is Ian the right choice for your home inspection?

Accepted Answer

Ian is your go-to inspector with thousands of inspections across North Carolina, Northern California, and Idaho. He’s worked with top home inspection companies and managed a 200+ unit apartment complex, giving him a deep understanding of property systems. Ian holds a North Carolina Home Inspector License (#4427) and is ICA certified. As a former Ohio National Guard Soldier of the Year, he brings discipline and integrity to every inspection. Ian’s mission is to protect your investment with expert knowledge and a personal touch.

Question 2

What should I expect during a home inspection?

Accepted Answer

We give your home a top-to-bottom visual check, covering all the major systems — from the roof to the foundation, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and more. We carefully document any visible issues or safety concerns and deliver a clear, easy-to-read report.

Our goal? To give you the confidence to make informed decisions — no surprises, no confusing jargon. Perfect for buyers, sellers, and realtors who want peace of mind.

Question 3

What is the duration of a home inspection?

Accepted Answer

Inspections typically last 2 to 4 hours, depending on the home’s size and condition. Larger homes or properties with detached buildings may take longer. We encourage clients to attend, but it’s best to save most questions for the summary at the end. If you can’t attend, we’ll provide a detailed report and review it with you by phone.

Question 4

What do you inspect and what is NOT included?

Accepted Answer

Per the North Carolina Home Inspector Licensure Board, we inspect readily accessible and visible components, including:

Roof covering, gutters, and drainage
Foundation and structural framing
Plumbing and electrical systems
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
Interior walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors
Appliances and built-in systems (when included)

What we do NOT inspect:

Areas that are concealed, inaccessible, or unsafe to enter
Environmental hazards like asbestos or lead paint (unless specifically tested)
Pools, septic systems, or wells (unless separately contracted)
Code compliance or building permits
Cosmetic issues that don’t affect safety or function
Items not part of the home, such as portable air conditioners

Question 5

What should buyers expect?

Accepted Answer

You’ll get a detailed report identifying safety concerns, needed repairs, and maintenance tips. We encourage you to attend the inspection so we can explain findings in real time and answer your questions. This helps you negotiate repairs or price adjustments confidently.

Question 6

What should sellers expect?

Accepted Answer

If you’re having a pre-listing inspection, we’ll thoroughly review your home’s major systems — from the roof and foundation to plumbing, electrical, and HVAC — to uncover any issues early. This gives you time to make repairs and avoid surprises during buyer inspections. You’ll receive the same clear, easy-to-understand report we provide to buyers, and we’re happy to walk through the findings with you or your agent so you can list your home with confidence.

If we’re hired by the buyer, you can still expect professionalism and respect. We follow strong ethical standards, treat your home as if it were our own, and take care to leave everything just as we found it. Our goal is a smooth inspection process for everyone — no stress, no surprises.

Question 7

How do I prepare for my inspection?

Accepted Answer

For buyers: Come ready to walk through the home with us, ask questions, and take notes. Make sure all areas are accessible, including the attic, basement, garage, and crawl spaces, so we can perform a thorough inspection. Gather any maintenance records or warranties to better understand the home’s history.

For sellers: Ensure the home is clean and accessible, with clear pathways and secured pets. This helps us inspect efficiently and leave your home exactly as we found it. Providing maintenance records or repair history can speed up the process and help buyers feel confident.

For investors or commercial properties: Make sure we have access to all units, mechanical rooms, and common areas. Bring any lease agreements, maintenance logs, or renovation records. Being prepared allows us to identify potential issues that could affect long-term value, tenant safety, or compliance, giving you the insight to make smart investment decisions.

In all cases, preparation ensures a smooth inspection and gives everyone peace of mind about the property.

Question 8

How do you collaborate with realtors?

Accepted Answer

We make realtors' jobs easier with priority scheduling and clear, modern reports. We understand deadlines and the need for confidence in every deal. That’s why we partner closely with agents to ensure clients feel informed and ready to close with peace of mind.

Question 9

What is radon? Should I have it tested?

Accepted Answer

Radon is a naturally occurring, odorless, and colorless gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. It can enter homes through cracks in the foundation, crawl spaces, or basements. Long-term exposure to high levels of radon can pose health risks, which is why awareness is important.
In the North Carolina High Country, radon levels tend to be higher than average due to the region’s geology — the soil and rock formations here are more likely to release radon gas.
Testing for radon is completely optional, but many buyers and sellers choose to do it for peace of mind. During an inspection, we use a modern, continuous radon monitor to measure levels accurately over a short period. To get the most reliable results, the home should remain closed (doors and windows) during the test, and the monitor should not be disturbed. Typically, the test takes 48 hours, after which we can review the results and explain what they mean.
We’re happy to discuss radon testing and results during your inspection so you can make an informed decision about whether mitigation is needed.

Question 10

What are the available water testing options?

Accepted Answer

We offer two water testing options:

1. **Basic Water Test**: Checks for common contaminants affecting health, taste, and odor. Ideal for single-family homes.

2. **5-Panel Water Test**: Screens for five key contaminants, including bacteria and nitrates. Perfect for wells, rural properties, or anyone wanting detailed water quality info.

Both tests provide clear results, and we’ll explain what they mean for your home.

Question 11

What is air quality testing, and do I need it?

Accepted Answer

Air quality testing helps identify whether there are mold spores or other airborne particles inside your home that could affect your health and comfort. Using a professional lab-based testing system, we collect air samples from different areas of the home and send them for analysis.
You’ll receive a detailed report that shows the types and levels of particles present, compared against normal outdoor air samples. This helps determine whether there may be a hidden moisture issue, mold growth, or ventilation problem.
Testing is completely optional, but it’s especially helpful if:
You or your family experience allergies, asthma, or unexplained respiratory issues
The home has had past water damage or leaks
You’re purchasing a property and want peace of mind about indoor air quality
The results are easy to understand, and we’ll walk you through them so you know whether any action is recommended.

Question 12

What is mold swab testing?

Accepted Answer

Mold swab testing is a way to determine if a visible substance inside a home is mold and, if so, what type of mold it may be. During the inspection, if we encounter an area of concern, we can collect a surface sample using a sterile swab. That sample is then sent to a professional laboratory for analysis.

The lab report will identify the presence and type of mold spores found in the sample. This information can be useful if you want to better understand what’s present in a specific location within the home.

It’s important to note that as licensed home inspectors in North Carolina, we do not interpret lab results, determine health risks, or prescribe remediation. Our role is to collect the sample and provide you with the lab’s findings in a clear report. If further evaluation or remediation is needed, we may recommend you consult with a specialist in mold remediation or indoor air quality. Testing is optional, but it can provide added clarity if you see a suspicious substance and want laboratory confirmation.

Question 13

When will I get my inspection report?

Accepted Answer

You’ll receive your detailed report within 48 to 72 hours after the inspection — often sooner. Our reports include photos and clear explanations written in plain English, so you can understand what’s happening in your home.
It’s important to note that the North Carolina Home Inspector Licensure Board recommends specific wording and reporting standards, which means some items may sound more serious than they really are. That’s why Ian offers a post-inspection call to go over the findings in a calm, reassuring manner, answer your questions, and help you understand what’s truly important.

Question 14

Where is my report?

Accepted Answer

After your inspection, your detailed report is delivered through our secure system. If you haven’t yet completed payment, the report will remain locked and won’t be sent until payment is received.
Legally, per North Carolina Home Inspector Licensure Board rules, we have up to 72 hours to deliver the report. That said, we strive to get all reports out by the following day at the latest.

Once payment is processed, you’ll receive full access to your report, including photos, notes, and recommendations. We’re always happy to walk through the findings with you if you have questions.

Question 15

What are the payment options?

Accepted Answer

We use Spectora for secure payments. After scheduling, you’ll get a payment link via email or text. Pay online with a credit or debit card, and you’ll get an instant receipt. Payment is due at booking or before the inspection for a hassle-free experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions