Inspection Process

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Home Inspection Simplified

Navigate Your Home Purchase with Three Simple Steps:

Reliable Home Inspection G.U.I.D.E™

This process provides transparency, clarity, and actionable insights, differentiating ReliHI in the market.

We begin by gathering essential details about the property and the client’s concerns. This involves reviewing past reports, communicating with the client, and scheduling a thorough on-site inspection. Our process ensures that we know the property’s history, the client’s goals, and any areas of focus before we begin.

Next, we analyze the property’s condition through a detailed inspection using advanced technology and tools. We understand the current state of each component, whether it’s the foundation, roofing, electrical systems, or plumbing. Our team follows the NCHILB Standards of Practice to ensure nothing is overlooked, and we invite homeowners and realtors into the process to uncover key insights and set expectations.

Using the “DDID” method (Describe, Determine, Implication, Direction), we identify issues with precision:

Describe: Clearly describe the system or component being inspected and any areas of concern.

Determine: Identify what’s wrong with the system and highlight any defects, malfunctions, or deficiencies.

Implication: Explain the potential consequences of leaving the issue unaddressed, including safety risks or future costs.

Direction: Provide actionable guidance on what needs to be done—repair, replace, monitor, or seek further professional evaluation.

With a clear understanding of the property’s condition, we develop a detailed report, including visuals and explanations. We present several key findings to help clients and realtors prioritize next steps. Our collaborative feedback process ensures clarity for all parties, helping us refine the report to meet client needs.

Finally, we ensure our findings and recommendations are delivered efficiently. Reports are typically delivered within a 24-hour timeframe, with follow-up available to discuss concerns. We make sure realtors and homeowners have all the information needed to proceed with confidence, whether it’s negotiating repairs or moving forward with the sale.

0% Of NC buyers find defects in their potential new homes through inspections. Porch.com
0Hrs Home inspections in NC typically take around 3 hours but can save you thousands in the long run. North Carolina Real Estate Commission
0% Of all homes are inspected before a purchase. American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI)

What to Expect with Your Home Inspection

Ensure all areas of the home are accessible (attics, basements, panels). Confirm all utilities (water, gas, electricity) are on. If available, gather documents like repair or inspection records for review.

Our goal is to keep the inspection process clear and simple. Most inspections take about 4 hours, depending on the home. We encourage homeowners and realtors to join the wrap-up to review findings.

After the report is delivered, our support continues with post-inspection consultations to review findings and answer questions. You can schedule a call anytime for further guidance, and we provide home maintenance tips in the final report to help with long-term care.

10 Fixes Sellers Should Consider Before Listing

As home inspectors, we often see common issues that sellers can address before listing. While a home inspection is a visual, non-invasive assessment based on the NCHILB Standards of Practice (SOP), these simple fixes can streamline the process and present a well-maintained home.

A clean and well-maintained HVAC system helps with air quality and overall efficiency. Dirty filters and dust-filled vents can signal neglect.

Inspector’s Advice: Replace air filters regularly, wipe down vents, and schedule an HVAC service if it hasn’t been done recently.

Inspectors commonly note missing GFCI protection in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and exterior outlets. Loose or missing outlet covers can also be flagged.

Inspector’s Advice: Test GFCI outlets by pressing “reset,” replace missing covers, and consult a licensed electrician to upgrade outdated or ungrounded outlets.

Leaking fixtures and constantly running toilets can indicate worn-out components or underlying plumbing issues.

Inspector’s Advice: Tighten connections, replace worn washers or flappers, and check for moisture under sinks.

Lint buildup in dryer vents is a fire hazard and can also affect efficiency. Inspectors often note restricted or clogged dryer vents.

Inspector’s Advice: Disconnect the vent hose and vacuum out built-up lint, and clean the exterior vent cover to ensure proper airflow.

Buyers and inspectors will note any visible roof deficiencies, such as missing, cracked, or curled shingles, or signs of moisture damage in the attic.

Inspector’s Advice: Have a qualified roofer inspect and address any minor repairs before they become larger concerns.

Excess moisture, improper ventilation, and signs of rodents or insects can be noted in inspections.

Inspector’s Advice: Use a dehumidifier if needed, replace damp insulation, and seal any gaps where pests may enter.

Cosmetic defects, like minor wall cracks or nail holes, are easy to fix but can leave a negative impression.

Inspector’s Advice: Use spackle for small holes, sand, and repaint for a fresh look.

Water pooling near the foundation can lead to structural issues over time.

Inspector’s Advice: Clean gutters, install or extend downspouts, and ensure landscaping slopes away from the home. Keep bushes and plants at least 6 inches from the structure.

Exterior deterioration can suggest deferred maintenance, which may raise concerns for buyers.

Inspector’s Advice: Scrape and repaint peeling areas, replace rotted wood, and re-caulk windows and doors where needed.

Homes must have functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in key areas. Missing or outdated detectors are commonly flagged in inspections.

Inspector’s Advice: Replace batteries, install detectors where required, and confirm they are properly functioning.

Addressing these small but common issues before listing can prevent surprises in the home inspection and keep the sale process running smoothly. While some repairs may require professional help, tackling these basic maintenance items can help avoid buyer hesitation and last-minute negotiations.

The ReliHI Guarantee

We provide a six-month 100% client satisfaction guarantee or your money back, ensuring confidence for both homebuyers and Realtors. Our reliable inspections reduce stress for buyers and build trust for Realtors with their clients.

Heroes Discount

As a thank you for your service, we offer a $25 discount on inspections for current and former military, law enforcement, K-12 teachers, emergency responders, and firefighters. PLEASE NOTE: The discount must be applied when placing your inspection order. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer refunds for unclaimed discounts.