A home inspection is a professional evaluation of a property’s visible and accessible components—such as roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical, HVAC systems, appliances and structural elements—to determine its current condition. Inspectors do not pass or fail a house; instead they detail deficiencies and recommend repairs or further evaluation.
Most residential inspections last about two to four hours depending on the size, age and complexity of the home. Commercial inspections and multi-unit properties may take longer because there are more systems and spaces to evaluate.
Fees vary by region and size. In North Carolina, prices typically range from about $450+ for homes, with larger houses costing more. Additional services—such as radon testing, termite inspection or sewer scope—are billed separately and can increase the total.
In a typical sale, the buyer hires the inspector within 7–10 days of signing a purchase agreement and is responsible for the fee. Sellers sometimes order pre-listing inspections to identify and correct issues before marketing the property.
The inspector delivers a comprehensive report—often within 24 hours for homes or up to a week for large commercial buildings. Clients should review the report with their agent, prioritize safety and functional issues, obtain repair estimates and use the findings to negotiate or plan maintenance.
Regular inspections provide a professional check-up on your home’s major systems. Inspectors can spot small problems—like a slow roof leak or outdated electrical components—before they become costly repairs, giving you clarity and a detailed maintenance plan. OWHI’s Home Health File app, stores your inspection history and reminders, making it easy to track upkeep over time.
Most standard single-family homes take about two to four hours (approximately 1 hour per 1k sqft). Larger or older houses and homes with extra services (such as radon, termite or pool inspections) may take longer. OWHI schedules enough time to thoroughly evaluate each component and answer your questions.
Inspectors examine the roof, attic insulation, ventilation, foundation, plumbing, electrical system, HVAC, windows, doors, floors, walls, ceilings and built-in appliances. OWHI categorizes findings as safety hazards, functional defects, maintenance items and normal wear so you can prioritize repairs.
Pricing depends on square footage, age and location. A house around 1,500 sq ft may cost around $450+, while a 3,500–4,000 sq ft home averages about $600+. Add-on services such as radon testing ($150–$200) or mold sampling ($200–$400) increase the fee.
Yes—attending allows you to see issues firsthand, ask questions and learn maintenance tips. Oue inspectors encourage clients to walk through the property near the end of the inspection so they can explain findings and show how systems work.
Ensure all utilities are on, replace burned-out bulbs, clear access to the attic, crawlspace, water heater, and electrical panel, unlock gates and outbuildings, secure pets and tidy up. Address small maintenance items—like changing HVAC filters or tightening loose handrails—so the inspector can focus on significant issues.
No. Inspectors provide unbiased information so you can make informed decisions; they do not pass or fail a property. Deals usually fall apart due to mismatched expectations or unprepared buyers, not because inspectors create problems.
A home inspection evaluates the physical condition of the property, while an appraisal estimates market value for the lender. Appraisers focus on comparable sales and loan risk; inspectors focus on safety and functionality. Both are important but serve different purposes.
Many homeowners schedule a comprehensive inspection every few years or before major renovations. OWHI’s recurring inspection packages include annual check-ups and seasonal maintenance reminders to keep your Home Health File up to date.
Yes—while a standard inspection covers visible defects, additional services like radon testing, mold sampling, sewer scope and pest inspection can identify hidden hazards. These add-on tests are often recommended in North Carolina because radon levels and termite activity vary by home.
For most houses, OWHI delivers an electronic report with photos within the same day, but most inspection companies will deliver withing 24-72 hours. The report includes a summary page, detailed findings and maintenance suggestions, and is securely stored in your Home Health File.
Inspections build trust and protect your reputation. They set clear expectations for buyers and sellers, provide documentation that supports negotiations and demonstrates that you prioritize client safety.
Encourage sellers to ensure utilities are on, clear access and complete basic maintenance. Advise buyers to attend the inspection, prepare questions and understand that no home is perfect—it’s about identifying issues and solutions. Realtors play a huge role in shaping how clients experience the inspection. By controlling the narrative early—explaining that inspections focus on visible, accessible systems and don’t involve tearing walls open or predicting the future—you keep expectations realistic. That way, clients understand inspectors don’t have ‘x-ray vision,’ and the report becomes a tool for decision-making, not a surprise attack.
Reports contain a summary of major safety to minor maintenance concerns, structural issues and costly repairs, followed by detailed evaluations of major systems with photos and recommendations. They also list limitations or exclusions so you can explain what was not inspected.
Not when they’re done right. Inspections are meant to uncover issues so buyers, sellers, and homeowners can understand the clear path forward. Sometimes, though, the way a report is written—or the way an inspector communicates—can create unnecessary alarm. At OWHI, we’re intentional about both: our reports use precise language for accuracy, but we also take the time to explain verbally what that wording means in real terms. The goal is clarity, not fear. When something is truly serious, we’ll say so plainly. But most of the time, it’s about giving context, explaining solutions, and keeping everyone focused on how to move forward rather than getting stuck on the problem.
Residential inspections usually last three to four hours, while commercial inspections may require five to seven hours or more. At OWHI, we typically get you on the schedule within 72 hours of your request—but that doesn’t mean you should wait until the last minute. The smartest move is to check our calendar a day or two in advance to see openings and lock in your spot. We recommend scheduling within 1–5 days of contract acceptance so the process stays on track without creating last-minute stress.
The best way to get value from an inspection report is to prioritize findings based on safety, cost, and their potential impact on resale value. We also provide context—for example, minor wear is normal in older homes—so clients don’t overreact to cosmetic issues. At OWHI, we encourage you to read the full report, not just the summary page. The summary is helpful for quick reference, but the body of the report often contains important details about limitations, conditions observed, and explanations you don’t want to miss. Here at OWHI, we can connect you with trusted contractors and help guide negotiations using the evidence presented.
In North Carolina there is no rule requiring agents to provide a minimum number of inspectors, the Real Estate Commission says brokers should encourage buyers or tenants to order inspections and that brokers may supply clients with a list of licensed, competent service providers to choose from. NC REALTORS® add that firms can set their own policies on how many names to offer; ultimately, the buyer or seller must make the final selection. So, it’s perfectly acceptable to recommend a trusted inspector, as long as you make clear that the choice is theirs. At OWHI, we have multiple licensed inspectors and highlight why we’re often the right fit, our extensive experience, proper licensing, and detailed digital reports give clients confidence. We never guarantee another firm’s work; instead, we focus on demonstrating the value of our services and letting the client decide
At OWHI, we send our reports within the same by a digital platform or hard copy when requested. However, other companies may send reports within 24 to 72 hours. Schedule time to review the report with your clients, discuss major issues, estimate repair costs and plan negotiation strategies.
Many buyers expect a “perfect” inspection; remind them that every home has flaws and the goal is to understand the property, not to scare them off. Sellers sometimes fear that inspectors will sabotage the sale; explain that disclosure builds buyer confidence and reduces liability.
Yes, we provide agent-friendly fallout scripts and negotiation templates to help you communicate findings clearly. Our partnership program includes training on how to use inspection data to protect your clients and close deals.
Regular property inspections help you catch maintenance issues early, ensure tenants are complying with the lease, and protect your investment. These routine walk-throughs can spot signs of water damage, safety hazards, or unauthorized modifications before they become costly problems. In North Carolina, a “home inspection” is legally defined as a written evaluation of two or more residential systems based on observation and non-invasive testing. Performing such an inspection for compensation requires a licensed home inspector, and doing so without a license is a Class 2 misdemeanor. Unless you’re a licensed general contractor providing a free estimate, limit yourself to informal property checks and hire a licensed inspector for full assessments.
Best practices include pre-leasing (to make repairs before marketing), at move-in (documenting the baseline condition), mid-lease check-ups (often at six months), whenever tenants report problems, and before move-out. These touchpoints promote transparency and help avoid disputes.
Inspections evaluate the exterior (roof, gutters, siding, windows, yard), interior (walls, floors, signs of leaks, locks, outlets), kitchen and bathrooms (fixtures, ventilation, appliances) and utilities/safety items like HVAC, water heater, fire extinguishers and electrical hazards.
Proactive inspections show tenants you care about their safety and comfort. Communicating results, promptly addressing repair requests and documenting everything fosters trust and reduces turnover.
Most leases allow periodic inspections with proper notice. Always follow state and local landlord-tenant laws regarding notice periods and entry rights; documentation protects you and the tenant. Our inspectors provide detailed reports that support compliance.
Small apartments may take one to two hours; larger multi-family buildings require more time. Scheduling around tenant availability helps minimize disruption.
OWHI provides portfolio packages with discounted rates for multiple units, recurring inspection schedules and digital reports accessible through your Home Health File dashboard. Optional add-ons include sewer scope, thermal imaging and pest inspections.
Yes—identifying issues early prevents emergency repairs and preserves property value. Showing prospective tenants recent inspection reports reassures them of the property’s condition and can help justify rent levels.
Review the report’s safety and functional deficiencies first—like faulty electrical outlets or leaks—then address deferred maintenance such as worn flooring or aging HVAC. Plan upgrades over time based on budget and return on investment.
Absolutely—our investor program allows you to schedule inspections for several units at once, saving time and money. You’ll receive individual reports plus a portfolio summary highlighting trends across your properties.
As a buyer, you can expect a thorough evaluation of the home and it’s major systems and components, a walk-through with the inspector to review findings, and a detailed written report. It’s important to understand up front that an inspection covers what’s visible and accessible on the day of the visit. Inspectors don’t have x-ray vision or the ability to see through walls, so the goal isn’t perfection—it’s to give you an accurate picture of the home’s current condition and practical guidance for planning future maintenance.
It’s highly recommended. Being present lets you ask questions, learn how systems operate and see issues firsthand. If you cannot attend, consider scheduling a call with the inspector to discuss findings.
In most transactions, the buyer orders and pays for the inspection as part of due diligence. The cost is typically due within 24 hours of scheduling the inspection and is a small investment compared with potential repair expenses.
Contact an inspector shortly after your offer is accepted—usually within 1-5 days to allow time for scheduling, reviewing the report and negotiating repairs. Delays can compress your due-diligence period.
Pay close attention to safety hazards (e.g., faulty wiring, structural cracks), moisture issues, roof damage, and failing HVAC equipment. At OWHI your inspector will categorize items by severity and explain which defects require immediate attention versus monitoring. (Blue=Maintenance/Repair in the next 12-24 months, Orange=Damaged/Not Functional- Needs Repair Now/Repair within the next 1-6 months, Red=Safety Hazard/Needs Repair ASAP/Potential Life Threating Issue).
Yes. Use the report to request repairs, credits or price adjustments. Lean on your agent to help craft a negotiation strategy based on the severity and cost of the issues. Sometimes sellers agree to address major hazards while buyers accept minor cosmetic flaws.
Significant issues—like foundation issues, extensive mold or active roof leaks, may prompt you to renegotiate or walk away. Typically there is an inspection contingency in the contract that may allow you to exit if the property requires more repairs than you’re willing to undertake. Make sure to speak with your realtor about this prior to going under contract on a home.
Your purchase agreement outlines the due-diligence period, which is negotiated prior to going under contract. Schedule the inspection as soon as possible to allow time for the inspection, reading the report, obtaining quotes and negotiating. OWHI delivers reports the same day so you can stay on schedule.
No—an appraisal determines the home’s value for the lender, whereas an inspection evaluates its physical condition. You may need both for different reasons during the purchase.
Absolutely. Even brand-new homes can have defects such as improper grading, missing insulation or code violations. A third-party inspection ensures the builder delivers the quality you expect and provides a baseline for your warranty.
It’s a comprehensive evaluation of a commercial building’s structural systems, building envelope, mechanical systems and grounds to identify defects, safety hazards and maintenance needs. The goal is to inform buyers, sellers, lessees and lenders about the property’s condition and potential risks.
Inspectors assess the site (parking lots, drainage), structural systems, roofing and exterior envelope (doors, windows, stairs), interior components (common areas and tenant spaces) and major mechanical systems like HVAC, plumbing, electrical and elevators. At OWHI, we can customize the scope based on building type and client needs.
Typically, two to seven hours for average-size buildings, plus additional time to prepare the report. Large or complex properties may require multiple inspectors and several days.
Prices depend on the property’s square footage, age, complexity and the scope of work. We provide custom quotes after understanding your goals and can include specialized services such as environmental evaluations.
It reveals defects and maintenance issues that could affect safety, tenant satisfaction and operating costs. Armed with knowledge, buyers and investors can negotiate purchase terms or budget for repairs.
As soon as you’re under contract or planning to lease a space. Early scheduling ensures you have time to review findings and negotiate before closing.
The current owner should allow access to all areas, including mechanical rooms, rooftop units and tenant spaces. Gather maintenance records and previous inspection reports. Notify tenants of the inspection so they are prepared for entry.
Tenants should be informed of the date and duration because inspectors may need to enter leased spaces. Good communication ensures minimal disruption and fosters cooperation.
Yes, OWHI is a full-service inspection company and can conduct and arrange additional assessments such as environmental testing, ADA compliance, fire suppression systems, sprinkler and elevator inspections through vetted specialists. Bundling these services saves time and reduces scheduling headaches.
At OWHI we deliver a detailed report often within three business days, that includes photos, descriptions of defects, cost estimates and recommended actions.
Inspections provide a third-party validation of your contractors work and reassure buyers that quality standards were met. Partnering with a trusted inspection team reduces callbacks, builds confidence, and helps keep projects on schedule.
Yes, phase inspections catch issues early when corrections are far less costly. They document construction quality, protect against future disputes, and give buyers clarity from the start.
Accurate inspections document baseline conditions, helping distinguish between workmanship issues and normal homeowner maintenance. This protects you against unfair claims while showing buyers you stand behind your work.
Not when scheduled proactively. At OWHI, we coordinate with your build schedule and typically get you booked within 72 hours. Our reports help keep projects moving, not stall them.
Code inspections ensure minimum compliance, while independent inspections focus on craftsmanship, safety, and performance. Both are important, but they serve different purposes.
Absolutely. At OWHI we provide clear, prioritized findings that can be integrated directly into punch lists for efficient closeout. We’re also more than happy to adjust, rebuild, and customize reports to fit the way you and your team like to work. Our goal isn’t a one-off inspection, it’s building a long-term partnership where our reporting supports your process, project after project.
A clean, professional inspection report becomes part of your sales package, showing buyers and lenders that your build quality is documented and verified.
At OWHI, our team is trained to communicate findings factually and professionally. Highlighting solutions, not just problems, so buyers don’t overreact to minor issues typical of new construction.
Inspections identify risks that could affect a property’s value or a borrower’s ability to maintain the home. A solid inspection supports loan security.
No, an appraisal estimates value, while an inspection evaluates condition. Both are critical for protecting lender and buyer interests.
Reports document property condition and highlight material defects. This context can support underwriting decisions and protect against default risk.
When handled promptly, no. At OWHI, most inspections are scheduled within 72 hours, with digital reports delivered the same day, keeping deals on track.
Carriers rely on inspections to flag risks like outdated electrical, roof damage, or safety hazards. A professional inspection can help secure appropriate coverage terms.
Yes, our comprehensive digital reports are designed for both clients and industry professionals. They clearly document conditions and can be shared with carriers as needed.
Yes, our recurring packages help track property condition over time, reducing claims and protecting collateral value.
At OWHI, we’re precise in our reports but careful in our communication. We explain findings in context, so minor issues don’t derail underwriting or scare clients unnecessarily.
Beyond licensing and experience, we offer digital documentation, recurring service options, and a client-care model designed to prevent fallout—making transactions smoother for everyone.
