Frequently Asked Questions

An objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation. After the inspection process, the inspector will send the client an inspection report (often within 24-48 hours) that covers their findings, complete with pictures, analysis and recommendations. Call us today to get an estimate!

What kinds of inspection services do you offer?

At Steve Smallman Property Inspections, LLC, we handle a huge variety of inspections. We handle:

Just to name a few!

How much do your services cost?

There are plenty of factors that go into our pricing, including manufacturer’s warranties, promotions, and seasonal sales. Call us at our office to get a complete quote.

Do I need a pre-listing inspection?

Long story short, no. But it is a significant risk to you and could cost you a lot of money down the line. “The key difference between a pre-listing inspection and a typical home inspection is who’s paying for it. If you’re selling your home and you’d like to do a pre-listing inspection, you’ll be footing the bill for it. For a home inspection, it’s generally the opposite.” (source: www.bankrate.com) Learn more about our Pre-Listing Inspections here.

How do I know if my home has mold?

Mold can sometimes be hard to spot, that’s why it’s good to know the warning signs. Odors, physical reactions (coughing, congestion, sneezing, etc.), visible spores, moisture, and living in a region predisposed to mold growth are indicators that your home may be at risk. Learn more about mold on epa.gov.

I am considering waiving a home inspection so I can place a competitive offer. Is this too risky?

Waiving a pre-purchase home inspection is risky. You should discuss the pros/cons with your realtor to decide if you can afford any of the potential risks involved with waiving an inspection. You can read more about the risks involved here.

Can a house fail a home inspection?

A professional home inspection is an examination and objective assessment of the current condition of a house. A home inspector will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what components and systems may need major repair or replacement. A home inspection is not an appraisal and will not determine the home’s market value. It is also not a municipal inspection and does not verify local code compliance.

Does your HOA need to know more about the physical condition of its properties? Call on us! Our team can handle your new or existing development.

Recent inspection services include:

SEE WHAT OUR CLIENTS ARE SAYING

★★★★★ 5/5

Very knowledgeable and thorough. Wouldn’t hesitate to hire him again. He makes me look good to my clients since I recommended they use him!

The inspector took his time inspecting our property and was very detailed in his survey and in his report. His report not only aided us in negotiating with the sellers, but his report has been a guide to a parade of contractors that we have had through our house.

Steve Smallman Property Inspections, completed a home inspection as a part of due diligence prior to purchase. Mr. Smallman did a through job and documented all issues and possible issues. In this current housing market of "highest and best" a true and honest inspection allows us non investors to make the best decisions. I would and have recommended Steve Smallman Property Inspections to all.

SPECIALIZED INSPECTIONS

Steve Smallman Property Inspections, LLC is pleased to offer these specialized inspection services to our customers.

NEW CONSTRUCTION

If you’re the first-ever occupant of your brand-new home, you have specific inspection needs before moving in. We inspect your new home before your final walkthrough to add an objective set of experienced eyes to help protect your investment. We also do pre-drywall inspections.

11-MONTH WARRANTY INSPECTIONS

New homes may come with a warranty that lasts a year. An 11-month inspection is key in terms of taking advantage of what your warranty guarantees. We check for anything covered by your warranty before it expires so that the proper party is responsible for any repairs.

PRE-LISTING INSPECTIONS

Selling a home? A pre-listing inspection gives you an advantage. Letting us identify maintenance needs before you sell lets your home enter the market in its very best state free from defects that could cause potential buyers to turn away from what could be a golden opportunity for everyone.

MAINTENANCE INSPECTIONS

Life moves so quickly that general and even significant home maintenance can sometimes be forgotten. Furthermore, some routine home maintenance items are difficult to spot without the proper experience. Let our highly-trained inspectors give your home a check-up and help you prioritize regular home maintenance to save money and to help keep your family safe.

TERMITE INSPECTIONS

Termites and other wood-destroying insects cause millions of dollars of damage per year to buildings all over North Carolina. Our inspectors are all Registered Pest Control Technicians with the NC Department of Agriculture Structural Pest Control Division. We are affiliated with Cooper Pest Control to provide the wood-destroying insect reports (WDIR) required by many mortgage lenders.

RADON INSPECTIONS

Radon – an odorless, colorless gas – naturally occurs in most soil. It’s also the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers in North America. We can perform the EPA-recommended radon testing that determines whether or not you are being exposed to safe levels of radon within your home.