Inspection FAQs

What does a home inspector look for?
A home inspection is a visual evaluation of accessible areas, systems, and components of a property. Depending on the home and accessibility, this may include the roof, exterior, foundation, crawlspace, attic, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, interior components, drainage, and other visible conditions.

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Do I need a home inspection when buying a house?
A home inspection can help buyers better understand the condition of a property before completing a purchase. It may identify visible defects, safety concerns, maintenance needs, or areas that may warrant further evaluation.

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Do new construction homes need inspections?
New homes can benefit from independent inspections during construction. Inspections performed at different stages can document visible construction concerns while certain components are still accessible.

 

What is a pre-drywall inspection?
A pre-drywall inspection is performed during new construction before drywall covers framing and many mechanical, plumbing, and electrical components. This provides an opportunity to document visible conditions while these areas remain accessible.

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What is a 3-phase new construction inspection?
A 3-phase inspection evaluates a new home at multiple stages of construction rather than relying on a single inspection. This allows different components of the home to be observed as construction progresses.

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Does a home inspector inspect crawlspaces and foundations?
Accessible crawlspaces and visible foundation components may be evaluated during a residential inspection when conditions allow. Inspectors can document visible moisture concerns, structural conditions, plumbing issues, insulation concerns, and other observable conditions.

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What is a rental property inspection?
A rental property inspection documents visible conditions within a rental home or property. These inspections can help landlords and property managers identify maintenance concerns and maintain clearer records of property conditions.

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Can multiple rental properties or units be inspected?
Yes. Property inspections can be useful for individual rental homes as well as landlords and property managers responsible for multiple properties or units. Larger portfolios may require customized scheduling and inspection arrangements.

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What is an HOA exterior inspection?
An HOA exterior inspection documents visible exterior conditions involving buildings, common areas, and community property. Depending on the requested scope, this may include roofing, exterior surfaces, drainage, grading, erosion, walkways, and visible maintenance concerns.

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How much does a home inspection cost in Upstate South Carolina?
Home inspection pricing varies based on factors such as property size, type of inspection, construction stage, foundation type, and requested services. Firm Foundation Inspection Services provides property-specific pricing through its online quote system.

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Who provides home inspections in Greenville and Upstate South Carolina?
Firm Foundation Inspection Services provides residential, new-construction, rental-property, and HOA inspection services for clients throughout Upstate South Carolina. Services include residential inspections, pre-drywall inspections, multi-stage new-construction inspections, rental property inspections, and exterior HOA property inspections.