Stewart Property Inspections LLC

Stewart Property Inspections LLC provides professional home inspection services in accordance with the North Carolina Standards of Practice. The following information explains the limitations, scope, and purpose of a home inspection. This page is intended to help clients understand what an inspection includes — and what it does not include.

Purpose of a Home Inspection

A home inspection is a visual, non-invasive evaluation of the readily accessible systems and components of a property at the time of inspection.

The inspection is designed to:

• Identify visible safety concerns
• Identify material defects
• Provide general condition observations
• Help clients make informed decisions

A home inspection is not a guarantee, warranty, or insurance policy.

Non-Invasive Inspection

Home inspections performed by Stewart Property Inspections are limited to non-destructive testing methods.

The inspector will NOT:

• Open walls or ceilings
• Remove insulation
• Move furniture or personal belongings
• Lift floor coverings
• Disassemble mechanical systems
• Enter unsafe or restricted areas

Many components of a home are hidden from view and cannot be inspected without destructive testing.

Accessibility Limitations

Inspection findings are limited to areas that are safely accessible at the time of inspection.

Inspection limitations may occur due to:

• Stored items or clutter
• Locked areas
• Furniture placement
• Weather conditions
• Snow, ice, or debris
• Safety hazards
• Active pets
• Building design restrictions

If areas are inaccessible, they may not be evaluated.

No Code Compliance Inspection

Home inspections are not building code inspections.

Inspectors do not determine:

• Compliance with current building codes
• Compliance with local regulations
• Compliance with municipal ordinances
• Permit or zoning compliance

Homes are evaluated based on general functionality and safety at the time of inspection.

No Prediction of Future Conditions

Home inspections describe property conditions observed on the inspection date only.

Inspections cannot predict:

• Future system failures
• Remaining lifespan of components
• Future water intrusion
• Future structural movement
• Future environmental concerns

Inspector Role

The inspector is a generalist, not a specialist in every trade.

Clients may be advised to seek further evaluation from licensed specialists such as:

• Structural engineers
• Roofing contractors
• Electricians
• HVAC professionals
• Plumbing contractors
• Environmental testing professionals

Environmental & Health Conditions

Home inspections do NOT include testing for environmental hazards unless separately contracted.

This includes, but is not limited to:

• Mold or mildew testing
• Radon testing
• Air quality testing
• Asbestos identification
• Lead paint testing
• Pest infestations
• Soil contamination
• Water quality testing

These services require specialized testing and separate agreements.

Cosmetic Conditions

Home inspections focus on functional and safety concerns.

Inspectors typically do not report on:

• Cosmetic imperfections
• Paint condition
• Flooring wear
• Minor surface damage
• Aesthetic issues

Appliances & Specialty Systems

Inspection of appliances and specialty systems may be limited and does not include internal testing or performance guarantees.

Examples include:

• Refrigerators
• Laundry appliances
• Smart home systems
• Security systems
• Pools and spas
• Irrigation systems
• Solar systems
• Generators
• Specialty HVAC equipment

These items may require separate specialist evaluation.

Roof & Drone Observations

Roof inspections may be limited by:

• Roof pitch
• Roofing material
• Weather conditions
• Safety hazards

Drone technology may be used when safe access is not possible. Drone observations are visual only and do not replace evaluation by roofing contractors.

Moisture & Mold Awareness

Inspectors look for visible signs of moisture intrusion or water damage. However:

• Mold testing is not included
• Moisture may exist behind surfaces
• Mold health risks are outside inspection scope

If concerns exist, environmental specialists should be consulted.

Inspection Report Limitations

Inspection reports:

• Reflect observations on inspection date only
• Are based on visible conditions
• Do not guarantee defect discovery
• Are intended only for the client named in the report

Reports should not be relied upon by third parties without written permission.

New Construction Disclaimer

New or recently renovated homes may still develop defects after occupancy. A follow-up inspection within 6–12 months is often recommended.

Client Responsibility

Clients are responsible for:

• Reviewing the full inspection report
• Following recommended specialist evaluations
• Completing due diligence prior to closing

Failure to follow recommendations may increase risk of future property issues.

Limitation of Liability

Home inspections reduce risk but cannot eliminate uncertainty. The inspection fee reflects the professional service provided and does not represent an insurance policy or guarantee.

Full liability terms are outlined in the official Inspection Agreement signed prior to inspection.

Agreement to Disclaimer

By scheduling or purchasing inspection services, clients acknowledge understanding of these limitations and agree that inspections are performed under these conditions.