ShieldShieldOne inspector. Every crawlspace. Every breaker panel. Every attic joist. Plain-English findings before you sign anything.
"Shield's reports read like a legal brief — every defect graded, every consequence explained. In fifteen years covering real estate, I've never seen an inspector this willing to put findings in writing."
— Carla Mendez, Real Estate Correspondent, KXAN News Austin· Segment aired March 14, 2025
Secure your slot — availability fills 5–7 days out
Transparent Process
Every phase. Every deliverable. No surprises.
After submitting your request, you'll receive an email confirmation with the exact inspection window (typically 3–4 hours), a pre-inspection preparation checklist for the seller, and direct contact information. No call centers, no queues — you hear from the inspector directly.
The inspection covers six primary systems: Exterior, Foundation & Structure, Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC, and Roof. Every crawlspace entered. Every breaker panel opened. Every accessible attic joist bay examined. The inspection takes 2–4 hours depending on property size. You're welcome to attend.
The written report arrives within 24 hours. Every finding is graded by severity: Critical (safety or structural), Moderate (significant repair needed), Minor (maintenance item), or Monitor (watch list). Each finding includes a photograph, a plain-English explanation of the risk, and a recommended action.
The report is your leverage. If you need clarification for a re-negotiation, an attorney letter, or a contractor estimate, the inspector is available. Errors & Omissions insurance means every finding carries professional accountability — not just a handshake.
Inspection Scope
Expand each system below. Every item is physically examined — not guessed, not skipped.
Sample Report
Every defect ranked by severity. Every risk explained in plain English. Client data redacted — this is from a real inspection.
Shield Home Inspection Report
Property: ████████████████, Austin TX · Inspector: D. Harmon · TREC #24891
Double-tapped breaker in main panel — two conductors sharing single terminal
Risk: Fire hazard. Breaker may fail to trip under overload conditions.
Action: Licensed electrician to install tandem breaker or add sub-panel circuit.
Step cracking in brick veneer, northeast corner — consistent with differential settlement
Risk: Indicates possible foundation movement. Structural evaluation warranted.
Action: Foundation specialist evaluation recommended prior to closing.
Missing kick-out flashing at roof-wall intersection, master bedroom dormer
Risk: Water intrusion into wall cavity. Evidence of prior staining observed in attic.
Action: Roofing contractor to install kick-out flashing and assess wall cavity moisture.
Water heater age: 14 years (installed 2011). TPR valve shows corrosion.
Risk: Unit is past typical 10–12 year service life. TPR valve may not function under overpressure.
Action: Budget for replacement within 12–24 months. Replace TPR valve now.
Attic insulation depth: 4–5 inches (R-13 approximate). Current standard is R-38.
Risk: Below current energy code. Higher utility costs likely. Not a safety defect.
Action: Consider insulation upgrade. Not required for closing.
Full report contains 5 of 23 findings shown. Client information, property address, and agent details redacted per privacy policy.
Not ready to book yet?
Download a full sample report (23 findings, all systems) before you decide.
Professional Standing
Every report is backed by professional licensure and insured. Not a handshake — a documented professional opinion.
TREC Licensed Inspector
License #24891
Licensed by the Texas Real Estate Commission. Every inspection performed under TREC Standards of Practice and the Code of Ethics for Real Estate Inspectors.
InterNACHI Certified
Member #26021503
Certified by the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors — the world's largest inspector association. Annual continuing education requirement maintained.
Errors & Omissions Insurance
$1,000,000 coverage
Every inspection is backed by $1M E&O insurance. Findings carry professional accountability — not just a verbal opinion. Documentation available on request.
General Liability
$300,000 per occurrence
General liability coverage protects you and the property during the inspection. Certificate of insurance available for lender or attorney review.
Derek Harmon · Licensed Inspector
TREC #24891 · InterNACHI #26021503 · Austin, TX
Solo operation by design. Every inspection performed personally — no subcontractors, no junior inspectors. Fourteen years inspecting residential and light commercial properties in Central Texas. Former licensed electrician.
Common Questions
Yes — and you should. Walking through with the inspector is the fastest way to understand the findings in context. Plan for 2–4 hours depending on property size.
Any area not accessible is noted in the report as "not inspected" with the reason. This itself is a finding that may warrant follow-up before closing.
There is no legal expiration, but findings are time-stamped. Conditions can change. Reports are most useful when delivered to the seller within the inspection contingency window.
Yes. New construction inspections are critical — builder quality varies significantly and many defects are hidden once drywall is closed. Phase inspections (pre-drywall) also available.
Secure your slot — availability fills 5–7 days out