Charleston Home Inspection

Home Inspections in Charleston and Coastal South Carolina

Charleston Home Inspection (CHI) is a property inspection company operating in Charleston and the coastal communities of South Carolina. The firm presents itself as the result of the merger of Step By Step and ACE Preferred, which adopted the current name while keeping the same team. It serves buyers and sellers of homes, condos, townhouses, and apartments, and offers both residential and commercial services.

Residential Inspection Services

The company's catalog includes a complete general inspection that examines the home from top to bottom so the buyer can make a decision with fewer surprises at closing. For new construction, it offers a specific inspection that detects mistakes while the builder can still correct them. It also performs pre-listing inspections, designed for sellers who want to know the condition of the property before putting it on the market.

The firm also evaluates pools and spas, checking their safety, functionality, and overall condition. For commercial properties, its sister company Monument Commercial Inspections performs commercial building inspections and property condition assessments.

Specialized Testing and Technical Evaluations

Charleston Home Inspection incorporates testing and technical services that go beyond visual inspection. It performs sewer line evaluations to detect problems in the main pipe; termite inspections, since these insects can damage load-bearing walls and support beams; mold testing with laboratory backing; and radon testing, a cancer-causing gas that cannot be seen or smelled. It also offers reinspections to verify that requested repairs have been completed.

For insurance requirements, it performs 4-point inspections that check HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and roof, and wind mitigation assessments to take advantage of insurance premium credits and protect the home against strong winds. Chimney inspection uses a specialized camera to evaluate the interior of the flue, something that cannot be achieved with a visual review.

Engineering and Professional Services

The company has a professional engineer on staff. Through its sister company Applied Construction Expertise, it offers structural evaluations, phone consultations, and on-site engineering work. These engineering services complement the structural inspection within its offering.

Technology and Work Methodology

The inspection process relies on tools such as drones and thermal cameras. The company delivers detailed digital reports the same day as the inspection, with a link sent by email, and offers a same-day report guarantee. It also has a home portal and a smart repair list. The firm states that it performs inspections the same day or the next day and offers a 200% guarantee. To facilitate payment, it offers the Inspect Now, Pay Later option.

Track Record and Coverage

The company reports over 30 years in business and 250,000 inspections completed, in a volume of operations that, according to its presentation, involves more than $3 billion in real estate each year. Its service area covers Berkeley, Charleston, Colleton, Dorchester, Georgetown, Horry, and Richland counties, plus neighboring communities. Among the locations it mentions are Charleston, Goose Creek, Mount Pleasant, Summerville, and Myrtle Beach.

"Buy the Right Home" Plan and Customer Service

The company structures its offering around a plan called "Buy the Right Home," which consists of scheduling the inspection, reviewing the report with the agent and experts, and deciding with confidence. Customer testimonials highlight the thoroughness of the inspectors, the clarity of the reports, and the communication during the process. The firm presents itself as the leading home inspection company in South Carolina, a statement that corresponds to its own description.

Location and Contact

Phone: (843) 484-2184