Don Murphy Home Inspections: What to Know Before You Hire

Who Don Murphy Is and What He Inspects

Don Murphy runs a home inspection business in South Carolina that evaluates residential properties before purchase or sale. He conducts the standard walk-through of a house's major systems—foundation, roof, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and interior condition—and produces a written report detailing what he finds. His inspections are meant to give buyers and sellers a clear picture of a property's actual state before money changes hands.

Home inspectors in South Carolina do not need a state license, though some hold certifications from national organizations like the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) or the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI). These certifications mean the inspector has met training standards and agreed to follow a code of ethics, but they are voluntary. When you are considering any home inspector, including Don Murphy, you can ask whether he holds such a certification and what his inspection process covers.

Key Takeaways

• Home inspectors in South Carolina are not state-licensed, so certifications from organizations like ASHI or NAHI indicate training and professional standards.
• A typical inspection covers the foundation, roof, electrical system, plumbing, HVAC, and visible interior condition, and produces a written report you receive within a few days.
• You can ask any inspector—including Don Murphy—about his experience, what his inspection includes, how long it takes, and whether he holds professional certifications.
• The cost of a home inspection varies by property size and location, so it is worth getting a quote before you commit.

What a Standard Home Inspection Includes

A home inspection typically covers the structural elements you cannot easily see or test yourself. The inspector walks the roof, checks the foundation for cracks or settling, tests electrical outlets and switches, runs water through plumbing fixtures, and evaluates the heating and cooling system. He or she also notes the condition of walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, and any visible damage or wear.

The inspection does not include things like radon testing, mold sampling, pest inspections, or detailed assessments of septic systems—those are separate services that cost extra. The inspector also does not move heavy furniture, test every outlet in the house, or dismantle anything. When you contact Don Murphy or any inspector, ask specifically what is included in the base inspection price and what costs extra.

How to Prepare for an Inspection

Before the inspector arrives, make sure the house is accessible. Unlock gates, clear the attic stairs, and move items away from the electrical panel and water heater. If you are the seller, you do not need to clean obsessively, but the inspector needs to see the actual condition of the property, so do not hide problems.

If you are the buyer, you can walk along during the inspection and ask questions. Many inspectors welcome this because it gives you a chance to understand what he or she is seeing. Bring a notebook or use your phone to photograph areas of concern. You will receive the full written report within a few days, so you do not need to remember everything on the spot.

Reading and Using Your Inspection Report

The inspection report lists findings by category—roof, foundation, electrical, and so on—and typically rates each item as acceptable, needs monitoring, or needs repair. Some inspectors use a three-tier system; others use different language. The report should be clear enough that you understand which issues are cosmetic, which are safety concerns, and which could be expensive to fix.

Once you have the report, you can use it to negotiate with the seller, plan repairs after purchase, or decide whether to walk away from the deal. If you do not understand a finding, contact the inspector and ask for clarification. A good inspector will explain what he or she saw and why it matters.

Asking the Right Questions Before You Hire

When you contact Don Murphy or any home inspector, ask how many inspections he or she has completed, how long the inspection will take (typically two to four hours depending on house size), and whether he or she holds any professional certifications. You can also ask for references from past clients and whether he or she carries liability insurance.

Find out the cost upfront and what it covers. Ask whether the inspector will provide a written report and how soon you will receive it. Some inspectors deliver reports the same day; others take a few days. Clarify whether the price includes a walk-through with you or whether you pay extra for that. These details matter when you are comparing inspectors and budgeting for the inspection.

What Happens If You Disagree With the Inspection

If you think the inspector missed something or made an error, you can ask for a re-inspection of that specific area. Some inspectors do this at no charge if the issue is clear-cut; others charge a smaller fee. You can also hire a second inspector to evaluate the same property, though that costs extra money.

If you believe an inspector acted unethically or failed to meet professional standards, you can file a complaint with the organization that certified him or her—ASHI, NAHI, or another body. South Carolina does not have a state licensing board for home inspectors, so complaints go to the certifying organization, not a government agency.

Home Inspection Costs in South Carolina

The cost of a home inspection in South Carolina varies based on the size of the property, its age, and your location. A typical inspection for a single-family home might range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand, depending on these factors. Rural properties and older homes sometimes cost more because they take longer to inspect thoroughly.

When you get a quote from Don Murphy or another inspector, ask whether the price is fixed or whether it could change based on what he or she finds. Some inspectors charge a flat rate; others charge by the hour. Knowing the structure helps you budget and compare fairly across inspectors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be present during the home inspection?

Yes. Most inspectors welcome buyers during the inspection so you can ask questions and see findings firsthand. If you are selling, you can also be present, though some buyers prefer to inspect without the seller there. Ask the inspector what he or she prefers.

What if the inspection finds major problems?

You can use the report to negotiate with the seller for repairs or a price reduction, or you can walk away from the purchase. The inspection is your chance to make an informed decision before you commit to buying. If you are the seller, you can address issues before listing or disclose them upfront.

How long does a home inspection take?

A typical inspection takes two to four hours, depending on the size and age of the house. Larger homes and older properties with more systems to evaluate usually take longer. Ask the inspector for an estimate when you schedule.

Is a home inspection the same as an appraisal?

No. An appraisal estimates the property's market value for lending purposes; an inspection evaluates its physical condition and safety. Your lender may require an appraisal, but the inspection is separate and is for your protection as a buyer.

What if I find a problem after I buy the house?

If the inspector missed something that was visible during the inspection, you may have a claim against the inspector's liability insurance. This is why it matters that the inspector holds professional certification and carries insurance. Document the problem with photos and get a contractor's estimate of the repair cost.