So we have an official state SOP for pre-drywall. Is there anyone here who participated in that process or has some insights? I have questions. Why are we required to inspect and describe several things that are not ever in place at this phase of construction (e.g., water heater and its normal operating controls, breaker amperage and compatibility with their apparent purpose, and wall cladding)? If any of the things in this SOP is NOT in place or completed at the time of the inspection, we have to describe it, describe what’s there so far, and describe what is left to be completed. This is unnecessary and inefficient. Also, why make it retroactively effective two months ago? That puts my previous inspections in the last couple of months prone to “disciplinary actions” if they are deemed not in compliance. Not that I’m really worried about that - just the principle is dumb.
Here is the SOP Committee chair. I recommend you contact him and discuss your concerns.
Also, remember that previously pre-drywall inspections were considered a home inspection by the NCHILB, and as such, they were to be conducted to the same SOP as an existing home, so while this may not be perfect, it is hopefully an improvement.
SOP & Standards Committee Chair David Dye (919) 271-3340 [email protected]
Thanks, Ken. Yes, it’s definitely an improvement and I’m glad we finally have a separate standard.
It would be interesting to read the new SOP. Do you have a link to it?
https://www.ncosfm.gov/home-inspector-licensure-act-and-board-rules-effective-june-1-2026/open
Scroll down to the second table of contents on page 10 and see .1117.
Thank you for the link. That was an interesting read.
I got a reply. David agrees that there are things that need to be clarified. He said he will be sending out invites to participate in the next virtual SOP committee meeting, whenever that is.