The Ride Along: A Home Inspection Podcast

Brad Lowery
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The Ride Along Home Inspection Podcast helps homebuyers, homeowners, and home inspectors understand real home inspection findings, deal-killing defects, and how houses actually fail in the real world. Hosted by working inspectors, the show covers foundation issues, roofs, electrical, plumbing, moisture, mold, HVAC, building science, new homes, modern residential construction trends, and inspection report insights—so buyers make smarter decisions and inspectors sharpen their craft. Be sure to follow us @theridealongshow on all social platforms! And watch the full Ride Along series on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/@theridealongshow!

  1. 17 hr ago

    Don't call it a comeback: why ISN's co-founder came back and where he's looking to take ISN next

    AI is about to change home inspection software, but not in the way most people think. Chris Schuld, Director of Engineering at Inspection Support Network, explains how the best technology should give inspectors back their time, not replace the human judgment that matters most. Chris joins Brad Lowery and Matt Brading for a candid conversation about the early days of ISN, when the team was replacing handwritten three-part carbon forms and solving the pain of running an inspection business from the ground up. He shares how that mindset still drives the product today, from listening to inspectors face-to-face at conferences to building features that remove busywork instead of adding more of it. You'll discover: - How ISN grew from a report-writing tool into a business management platform for inspectors Why Chris believes the best software starts by solving the problems your customers actually complain about. - What changed from the early internet days to today's scale, speed, and AI challenges. - How automation can help inspectors without stripping away the human side of the job. - Why Chris sees AI as a way to "chain the AI to the business" so people can get back to being husbands, fathers, and business owners. Chris also opens up about his journey from designing chips at Intel to managing engineering teams at Wix, and why returning to ISN felt like coming back to the right people and the right mission. If you care about AI, automation, or building software that truly serves the people who use it, this is a conversation worth your time. Perfect for home inspectors, inspection business owners, and anyone who wants a smarter take on how AI can save time without sacrificing trust, clarity, or the human connection. #aiinbusiness #aiinrealestate #homeinspectionreport #homeinspection #besthomeinspectionsoftware

  2. 1 Sept

    What home inspectors should know about solar - featuring Cory Vanderpool of Sprk Home

    Solar is showing up in more home sales, more inspections, and more liability than most people realize. Cory Vanderpool breaks down why solar has become such a transaction headache, how pushy sales tactics create expensive problems, and what inspectors can do to protect buyers before a bad decision gets signed. If you work in real estate or home inspections, this conversation is a wake-up call. Cory explains why solar keeps spreading in states like Texas, why the first 90 days after a home purchase are prime time for sales pressure, and how Sprk helps turn a confusing, high-stakes topic into something buyers can actually understand. You'll discover: - Why solar adoption is driven more by utility costs and grid reliability than by environmental hype - The difference between a basic visual inspection and Spark's solar condition reporting - Why 41% of the systems inspectors help evaluate have issues that need attention at the point of transaction - How inspectors can add an upsell service, generate energy reports, and position themselves as the local expert Cory also explains Spark's education and software platform, which gives inspectors tools to inspect solar, generate reports, and even create energy efficiency reports from existing inspection data. That means more clarity for buyers, more value for agents, and a better way to spot problems before a solar lease, loan, or underperforming system becomes someone else's costly surprise. This episode also gets a bit into net metering, batteries, grid shutdowns, a lil bit of Texas energy policy, and why solar only makes sense when the numbers actually support it. If you've ever had a client ask, "Should I get solar?" and wished you had a better answer, this one gives you the language, the framework, and the confidence to respond. Essential listening for home inspectors, real estate agents, and anyone who wants to understand solar without getting sold a fantasy. Chapters: 00:00 - Opening banter and the show's solar theme 00:51 - Corey Vanderpool joins and explains his solar background 02:30 - Why door-to-door solar sales are so persistent 04:14 - Why Sprk exists in the real estate and inspection ecosystem 05:23 - What Cory is bringing to Inspection Fuel 07:03 - What Spark does for solar homeowners and inspectors 08:18 - Why "solar system" keeps triggering planet jokes 09:10 - Can inspectors charge for solar as an ancillary service? 10:08 - A leased system that was not actually working 12:39 - Why Texas solar adoption is rising 14:54 - How Texas shifted from affordability to reliability 16:18 - Why electricity prices drive solar adoption 17:36 - The problem of unknowns in solar transactions 18:55 - Why energy efficiency should come before solar 19:54 - How Sprk generates energy reports from inspection data 21:36 - What factors go into the home energy analysis 23:11 - How Spark estimates air tightness and utility costs 24:14 - Why this is not an energy audit 25:36 - Spark pricing for inspection companies and reports 27:02 - Marketing tools, CE classes, and broker education 29:26 - The real cost range of solar systems 30:37 - How solar systems are sized and how net metering works 32:01 - Why grid outages shut solar down without batteries or transfer equipment 33:20 - Misleading sales promises and the need for local accountability 35:53 - How inspectors help bridge the knowledge gap 37:15 - Why Sprk focuses on supporting existing solar homeowners 38:41 - Pre-listing reports and disclosure issues 39:44 - Cory's Fuel session and what attendees will learn 41:30 - Fuel registration reminder and final event details 42:14 - Where to find Cory online 42:48 - Matt's closing and upcoming conference schedule The links: The Travis Jones solar episode: https://youtu.be/9xmLuGpVmHw?si=sd8FP-Ls3UAvdwe0 Register for Inspection Fuel (Sept 28-30 in Lousiville, KY) at https://inspectionfuel.com/register Sign up for the TRA Newsletter: https://pages.theridealong.show/newsletter  Leave us a voicemail here: https://www.theridealong.show/

  3. 27 Jul

    How home inspectors should tackle re-inspections... featuring Brad Zirlott (AKA @duesouthbrad)

    Re-inspections are tearing your schedule apart—and you're paying the price. Discover how industry insiders are redefining checklists, pricing strategies, and client management to finally regain control. Ever wonder why reinspections often turn into frustrating time sinks that eat away your profits and burn out your team? In this episode, home inspection veterans Brad Lowery, Matt Brading, and Brad Zirlott unmask the hidden pitfalls of re-inspect practices — from the chaos of too many slated repairs to the tricky line between quality and client expectations. Brad Zirlott shares his no-nonsense approach to charging for reinspects, managing builder and buyer frustrations, and setting firm boundaries to protect your time and sanity. Meanwhile, Matt Brading reveals how team delegation and strategic pricing can help you stay profitable without sacrificing client satisfaction, highlighting the importance of clear communication and expectations. Key topics: - The frustrations with re-inspections, especially after repairs, and how homeowners and builders approach repairs differently. - Strategies for pricing reinspections, including flat fees, per item charges, and managing expectations. - The importance of clear communication about what reinspections verify—functionality versus craftsmanship. - The challenge of multiple re-inspections on new construction and the importance of setting boundaries. - Balancing help and client service with the business realities of time and profitability. - The potential to delegate reinspections to team members and how company structure influences workflow. - The industry's need for standardized verbiage and contracts to manage reinspection expectations. - The impact of industry experience on reinspection practices and pricing. - How good documentation, reference photos, and establishing boundaries can streamline reinspections. - The broader industry conversation about pricing, experience levels, and managing client relationships. Chapters: 00:00 - The common frustrations with home reinspections 02:16 - How to handle re-inspections for builders and resale homes 03:15 - The complexities of re-inspecting repair work 04:13 - Pricing strategies for re-inspections and setting expectations 05:39 - The challenges of multiple reinspections on new construction 06:16 - Industry variations in reinspection procedures and documentation tips 08:08 - Managing reinspection costs and profitability 08:52 - How to approach re-inspections with inspection teams 10:24 - The importance of clear communication and setting boundaries 12:24 - Verbiage and contractual language to mitigate client expectations 13:33 - The risks of multiple return trips and how to balance workload 15:45 - Managing the workload and time management tips 18:23 - The importance of experience in evaluating workmanship 20:23 - Industry standards versus client expectations 26:13 - Setting a fair reinspection fee and avoiding abuse 32:44 - Delegating reinspections to team members vs. doing it personally 35:27 - How to motivate inspectors and maintain morale 42:23 - Technical tips for documenting issues like roof damage and electrical repairs 44:35 - The role of intuition, context, and visual documentation 48:23 - Industry insights on balancing thoroughness with client relationships 54:35 - The importance of positive communication and showcasing good workmanship 58:24 - Final thoughts on industry conversations and encouraging industry-wide standards About the hosts and guest: Brad Lowery is a seasoned home inspector, known for his no-nonsense approach to industry challenges. Matt Brading is an expert in team management and strategic pricing in the home inspection industry. Brad Zirlott is a veteran inspector with decades of experience, specializing in client communication and quality assurance. The links: Register for Inspection Fuel this Sept 28-30 in Louisville, KY: http://www.inspectionfuel.com.register  Leave us a voicemail here: https://www.theridealong.show Sign up for our newsletter here: https://pages.theridealong.show/newsletter  #homeinspection #homeinspector #homeinspectors #buildingconstruction #residentialconstruction #homebuyers #realtors #realestate #propertyinspection

  4. 14 Jul

    What to do if you're a new home inspector starting a business from scratch! Featuring Abby Bullock

    SIGN UP ASAP FOR THE INSPECTION SUPPORT NETWORK FIRST-YEAR MASTERCLASS: https://riverside.com/webinar/registration/eyJldmVudElkIjoiNmEyNmYwMDM3ZWUzM2RjNmE3MzRjYjliIiwic2x1ZyI6Imlzbi13ZWJpbmFyIn0= What would an experienced home inspector do differently if they had to start over today? In this episode of The Ride Along: A Home Inspection Podcast, hosts Brad Lowery and Matt Brading sit down with Abby Bullock of Merit Property Inspections in Tampa, Florida, to answer one of the biggest questions every new home inspector should ask: "If I was starting over as a new home inspector knowing what I know today, what are the five things I'd do differently?" Whether you're just starting your home inspection business, attending inspection school, or looking to grow your inspection company faster, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you avoid costly mistakes and build a successful career. Abby shares hard-earned lessons from her recent launch, including how to market your inspection business, how to grow an audience with social media quickly, attract your first clients, invest in the right tools, and develop the mindset needed to thrive in today's home inspection industry. Chapters: 00:00 Intro and setup 00:20 "If you started over today…" 01:40 Announcement: Inspection Support Network masterclass 02:39 Welcome Abby Bullock and her background 03:25 Abby's inspection journey and social media growth 05:03 Why Abby's content feels authentic 07:55 Lessons from being a newer inspector 09:55 Social media as a support system 12:18 Going out on your own and the liability of ownership 14:32 How long it takes business momentum to build 15:45 When Abby knew she was ready to go independent 17:24 What surprised Abby about business ownership 19:48 Advice for risk-averse inspectors 22:00 Why inspection may not be a great side hustle 24:42 Biggest challenge in Abby's first months full-time 26:25 What she would change about building the business 27:20 How Abby got clients before social media 31:11 Answering phones while in the field 33:49 Knowing when to stop doing everything yourself 37:17 Purpose, identity, and why business ownership fits Abby 40:25 Building relationships with real estate agents 46:57 Creating content while working inspections 48:46 Paid boosting and marketing strategy 53:27 Financial discipline and learning to manage risk 56:31 Final advice for new inspectors 57:31 Wrap-up and closing chaos The links: Register for Inspection Fuel this Sept 28-30 in Louisville, KY: http://www.inspectionfuel.com.register  Leave us a voicemail here: https://www.theridealong.show  Sign up for our newsletter here: https://pages.theridealong.show/newsletter  #howtogrowabusiness #entrepreneurlife #homeinspection #newbusinessideas

  5. 26 May

    Lumberyard mold: what it is, how it's treated, and what home inspectors should say about it

    What causes mold in brand-new homes before anyone even moves in? In this episode of The Ride Along: A Home Inspection Show, hosts Brad Lowery and Matt Brading sit down with Jordan Mason to break down one of the hottest topics in the inspection industry: lumberyard mold, microbial growth in new construction, and what inspectors need to know before calling it out. From attic sheathing stains to full-scale mold remediation, this conversation dives deep into the real-world challenges home inspectors face when evaluating moisture intrusion, ventilation problems, and indoor air quality concerns. Jordan shares practical insight into mold testing, soda blasting, chemical remediation methods, building science principles, and how poor moisture management can impact both health and property value. Whether you're a home inspector, mold assessor, remediation contractor, realtor, builder, or homeowner, this episode delivers actionable insight you can apply in the field immediately. Topics covered in this episode: ✔️ Lumberyard mold vs active microbial growth ✔️ Mold in new construction homes ✔️ Moisture intrusion and humidity control  ✔️ Mold remediation methods explained ✔️ Soda blasting vs chemical treatment ✔️ Ventilation and attic airflow issues ✔️ Building science for home inspectors ✔️ Indoor air quality and health concerns ✔️ Mold testing and inspection best practices ✔️ Protecting property value during real estate transactions If you're serious about becoming a better inspector and staying ahead of industry trends, subscribe to The Ride Along: A Home Inspection Show and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode.  👍 Like the video 💬 Drop your thoughts/questions in the comments 📲 Share this with another inspector or contractor Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Healthy Homes and Mold Awareness 10:20 Understanding Lumberyard Mold and Its Implications 28:31 The Risks of Dormant Mold and Air Quality Management 30:33 Building Community in Home Inspections 31:58 Addressing Mold Concerns in Home Inspections 34:40 Inspector and Builder Responsibilities 38:21 Understanding Mold Remediation Techniques 42:09 Innovative Solutions for Mold Issues 49:27 The Importance of Context in Mold Testing 55:13 Preparing for Future Storms and Mold Risks The links: Register for Inspection Fuel this Sept 28-30 in Louisville, KY: http://www.inspectionfuel.com.register  Sign up for the newsletter here: https://pages.theridealong.show/newsletter  Leave us a VOICEMAIL here: https://www.theridealong.show

  6. 17 Apr

    How to do 600+ home inspections per year... with the buyer present!

    Should home buyers attend the home inspection—or does it create more problems than it solves? In this episode of The Ride Along Home Inspection Podcast, Brad Lowery and Matt Brading sit down with top-producing inspector Ken Humphreys of BPG Inspections to debate one of the most talked-about topics in the industry. 👉 Watch the full episode to hear how top inspectors approach client presence, reporting, and running a successful inspection business. Ken shares real-world insights from years of high-level experience, while the conversation dives into home inspection best practices, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and how inspectors adapt to different markets and client expectations. From the role of technology in inspections to balancing efficiency with quality, this episode breaks down what actually drives success in today's home inspection industry. You'll also hear different perspectives on inspection standards, client communication, and whether having buyers on-site improves or complicates the process. Whether you're a home inspector refining your workflow or a homebuyer trying to understand what to expect, this discussion highlights how communication, consistency, and adaptability lead to better outcomes. 🔧 What You'll Learn - Should buyers attend a home inspection? - How top inspectors approach client communication - The role of SOPs in home inspection businesses - How inspection practices vary by market and region - How to balance efficiency, quality, and work-life balance 🎧 Listen to more expert conversations on The Ride Along Home Inspection Podcast for insights on home inspection, business growth, and industry best practices. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Home Inspection Excellence 01:46 Ken Humphries: A Veteran Home Inspector's Journey 05:30 The Importance of Client Presence During Inspections 09:20 Utilizing Technology: The Role of Infrared Cameras 13:05 Balancing Client Interaction and Inspection Efficiency 16:35 Streamlining the Inspection Process 20:22 The Debate on Inspection Standards and Practices 23:57 Finding Work-Life Balance in Home Inspection 28:38 Evolving Roles in Home Inspection 29:49 Market Trends and Pre-Offer Evaluations 31:26 Personal Connections in Inspections 32:09 Inspection Techniques and Time Management 36:56 Safety vs. Comfort in Home Inspections 40:07 SOPs and Regional Variances in Inspections 52:19 The Importance of Functionality in Inspections 53:02 The Importance of Customer Education 56:07 Balancing Time and Client Interaction 59:00 The Role of Reports in Client Understanding 01:02:00 Work-Life Balance in Home Inspections 01:04:55 Different Approaches to Inspections 01:07:40 The Value of Client Presence 01:10:25 Continuous Learning and Adaptation 01:13:20 Finding Common Ground in Inspection Practices The links: Register for Inspection Fuel this Sept 28-30 in Louisville, KY: http://www.inspectionfuel.com.register Leave us a voicemail here: https://www.theridealong.show Sign up for our newsletter here: https://pages.theridealong.show/newsletter

  7. 24 Mar

    No Home Inspection license required? How great inspectors still win in unregulated states

    Can you run a successful home inspection business and build trust with home buyers in a state without licensing or regulation? In this episode of The Ride Along Home Inspection Podcast, we break down what it really takes to operate with excellence in unregulated home inspection markets. And our guest is a man who needs little introduction! Brent Fletcher joins the show this week to discuss how home inspectors can build trust, maintain high standards, and deliver consistent value—even in states where there are no licensing requirements. From setting your own standards of practice to developing strong client communication and professional systems, this episode explores how inspectors can rise above the lack of regulation and differentiate themselves in competitive markets.  We also cover how homebuyers and real estate agents evaluate inspectors in unlicensed states, and what separates average inspectors from those who build long-term, reputable businesses. Whether you're a home inspector working in an unregulated state or considering entering the industry, this episode provides practical insight into running a home inspection business with professionalism, integrity, and consistency—regardless of licensing requirements. Key topics: - Differences between regulated and unregulated home inspection markets - How Colorado inspectors operate without licensing requirements - The importance of certification and standards (e.g., InterNACHI's SOP) - Client confidence and reputation-building in unregulated states - The role of social media in establishing inspector credibility - Common pitfalls and mistakes in first inspections - Building inspector accountability and professional reputation - Practical tips for new inspectors to gain confidence and experience - The impact of licensing on pricing and market competition - Future trends and developments in home inspection regulation Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Brent Fletcher's inspection background in unregulated Colorado 02:17 - Building essentials: vapor barriers and passive house construction 04:23 - Colorado's construction landscape: basements, slab on grade, and regional differences 05:56 - Developing educational content with a dedicated office space 06:42 - The value of a professional studio environment for content creation 08:00 - How unregulated states like Colorado handle inspection standards and oversight 09:14 - The implications of no licensing requirements and inspector accountability 11:12 - The importance of online reviews and certification checks for clients 13:46 - The potential for unlicensed inspectors to operate without standards 15:10 - Differences in pricing and competition in unregulated vs regulated markets 16:43 - How clients in Colorado recognize inspector credibility without formal licensing 17:48 - The role social media plays in building trust and professional reputation 19:38 - Establishing inspection standards and ongoing training programs 22:09 - The impact of licensing on liability, liability insurance, and market quality 24:23 - The influence of regulation on inspection quality and accountability 27:09 - Costs associated with licensing and the potential market effects 30:39 - Protecting home buyers through education and due diligence in unregulated states 33:24 - The significance of personality and professionalism in social media marketing 34:45 - The ongoing discussion around regulation and professional standards in home inspection 35:44 - Insights into training new inspectors and establishing credible mentorship programs 39:55 - The importance of experience, humility, and continuous learning in early inspections 42:42 - Common issues encountered in inspections: appliances, water lines, and fireplaces 45:07 - Mistakes made during first inspections and lessons learned 50:00 - Managing busy schedules and personal growth as a home inspector 51:01 - Brent Fletcher's online presence and industry influence The links: Sign up for Inspection Fuel V this Sept. 28-30 in Louisville, KY! https://www.inspectionfuel.com/register Follow Inspector Fletch on social media @inspector_fletch!

  8. 10 Mar

    How Porch's Customer Success team helps home inspectors win

    What makes great home inspection software more than just technology? The people behind it. In this special edition episode, we take a closer look at Porch Group's Customer Success team and how they help home inspectors get the most value from Porch inspection software and services like Palmtech, ISN, Home Inspector Pro, and other tools like ACC and Guardian Inspection Payments used by professional inspectors across the industry. Unlike many tech platforms, Porch provides live support from real people, giving inspectors direct access to experts who understand both the software and the home inspection business. The Customer Success team helps inspectors troubleshoot issues, share best practices, and ensure they're using their tools as efficiently as possible. Porch Customer Success also provides shared company resources and account reviews, helping inspectors optimize their workflows, improve report delivery, and get the most out of the software they rely on to run their inspection businesses. If you're a home inspector using Porch software—or considering it—this episode explains how dedicated customer success support can improve your efficiency, reduce frustration, and help you grow your inspection business. Topics Covered: - Live customer support for home inspectors - Porch Group inspection software services - Palmtech and ISN support resources - How customer success teams help inspectors optimize their tools - Software training and account reviews for home inspection businesses

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About

The Ride Along Home Inspection Podcast helps homebuyers, homeowners, and home inspectors understand real home inspection findings, deal-killing defects, and how houses actually fail in the real world. Hosted by working inspectors, the show covers foundation issues, roofs, electrical, plumbing, moisture, mold, HVAC, building science, new homes, modern residential construction trends, and inspection report insights—so buyers make smarter decisions and inspectors sharpen their craft. Be sure to follow us @theridealongshow on all social platforms! And watch the full Ride Along series on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/@theridealongshow!

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