When to get an inspection
- You see stains, bubbling paint or warped floors but no obvious source.
- Your water bill jumped and nothing changed.
- You smell mustiness in a room.
- You are buying or selling a home with a history of leaks.
- You need documentation for an insurance claim.
- You think there is a slab leak, such as warm spots on the floor or the sound of running water.
Tools used
| Tool | What it shows |
|---|---|
| Pin and pinless moisture meters | Moisture content in drywall, wood and subfloor |
| Thermal camera | Temperature patterns that point to wet areas behind surfaces |
| Hygrometer | Humidity and temperature in the air |
| Borescope | Views inside wall cavities through a small hole |
Thermal imaging does not see water itself. It shows temperature differences that a trained person interprets with a moisture meter.
What the report should contain
- Locations and readings, with photos.
- A moisture map of affected areas.
- Likely source, or the need for a plumber or roofer to confirm.
- Water category assessment.
- Recommended scope and next steps.
A quick check you can do
Turn off every fixture in the house and watch the water meter. If the dial or low-flow indicator keeps moving, you may have a leak between the meter and your house or inside your walls. A plumber can pressure-test the lines. Inspection finds moisture, but only a plumber or roofer fixes the source.
If the inspection finds mold, the next step is mold inspection or mold testing by a licensed assessor. If moisture is active, see structural drying. For the overview, read water damage restoration in Garland, TX.
Ready to talk to someone?
Describe what happened and your ZIP code. You will be connected with an independent provider.
Frequently asked questions
Can an inspector find a slab leak?
A moisture and thermal inspection can point to wet areas, and a plumber uses acoustic or pressure tests to find the leak. Together they confirm it before slabs are opened.
How long does an inspection take?
A small area may take under an hour. A whole-house inspection takes longer. The report time depends on the provider.
Do I need an inspection for insurance?
Documentation helps. Photos, moisture readings and a written scope support a claim, and some insurers request them.
Is an inspection the same as a mold inspection?
No. A water damage inspection finds moisture and damage. A mold inspection looks for mold and its causes, and in Texas assessment is a separately licensed activity.