Can a home inspector sign a structural report?

No. Only a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) can produce a stamped structural report in North Carolina. Home inspectors can flag concerns but cannot make binding structural findings.

How long is a PE-stamped report valid?

There's no formal expiration, but most insurers and buyers want a report less than 12 months old. Conditions can change, especially after significant weather events.

Do you deliver reports as PDFs?

Yes. Every TSE PE-stamped report is delivered as a signed PDF suitable for insurance, permit, or attorney submission. Hard copies are available on request.

What is a PE-stamped structural report and when do I need one?

A PE-stamped report is a written structural assessment signed and stamped by a licensed Professional Engineer. In NC, you need one for insurance claims, real estate transactions requiring proof of structural condition, permit applications for structural alterations, and any legal or contested situation where an unstamped opinion won't be accepted as evidence.

What the stamp actually means

The PE stamp is a legally binding attestation that a licensed engineer took professional responsibility for the analysis. The engineer's license number is verifiable through the North Carolina Board of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors. In our case that's License #P-3406.

Situations that require a stamp

Insurance claims (roof, tree impact, settling): most carriers require a PE-stamped report to approve structural repair coverage.

Real estate due diligence in NC: attorneys and lenders often require a stamped structural opinion when a home inspection flagged movement.

Permit applications: any structural modification (wall removal, addition, foundation repair) requires stamped drawings.

Litigation and disputes: only a stamped report is accepted as evidence of structural condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a home inspector sign a structural report?: No. Only a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) can produce a stamped structural report in North Carolina. Home inspectors can flag concerns but cannot make binding structural findings.
How long is a PE-stamped report valid?: There's no formal expiration, but most insurers and buyers want a report less than 12 months old. Conditions can change, especially after significant weather events.
Do you deliver reports as PDFs?: Yes. Every TSE PE-stamped report is delivered as a signed PDF suitable for insurance, permit, or attorney submission. Hard copies are available on request.