AI and the Future of Home Inspection: Insights from the Field

The Next Big Tool in the Inspector’s Toolkit

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a tech trend—it’s becoming a trusted partner in the home inspection industry. During ASHI’s recent member webinar, “AI and the Future of Home Inspection: Insights from the Field,” experts Duane Morrison, James Jones III, and Rhett Claypool joined ASHI Executive Director James Thomas for an in-depth discussion on how AI is reshaping inspection practices and enhancing business efficiency.

Whether you’re curious about integrating AI into your workflow or cautious about its implications, this conversation offered valuable, practical insights for every home inspector.

How Inspectors Are Using AI Today

Panelists shared hands-on examples of how AI is already saving time and improving accuracy across their businesses.

• Report Writing & Code Research: Duane Morrison explained how his team uses AI to help draft narratives, identify components from inspection photos, and even reference building codes.
• Efficiency & Onboarding: James Jones shared how AI reduces clerical work, assists with onboarding, and automates customer engagement funnels to convert leads faster.
• Admin & Marketing Support: ASHI’s Director of Technology, Rhett Claypool, highlighted how AI tools can serve as virtual executive assistants, managing scheduling, emails, and creating marketing content.

“AI gives you more time to focus on growing your business and less time stuck in daily admin tasks,” Claypool noted.

Balancing Technology with Professional Judgment

The panel agreed that AI should never replace the expertise of a trained inspector. Every report still requires human review and accountability.

“AI is a tool, but it doesn’t have the human factor,” Jones emphasized. “You still have to verify and edit everything it produces.”

The discussion also addressed AI hallucinations, moments when a system generates inaccurate information. The best defense? Careful validation, smart prompting, and using secure, paid versions of AI tools like ChatGPT to protect proprietary data.

Smarter, Calmer Client Communication

Beyond streamlining workflows, AI can help inspectors communicate more effectively with clients.

Jones described how he uses AI to adjust tone in emails when responding to stressed homebuyers, while Morrison shared how AI helps him simplify complex findings without losing accuracy.

For inspectors balancing multiple jobs daily, these tools can make customer interactions smoother and more professional.

The Road Ahead for AI in Home Inspection

From AI-powered drone photo analysis to automated customer chatbots, the technology is advancing rapidly. However, as the panelists emphasized, the most successful inspectors will be those who integrate AI responsibly, using it to enhance, rather than replace, human insight.

Watch the Full Webinar and Keep Learning

Want to see the full discussion? The complete recording of “AI and the Future of Home Inspection” is now available on ASHI Edge

While you’re there, explore our newest course: Business Essentials: AI for Marketing and Social Media, included with ASHI membership. Learn to set up your ChatGPT account and how to use AI tools for content creation, branding, and client engagement.