Rockwall County’s Trusted Home Inspection Experts
Elite Inspection Group provides comprehensive home inspection services throughout Rockwall County, Texas—the smallest yet fastest-growing county in the state. Whether you’re buying a waterfront home on Lake Ray Hubbard, a new construction property in Saddle Star, or an established home in one of our thriving communities, we bring the local expertise and advanced technology you need for complete peace of mind.
Founded by former realtors Garrett Hand and Mike Kemper in 2013, Elite Inspection Group understands the unique challenges of Rockwall County homes. From the aggressive expansive clay soil that affects foundations countywide to the specific considerations of lakefront properties, we know what to look for. Our inspections use the Zip Level Pro-2000 for precise foundation measurements—absolutely essential in an area where foundation issues are the number one concern.
Call 469-818-5500 to schedule your Rockwall County inspection today.
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Texas’s Hidden Gem: Rockwall County
Rockwall County holds a unique distinction: it’s the smallest county in Texas by area at just 147 square miles, yet it’s the second fastest-growing county in the entire state. With a population that exploded from 107,819 in 2020 to over 137,000 in 2024—a stunning 27% increase—this dynamic county offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities.
Located just 22 miles northeast of Dallas along the western shore of Lake Ray Hubbard, Rockwall County boasts another impressive title: the wealthiest county in Texas, with a median household income of $124,917. Formed in 1873 from Kaufman County, the county takes its name from a mysterious underground rock wall discovered in 1851 that still intrigues geologists today.
What draws families to Rockwall County? It’s the combination of excellent schools, low crime rates, abundant recreation on Lake Ray Hubbard, easy commutes to Dallas, and master-planned communities built by premier DFW builders. The county represents the perfect balance of lakefront luxury and family-friendly suburban living.
Did You Know? Rockwall County is home to the second-largest lake home market in Texas, with over 1,270 waterfront properties typically available on Lake Ray Hubbard.
Cities We Serve in Rockwall County
Elite Inspection Group provides expert home inspection services to every community in Rockwall County. Each city has unique characteristics, but all share the challenge of expansive clay soil and the benefits of proximity to Lake Ray Hubbard and the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.
Rockwall
County Seat | Population: ~47,000
The heart of Rockwall County features historic downtown charm, the premier Rockwall Harbor waterfront development, and excellent schools. Home values average $567,000. Learn more about Rockwall inspections →
Rowlett
Shared with Dallas County | Population: ~66,000
The largest city in Rockwall County offers extensive Lake Ray Hubbard waterfront, DART rail access to Dallas, and diverse neighborhoods from established to new construction. Popular for commuters seeking lakefront living.
Fate
Fastest Growing | Population: ~18,000
A rapidly expanding city with major new master-planned communities, modern infrastructure, and affordable new construction. Popular with young families seeking newer homes and excellent value.
Heath
Premium Lakefront | Population: ~9,500
Known for upscale estates, large lots, and prime Lake Ray Hubbard waterfront properties. Heath offers a quiet, luxury lifestyle with top-rated schools and low density.
McLendon-Chisholm
Rural Character | Population: ~3,500
This small city maintains a rural atmosphere with larger lots and lower density while still offering easy access to Rockwall amenities and the DFW Metroplex.
Savannah
Unincorporated | Population: ~500
A quiet, unincorporated community offering country living with Rockwall County addresses. Growing appeal for those seeking space and privacy. Learn more about Savannah inspections →
Lake Ray Hubbard Waterfront Living
Lake Ray Hubbard is Rockwall County’s crown jewel, offering 22,000 acres of recreation and the second-largest lake home market in Texas. With over 1,270 waterfront homes typically on the market, the lake attracts buyers seeking boat docks, water views, and the lakefront lifestyle—all within a 30-minute drive of downtown Dallas.
Waterfront communities span Rockwall, Heath, and Rowlett, with median prices around $498,000. The premier Rockwall Harbor development features luxury condos, townhomes, and single-family homes with marina access, waterfront dining, and a walkable village atmosphere.
Special considerations for Lake Ray Hubbard homes: Waterfront properties face unique inspection challenges including erosion control, boat dock integrity, retaining wall stability, elevated humidity affecting HVAC systems, and additional moisture intrusion risks. Elite Inspection Group has extensive experience with lakefront properties and includes these specialized assessments in every waterfront inspection.
Home Inspection Services Tailored for Rockwall County
Pre-Purchase Inspections
Before buying in Rockwall County’s competitive market, you need to know exactly what you’re getting. Our comprehensive pre-purchase inspections cover all major systems and components, with special attention to foundation conditions using our Zip Level Pro-2000.
Why it matters: With median home prices around $500,000 and foundation repairs potentially costing $10,000-$50,000, thorough foundation assessment is non-negotiable in Rockwall County’s expansive clay soil.
New Construction Inspections
With 82 active new home communities across Rockwall County and builders like Highland Homes, Grand Homes, Perry Homes, and David Weekley Homes actively developing, new construction is booming. Don’t assume “new” means “perfect.”
We inspect homes by: Highland Homes, Grand Homes, Perry Homes, David Weekley Homes, Shaddock Homes, Pacesetter Homes, Historymaker Homes, Beazer Homes, and all Rockwall County builders. Even new foundations can show early signs of settlement due to aggressive clay soil.
Lake Ray Hubbard Waterfront Inspections
Waterfront homes require specialized inspection expertise. We assess boat dock structural integrity, retaining walls, erosion control systems, elevated humidity impact on HVAC and interiors, slope stability, and moisture intrusion risks specific to lakefront properties.
Additional time required: Waterfront inspections typically take 4-6 hours due to additional components not found in standard homes.
Pre-Listing Inspections
Selling in Rockwall County? Get ahead of buyer concerns with a pre-listing inspection. Address foundation issues, HVAC problems, or roof damage from hail storms before listing. Homes with pre-inspection reports often sell faster and for higher prices.
Market advantage: With inventory up 78% year-over-year and days on market increasing to 101 days, a clean pre-listing inspection report gives sellers a competitive edge.
Foundation-Focused Expertise
Every Elite Inspection Group inspection includes comprehensive foundation assessment with our Zip Level Pro-2000, which measures elevation to 1/10th of an inch accuracy. This isn’t optional in Rockwall County—it’s essential.
The clay soil challenge: Rockwall County sits on Blackland Prairie expansive clay that can expand up to 25-30% when saturated. This aggressive soil causes foundation settlement, cracking, uneven floors, and sticking doors even in newer homes.
Comprehensive Systems Check
Beyond foundations, we thoroughly inspect HVAC systems (critical given Texas heat reaching 95-105°F), roofs (assessing hail damage from frequent storms), plumbing, electrical, insulation, and all visible components. You receive a detailed report within 24 hours.
Typical inspection time: 3-5 hours for standard homes, longer for larger properties or waterfront homes with additional features.
Understanding Rockwall County’s Real Estate Market
The Rockwall County real estate market is transitioning after years of explosive growth. Understanding current conditions helps buyers and sellers make informed decisions.
Current Market Snapshot (2025)
- Median Home Price: $500,000 (county-wide)
- Median List Price: $553,188
- Rockwall City Median: $567,000
- Price Trend: Up 3.7% year-over-year (slower than previous years)
- Days on Market: 101 days (up from 68 last year)
- Active Listings: 486 homes (up 78% year-over-year)
- Months of Inventory: 7.1 months
- Market Status: Transitioning to buyer’s market
What this means: After years of rapid appreciation and seller’s market conditions, Rockwall County is cooling to more balanced conditions. Increased inventory and longer days on market give buyers more negotiating power—and more time for thorough home inspections.
Master-Planned Communities
Rockwall County is experiencing a boom in master-planned communities with premier builders:
- Saddle Star: New rustic-themed master-planned community with Highland Homes and other premier builders, starting in the $590,000s
- Rockwall Harbor: Luxury mixed-use waterfront development with condos, townhomes, and single-family homes on Lake Ray Hubbard
- Fate Master-Planned Communities: Multiple new developments in fast-growing Fate offering modern amenities and family-friendly designs
- Heath Waterfront Estates: Upscale lakefront communities with large lots and premium finishes
New construction inventory: 172 quick move-in homes available countywide across 82 active communities. This gives buyers excellent selection but also underscores the importance of new construction inspections before warranty periods expire.
Trusted by Rockwall County Homeowners
We believe an informed buyer is a confident buyer. That’s why we walk you through our findings in terms you can understand, explaining what matters and what doesn’t. Your biggest investment deserves the most thorough inspection possible.
Elite Inspection Group was founded in 2013 by Garrett Hand and Mike Kemper, both former realtors who saw a gap in the market. Too many home inspectors lacked real estate experience, didn’t understand transaction timelines, and failed to communicate effectively with buyers, sellers, and agents.
We built Elite Inspection Group to bridge that gap. Our team knows what matters in Rockwall County homes because we’ve lived and worked here. We understand the urgency of real estate timelines and offer guaranteed 48-hour scheduling, seven days a week, including weekends and holidays.
What sets us apart in Rockwall County:
- Former realtors who understand real estate transactions
- Zip Level Pro-2000 for precise foundation measurements (essential here)
- Extensive experience with Lake Ray Hubbard waterfront properties
- We inspect homes by all major Rockwall County builders
- 48-hour guaranteed scheduling, 7 days per week
- Comprehensive reports delivered within 24 hours
- 120-day warranty on all inspections
- We encourage buyers to attend and ask questions
The Expansive Clay Soil Challenge
If there’s one thing every Rockwall County homeowner must understand, it’s the expansive clay soil. This Blackland Prairie clay is highly reactive to moisture, expanding up to 25-30% when saturated and contracting severely during droughts. This constant expansion and contraction creates immense pressure on foundations.
Why Rockwall County Soil is Particularly Challenging
The soil in Rockwall County is among the most aggressive in North Texas. Foundation issues can appear within the first few years even in new construction. Common signs include:
- Cracks in brick veneer or exterior walls
- Doors and windows that stick or won’t close properly
- Uneven or sloping floors
- Separation between walls and ceilings
- Cracks in interior drywall (especially around doors)
- Gaps around exterior doors or garage doors
Foundation Maintenance Tips for Rockwall County Homeowners
Consistent moisture is key: The goal is to keep soil moisture as consistent as possible year-round.
- Water your foundation: During hot, dry months (May-October), water around your foundation to prevent excessive shrinkage. Use soaker hoses 12-18 inches from foundation.
- Maintain proper drainage: Ensure gutters and downspouts direct water away from foundation. Grade should slope away from home.
- Fix plumbing leaks immediately: Water leaks cause uneven soil moisture and differential foundation movement.
- Monitor seasonally: Check for new cracks or movement in spring after winter rains and fall after summer drought.
- Tree placement: Large trees within 15 feet of foundation can cause soil moisture issues as roots draw water from soil.
Foundation Warranty Alert: Many builders offer 10-year foundation warranties, but these often require proof of proper maintenance. Document your foundation watering and drainage maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rockwall County Home Inspections
How long does a home inspection take in Rockwall County?
A typical home inspection in Rockwall County takes 3 to 5 hours, depending on the home’s size, age, and whether it includes waterfront features. Larger homes over 4,000 square feet or properties with boat docks and lakefront access may take closer to 5-6 hours due to additional inspection requirements. New construction homes in master-planned communities typically take 3-4 hours, while older homes with more complex systems may take longer. We never rush inspections—your peace of mind is worth the time.
What are the most common issues found in Rockwall County homes?
The most common issues include foundation settlement from expansive clay soil that shifts with moisture changes, HVAC strain from extreme Texas heat, and roof damage from frequent hail storms. Foundation problems are by far the number one concern—Rockwall County’s aggressive Blackland Prairie clay can expand up to 25-30% when saturated, causing cracks, uneven floors, and sticking doors even in newer homes. HVAC systems work overtime during summer months when temperatures reach 95-105°F, leading to premature wear. Hail storms are common in North Texas, often damaging roof shingles and shortening roof lifespan. Waterfront properties also face erosion concerns, elevated humidity levels affecting HVAC and interiors, and boat dock integrity issues. Additionally, drainage problems are common due to the clay soil’s poor permeability.
Do you inspect homes built by Highland Homes, Grand Homes, and other Rockwall County builders?
Yes, we inspect homes by Highland Homes, Grand Homes, Perry Homes, David Weekley Homes, Shaddock Homes, Pacesetter Homes, Historymaker Homes, Beazer Homes, Meredith Custom Homes, and all builders active in Rockwall County. Even new construction requires thorough inspection, as foundation issues can appear early due to the area’s aggressive expansive clay soil. We’ve inspected hundreds of new homes in Saddle Star, Rockwall Harbor, and other master-planned communities throughout the county. New construction inspections are particularly valuable before warranty periods expire—we catch construction defects, code violations, and early foundation settlement that builders can address under warranty. With 82 active new home communities countywide, we have extensive experience with every major builder’s construction methods and common issues.
Should I get a foundation inspection separately in Rockwall County?
Foundation inspection is included in every Elite Inspection Group home inspection at no additional cost. We use the Zip Level Pro-2000, which measures foundation elevation to 1/10th of an inch accuracy—critical for Rockwall County’s severe expansive clay soil conditions. This technology allows us to detect subtle foundation settlement that might not yet be visible but indicates future problems. In Rockwall County, foundation assessment isn’t optional—it’s the most critical part of any home inspection. We measure foundation elevations at multiple points, assess slope and drainage, check for cracks in foundation and exterior walls, test doors and windows for proper operation, and evaluate soil conditions around the foundation. Given that foundation repairs in Rockwall County can cost $10,000 to $50,000 or more, precise foundation measurement with professional equipment is absolutely essential before buying any home.
Do you inspect waterfront homes on Lake Ray Hubbard?
Yes, we specialize in waterfront home inspections on Lake Ray Hubbard. Our waterfront inspections include boat dock structural integrity and safety assessment, retaining wall evaluation and erosion control systems, elevated humidity impact on HVAC systems and interior finishes, slope stability on lakefront lots, additional moisture intrusion risks from lake proximity, and foundation concerns specific to waterfront properties. Lake Ray Hubbard is the second-largest lake home market in Texas, and waterfront properties require specialized expertise. We inspect homes in Rockwall Harbor, Heath waterfront estates, Rowlett lakefront communities, and all Lake Ray Hubbard properties. Waterfront inspections typically take 4-6 hours due to additional components not found in standard homes. With median waterfront home prices around $498,000, thorough inspection of all lakefront-specific systems is critical before purchase.
Do you serve all cities in Rockwall County including Fate, Heath, and Rowlett?
Yes, we serve every community in Rockwall County including Rockwall, Rowlett, Fate, Heath, McLendon-Chisholm, Royse City, Mobile City, and Savannah. We offer 48-hour guaranteed scheduling, seven days a week throughout the entire county. Elite Inspection Group is based in the DFW Metroplex and Rockwall County is a core part of our service area. We inspect dozens of homes monthly across all Rockwall County communities, from new construction in Fate’s master-planned communities to historic homes in downtown Rockwall to luxury waterfront estates in Heath. Our service radius extends to all of Rockwall County and surrounding areas. We understand the unique characteristics of each community and the specific concerns relevant to different areas—whether it’s new construction quality in Fate, waterfront considerations in lakefront Heath, or older home issues in established Rockwall neighborhoods. Distance is never an issue; we’re typically on-site within 24-48 hours of your call.
Rockwall County Homeowner Resources
Rockwall County Government
Rockwall County Government Center
1101 Ridge Rd., Suite 105
Rockwall, TX 75087
Phone: 972-882-0220
Website: rockwallcountytexas.com
Building Permits
Rockwall County Development Services
1101 Ridge Rd.
Rockwall, TX 75087
Phone: 972-204-6050
Website: Request a Permit
Note: Commercial building permits required for buildings with 4+ units. The county’s Development Application Handbook was updated in November 2024 with current requirements.
City of Rockwall Resources
Rockwall City Hall
385 S. Goliad St.
Rockwall, TX 75087
Phone: 972-771-7700
Building Inspector: 972-771-7709
Website: rockwall.com
Utilities
Electric: TXU Energy, Oncor (multiple retail providers available)
Gas: Atmos Energy
Water: Each municipality provides own water service
Trash: Municipal services vary by city
Building permit requirements vary by municipality within Rockwall County. Contact your specific city building department for requirements for residential renovations and additions.
Seasonal Home Maintenance for Rockwall County
Spring (March-May)
- Inspect foundation for new cracks after winter rains
- Check for signs of foundation movement (sticking doors/windows)
- Service HVAC before summer heat arrives
- Inspect roof for winter storm damage
- Clean gutters and check drainage
- Test sump pumps if applicable
Summer (June-August)
- Water your foundation! Use soaker hoses during drought
- Change HVAC filters monthly during peak use
- Monitor for HVAC strain or reduced cooling
- Check for signs of foundation shrinkage
- Inspect caulking and weatherstripping
- For lakefront: inspect dock and retaining walls
Fall (September-November)
- Service heating system before winter
- Check weatherstripping and insulation
- Inspect roof for hail damage from summer storms
- Clean gutters before fall rains
- Check foundation drainage before winter rains
- Inspect exterior paint and caulking
Winter (December-February)
- Protect pipes during freeze events
- Monitor foundation after heavy rains
- Check for ice dam formation on roof
- Test heating system regularly
- Inspect attic for moisture/condensation
- Document any new foundation cracks for spring assessment
Schedule Your Rockwall County Home Inspection Today
Whether you’re buying a waterfront home on Lake Ray Hubbard, new construction in Saddle Star, or an established home in any Rockwall County community, Elite Inspection Group provides the thorough, professional inspection you need. We serve Rockwall, Rowlett, Fate, Heath, McLendon-Chisholm, Savannah, Royse City, and all Rockwall County communities.
Call 469-818-5500
Serving Rockwall County and the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex Since 2013 | Licensed & Insured
48-Hour Guaranteed Scheduling | 7 Days Per Week | 120-Day Warranty