If you told me ten years ago that I’d end up crawling through attics and inspecting foundations for a living, I probably would’ve laughed. My background was in technology, not construction. I worked as a professional web developer and later for a commercial HVAC manufacturer, maintaining documentation about their systems and products. My world was computers, code, and technical writing — not ladders and crawlspaces.
But life has a way of leading you where you’re meant to go, even if it takes a few detours to get there.
From Web Developer to Roof Inspector
My dad has been a roofer for as long as I can remember. He’s one of those old-school craftsmen who takes pride in his work — not just for the paycheck, but for the satisfaction of helping people protect what matters most to them: their homes and properties.
When I moved back to Memphis to be closer to family, he asked me to help him out doing roof inspections. I didn’t have much experience with roofing, but I figured it would be good work and a change of pace. Honestly, working with family isn’t always easy — and he and I had our moments — but I learned a lot from him.
I also found that I enjoyed it. I liked being out in the field, seeing something new every day, and solving real-world problems instead of just digital ones. There’s a freedom that comes with that kind of work — and a sense of purpose you don’t always get behind a desk.
After a while, I took a position with another contractor. It gave me more exposure to construction, structure, and building performance — and it opened my eyes to how all the parts of a home connect.
A Simple Suggestion That Changed Everything
One day my dad said, “You know, you’d make a good home inspector.”
Normally, I’m the type to forge my own path and ignore advice like that. But this time, I actually listened.
The more I looked into it, the more it made sense. Home inspection was a way to combine everything I already knew — technology, writing, and building systems — into something that could genuinely help people. I could use the documentation skills I developed in tech to write better reports, and my SEO and marketing experience to educate clients and improve the industry’s professionalism.
It just clicked.
So, I got licensed, certified through InterNACHI, trained through CCPIA, and started Upchurch Inspection. What began as a career pivot turned into a calling.
Why I Love What I Do
Home inspection scratches every itch for me: it’s technical, investigative, and people-oriented. I get to use science and tools to solve problems, but I also get to translate that information into plain language for clients — helping them make smart, confident decisions.
Every day is different. One morning I might be inspecting a historic home in Midtown Memphis, the next a new build in Arlington or a farmhouse near Somerville. Every house has its story, and I get to help tell it.
Most of all, I like that what I do matters. I’m not just collecting data — I’m giving families the knowledge they need to protect their biggest investment.
Always Learning, Always Improving
One thing about me: I never stop learning. That’s probably the tech side of me — I love staying up to date with new tools, standards, and technologies. Whether it’s thermal imaging, moisture detection, or commercial building systems, I’m always looking for ways to make my inspections more thorough and accurate.
Now, a few years later, I’ve become one of the most highly certified inspectors in Tennessee — but I still bring that same curiosity and humility I had when I first started working with my dad on rooftops.
Every inspection is a chance to learn something new, and that’s what keeps me passionate about this work.
Why It Still Matters
For me, home inspection bridges two worlds: the technical precision of my past career and the hands-on satisfaction I learned from my dad. It’s not just about identifying problems — it’s about understanding homes, communicating clearly, and helping people feel confident in their decisions.
That’s why I started Upchurch Inspection, and it’s why I still love what I do today.
📞 Schedule Your Home Inspection in West Tennessee
Serving Memphis, Bartlett, Collierville, Germantown, Jackson, and surrounding communities, Upchurch Inspection provides certified home and commercial inspections, mold and radon testing, water quality analysis, and sewer scope inspections.
📞 Call (901) 350-8885 or visit UpchurchInspection.com to schedule your inspection today.
