Why I Got My Only 1-Star Review — And Why I'm Proud Of It

If you've ever hired a home inspector, you've probably checked their Google reviews. I would too. And if you've looked at Hanna Home Services, you've seen something unusual — 176 five-star reviews and one single 1-star review. Today I want to talk about that one.

What Happened

In November 2023, I was hired to complete a 4-point inspection on a rental property. A 4-point inspection evaluates four key systems — roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC — and is required by insurance companies to assess the condition of a home.

What I found wasn't pretty. The property had a leaking sink, missing GFCI protection in the kitchen and bathroom, and a non-functioning HVAC unit. As a licensed inspector, I am legally required to accurately report the current condition of the property. That's exactly what I did.

The property owner was not happy. She asked me to falsify the report.

I declined.

She then expected a free return visit to re-inspect after repairs were made — something that isn't standard practice in this industry. When I explained there would be a fee for a return visit, she left me a 1-star review calling me "a nightmare" who "only cares about money."

Why I'm Proud of It

Here's the thing — that review is the best advertisement I have.

Not because it makes me look good on the surface. But because of what it reveals about who I am as an inspector and what I stand for.

I got into this business because I believe every person deserves to know the true condition of the home they're buying, insuring, or living in. That means I don't cut corners. I don't look the other way. And I absolutely do not falsify government inspection documents — regardless of who asks or how uncomfortable the conversation gets.

The tenants living in that rental property deserved to have someone in their corner. That day, that someone was me.

What This Means For You

When you hire Hanna Home Services, you're hiring someone who will tell you the truth — even when it's inconvenient. Even when it costs me a five-star review.

If you're a buyer, that means you'll know exactly what you're getting into before you close.

If you're a seller, that means your buyers will trust the process.

If you're a realtor, that means your clients won't be calling you six months later with surprises.

And if you're a landlord who wants me to look the other way? I'm probably not your guy.

176 Five-Star Reviews Later

That 1-star review went up in November 2023. Since then I've added dozens more five-star reviews from clients who found me, read that exchange, and decided that's exactly the kind of inspector they wanted.

Integrity isn't a marketing strategy. But it turns out, it's pretty good for business!

— Les Hanna, Certified Master Inspector, Hanna Home Services