I previously wrote about an inspector’s difficult experiences with a very aggressive cat at an inspection. Recently I had a unique and startling animal experience of my own.

It’s common for us to find pets at people’s houses during inspections. The most common are cats and dogs. It is always best if they are kenneled so we can do a thorough inspection without having to worry about a cat getting out of the house or a dog that won’t stop barking. We have also seen birds, snakes, lizards, fish, and plenty of other animals.

However, last month I was startled by an animal I had never seen before at a home inspection – and doubt I will ever again.

It was a beautiful 4.5-acre property tucked back into the woods. I had overhead the seller and the potential buyers talking about their unique ‘pets’ that were roaming the property, but I didn’t make much of it, not anticipating encountering anything too unusual during the inspection. 

When you hear about ‘pets’ roaming the property, what comes to mind? Chickens, goats, ducks, or maybe a pig? It is Iowa after all. Nope. Not. Even. Close.

I had finished my inspection of both the inside as well as the outside of the property. The buyer had some questions about the exterior. So we proceeded to walk around the back of the house discussing various issues such as proper water drainage, the location of the well and septic field, and also the deck. He was particularly interested in how the deck was attached to the house and if the ledger board was properly flashed.

As we came around the back corner of the house I started to point out the underside of the deck. Before I knew it, I was frightened by a flurry of feathers and wings flapping vigorously coming toward my direction. I was so startled it took my breath away. And no it wasn’t a chicken. It was a PEACOCK. Yes. A full-sized blue and green – long tail feathered – large peacock. And it was coming right at me. 

In the process of taking a closer look at the deck, we inadvertently cornered the unusual pet causing it to come storming at us in order to not be trapped in the corner. You would think I would have seen it sooner with its bright colors and large size. Needless to say, I was not only startled but totally surprised to see a peacock roaming someone’s yard as a pet. In fact, they had two peacocks out and about making this yard and woods their home.

Definitely the most bizarre animal I have ever encountered during a home inspection. Next time, I will be a little more careful when I hear about pets ranging around a property. Just another day as a home inspector.