Home inspection cost is the amount of money you pay to examine the condition of a house before buying it. The process ensures the house is safe and everything in the home works properly. It prevents buying homework surprises about repairs and helps you make informed decisions.
The cost of home inspection varies depending on the size of the house as well as the locality. As a ballpark, the cost ranges between $300 – $500 on average, but bigger homes or a special inspection may charge more. Spending on an inspection now will save a lot later.
Home Inspection Cost
| Home Inspection | Cost |
| National Average | $400 |
| Average Range | $300-$500 |
| Low-end | $125 |
| High-end | $800 |
Typical Cost by Size of the House
A home inspection cost can be determined from a few factors: house size predominates. Inspection costs are commonly calculated on a square-foot basis-the larger the home, the more time it takes to inspect it. Average per-square-foot costs range between $0.18 and $0.25.
The following table shows how the total should be increased in consideration of the increase in house size, making it possible for easy estimation when planning a home inspection cost.
| House Size (sq.ft.) | Average Cost |
| 800 sq.ft. | $145 – $200 |
| 1,000 sq.ft. | $180 – $250 |
| 1,200 sq.ft. | $215 – $300 |
| 1,400 sq.ft. | $250 – $350 |
| 1,600 sq.ft. | $290 – $400 |
| 1,800 sq.ft. | $325 – $450 |
| 2,000 sq.ft. | $360 – $500 |
| 2,200 sq.ft. | $395 – $550 |
Home Inspection Cost by Type of House
The cost of the house being inspected determines how much cost is incurred in home inspections. Inspecting small condos will cost less as compared to inspecting single-family homes in expensive neighborhoods. Furthermore, homes with basements or crawl spaces also take more budget since arborists have to do extra work inspecting these aforementioned parts of the house.
Basements and crawlspaces have more square footage than just the area of walkable space in a house, making the inspection last longer and taking that little bit more into it. Finished basements usually involve a higher inspection cost than basements left undone. Below is an example of average inspection costs per type of home.
| House Type | Average Cost |
| Tiny Home | $150 – $250 |
| Condo | $200 – $400 |
| Cottage | $250 – $300 |
| Bungalow | $250 – $325 |
| Chalet | $250 – $350 |
| Mobile Home | $250 – $400 |
| Townhouse | $300 – $500 |
| Single-Family | $300 – $500 |
| Multi-Family | $400 – $800 |
Home Inspection Price by Type
Most standard house inspectors generally check for the defects existing throughout the main house. Any such abnormality may also prompt the inspector to recommend further evaluation through specialists. For example, the inspector may recommend window inspection if damage is noticed on window frames. A particular abnormality may warrant a foundation inspection, such as abnormal cracking. Below is a table giving some types of inspections, and the average estimates of costs to pay for them.
| Type | Average Cost |
| Windows | $75 – $150 |
| Insulation | $100 – $200 |
| Plumbing | $100 – $225 |
| Roof | $100 – $600 |
| Electrical | $125 – $250 |
| HVAC | $250 – $400 |
| Foundation | $300 – $1,000 |
1. Window Inspection
A tiny home inspection can cost anywhere from $150 to $250. Because the homes are small, the inspection is faster and less complicated. It’s a safety construct evaluation that ensures that the home is built to last.
2. Insulation Inspection
An inspection of insulation costs $100-200. It involves the inspector checking the insulation in key areas such as the attic, garage, and basement to find the under-insulated areas or areas with water damage. Proper insulation minimizes drafts, reduces heat loss, and keeps energy costs within limits.
3. Plumbing Inspection
The cost of plumbing inspection ranges from $100 to $225 for identifying the issues related to pipes, fixtures, and valves. Cracks, leaks, and the aging components of sinks, showers, and toilets are checked visually with the system to ensure that it is functional and efficient for daily use.
4. Roof Inspection
Roof inspection generally ranges from $100 to $600. It varies based on the size and complexity of the roof since inspectors take a closer evaluation of the shingles, gutters, chimneys, and other fittings to find damage, such as warping or cracks. Damages would be prevented with a complete roof inspection for structural integrity and the requirements for repairs needed.
5. Electrical Inspection
The electrical inspection costs between $125 to $250 and typically an inspector assesses wiring, switches, sockets, and the main switchboard for faults or hazardous conditions. Hence, it can be determined that the electric system is safe, functional, and adequate for house needs.
6. HVAC Inspection
An HVAC inspection ranges anywhere from about $250 to $400 on average. There is a check of the furnace, AC unit, thermostat, and visible insulation. Gas and/or carbon monoxide leaks can be checked, too. Thus, heating and cooling are efficient within safe limits.
7. Foundation Inspection
The foundation checks are extremely complex, and hence, their cost can vary from $300 to $1000 depending on the site. Inspectors will look for cracks, chips, or structural weaknesses in the foundation itself. Note that a good foundation is very important because if not, it can lead to a more extensive and expensive repair problem.
Cost of Specialty Home Type Inspection
Specialty inspections are also conducted at times on a house. They are not part of an ordinary house inspection, but supplement information that might be beneficial to homebuyers or homeowners. These inspections are done by specialists in their fields and added costs are sometimes incurred. But it is worth the expense in that it makes you more likely to take that elusive just-in-case precaution that keeps your home in the shape it probably was intended to be. Below are some of the common specialty inspections
| Specialty Inspection | Average Cost |
| Wind Mitigation | $75 – $150 |
| Radon | $125 – $400 |
| Pool | $150 – $300 |
| Septic | $150 – $300 |
| Sewer | $200 – $1,000 |
| Asbestos | $250 – $750 |
| Well | $300 – $500 |
| Lead | $350 – $500 |
| Mold | $450 – $800 |
| Soil | $700 – $1,800 |
Features of Home Inspection Costs:
A home inspection is usually part of the closing costs when purchasing a property. On average, the cost of a home inspection ranges from $300 to $500 or more. However, the price can vary significantly based on factors such as the region, size, age of the home, and the scope of services provided. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development emphasizes the importance of considering the value of the inspection of the investment being made.
Several different factors would determine the cost of an inspection:
- Age and Size of the Property: Generally, bigger older homes will cost more during inspection as compared to smaller newer homes.
- Property Type: For example, a single-family home is easier to inspect compared to a townhouse or condo since that involves additional evaluation of common areas used or shared by neighbor units.
- Location of the Property: A home inspection in a country town is most of the time cheaper than the home inspection in the city.
- Complexity of the Inspection: The inspection may involve more complexity and expense if a home has special accessories such as a septic system or swimming pool.
- Inspector Reputation: Pricing will surely be higher if an inspection is done by an established and respected inspector compared to the fresh ones in the industry.
Cost of Home Inspection and Appraisal
Home inspection and appraisal are steps in buying or selling a property. These two services help a buyer know what condition a house is in to avoid surprises after a purchase. It costs between $475 and $1,450 for both services combined, depending on the state.
- Home Inspection: A home inspection costs anywhere from $175 to $1,000 and usually lasts between two and six hours. It indicates the condition of the property and whether structural problems or repairs are needed but doesn’t state whether the house is worth a certain amount.
- Appraisal: It usually costs between $375 and $450 and takes about two hours. This estimates the market value of the house, which is an important factor for lenders when they determine if they are going to provide a mortgage. An appraisal is not like a home inspection. This doesn’t detail how the house is physically in its condition.
Conclusion
Home inspection costs can typically run anywhere from about $300 to $500, give or take, for my entire stay. The price can vary depending on some factors such as the location, size, and age of the house. It truly is a small price to pay to make sure that your future home will be at least in good condition.
A home inspection can avoid future problems for any buyer. The price may vary, but it offers assurance. The worth of inspection should be considered in the whole home-buying process.
FAQs
Q1. What is inspected in a home?
A home inspector examines the structure, plumbing, and electrical systems. He also looks at the roof, windows, and foundation.
Q2. How long does a home inspection take?
A typical home inspection takes 2 to 6 hours. Time depends on how big and old the property is.
Q3. Should I be present during the inspection?
It’s a good idea to be present. You will be able to ask questions about the potential problems right away.
Q4. How long will it take to get the inspection report?
You will usually get the report within 24 to 48 hours. Some inspectors provide reports on the same day.
Q5. Does a home inspection check everything?
A home inspection checks most major systems. It may not include pests, septic systems, or mold.
Q6. Do I need a home inspection for a mortgage?
Not all mortgages require an inspection. They are highly recommended, though, to ensure the condition of the home.
