How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?

Key takeaways

• Most home inspections take 2-4 hours.
• Larger homes or older homes may require more time.
• The inspector’s thoroughness and the home’s condition impact the duration.
• Specialty inspections (e.g., radon, pest) add to the timeline.

Home inspections offer an in-depth look at a property’s condition. Understanding how long a home inspection takes is important to know during the home-selling process. A typical home inspection for an average-sized home can take anywhere from two to four hours. However, several factors can influence this duration. This Redfin real estate article will prepare you to know what to expect from a home inspection, as you prepare to sell your home. 

Factors influencing home inspection duration

The exact time a home inspection takes depends on numerous elements. Being aware of these can help you set realistic expectations.

Size of the home

Larger homes naturally require more time to inspect. A small condo or townhouse might be completed in under two hours, while a 5,000 square foot property could take four hours or more to assess. More square footage means more areas to examine, including additional bathrooms, bedrooms, and living spaces.

Age of the home

Older homes often demand more attention during an inspection. They may have original systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC) that require a closer inspection for wear, potential upgrades, or hidden issues. Newer homes might have more predictable systems and fewer built-up problems.

Condition of the home

A home in poor condition or one that has not been well-maintained will likely have a longer inspection time. The inspector will need to document more issues, test more elements that may be failing, and spend more time evaluating the extent of any damage. On the other side, a well-maintained home might allow for a quicker inspection.

Inspector’s thoroughness

Experienced inspectors will take the time necessary to complete a thorough evaluation. This means checking every accessible system and component, from the roof to the foundation. A detailed inspection ensures that potential issues are identified, providing the seller and buyer with a complete understanding of the property’s state.

Scope of the inspection

A standard home inspection covers major visible components. However, additional specialized inspections can extend the overall time. These might include:

• Radon testing: This typically involves placing a testing device in the home for 48 hours or more.
• Pest inspection: A separate inspection focused on termites, rodents, and other pests.
• Sewer scope inspection: Uses a camera to inspect the main sewer line for blockages or damage.
• Mold inspection: If there are signs or concerns about mold.
• Chimney inspection: A more detailed look at the chimney’s structure.

What does a home inspector do during the inspection?

During the inspection, the professional will examine various aspects of the property. This includes:

• Exterior: Roof, gutters, siding, foundation, grading, and drainage.
• Interior: Walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors.
• Structural components: Foundation, basement, crawl space, and attic.
• Systems: HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), electrical, and plumbing.
• Appliances: Built-in kitchen appliances.
• Safety features: Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and egress points.

The inspector will test systems and fixtures, such as turning on faucets, flushing toilets, and running built-in appliances, to check for proper function. They will take notes and photos to include in their detailed inspection report.

What happens after the home inspection?

Following the inspection, the inspector will compile a detailed report, usually delivered within 24 to 48 hours. This report will outline all findings, including:

• Major defects: Significant issues that require immediate attention or substantial repair.
• Minor issues: Smaller problems that may not be urgent but should be addressed.
• Safety concerns: Anything that poses a risk to health or safety.
• Maintenance recommendations: Tips for maintaining the home’s systems and components.

How to prepare for a home inspection

Preparing your home for inspection can help ensure a smooth process and a more favorable report. This includes:

• Ensure clear access: Make sure all areas the inspector needs to access are easily reachable, including attics, crawl spaces, electrical panels, and water heaters.
• Provide access to utilities: Ensure all utilities (water, electricity, gas) are turned on.
• Clean and declutter: A tidy home allows the inspector to focus on structural and systemic issues.
• Gather documentation: Have any maintenance records, past repair invoices, or appliance manuals available.
• Address obvious issues: Fix minor repairs if possible, like leaky faucets or burnt-out light bulbs.

Every home is different

Understanding how long a home inspection takes is important in the selling process. While the typical duration is 2 to 4 hours, factors like the home’s size, age, condition, and the scope of the inspection can all influence this timeline. Being prepared as a seller can contribute to a smoother, more efficient process, ultimately helping you move closer to your real estate goals.