Key Takeaways
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Average Cost | $340 |
| Range | $200 – $500 |
| Factors Impacting Cost | Home size, property type, location, additional inspection types |
| Regional Variations | Costs vary significantly by state |
| Special Inspections | Asbestos, radon, mold, and other specialized inspections may add to the total cost |
$250 – $300: 1,000 to 1,500 SF Home
For homes between 1,000 to 1,500 square feet, the average inspection cost ranges from $250 to $300. This size category typically covers smaller single-family homes and some larger condos.
$300 – $400: 1,500 to 2,000 SF Home
If your home is between 1,500 to 2,000 square feet, you can expect to pay between $300 and $400 for a standard home inspection. These are generally mid-sized homes, including some townhouses and multiple-level single-family homes.
$400 – $500+: 2,000 to 3,000+ SF Home
Larger homes ranging from 2,000 to 3,000+ square feet will have higher inspection costs, generally between $400 and $500 or more. This range often includes multi-story houses and larger suburban homes.
Average Home Inspection Cost
Understanding the average cost for a home inspection is critical when budgeting for your upcoming purchase. Here is a detailed breakdown:
Home Inspection Costs by Square Footage
| Home Size (Square Feet) | Average Cost (Standard Inspection) |
|---|---|
| < 1,000 | $200 – $250 |
| 1,001 – 1,500 | $250 – $300 |
| 1,501 – 2,000 | $300 – $400 |
| 2,001 – 2,500 | $400 – $450 |
| 2,501 – 3,000 | $450 – $500+ |
Home Inspection Cost Calculator
To give a more comprehensive overview, here’s a cost summary for home inspections nationwide.
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| National Average | $340 |
| Minimum Cost | $200 |
| Maximum Cost | $800 |
| Average Range | $200 – $500 |
House Inspection Cost Near Your Location
The cost of a home inspection can greatly vary depending on geographical location. Here’s a look at average costs by state:
Home Inspection Costs by State
| State | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $275 – $325 |
| Alaska | $350 – $475 |
| Arizona | $275 – $350 |
| Arkansas | $200 – $400 |
| California | $350 – $500 |
| Colorado | $250 – $600 |
| Connecticut | $400 – $500 |
| Delaware | $270 – $380 |
| Florida | $250 – $375 |
| Georgia | $250 – $600 |
| Hawaii | $300 – $800 |
| Idaho | $240 – $600 |
| Illinois | $300 – $600 |
| Indiana | $250 – $600 |
| Iowa | $300 – $450 |
| Kansas | $350 – $400 |
| Kentucky | $200 – $450 |
| Louisiana | $200 – $350 |
| Maine | $300 – $500 |
| Maryland | $200 – $550 |
| Massachusetts | $350 – $600 |
| Michigan | $250 – $600 |
| Minnesota | $270 – $650 |
| Mississippi | $240 – $600 |
| Missouri | $300 – $550 |
| Montana | $250 – $375 |
| Nebraska | $200 – $550 |
| Nevada | $250 – $600 |
| New Hampshire | $300 – $500 |
| New Jersey | $300 – $500 |
| New Mexico | $200 – $500 |
| New York | $200 – $700 |
| North Carolina | $300 – $600 |
| North Dakota | $250 – $400 |
| Ohio | $200 – $450 |
| Oklahoma | $225 – $550 |
| Oregon | $275 – $700 |
| Pennsylvania | $365 – $415 |
| Rhode Island | $200 – $750 |
| South Carolina | $250 – $650 |
| South Dakota | $250 – $625 |
| Tennessee | $300 – $500 |
| Texas | $350 – $600 |
| Utah | $200 – $600 |
| Vermont | $275 – $650 |
| Virginia | $300 – $700 |
| Washington | $500 – $700 |
| West Virginia | $225 – $600 |
| Wisconsin | $250 – $575 |
| Wyoming | $300 – $450 |
New Construction Home Inspection Cost
When inspecting a newly built home, there are several additional inspection stages to consider.
New Construction Home Inspection Costs
| Inspection Type | Average Cost | When to Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Drywall Inspection | $100 – $300 | Before the drywall is hung, and preferably before adding insulation |
| Full Home Inspection | $200 – $400 | When the buyer and seller (builder) go under contract |
| 11-Month Inspection | $250 – $350 | One month before the home warranty expires |
Pre-Drywall Inspection Cost
Pre-drywall inspections, usually costing between $100 and $300, are crucial for identifying underlying issues before the walls are closed up.
11-Month Home Inspection Cost
At the 11-month mark, just before the builder’s warranty expires, a home inspection (ranging from $250 to $350) ensures that any overlooked problems are addressed.
What Is Included In The Cost Of A Home Inspection?
A standard home inspection covers various critical areas of a property. Here’s what you can generally expect:
Home Inspection Areas of Focus
| Area | Issues |
|---|---|
| Structure | Condition of window and door frames, Cracks in the foundation, Leaning or distorted walls |
| Exterior | Cracks and missing bricks, Siding issues, Flaking paint, Standing water, Rot or leaks |
| Roof | Missing/damaged shingles, Flashing damage, Gutter issues, Chimney problems |
| Attic, Basement, Crawl Space | Water or mold evidence, Pest damage, Cracked walls, Poor ventilation |
| Interior | Cracks in floors/walls, Malfunctioning windows/doors, Paint or trim damage |
| Kitchen | Outlet placement, Leaking sinks, Drainage issues, Mold in cabinets |
| Bathrooms | Leaking fixtures, Drainage problems, Water pressure, Mold presence |
| Plumbing | Leaks and rust around pipes, Water heater issues |
| Electrical | Wiring problems, Ungrounded outlets, Switch issues, Circuit panel problems |
| Heating and Cooling | Airflow issues, Gas odors, Dirty filters, Thermostat malfunction |
Special Home Inspection Costs
Specialized inspections may be needed for a comprehensive assessment. These often add to the total inspection cost:
Special Home Inspection Costs
| Inspection Type | Average Cost | Who to Hire |
|---|---|---|
| Asbestos Inspection Cost | $250 – $750 | Asbestos Inspectors |
| Basement Waterproofing Inspection Cost | $350 – $450 | Basement Waterproofer |
| Chimney Inspection Cost | $360 – $400 | Chimney Sweep |
| Electrical Inspection Cost | $100 – $200 | Electricians |
| Foundation Inspection Cost | $400 – $750 | Foundation Contractor |
| Furnace Inspection Cost | $70 – $130 | Furnace Repair Company |
| HVAC Inspection Cost | $150 – $500 | HVAC Contractor |
| Indoor Air Quality Inspection Cost | $250 – $300 | HVAC Contractor |
| Lead Inspection Cost | $250 – $700 | Lead Inspector |
| Mold Inspection Cost | $300 – $650 | Mold Inspector |
| Pest Inspection Cost | $100 – $1,300 | Pest Control |
| Plumbing Inspection Cost | $100 – $1,300 | Plumbing Inspector |
| Pool Inspection Cost | $75 – $350 | Pool Contractor |
| Radon Inspection Cost | $125 – $400 | Radon Inspector |
| Roof Inspection Cost | $100 – $400 | Roof Inspector |
| Septic Tank Inspection Cost | $150 – $650 | Plumbing Inspector |
| Sewer Camera Inspection Cost | $125 – $500 | Plumbing Inspector |
| Soil Inspection Cost | $100 – $500 | Lawn Contractor |
| Geotechnical Inspection Cost | $1,000 – $2,800 | Structural Engineer |
| Structural Inspection Cost | $350 – $900 | Structural Engineer |
| Termite Inspection Cost | $50 – $350 | Termite Inspector |
| Well & Water Inspection Cost | $250 – $550 | Well Water Tester |
4-Point Home Inspection Cost
A 4-point inspection focuses on the most vital components of a house:
| Area | Inspects |
|---|---|
| Roof | Age, Signs of deterioration, Leaks |
| Electrical | System size, System type, Code compliance |
| Plumbing | Material & age of lines, Water heater condition |
| HVAC | Furnace/AC functionality, Condition & age |
Home Inspection Prices By Property Type
Home inspections can vary based on the property type. Here are some common categories:
Home Inspection Costs by Property Type
| Property Type | Avg. Square Footage | Avg. Inspection Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Condo | 500 – 1,000 | $200 – $250 |
| Guest or Pool House | 100 – 800 | $200 – $250 |
| Mobile Home | 600 – 1,300 | $200 – $300 |
Condo Inspection Cost
Inspections for condos, typically between 500 and 1,000 square feet, usually range from $200 to $250.
Mobile Home Inspection Cost
Mobile homes, sized between 600 and 1,300 square feet, often incur inspection costs ranging from $200 to $300.
Home Inspection FAQs
Is a Home Inspection Worth It?
A home inspection is essential for identifying potential issues that could lead to costly repairs. This investment can save you thousands in the long run by providing a detailed condition report on the property.
Do You Need a Home Inspection, and Is It Required?
While not legally required, home inspections are highly recommended to protect your investment and ensure there are no hidden issues with the property.
Is the Home Inspection Part of Closing Costs?
Yes, the home inspection typically falls under the buyer’s closing costs. It’s a crucial part of the due diligence process.
Who Pays for a Home Inspection?
The buyer is usually responsible for the home inspection costs. However, negotiations can sometimes lead to the seller covering the cost.
How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?
Home inspections generally take 2 to 3 hours, although this can vary depending on the size and condition of the property.
What Fixes Are Mandatory After a Home Inspection?
No fixes are legally mandatory; however, issues like safety hazards often lead to renegotiations or are addressed before closing.
Should the Buyer or Seller Be Present at a Home Inspection?
It’s usually recommended for the buyer to be present to understand any potential issues better, although the seller can also be present.
Getting Quotes and Hiring a Home Inspector
When seeking quotes, it’s essential to compare multiple inspectors for price and reliability. Here are some key points to consider:
Questions to Ask Before and During the Home Inspection
- What does your inspection cover?
- Can I see your credentials and experience?
- How long will the inspection take?
- Will I receive a detailed report?
- What follow-up services do you offer?
How to Prepare for a Home Inspection
Proper preparation ensures the inspection goes smoothly. Here’s a checklist to get started:
| Area/System | Inspect |
|---|---|
| Lighting | Check lightbulbs and fixtures |
| Mechanics | Inspect furnace, AC, hot water tank, and fuse box |
| Exterior | Clean gutters, siding, driveway, and doorbell. Ensure landscaping is tidy |
| Windows | Ensure they open/close and check screens and frames |
| Plumbing | Test faucets, tubs, showers, toilets, and water pressure |
| Access | Provide access to crawl spaces, basement, attic, doorways, and closets |
| Detectors | Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors |
| Utilities | Check gas, electric, and water systems |
| Appliances | Test included appliances like the dishwasher, washer/dryer, oven/range, and refrigerator |
By understanding the intricacies of home inspection costs and what they entail, you can make more informed decisions during the home buying process. Always hire a qualified inspector and ensure you know exactly what you’re paying for.
