Home Inspection FAQs
Have questions about home inspections or our specialized services? Here are answers to some of the most common questions we hear from San Diego buyers, sellers, homeowners, and property investors.
What does a home inspection include?
A home inspection is a visual, non-invasive evaluation of the home's readily accessible systems and components, including roofing, structure, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, interiors, exteriors, and visible insulation where accessible. The goal is to identify significant defects, safety concerns, maintenance issues, and conditions that may warrant repair or further evaluation.
How long does a home inspection take?
Most inspections take 2–4 hours, depending on the size, age, and condition of the property. Larger or older homes may take longer to inspect thoroughly.
Should I attend the home inspection?
Yes, attendance is encouraged, particularly toward the end of the inspection. This gives you an opportunity to see significant findings firsthand, ask questions, and better understand the property. Your complete findings will be documented in the inspection report.
How soon will I receive my inspection report?
Reports are typically delivered the same day or within 24 hours. InspectSD reports include clear explanations and photos designed to help you understand what was observed, why it matters, and what next steps may be appropriate.
When should I schedule my inspection?
If you're buying a home, schedule your inspection as soon as possible after your offer is accepted. Inspection and contingency timelines can vary by contract, so confirm your deadlines with your real estate professional and allow enough time for any additional evaluations that may be recommended.
If you're selling, a pre-listing inspection can be scheduled before the property goes on the market to help identify conditions you may want to address in advance.
What happens if the inspection finds problems?
Finding issues is normal—even in newer homes. Your report helps you understand the significance of the findings and make informed decisions about additional evaluation, repairs, maintenance, or discussions with the appropriate parties. InspectSD does not perform repairs, which helps keep the inspection independent.
Do home inspectors find every problem?
No. A home inspection is a visual, non-invasive evaluation performed on the day of the inspection. Inspectors can only report on what is visible and accessible at the time. Some issues may be hidden behind walls, under floors, inside ceilings, or blocked by personal belongings. The goal of a home inspection is to identify material defects, safety concerns, and signs of potential issues, not to predict future failures or uncover concealed conditions.
How much does a home inspection cost?
Pricing depends on the property type, size, age, location, and overall scope of work. Single-family home inspections currently start at $449, with specialized services such as mold, termite/WDO, thermal imaging, pool and spa, radon, and other services available separately or at discounted add-on rates where applicable.
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Pricing is confirmed before scheduling so you'll know what to expect before the inspection begins.
Do I need specialized inspection services?
It depends on the property and what you're trying to learn. A comprehensive home inspection provides a broad evaluation of the property, while specialized services can provide a closer look at a particular concern.
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Mold inspection may be appropriate when there are musty odors, previous leaks, visible suspect growth, or moisture concerns.
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Termite/WDO inspection evaluates accessible areas for evidence of wood-destroying organisms and conducive conditions.
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Radon testing measures the radon level within the home; testing is the only way to determine the concentration in a specific property.
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Thermal imaging or a Home Energy Assessment may be useful when investigating unexplained hot/cold rooms, comfort concerns, suspected moisture, air leakage, or energy-efficiency issues.
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Not sure what you need? Contact InspectSD and we'll help you choose the appropriate service.
Do you charge travel fees?
No travel fees within San Diego County.
Are there extra charges for older homes?
Homes over 75 years old may require additional inspection time and are subject to an age-related pricing adjustment. Any additional fee will be disclosed before scheduling.
Can I get a custom quote?
Yes. For large estates, multi-unit properties, or unique conditions, please contact us for a custom quote.
Can I schedule a specialized service without a full home inspection?
Yes. Many InspectSD specialized services can be scheduled independently when you're investigating a specific concern. Home Energy Assessments, thermal imaging, mold inspections, crawlspace assessments, and other services may be appropriate for existing homeowners as well as buyers and sellers.
Do you inspect ADUs?
Yes. InspectSD offers focused inspections of existing accessory dwelling units (ADUs), including readily accessible systems and components. ADU inspections evaluate condition but do not verify permits, zoning, legal status, or code compliance.
What is a Home Energy Assessment?
A Home Energy Assessment is a focused evaluation for homeowners experiencing comfort or efficiency concerns such as uneven temperatures, drafts, or high energy use. The assessment may include thermal imaging and evaluation of accessible insulation, air sealing, HVAC distribution, and building-envelope conditions, followed by prioritized recommendations.
Do you perform repairs?
No. InspectSD provides independent inspection and assessment services and does not perform repairs on conditions identified during the inspection. When appropriate, we may recommend further evaluation or repair by a qualified professional.