If this is your first home purchase or your first time working with a professional inspector, you may not know what to expect on inspection day. Here is a clear timeline from arrival to report delivery so you can show up prepared.
Before You Arrive: What to Do
Clear the day. A full inspection takes 2.5 to 4 hours depending on the size and age of the home. Plan to be there for the whole time, especially for the inspector’s verbal summary at the end.
Bring your questions. Make a list of anything you noticed during your showings that you want the inspector to specifically address. Write them down so you do not forget in the moment. Wear comfortable shoes. You may be walking through the attic, crawlspace, and roof areas as an observer.
The First Hour: Exterior and Roof
We typically arrive 15 to 30 minutes before the scheduled start time to walk the exterior and set up equipment. We start with the outside: roof, gutters, siding, foundation perimeter, and drainage. The inspector checks the roof, exterior cladding, windows and doors, grading and drainage, driveway, walkways, and any decks or porches. If the roof is safely walkable, we get up on it. We use a drone or walking stick for steeply pitched roofs or roofs that are not safe to walk.
The Second Hour: Interior Systems
We work through the electrical panel, plumbing systems, HVAC, water heater, and kitchen appliances. Every outlet is tested. Every faucet runs. Every toilet is flushed. We check under every sink.
The thermal imaging camera comes out during this phase to check walls, ceilings, and the panel for thermal anomalies.
The Third Hour: Attic, Crawlspace, and Detailed Interior
Attic and crawlspace are often the most revealing parts of the inspection. This is where we find moisture intrusion, insulation conditions, structural issues, pest activity, and HVAC ductwork conditions. After the attic and crawlspace, we complete the interior room-by-room inspection.
The Walkthrough: Your Most Valuable Time
At the end of the physical inspection, the inspector walks you through the findings verbally. This is the most important part of your day. Ask every question you have. Ask what the inspector would focus on if they were buying the home. Ask which items they would address first if they moved in.
The Report
We deliver your written report the same day or within 24 hours. The report includes photos of every significant finding, ratings, and descriptions. You are welcome to call or email after you receive the report with any follow-up questions. We are always available to help you understand what you are looking at.