Are Home Inspection Reports Public Record in Pittsburgh, PA?

aaronwest241
May 2
2 min read

When you're buying a home in the Greater Pittsburgh area, you’re likely to schedule a home inspection to protect your investment and gain peace of mind. One question many homebuyers ask is: “Are home inspection reports public record?” Let’s break it down and clarify what happens to your inspection report — and who can legally see it.

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What Is a Home Inspection Report?

A home inspection report is a detailed document compiled by a home inspector — like Keystone Castle Inspections — that outlines the condition of a property's major systems, including the roof, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, foundation, and more. It helps buyers make informed decisions during the home-buying process.

Are Home Inspection Reports Public Record?

In short: No, home inspection reports are not public record in Pennsylvania.

Home inspection reports are considered private documents and are owned by the party who paid for the inspection — usually the buyer. Unless the buyer chooses to share the report with others (such as a seller, agent, or second prospective buyer), the report remains confidential.

Who Can Access a Home Inspection Report?

Here’s a breakdown of who can — and cannot — access the report:

Party	Access to Report?
Buyer (client)	✅ Yes — it's their report
Seller	❌ Not unless buyer shares
Buyer’s Agent	✅ If client allows
Listing Agent	❌ Only if shared
Future Buyers	❌ Not unless released
The Public (via records)	❌ Never publicly filed

If you didn’t pay for the inspection, you typically don’t have a legal right to see it. Even real estate agents must get the buyer’s permission to view or use the report.

📃 Can a Seller Use a Previous Inspection Report?

Sometimes, sellers get pre-listing inspections and may choose to share that report with potential buyers. However, buyers should approach these shared reports with caution — conditions may have changed since the inspection, and the report may not cover your specific concerns.

At Keystone Castle Inspections, we always recommend that buyers get their own independent inspection, so they have a fresh, unbiased report tailored to their interests.

📍 Why It Matters in Pittsburgh, PA

In a competitive market like Pittsburgh — especially in areas like Wexford, Cranberry Township, or South Hills — waived contingencies and limited disclosure can make buying a home feel risky. Understanding that home inspection reports are private empowers you to insist on your own due diligence before finalizing a purchase.