How Long Does a Home Inspection Take? A Complete Guide for Pittsburgh Homeowners

Understanding Home Inspection Timelines

A home inspection is an essential step when buying or selling a home, but how long does a home inspection take? The answer depends on several factors, including property size, condition, and additional services like mold testing or sewer line inspections.

At Keystone Castle Inspections, we provide detailed, technology-driven home inspections across Pittsburgh and surrounding counties, ensuring you get a comprehensive evaluation in the most efficient time possible.

Let’s break down what affects home inspection duration and how you can prepare for a smooth, time-efficient inspection.

⏳ How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?

On average, a standard home inspection takes 2 to 4 hours, but this can vary based on:

✔ Property Size – Larger homes take longer to inspect.

✔ Property Type – Condos and townhouses may be quicker than multi-unit homes.

✔ Condition of the Home – Older homes or fixer-uppers require more time.

✔ Additional Inspection Services – Mold, radon, termite, and sewer scope inspections add extra time.

✔ Occupied vs. Vacant Homes – Vacant homes typically allow for a faster inspection process.

Want a more accurate estimate for your specific home? Schedule an inspection now!

🏡 Factors That Affect Home Inspection Time

1️⃣ Home Inspection Services & Add-Ons

A standard home inspection evaluates major home systems, including:

✅ Foundation & Structural Integrity

✅ Roof & Attic (Drone Technology Used!)

✅ Electrical & Plumbing Systems

✅ HVAC (Heating & Cooling Performance)

✅ Appliances & Insulation

⏳ Time Estimate: 2-3 Hours

Adding specialized inspections can increase the duration but provide critical insights into your home’s health:

🦠 Mold Testing – Identifies moisture & air quality risks. (+30-45 min)

🐜 Termite & WDI Inspection – Checks for wood-destroying insects. (+30 min)

📷 Sewer Scope Inspection – Detects pipe damage underground. (+45 min)

2️⃣ Property Size & Type

🏠 Small Homes (<1,500 sq. ft.) – 1.5 to 2 hours

🏡 Average Homes (1,500–3,000 sq. ft.) – 2 to 3 hours

🏘️ Large Homes (3,000+ sq. ft.) – 3 to 5 hours

Single-Family Homes vs. Multi-Unit Properties

🔹 Single-family homes take less time to inspect compared to duplexes, triplexes, or apartment buildings, which may require additional time per unit.

3️⃣ Occupied vs. Vacant Homes

🚪 Occupied Homes:🔹 May take longer due to furniture, personal belongings, and scheduling access to certain areas.🔹 The inspector will need time to move around and check attics, basements, and crawl spaces.

🚪 Vacant Homes:✅ Typically faster and more efficient, as inspectors have unobstructed access to all areas.

📊 What You Can Do to Speed Up the Inspection Process

🛠️ Before the Inspector Arrives:

✔ Ensure all areas are accessible (attic, basement, electrical panel, HVAC system).

✔ Unlock doors and remove obstructions (especially in garages and crawl spaces).

✔ Provide documentation for recent repairs or major upgrades.

💡 Want to save time & avoid delays? 

Book with Keystone Castle Inspections—we guarantee detailed reports within 24 hours!

📲 Call or Text: (412) 204-6149

📅 Schedule Online

🚀 Why Choose Keystone Castle Inspections?

🔍 InterNACHI Certified Inspectors – Ensuring industry-leading expertise.

🛠️ Advanced Technology – Thermal imaging, drones, & moisture meters included.

📑 Comprehensive Reports in 24 Hours – Get fast, detailed results.

💰 Straightforward Pricing – No hidden fees, just top-tier service.

📍 Serving Pittsburgh & Beyond

We proudly serve Allegheny, Butler, Armstrong, Westmoreland, Washington, and Beaver Counties.

🚨 Don’t let hidden issues cost you thousands—book your home inspection today! 🚨

📞 Call/Text: (412) 204-6149

📅 Schedule Here