What Home Inspection Services Do I Need Before Buying a House?

aaronwest241
Sep 8
4 min read

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments most people will ever make. Whether you’re purchasing your first home in Pittsburgh, upgrading to a larger property in Butler, or moving into a quiet neighborhood in Cranberry Township, protecting that investment starts with a thorough home inspection.

But here’s the challenge: not all inspections are the same. A standard home inspection covers many important areas, but depending on the age, location, and financing type of your home, you may need additional specialized services.

At Keystone Castle Inspections, we’ve helped homebuyers across Western Pennsylvania—from Armstrong to Westmoreland County—navigate these choices with confidence. Let’s break down the inspection services you should consider before closing on your home.

The Core Inspection Every Buyer Needs

General Home Inspection

This is the foundation of any real estate transaction. A general home inspection evaluates the overall condition of the property, including:

Roof & Attic – Checking shingles, flashing, ventilation, and insulation.
Foundation & Structure – Looking for cracks, settling, or water intrusion.
Electrical System – Verifying outlets, panels, breakers, and wiring safety.
Plumbing System – Inspecting supply lines, drains, fixtures, and water heaters.
HVAC – Assessing heating, cooling, and ductwork performance.
Interior & Exterior – Walls, ceilings, doors, windows, and siding.

This inspection gives you a comprehensive picture of the home’s condition and helps you negotiate repairs or adjustments with confidence.

Specialized Inspections That Protect Your Health and Safety

Radon Testing

Pennsylvania is ranked among the highest radon risk states in the U.S. Radon is a colorless, odorless gas linked to lung cancer—and many homes in Western PA exceed safe levels.

Why it matters: Both FHA and VA loans may require radon testing. Even if yours doesn’t, testing is strongly recommended for peace of mind.
Our approach: As NRPP-certified testers, we use professional continuous radon monitors for accurate results.

Mold & Indoor Air Quality Testing

Western Pennsylvania homes, especially those with basements or crawlspaces, are prone to mold due to moisture and ventilation issues.

Why it matters: Mold can trigger allergies, asthma, and long-term health concerns.
What we do: We provide both surface and air sampling, helping you identify hidden problems before they worsen.
Pro tip: If you notice musty odors or past signs of water intrusion, mold testing is a smart investment.

Wood-Destroying Insect (WDI/Termite) Inspections

Termites and other wood-destroying insects are silent but costly.

Why it matters: VA and FHA loans require WDI inspections. Even if not required, preventing structural damage is worth the check.
Our advantage: As certified inspectors, we spot early signs of termite activity, carpenter ants, or other pests before they cause thousands in damage.

Inspections That Save You from Expensive Repairs

Sewer Scope Inspections

In cities like Pittsburgh and Butler, many homes still rely on aging clay or cast-iron sewer lines. These can crack, collapse, or become clogged with tree roots.

Why it matters: Sewer repairs often cost $5,000–$20,000. A scope inspection is one of the best “insurance policies” for buyers.
Our tools: We use specialized cameras to inspect the full sewer line from the house to the street connection.

Water, Well, and Septic Inspections

If you’re buying in rural areas such as Armstrong or Westmoreland County, water testing and septic inspections are often critical.

Water Testing: Lenders such as FHA and VA often require bacteria, nitrate, and lead testing to ensure safe drinking water.
Well Inspections: We check the well head, pump, and pressure system to confirm reliable water flow.
Septic System Inspections: We evaluate tanks, pumps, and drain fields for leaks, blockages, or system age concerns.

Why These Services Matter in Western Pennsylvania

Every region has unique housing challenges. Here’s what we see most often across our service areas:

Pittsburgh: Older housing stock with aging sewer lines, foundation issues, and radon concerns.
Butler: Mix of newer homes and rural properties—septic and well testing are common needs.
Cranberry Township: Rapid development means some newer builds, but still high radon and occasional drainage issues.
Armstrong & Westmoreland Counties: Rural water and septic systems dominate, making water safety a top priority.

By tailoring your inspection services to the area, you’re not just checking a box—you’re protecting your investment against the most likely risks.

How to Decide Which Inspections You Need

When deciding which inspection services to book, consider these three factors:

Financing Requirements – FHA, VA, and some conventional loans require specific tests (radon, termite, water).
Home Location – City homes often benefit from sewer scopes, while rural homes may require septic and well testing.
Home Age & Condition – Older homes may need mold, radon, or chimney inspections, while new builds may still benefit from sewer checks.

A conversation with your inspector before booking can help you customize the inspection package that fits your property best.

Why Choose Keystone Castle Inspections?

Certified Experts: InterNACHI- and NRPP-certified.
Cutting-Edge Tools: Thermal imaging, drones, moisture meters, and sewer cameras included.
Fast Reports: Easy-to-read digital reports delivered within 24 hours.
Local Knowledge: We know Western Pennsylvania homes inside and out.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, we deliver the clarity you need to make confident decisions.