KNOW HOW LONG A HOME INSPECTION TAKES IN THE REAL WORLD

Residential properties are a complex combination of different components, including structural framing as well plumbing, electrical, heating, and air conditioning systems. At the time of making a purchase, it is not uncommon for buyers to settle for simple cosmetic repairs, but knowing what is beneath the surface is important. That is when a home inspection by a professional can make all the difference.

While it is true that the COVID-19 pandemic has compelled many sellers to lay low and even take most of their properties off the market, eager home buyers are still on the lookout for properties at steady rates. It may actually be a good time to make a purchase when mortgage rates have already hit their record lows. But, if you are going to take the plunge, be sure to utilize a home inspection service that can put you in a better position to decide.

HOW LONG DOES A HOME INSPECTION TAKE POST COVID?

Under normal circumstances, a home inspection takes anywhere between 2 and 4 hours. An experienced home inspector is likely to inspect a 1500 square foot property in a couple of hours – add another half an hour for every additional 500 square feet of space.

While COVID-19 has not extended the time required to complete the whole inspection process, it requires inspectors to take special safety measures that in turn add to how long it takes to inspect your property. A true professional would understand the importance of maintaining proper social distancing while interacting with the owner and undertaking the process. They also understand that people will come into the home after they have finished their work, so they use special gloves and safety gear as needed. This can take additional time, especially when they have to sanitize their equipment before and after use.

Home inspectors often come with their team to handle the process, but things have changed post-COVID, and you might see a professional inspect your home all by themselves. Moreover, many other factors can affect the time required for a thorough home inspection. For instance:

• The experience of a home inspector matters, as a non-professional takes longer and fails to document all the minute details.
• The condition of the property can play a role here, as a house in good condition usually has less to document. It will take longer to inspect a property with numerous defects, and the same holds for older houses. Experts believe it takes an additional hour to inspect a home that is 75 years old or older.
• Larger homes with multiple heating and cooling systems, as well as water heaters, are naturally going to need more time for a more thorough inspection. Another half an hour should be added to the baseline for homes with basements or crawl spaces.
• The weather conditions while a home inspector is doing their job will also have an impact. Sometimes, severe weather conditions may even require rescheduling.

As all these factors can have an impact on how long a home inspection takes, you may have to wait a bit longer to receive the report.  You may have to wait for the inspection report for 24 hours but choosing an experienced inspection company that relies on technology can help you get your report on-site. So focus more on finding an experienced company and they will seamlessly handle everything. Contact us at Keystone Home Inspection for more information.