Home inspection cost estimator
A rough guide to budgeting, not a quote. Prices vary by inspector, location and the house itself. Use it to compare quotes and to remember the add-ons you might need.
What drives the price
- Size: more rooms, more systems, more time on site and writing the report.
- Age: older homes take longer, with crawlspaces, mixed materials and more findings.
- Type: each unit in a duplex or fourplex is close to a separate inspection.
- Access: steep roofs, long drives, gated properties and outbuildings add time.
- Add-ons: specialists with their own equipment, sometimes separate companies.
Common questions
How much does a home inspection cost in Southern California?
For a typical single-family home, general inspections commonly run from roughly $400 to $800, with larger, older or more complex homes costing more. Condos are often less. Add-ons such as sewer camera, pool and mold sampling are priced separately.
Is the cheapest inspector a good deal?
Rarely. The fee is small compared with the cost of a missed roof, panel or sewer problem. Compare sample reports, experience and insurance, then price.
Who pays for the inspection?
The party who orders it, usually the buyer. It is normally paid at the time of the inspection, not through escrow, and it isn't refunded if the purchase falls through.