When buying a home, building inspection is one of the most crucial steps in the process. Whether purchasing your first property or adding to your portfolio, a thorough building inspection helps ensure that the structure is safe, compliant with regulations, and free of major defects. Yet, many prospective buyers or homeowners often wonder: how long does a building inspection take?
The time a building inspection takes can vary depending on factors such as the size of the property, its age, and the complexity of the inspection itself. In this article, we’ll break down the typical duration of a building inspection, the factors that influence the time, and what you can expect during and after the inspection process.
How Long Does A Building Inspection Take?
A standard building inspection typically takes between 1.5 to 3 hours, but this timeframe can fluctuate depending on the specifics of the property being inspected. Let’s examine the primary factors that determine how long the process might take, click more info here:
Property Size
The size of the property is one of the most significant factors in determining the length of the inspection. A small apartment or townhouse will require less time to inspect compared to a large family home or an expansive property with multiple buildings. Larger homes have more areas that need to be checked, including rooms, roof spaces, basements, and outdoor features, all of which can add time to the inspection process.
- Small properties: Around 1.5 hours.
- Medium-sized homes: Typically around 2 hours.
- Large properties: Up to 3 hours or more.
Age Of The Property
Older buildings, particularly those over 50 years old, may require more time to inspect. This is because older properties tend to have more potential issues related to wear and tear, outdated materials, or construction practices that no longer meet modern standards.
The inspector will need to check for things like outdated wiring, asbestos, structural wear, and other time-sensitive elements. A newer property, built to modern specifications, may not need as much detailed attention in certain areas.
- Older properties: 2.5 to 3+ hours.
- Newer properties: 1.5 to 2 hours.
Scope Of The Inspection
The depth of the inspection also plays a key role in determining the duration. A basic building inspection typically focuses on the condition of the structure, including the roof, foundation, walls, and plumbing systems. However, some buyers or sellers may request additional inspections, such as pest inspections, energy efficiency assessments, or assessments for specific concerns like mould or water damage.
If additional inspections are requested or the inspector encounters more complex issues, the time required will increase. For example, if the inspector discovers structural damage or signs of termite infestation, they may need to spend more time investigating and documenting the severity of the problem.
- Standard inspection: 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
- Comprehensive inspections (including pests or specific issues): Up to 3.5 hours.
What Happens During A Building Inspection?
A building inspection is a comprehensive evaluation of the property’s condition. Understanding what occurs during the inspection can help you manage your expectations regarding its length. Here’s a typical breakdown of what the inspector will examine during the process:
Exterior
- The inspector will begin by examining the exterior of the building, including the roof, walls, windows, gutters, downspouts, and the foundation. They’ll look for signs of wear, damage, or potential problems like cracks in the walls or poor drainage that could lead to water damage over time.
Interior
- The interior inspection involves assessing the structural elements like walls, ceilings, floors, doors, and windows. The inspector will check for signs of damage, such as cracks in the walls, uneven floors, or gaps in windows and doors, which may indicate larger structural issues. The condition of electrical wiring, plumbing systems, and HVAC units will also be assessed to ensure everything is in good working order and up to code.
Roof Space and Subfloor
- Inspectors will usually check the roof space for signs of water leaks, insulation issues, or pest infestations. If the property has a crawl space or subfloor area, this will also be inspected to ensure that the foundations are sound and free from dampness or termite damage.
Additional Checks
- In addition to the structural and mechanical checks, inspectors might also be required to look for specific problems, such as the presence of asbestos, lead paint, or mould. Any visible signs of pest damage, particularly termites or rodents, will also be noted.
Once the inspection is complete, the inspector will compile a detailed report outlining their findings and any recommendations for repairs or further assessments.
What Factors Can Extend The Time Of A Building Inspection?
While most inspections fall within the typical 1.5 to 3-hour range, several factors can lead to a longer inspection time. Understanding these factors can help you plan accordingly:
Complex Structural Issues
- If the inspector identifies any complex structural issues, such as foundation problems, severe water damage, or significant mould growth, they may need to spend additional time investigating the extent of the problem. These issues often require a more detailed assessment to understand their impact on the property and may lead to the inspector recommending further specialist evaluations.
Access Issues
- Sometimes, certain areas of the property are difficult to access. If the inspector cannot easily reach parts of the roof, attic, or crawl spaces, it can delay the process. Additionally, if the inspector must navigate cluttered or hard-to-reach areas, they may require extra time to perform a thorough inspection.
Weather Conditions
- If the inspection occurs during adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain or high winds, the inspector may have to delay the examination of the roof and exterior structures. Wet conditions make it difficult and unsafe to inspect rooftops, gutters, and drainage systems, so some aspects of the inspection may need to be postponed until the weather clears.
How To Prepare For A Building Inspection
Preparation is key to ensuring that your building inspection goes smoothly and stays within the expected time frame. Whether you’re the buyer or the seller, there are a few steps you can take to help the inspector access the property quickly and easily:
Clear Access
- Make sure that all areas of the property are accessible, including roof spaces, basements, and outbuildings. Move any furniture or obstacles that might block access to critical areas like electrical panels, crawl spaces, or attic hatches.
Provide Documentation
- If you have any documentation about recent repairs, renovations, or pest control treatments, it’s helpful to provide these to the inspector. This can help speed up the inspection process and ensure that the inspector has all the relevant information about the property’s condition.
Prepare for Special Requests
- If you are aware of specific concerns, such as potential pest problems or water damage, it’s a good idea to inform the inspector ahead of time. This allows them to bring any necessary tools or equipment and plan for a more in-depth inspection in those areas.
Conclusion
A building inspection is an essential step in the property buying or selling process, giving you peace of mind about the condition of the property. While most inspections take between 1.5 to 3 hours, factors like the size, age, and complexity of the building can influence the exact duration.
By understanding the scope of the inspection and preparing the property in advance, you can help ensure that the process runs smoothly and efficiently.
Ultimately, the time spent on a thorough building inspection is well worth it for the insight and security it provides. Whether you’re buying a new home or looking to sell, a detailed inspection can save you time, money, and headaches down the road by identifying potential issues early on.