San Diego Home Inspection FAQ — Your Questions Answered
Straight answers to the questions San Diego buyers, sellers, and property owners ask most about home and commercial inspections. Still need help? Call (619) 752-4399 or request an inspection.
How much does a home inspection cost in San Diego?
A San Diego home inspection is priced by the home's size, age, and any add-ons you choose (such as a sewer scope, pool, or thermal imaging). We give you an exact, all-in quote up front with no hidden fees, so you know the cost before you book. See our fee schedule.
What does a home inspection include?
A standard home inspection covers the major systems of the home: roof, structure and foundation, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, water heater, attic, insulation, ventilation, and built-in appliances. It follows the InterNACHI Standards of Practice, and you receive a detailed report with photos of every finding. See exactly what we inspect.
How long does a home inspection take?
Most home inspections take about 2 to 4 hours, depending on the size, age, and condition of the property. Larger or older homes take longer, and add-on services like a sewer scope or pool and spa inspection extend the time.
When should I schedule the inspection?
Schedule your inspection as soon as your offer is accepted, ideally early in the inspection contingency period (often 7 to 17 days in California). Booking early leaves you time to review the report, ask questions, and negotiate before your contingency expires.
Do I really need a home inspection when buying a home in San Diego?
Yes. A home inspection protects you from buying a home with costly hidden defects. Even in a competitive market it gives you negotiating leverage and peace of mind before what is likely one of the largest purchases of your life. Learn about buyer's inspections.
Can I attend the home inspection?
Absolutely, and we encourage it. Attending lets you see any issues firsthand and ask questions on site. At minimum we recommend joining the final walkthrough, where the inspector reviews the key findings with you in person.
When will I receive the inspection report?
You typically receive your full inspection report, complete with photos and a clear summary of findings, within 24 hours of the inspection. The report organizes issues by severity so you can quickly see what matters most. View a sample report.
What payment options do I have?
Payment is generally due at the time of the inspection, and we offer convenient, common payment methods. For the current options and to confirm what works best for your transaction, just call us at (619) 752-4399 before your appointment.
Do home inspectors find every problem?
No inspection can find every possible defect. A home inspection is a visual, non-invasive evaluation of the accessible systems on the day of the inspection. It dramatically reduces your risk, but it cannot detect concealed, inaccessible, or intermittent issues hidden behind walls or underground.
Will the inspector recommend someone for repairs?
Our report describes each finding and recommends the type of qualified professional to consult, such as a licensed electrician, roofer, or pest control company. To stay fully objective, we focus on identifying issues rather than performing or selling the repairs ourselves.
What is an SB-721 balcony inspection and who needs one?
California SB-721 requires apartment buildings with three or more units to have their exterior elevated elements (balconies, decks, stairways, and walkways) inspected for safety. The first inspection deadline is January 1, 2026, and the cycle repeats every six years. SB-721 balcony inspections.
What is the difference between SB-721 and SB-326?
SB-721 applies to apartment buildings with three or more units, while SB-326 applies to condominiums and HOA-governed buildings. SB-326 requires inspection of exterior elevated elements at least every nine years. Both laws target the same balconies, decks, and walkways (EEE). SB-326 balcony inspections.
What is a 4-point inspection?
A 4-point inspection examines four major systems: roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. Insurance companies commonly require it for older homes before they will issue or renew a policy. It is faster and more focused than a full home inspection. Learn about 4-point inspections.
What is a sewer scope inspection and do I need one?
A sewer scope sends a camera through the main sewer lateral to find cracks, root intrusion, bellies, and blockages. It is strongly recommended for older San Diego homes, where a sewer line repair can cost thousands of dollars that a standard inspection would not catch. Learn about sewer scope inspections.
Do you inspect for termites or pests?
A standard home inspection notes visible signs of wood-destroying organisms, but an official termite (WDO) clearance report must come from a licensed pest control company. When one is needed, we coordinate a licensed pest inspector for you so nothing falls through the cracks.
Do you inspect commercial buildings?
Yes. We perform commercial property condition assessments for offices, retail spaces, industrial buildings, and multi-unit properties throughout San Diego County, with reporting tailored to commercial buyers, owners, and investors. Commercial building inspections.
What areas do you serve?
We serve all of San Diego County, including San Diego, Carlsbad, Encinitas, La Jolla, Chula Vista, Escondido, Oceanside, San Marcos, Poway, Del Mar, and the surrounding communities. We also cover parts of southwest Riverside County. See all service areas.
Are you licensed and certified?
Yes. Owner and lead inspector Joseph Romeo is an InterNACHI Certified Professional Inspector (CPI) and holds California CSLB General Contractor License #1113143, backed by more than 20 years of construction and inspection experience. Meet Joseph Romeo.