Buying or selling a home is a significant decision, and one of the most critical steps in the process is getting a professional property inspection. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned homeowner, or an investor, understanding the different types of home inspections, what they cover, and what to expect can help you make smart, confident decisions.

In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials of home inspections, the role of a housing inspector, what happens during the inspection process, and how to choose the right professional—especially if you’re searching for house inspectors near me or home inspection service Gainesville FL.

Why Home Inspections Matter

A home may look perfect during a walkthrough, but even the most beautiful property can hide electrical issues, structural problems, roof damage, plumbing leaks, and more. A professional property inspection provides a detailed evaluation of a home’s condition, allowing buyers to avoid costly surprises and sellers to address issues before listing.

Hiring the right professional is critical. If you’re looking for a trusted expert, consider exploring your options for a reliable Home Inspector Near Me.

Most Common Types of Home Inspections

Home inspections aren’t one-size-fits-all. Depending on the home’s age, location, and condition, you may need just a general inspection—or several specialized ones. Here are the main types:

1. General Home Inspection

This is the standard inspection most homeowners are familiar with. A general inspection covers:

Roofing and attic
Electrical systems
HVAC systems
Plumbing
Foundation and structure
Exterior and interior components
Built-in appliances

Your housing inspector will provide a detailed report with photos, notes, and recommendations. This is the inspection most lenders require and is often the first step in negotiating repairs.

2. Roof Inspection

A roof inspection evaluates:

Shingle condition
Flashing
Gutters
Ventilation
Signs of leaks or water damage

Because roof repairs can be expensive, buyers commonly request this inspection in addition to the general one.

3. Four-Point Inspection

Insurance companies—especially in Florida—may require a 4-Point Inspection for homes that are older. This inspection focuses on:

Roof
Electrical system
Plumbing
HVAC

If you’re securing insurance for an older home, this type of home inspection may be essential.

4. New Home Construction Inspection

Many homeowners assume a brand-new home doesn’t need to be inspected—but even new builds can hide issues. New home inspectors check:

Construction quality
Proper installation of components
Code compliance
Safety hazards

These inspections often occur at various phases of construction, such as pre-drywall, final walk-through, and 11-month warranty checks.

5. Mold Inspection

If there’s a musty smell or visible signs of moisture, a mold inspection may be needed. These inspections detect:

Mold growth
Moisture intrusion
Humidity levels
Airborne mold spores

This is especially important in humid climates such as Florida.

6. Termite / WDO Inspection

Wood-Destroying Organism (WDO) inspections identify:

Termite activity
Wood rot
Fungus
Carpenter ants or beetles

In many states, this inspection is required for FHA and VA loans.

7. Radon Inspection

A naturally occurring radioactive gas that can enter homes and cause health problems is radon. By measuring gas levels, radon testing assists you in determining whether mitigation is necessary.

8. Sewer Scope Inspection

A sewer inspection utilizes a camera to examine underground sewer lines for blockages, cracks, or tree root invasion. This is recommended for older homes or homes with large trees near the sewer line.

What to Expect During a Home Inspection

A typical home inspection takes 2–4 hours, depending on the home’s age and size. Here’s what the process usually looks like:

Before the Inspection

Discuss any concerns with the inspector.
Provide access to all areas of the home.
Review the Home Inspection Price to understand what is included (you can check pricing here: Home Inspection Price).

During the Inspection

House inspectors will:

Examine visible components of the home.
Test systems like HVAC, electrical, and plumbing.
Take photos and document findings.
Answer questions (buyers are encouraged to attend).

After the Inspection

You will receive a detailed report that includes:

Summary of findings
Photos of issues
Recommendations for repairs
Safety concerns

This report is crucial for negotiation and peace of mind.

How to Choose the Right Home Inspector

Hiring the right professional matters. When searching for house inspectors near me, here’s what to look for:

Certification & Licensing

A certified inspector ensures professional standards and ethics.

Experience

Choose someone who has handled a wide range of home types—especially important if you need specialized inspections.

Local Knowledge

A local expert offering home inspection service Gainesville FL will understand regional risks such as humidity, soil conditions, or storm damage.

Clear Pricing

Always review the Home Inspection Price beforehand to avoid surprises.

How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost?

Home inspection pricing varies based on factors like:

Size of the home
Age of the home
Type of inspection required
Local market rates

For accurate and transparent pricing, check the detailed breakdown here:
Home Inspection Price

Why Home Inspections Are Worth It

A thorough inspection may reveal:

Safety hazards
Needed repairs
Potential future expenses
Structural or mechanical issues

This gives buyers negotiating power—and gives sellers a chance to fix issues before listing. Even if no major issues are found, the peace of mind is invaluable.

Final Thoughts

A home is one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make. Understanding the types of home inspections available and knowing what to expect ensures that you make the best possible decision. Whether you’re buying a new home, selling your current one, or checking the condition of a rental property, hiring a qualified housing inspector is essential.

If you’re in Florida and looking for reliable professionals, start with a trusted Home Inspector Near Me to ensure a smooth, stress-free inspection experience.

Home Inspection 101: Types of Home Inspections & What to Expect