Who Pays the Inspection When Buying a House

New homebuyers have plenty of questions and concerns which is completely normal!

Buying a home is something people do only a few times in their life and every transaction related to home buying is a learning experience.

For many people their first purchase teaches a lot about the process, and one of the most common questions asked is: who pays for the home inspection when buying a house?

In nearly every case, it’s the buyer who pays for the inspection. Let’s break down why that is and what you can expect when it comes to home inspection costs. And also understand how seller disclosures are useful in this process.

Why Buyers Pay for the Inspection?

As a buyer, the purpose of getting a home inspection before purchase is to discover potential issues with the property before closing and it's also a key to how you shape your offer.

The seller generally wants the sale to move forward smoothly, while the buyer’s goal is to confirm the home’s true condition. Because the inspection primarily benefits the buyer, hence the buyer is responsible for paying for it.

That’s why in a competitive or “seller’s market,” usually in metros & high end cities, some buyers even waive the inspection in their offer to make it more attractive.

Having a pre-purchase home inspection also gives a buyer the negotiation power. If the inspection reveals serious defects related to core systems like electric, plumbing, HVAC or roof etc. the buyer may be able to renegotiate the offer price or request repairs in such a case.

While the seller doesn’t have to agree, the inspection gives still provides valuable leverage to start that conversation & draft a meaningful offer.

What to Expect During a Home Inspection?

Buyers should expect that a home inspection report will include at least a few issues, especially in older homes. And that’s completely normal! It could be minor items like a fence gate that doesn’t latch properly to major items like leakages in roof, but the inspection report should help buyers understand repair priorities after they move in.

Sometimes, a full home inspection uncovers pleasant surprises too, such as solid foundation stability or a roof that’s older but still in excellent condition. Once the inspection is done, Buyers receive a detailed report outlining everything checked during the process.

Most inspectors are happy to walk the buyers through their findings and it’s always worth taking that extra time to understand every detail before proceeding specially for old homes.

How Much Do Home Inspections Cost?

The cost of a home inspection varies depending on the location, the property’s size, and any additional services buyer's may request. On an average, home inspection fees can range anywhere from $300 to $1,500 or more in some cases.

Here’s a quick summary of what influences inspection pricing:

• Home size and square footage

• Property age and condition

• Geographic region and market rates

• Specialized inspections (like radon or mold testing)

A low-cost home inspection may save money upfront, but choosing a qualified, trusted inspector can help prevent costly surprises after closing.

It's always a best practice to verify credentials and check reviews before booking.

Additional FAQs About Home Inspections

1. When buying a house, who pays for the inspection?
It’s almost always the buyer who pays for the home inspection since it primarily benefits them.

2. How much does a home inspection cost?
The cost of a home inspection typically ranges from $300 to $1,500, depending on location, home size, and inspection type.

3. Can the seller pay for the inspection?
In rare cases, a seller may agree to pay for a home inspection to reassure buyers or as part of a negotiation.

4. Do I need an inspection when buying a new construction home?
Yes, even new homes can have construction defects. A professional pre-purchase home inspection ensures everything is built correctly.

5. What happens if major issues are found?
If the inspector finds serious problems, buyers can renegotiate, request repairs, or reconsider the purchase altogether.

6. Can buyers attend the home inspection?
Yes, buyers are usually encouraged to attend so they can ask questions and see any concerns firsthand.

7. How long does a full home inspection take?
Most inspections take between two to four hours, depending on the home’s size and condition.

8. Are home inspections required for a mortgage?
While lenders don’t always require inspections, most recommend them to ensure the property’s true condition before final approval.

9. What’s included in a home inspection?
A typical inspection covers the roof, foundation, plumbing, HVAC, electrical systems, windows, and more.

10. Is a low-cost home inspection worth it?
Not always, paying slightly more for an experienced inspector can help identify hidden issues that cheaper inspections miss.

Save More When You Buy a Home

Buying a home can be expensive, but you can still find smart ways to cut costs. When you buy using WithJoy.AI, we rebate you 70% of our commission helping home buyers save thousands on your next home purchase.

Learn more about buying confidently with pre-purchase house inspections and how can help you keep more money in your pocket when finding your new home.