Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about the home inspection process? We’re here to help. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked home inspection questions we receive from homebuyers and homeowners. If you don’t see your question, feel free to contact us—we’re happy to help.
A professional home inspection helps uncover hidden issues before you close on a property. Problems with roofing, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC equipment, structure, moisture intrusion, or safety hazards can cost thousands after move-in. A quality inspection gives buyers confidence, negotiating power, and a better understanding of the home’s condition.
Most inspections take between 2–4 hours depending on the size, age, and condition of the home. Larger homes, older properties, crawlspaces, detached structures, or additional services like radon or water testing may require additional time.
A standard home inspection typically includes evaluation of:
- Roofing systems
- Exterior and siding
- Foundation and structure
- Electrical systems
- Plumbing systems
- Heating and cooling systems
- Attic and insulation
- Interior components
- Windows and doors
- Basements and crawlspaces
- Garages and decks
You’ll receive a detailed report with photos, findings, maintenance recommendations, and safety concerns. Click here to view examples of our Home Inspection Reports.
Yes — attending the inspection is highly recommended. Walking through the property with your inspector allows you to ask questions, learn how the home’s systems operate, and better understand maintenance needs and potential concerns.
Absolutely. A home inspection can identify defects or deferred maintenance that may allow buyers to negotiate repairs, request seller concessions, or reconsider a purchase before committing. Even newer homes can have installation defects or overlooked issues.
At Westwood Inspections, we focus on thorough inspections, clear communication, detailed reporting, and helping clients make informed decisions with confidence. We provide honest evaluations, professional service, and reports designed to be easy to understand for both buyers and homeowners.
You’ll typically receive your report within 24 hours, complete with photos and detailed findings.
No home inspection can uncover every possible defect because inspectors perform a non-invasive visual inspection. However, a professional inspection significantly reduces surprises by identifying visible defects, safety hazards, and potential concerns that may require further evaluation.
Common findings include roofing defects, electrical safety issues, plumbing leaks, HVAC maintenance concerns, moisture intrusion, inadequate attic ventilation, and structural settlement. Most findings are repairable and should be evaluated within the context of the home’s age and condition.
Yes. When conditions permit, Westwood Inspections LLC utilizes drone technology to safely inspect roofs and other hard-to-access areas. This allows us to provide high-quality photographs and enhanced documentation of roof conditions.
A pre-listing inspection is conducted before a home is placed on the market. It helps sellers identify and address issues early, potentially reducing negotiations, delays, and surprises during the transaction.
Yes. Westwood Inspections LLC proudly serves Winchester, Frederick County, Warren County, Loudoun County, Shenandoah County, and surrounding communities throughout Northern Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley. We provide residential and commercial property inspections, pre-listing inspections, new construction inspections, and drone-assisted roof inspections.
*We are not currently able to conduct inspections in Clarke County Virginia
The cost of a home inspection varies based on the size, age, location, and complexity of the property. While price is important, choosing a qualified and experienced inspector provides far greater value than selecting the lowest-cost option. A professional home inspection can help identify costly defects, safety concerns, and maintenance issues before they become expensive surprises. Contact Westwood Inspections LLC for a customized quote based on your property’s specific characteristics.