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What to Expect During a Home Inspection in Orlando

February 17, 2026·7 min read·Home Buying

Why a Home Inspection Matters

A home inspection is your opportunity to understand exactly what you're buying — before you're locked into the deal. In Orlando's competitive real estate market, where bidding wars are common and sellers often push for quick closings, the inspection contingency period is your most important protection.

As a licensed inspector with over 20 years of experience in Central Florida, I've inspected more than 5,000 homes. Here's what you should expect.

Before the Inspection

Scheduling

Most inspections are scheduled within 7–10 days of your offer being accepted. In Orlando, this window is critical — don't wait. Call your inspector the day your offer is accepted to secure a slot.

What to Prepare

  • Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes. — We'll be walking around the entire property, including the yard.
  • Block out 2–3 hours. — A standard single-family home inspection takes about 2.5 hours. Larger homes or older properties may take longer.
  • Bring a notepad or phone — to take notes. We encourage questions during the walk-through.
  • During the Inspection

    Exterior Evaluation

    We start outside. Your inspector will evaluate:

  • Roof condition — shingle/tile age, flashing, signs of leaks or storm damage
  • Foundation — cracks, settling, moisture intrusion
  • Grading and drainage — water should flow away from the home, not toward it
  • Siding, stucco, and paint — damage, deterioration, or improper installation
  • Windows and doors — seals, operation, impact rating (important for Florida insurance)
  • Interior Systems

    Inside, we systematically evaluate:

  • Electrical system — panel condition, wiring type (aluminum vs. copper), GFCI protection, grounding
  • Plumbing — water pressure, pipe material, water heater age and condition, visible leaks
  • HVAC — system age, cooling performance (critical in Orlando's heat), ductwork, filter condition
  • Attic — insulation levels, ventilation, signs of moisture or pest intrusion, roof decking condition
  • Kitchen and bathrooms — appliances, fixtures, ventilation, water damage signs
  • Florida-Specific Concerns

    Orlando homes have unique considerations:

  • Hurricane damage — past storm damage that may not be immediately visible
  • Stucco cracking — extremely common in Florida; we assess whether cracks are cosmetic or structural
  • Moisture and mold — Florida's humidity creates ideal conditions for mold growth, especially in attics and crawl spaces
  • Polybutylene piping — homes built between 1978–1995 may have this problematic pipe material
  • Chinese drywall — primarily in homes built 2004–2009, can cause corrosion and health issues
  • After the Inspection

    The Walk-Through

    At the end of the inspection, we'll walk you through our findings on-site. This is your chance to see issues firsthand and ask questions. We never rush this part — understanding your home's condition is the whole point.

    The Report

    You'll receive a detailed, photo-documented report within 24 hours. Our reports are written in plain language — no inspector jargon. Each issue is categorized by severity:

  • Safety concerns — issues that pose immediate risk
  • Major defects — significant problems that may affect the home's value or require expensive repairs
  • Maintenance items — normal wear and things to keep an eye on
  • Using Your Report

    Your report is a powerful negotiation tool. Common outcomes include:

  • Seller agrees to make repairs before closing
  • Seller offers a credit toward repairs
  • You renegotiate the purchase price
  • In rare cases, you walk away (and your earnest money is protected)
  • How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost in Orlando?

    A standard home inspection in Orlando typically costs between $350–$550 depending on the home's size and age. Additional services like 4-point inspections ($75–$150) and wind mitigation inspections ($75–$150) are often bundled at a discount.

    This is the best $400 you'll spend in the entire home-buying process. We've helped clients avoid tens of thousands in unexpected repairs.

    Ready to Schedule?

    If you're buying a home in Orlando or Central Florida, contact us to schedule your inspection. Same-week availability is usually possible, and we encourage you to attend — we'll answer every question on the spot.

    Patrick Hardy

    Patrick Hardy

    Owner & Lead Inspector · 20+ Years Experience

    Licensed home inspector, ICA educator, and Army veteran. Patrick founded H&H Real Estate Consulting to give every client the full picture — no shortcuts, no surprises.

    Ready to schedule your inspection?

    Call us at (407) 258-1886 or request a quote online.

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