Author: Advanced Home Inspections

Thinking about getting your foundation inspected but not sure what it’s going to cost you?

You’re not alone. Foundation inspections can feel like a mystery – until cracks show up in your drywall or the floor starts to slope, and then suddenly, it’s a priority.

The good news? You don’t have to guess.

In this post, we’ll go over what you can expect to pay, what might affect that price, and what happens once the inspection is done.

Plus, we’ll also break down our foundation inspection costs in Virginia.

Our Foundation Inspection Prices

Also Check Out Our: Richmond Foundation Inspections

Average Cost Of A Foundation Inspection In Virginia

The average cost for a standard foundation inspection ranges from $300 to $800. 

That’s for a basic visual inspection done by a licensed professional. But that’s just the starting point. Costs can shift depending on a few things, which we’ll get into shortly.

Now, some companies offer “free inspections,” but those are usually tied to repair services. So they’re not always super thorough. 

If you want an unbiased opinion, it’s best to hire a structural engineer or third-party inspector.

Factors That Affect Foundation Inspection Costs

The cost of a foundation inspection can vary quite a bit, and that’s because no two homes or foundations are exactly the same. A few things can push the price up or down.

Here’s a closer look at the big stuff that affects the price:

#1 Home Size

Bigger homes usually mean higher inspection costs.

More square footage means more foundation to look at, and that takes more time. Multi-level homes or houses with lots of add-ons can also extend the process.

If your place is on the larger side, expect the price to land closer to the top of the average range.

Larger homes can also mean more crawl space entries, basement sections, or harder-to-reach areas. All of that takes extra time and sometimes extra tools.

It’s not a huge jump, but it’s something to expect if you’re living in a bigger place.

Also Read: Is Thermal Imaging Worth It For A Home Inspection?

#2 Foundation Type

The type of foundation you have will also affect the cost of a foundation inspection.

Slab foundations are usually the easiest and fastest to inspect since there’s no crawl space or basement to squeeze into. 

Crawl spaces, on the other hand, can be a bit of a pain. Inspectors often have to crawl (literally) into tight, dark, and sometimes damp areas to get a full picture of what’s going on underneath. 

That effort gets reflected in the price.

Basements are more involved than slabs but usually easier than crawl spaces.

#3 Condition And Accessibility

The easier it is to reach and inspect your foundation, the faster the job goes. 

If your crawl space is clear and there’s nothing blocking access points, that helps keep the price down. But if your foundation is buried behind storage, debris, or tight spaces, the inspector has to work harder. 

Homes with visible issues like cracks or water damage may also require a closer look, which can bump up the cost.

#4 Location

Where you live in Virginia affects foundation inspection costs too. 

Cities like Richmond, Virginia Beach, or Arlington may have higher inspection rates just because everything costs a little more in those areas. In more rural spots, it might be a bit cheaper. 

Travel fees can come into play as well. If the inspector has to drive a long way to get to you, they might tack on an extra charge.

Also Read: How Accurate Are Air Mold Tests?

#5 Inspector’s Experience

Just like with anything else, experience comes at a premium. 

A highly-rated structural engineer with years under their belt is going to charge more than someone just starting out. But you’re also more likely to get a detailed report that helps you figure out your next steps. 

It’s kind of like paying more for a great mechanic. You’re not just paying for their time—you’re paying for peace of mind.

#6 Additional Testing

Sometimes a visual inspection isn’t enough. If there are signs of serious problems, the inspector might suggest further testing. 

That could include:

• Soil testing to check for shifting or erosion
• Moisture testing to see how much water is around your foundation
• Floor elevation measurements to detect any settling or movement

These extra steps can be helpful, but they do add to the cost. Depending on what’s needed, additional testing might run another $200 to $500 or more.

What To Expect After The Foundation Inspection

Once the inspection is done, you’ll get a full report. This usually includes notes, photos, and any measurements the inspector took. 

If there’s a problem, the report will explain what it is and how serious it might be.

From there, you’ve got a few paths you can take. If your foundation looks solid, great – you’re done. But if issues come up, you’ll probably need to get repair estimates. 

Most inspectors won’t do repairs themselves, but they can recommend trusted contractors.

Keep in mind: not all cracks mean disaster. Some are just cosmetic. The report should make that clear.

Bottom Line

A foundation inspection usually costs between $300 and $800 in Virginia, depending on your home’s size, foundation type, location, and a few other factors. It might cost more if extra testing is needed or if your inspector has a ton of experience.

It might feel like a lot upfront for just an inspection, but it’s a smart investment. 

Foundation issues can turn into big, expensive problems if they’re ignored. Getting a clear picture now can save you a ton later.

So if you’re seeing cracks, sloping floors, or sticking doors: don’t wait. Schedule the inspection, get the facts, and make a plan. Your house (and your wallet) will thank you.

Getting ready for a home inspection in Virginia? 

Inspections are serious business. They can make or break a sale. And honestly, they sometimes reveal stuff you’d never expect. 

So, if you’re planning to buy or sell a home, it’s a good idea to know what could raise a red flag ahead of time.

In this post, we’ll go over 10 things that can cause a home to fail inspection in Virginia.

#1 Foundation And Structural Issues

This one’s huge. A home’s foundation is, quite literally, what everything else sits on. So, if there are cracks, shifts, or signs the structure isn’t holding up like it should, it’s a red flag. 

Inspectors look for uneven floors, sticking doors, big wall cracks, or gaps around windows.

Sometimes the issues are minor, like normal settling. But other times? It’s a sign of something serious going on underground. 

Plus, foundation repairs aren’t cheap, and they can definitely spook buyers. 

So if your home has any of these issues, it’s better to know early.

Also Read: How much does a foundation inspection cost?

#2 Roof Problems

Roofs in Virginia take a beating—sun, snow, storms, you name it. Over time, shingles wear out, flashing gets loose, and leaks start showing up. 

During an inspection, if the roof is clearly aging or damaged, that’s going to be flagged.

Missing shingles, sagging spots, or signs of water inside the attic are all things that get attention fast. And if the inspector finds active leaks or signs of previous water damage, that’s going in the report too.

Roofs aren’t cheap to fix, either, so this one tends to be a deal-breaker if it’s in bad shape.

#3 Electrical Hazards

Now, we’re not talking about needing a new light fixture. We’re talking about old or unsafe wiring. Maybe the panel is outdated. Or maybe someone got creative and made their own electrical “upgrades.” 

Spoiler alert: DIY wiring is never a good idea.

Inspectors check for overloaded circuits, exposed wires, improper grounding, and outlets that don’t work. 

Homes with aluminum wiring or fuse boxes instead of breakers usually raise eyebrows too. 

Safety is the concern here, plain and simple. Nobody wants a fire hazard behind their walls.

#4 Plumbing Defects

Water can do some serious damage if things go sideways. Inspectors test the water pressure, look for leaks, and check out all visible pipes. 

Leaky faucets are one thing—but corroded pipes or water stains in the ceiling are a red flag.

Older homes in Virginia sometimes still have galvanized pipes, which can rust and clog. 

Low water pressure, slow drains, or signs of water damage are all things that make inspectors take a closer look. Plumbing issues can range from minor annoyances to full-blown pipe replacements.

Also Read: Sewer Line Camera Inspection Costs In Virginia

#5 Drainage And Grading Issues

Draining problems are another thing that will fail a home inspection.

When water doesn’t drain away from the house, it’s a problem. And Virginia gets plenty of rain, so this one matters. 

Poor grading means the yard slopes toward the house instead of away from it. That can lead to water pooling near the foundation—or worse, seeping into the basement.

Inspectors keep an eye out for soggy yards, standing water, and signs that runoff isn’t being handled properly. Even clogged gutters or downspouts can be part of this. Over time, bad drainage can mess with the foundation or invite pests and mold. 

Definitely not something you want to ignore.

#6 HVAC Problems

Heating and cooling system issues can also fail a home inspection in Virginia.

In an inspection, the HVAC system gets tested to make sure it runs well, heats and cools properly, and isn’t making any weird noises. They’ll also check the filters, ductwork, and the age of the unit.

Older units that haven’t been maintained can be flagged for inefficiency or potential failure. 

And if the inspector finds carbon monoxide leaks or poor ventilation,that’s going to be a hard no until it’s fixed.

#7 Pest Infestations

Nobody wants to hear the word “termites” during a home inspection. But it happens. And in Virginia, termites and other wood-destroying insects are definitely a concern.

Inspectors look for damaged wood, sawdust trails, droppings, nests, and even live bugs. 

It’s not just about creepy crawlies—it’s about what they’re doing to the house. Left unchecked, pests can cause serious structural damage.

And it’s not just termites. Rodents, ants, bees, and even bats can be a problem. 

Any sign of infestation is going to be noted and fail a home inspection.

#8 Signs Of Mold

Mold is one of those things that can turn people off instantly. 

It smells bad, looks worse, and causes health issues. It’s especially a concern in damp areas like basements, bathrooms, and around HVAC systems.

Even a small patch of mold on a wall or ceiling can cause trouble in an inspection. 

What really matters is what’s causing it—usually moisture. That could mean a leak, poor ventilation, or humidity issues. 

Inspectors don’t always test for mold specifically, but if they see it or suspect it, they’ll mention it.

#9 Toxic Materials

Some homes in Virginia, especially older ones, still have things like lead paint or asbestos hiding in walls or insulation. 

That stuff wasn’t a big deal back in the day—but now, it’s a huge concern.

If a home was built before the late ’70s, inspectors will keep an eye out for potential lead paint. Same with asbestos in old insulation, ceiling tiles, or ductwork. 

It doesn’t always need to be removed immediately, but it does need to be disclosed. And buyers have a right to know what they’re walking into.

Also Read: How much does lead testing cost in Virginia?

#10 Code And Safety Violations

This one’s kind of a catch-all, but it’s important. If a previous owner did DIY renovations without permits or didn’t follow code, that’s a red flag. 

Stuff like missing handrails, no GFCI outlets in bathrooms or kitchens, or lack of smoke detectors can all come up.

Inspectors aren’t necessarily looking to enforce local building codes, but they do flag things that aren’t safe or up to modern standards. Even little things like a stair railing that’s too low or a missing escape window in the basement can count.

All this could fail a home inspection too.

Bottom Line

There you go – 10 things that can fail an inspection.

If you’re selling, fixing small issues ahead of time can save you a headache. If you’re buying, knowing what’s hiding behind the drywall gives you peace of mind. 

Either way, don’t stress. Most things on this list can be handled—it’s just better to deal with them before they turn into bigger problems.

At the end of the day, home inspections are all about catching problems early.