Author: Advanced Home Inspections

If you’re buying a home, you’re probably hearing a lot about inspections. And if you’re like most people, your first thought is something like: “Okay, but how long is this gonna take?”

Totally fair. Nobody wants to spend their whole day standing around while someone pokes at pipes and checks outlets.

In this post, we’ll break down how long a home inspection takes in Virginia .

How Long Does A Home Inspection Take?

A full home inspection takes somewhere between 2 to 4 hours from start to finish.

That’s for a typical single-family home. It’s enough time for the inspector to go through everything in detail, take photos, make notes, and answer your questions if you’re there for the walkthrough.

Now you don’t have to follow them around the whole time, but a lot of buyers choose to show up at the end for a quick rundown of the big stuff.

The actual inspection report usually comes later that day or the next, depending on how fast your inspector works.

Also Read: How Much Is A Home Inspection?

Factors That Affect Home Inspection Times

Let’s dig a bit deeper into what exactly affects how long the inspection might take:

#1 Size Of The House

One of the biggest factors is the size of the house. The inspector has more square footage to cover, more rooms to check, and possibly more systems to assess.

For example, a 3-bedroom home might take 2 to 3 hours to inspect, while a 6-bedroom home could stretch closer to 4 hours.

The more space there is, the more work it is for the inspector.

#2 How Old The House Is

Age matters too. Older homes (especially those built before the 1980s) can take longer to inspect because there might be more to check.

Makes sense, right? They’ve had more time to develop character… and problems!

Older homes might have outdated electrical systems, hidden plumbing problems, or issues with the foundation that aren’t as obvious as in newer houses.

Inspecting all of these elements can add extra time.

On the other hand, a newer house might have fewer hidden issues or systems that need deep dives. So, a house built in the last 10 years could be quicker to inspect.

Also Read: 10 Things That Fail A Home Inspection In Virginia

#3 Major Systems

The systems in the house also impact how long an inspection takes.

We’re talking things like the HVAC system, plumbing, electrical, and appliances. Inspectors need to make sure these systems are functioning properly.

If there are a lot of systems in the home, or if any of them are older and complex, the inspector will spend more time on them.

For example, an HVAC system in a 4,000-square-foot home with multiple zones will require more time to inspect than one in a small, single-zone home.

Same goes for the plumbing – more bathrooms and kitchen sinks mean more to check out.

#4 Type Of Foundation

Virginia homes come with various foundation types – from full basements to crawl spaces to concrete slabs. Each presents different inspection challenges.

A clean, empty, and finished basement might only add 20-30 minutes to an inspection.

But a crawl space? That’s a different story! Your inspector has to physically crawl under your house (hence the name), checking for moisture issues, structural problems, pest infestations, and more. This alone can add 30-60 minutes to the inspection time.

Homes built on concrete slabs are usually quicker to inspect since there’s less accessible area underneath, but the inspector still needs to check carefully for cracks or settling issues.

#5 Inspector’s Experience And Thoroughness

Experience matters a lot. An inspector who’s been in the business for years (like us!) is probably going to be faster at recognizing problems. They’ll have a system down, and they’ll know where to look right away.

But someone newer to the job might take more time.

Both approaches have their pros and cons.

Some inspectors like to do a super detailed, “no stone left unturned” type of inspection, which can stretch things out. Others might work quickly and efficiently, getting the job done in less time.

It’s really about the inspector’s style and how comfortable they are with the property.

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

#6 Weather Conditions

Virginia weather can be unpredictable! Rain, snow, or extreme heat can slow down inspections a lot.

When it’s pouring rain, inspectors might need extra time to check for leaks or drainage issues. They’ll also move more cautiously on wet roofs or slippery surfaces.

During winter, snow might make certain areas inaccessible, like roofs or exterior elements. And in Virginia’s humid summers, inspectors might take longer checking crawl spaces for moisture or mold issues.

The best inspections happen on mild, dry days – but we can’t always control the weather!

#7 Chatty Clients

This one’s a little funny, but it’s true – sometimes the client (that’s you!) can make the inspection take longer.

If you ask tons of questions during the inspection, it’ll take longer. That’s not a bad thing! It’s your future home and your right to understand everything. Just be aware that your involvement adds time.

Some inspectors prefer to work uninterrupted and save questions for the end. Others welcome questions throughout.

Either way, plan to stick around for the entire inspection so you can learn about your potential new home firsthand.

Also Read: How Much Does Lead Testing Cost In Virginia?

Bottom Line

A home inspection takes around 2 – 4 hours in Virginia.

But depending on factors like the size of the house, its age, the systems involved, and even the weather, it could be shorter or longer. It’s really a case-by-case thing.

If you’re planning a home inspection, the best advice is to set aside at least a few hours and be flexible.

Oh and remember that after the physical inspection, your inspector still needs time to compile their report – usually another 24 – 48 hours.

FAQs

How Long Does A Home Inspection Take For A Condo?

Usually around 1 to 2 hours. Condos are smaller and have fewer systems to inspect. Plus, the building handles most of the big stuff, like the roof or HVAC.

How Long Does A Home Inspection Take For A Townhouse?

About 2 to 3 hours. Townhouses fall somewhere between a condo and a full house. Inspectors check shared walls and any systems you’re responsible for.

How Long Is A Home Inspection Good For?

A home inspection is good for about 30 days.

This means that the findings from the inspection are only relevant for that period. If you’re closing on the house within that time frame, the inspection is generally still valid.

If you’ve got old linoleum flooring in your home, it’s normal to wonder if it’s hiding asbestos.

A lot of homes built before the ’80s still have original flooring tucked under carpets, furniture, or newer layers. And while it might just be outdated and ugly, there’s also a chance it contains something more dangerous.

In this post, we’ll explain if old linoleum contains asbestos, what to look for, why it matters, and what to do if you think you’ve got asbestos underfoot.

Does Old Linoleum Contain Asbestos?

Here’s the short answer: it depends.

Real linoleum (the kind made from natural stuff like linseed oil, cork dust, and wood flour) usually doesn’t contain asbestos.

That said, a lot of people call all old sheet flooring “linoleum,” even when it’s not.

Vinyl flooring, which looks super similar to linoleum, did contain asbestos if it was installed several decades ago.

Back in the day (we’re talking pre-1980s), asbestos was used in all kinds of building materials because it was durable, cheap, and fire-resistant. Flooring manufacturers added it to vinyl tile backing, sheet flooring, and even the glue that held it all down.

Also Read: 10 Things That Fail A Home Inspection In Virginia

So while actual linoleum is generally asbestos-free, it’s really easy to mistake vinyl for linoleum when it’s been sitting in place since before disco was cool.

Signs Your Linoleum Flooring Might Contain Asbestos

There’s no foolproof way to tell just by looking at your floor, but there are a few clues that can raise a red flag. If you’ve got old linoleum flooring and you notice one or more of these, it’s worth taking the extra step to get it tested.

Here’s what to look for:

#1 Installed Before 1985

This is the big one. Asbestos was widely used in flooring materials up until the early-to-mid 1980s.

If your home (or the flooring itself) dates back to that era, there’s a decent shot it could contain asbestos somewhere in the mix.

It could be in the tile backing, the sheet material, or even the glue underneath.

If you’re not sure when it was installed, checking old renovation records or permits (if you’ve got them) can help. Or just play it safe and treat anything from that timeframe with caution.

#2 9×9 Or 12×12 Tiles

These sizes were super common in older homes, especially the 9×9-inch tiles. They were cheap, easy to install, and used pretty much everywhere from kitchens to basements.

Unfortunately, 9×9 tiles in particular have a strong history of containing asbestos.

Even 12×12 tiles can be risky if they came from certain manufacturers.

So if your floor is rocking these dimensions and it’s been there since before the ‘80s, you’ve got one more reason to pause before pulling them up.

Also Read: Are All 9×9 Tiles Asbestos?

#3 Brittle, Yellowed Backing On Sheet Flooring

If you’ve got old sheet flooring (the kind that rolls out in one big piece), take a peek at the backing if it’s already peeling or cracked.

Asbestos was often added to the backing layer to give it strength and stability.

Over time, this backing can turn yellowish and become dry or brittle. That crumbly texture is exactly what you don’t want to breathe in.

If you see that kind of material underneath the sheet, don’t touch it any further.

#4 Black Adhesive Underneath

Do you see a tar-like glue under your linoleum flooring?

It’s called “cutback adhesive,” and it was commonly used back in the day. It’s thick, sticky, and usually black or dark brown. TAnd this stuff very often contained asbestos.

It’s one of the more overlooked asbestos risks because people focus so much on the tile or sheet itself. But the adhesive is just as risky, especially if it starts chipping, flaking, or turning to dust.

If you’ve got black glue under your old flooring, that’s a solid sign to stop and get it tested.

Dangers Of Disturbing Asbestos

Asbestos isn’t dangerous just sitting there, buried under your furniture and rugs. The trouble starts when it’s disturbed.

Cutting, sanding, scraping, or tearing up flooring that contains asbestos can release microscopic fibers into the air. And you really don’t want to breathe that in.

These fibers are tiny, sharp, and they can stick around in your lungs for years. Long-term exposure has been linked to some pretty serious illnesses, like mesothelioma and asbestosis.

It’s not something that shows up right away, either. The damage can take decades to become noticeable.

That’s why it’s so important to avoid disturbing old linoleum flooring that might contain asbestos during renovation projects. Even sweeping or vacuuming debris can stir up fibers and send them floating into the air.

And once they’re in, there’s no way to get them out.

What To Do If You Suspect Asbestos

If you’ve looked at your linoleum flooring and a few red flags are popping up, don’t jump straight into demo mode.

Asbestos is only dangerous when it’s disturbed, so the safest move is to pause and take the right steps before touching anything.

Here’s what you should do next:

1. Stop any removal or renovation work immediately
2. Keep the area closed off and don’t let kids or pets near it
3. Avoid sweeping, vacuuming, or touching the floor
4. Contact a certified asbestos inspector to test the material
5. If asbestos is found, hire a licensed abatement contractor for removal
6. If removal isn’t needed, you may be able to safely cover it with new flooring
7. Never try to remove asbestos flooring or adhesive on your own

Also Read: How Accurate Are Air Mold Tests?

Bottom Line

So, does old linoleum contain asbestos? Maybe – but probably not if it’s true linoleum. The real concern is with vinyl flooring, which a lot of people mistake for linoleum.

And if it was installed before the mid-1980s, there’s a decent chance it could contain asbestos in the backing or adhesive.

Taking a little time to test it can save you from way bigger problems down the road.

Plus, it’s way less stressful when you know what you’re dealing with.

FAQs

Accidentally Removed Asbestos Linoleum

If you’ve already pulled up some flooring and only found out after the fact that it might contain asbestos, stop working immediately, seal off the area if possible.

Call an asbestos professional, and let them assess the situation and test the air if needed.

If it was a small area and you didn’t break or sand anything, the risk may be low, but don’t guess. Let a pro guide you from here.

When Did They Stop Using Asbestos In Linoleum?

Asbestos wasn’t used in true linoleum, but many people confuse linoleum with vinyl flooring.

Vinyl sheet flooring and adhesive materials that contained asbestos were used until the mid-1980s. By 1986, asbestos was mostly phased out of residential flooring products in the U.S.

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.