buyer's inspection taking a long time, panic?!

​​Not really. There are several reasons why an inspection might take longer than you expected.

What kind of house is it?

Larger, older houses and houses with crawlspaces and additions, simply take longer to evaluate. Storage, furnishings and other obstructions can also add to the time it takes for an inspector to find everything he or she needs to evaluate. Multi-storey dwellings and those with built-in apartments can take longer, as well as those with fireplaces and other accessory items.


What about the weather?

Inspections performed during inclement weather can take longer to complete. Heavy wind and rain, as well as sweeping snow off roofs or digging into exterior crawlspaces during freezing weather, can considerably slow the process.


Who is the inspector?

Some inspectors take longer to get the job done. One might be more detailed than another, or perhaps not as efficient – some talk more than others. The report might be compiled in whole, or in part onsite whereas a different home inspector could write the report offsite – this alone could make a difference of up to an hour.


What is the buyer like?

Inspections involving first time buyers, buyers with pre-conceived notions and those who bring along extra people can, and most often do take a lot longer. Sometimes it’s the buyer’s agent, an “expert” family member or the distraction of children, cellphones and late arrivals that add to the time spent in your house. 


In summary…

Don’t panic if the inspection of your home seems to be taking a long time. There are too many variables involved, for anyone to jump to the conclusion there are problems just because the clock seems to have stopped!