If you're buying a home in Texas and this is your first inspection, you probably have a few questions. What does the inspector actually check? How long does it take? Should you be there? Here's what a typical Skyline Home Inspection looks like from start to finish.
How Long Does It Take?
Most inspections take between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the size and condition of the property. A smaller, well-maintained home might be done in under two hours. A larger property or one with deferred maintenance can take longer. We don't rush — every system gets the attention it deserves.
Do You Have to Be There?
You don't have to be, but we recommend attending — especially for the final walkthrough. That's when your inspector walks you through what was found in plain terms, points out anything that needs your attention, and answers your questions directly. You'll get more out of that 15 minutes than you'll get reading the report alone.
What Does the Inspector Actually Check?
A Primary Home Inspection covers every major system and component of the home:
- Roof — covering material, flashing, gutters, drainage, and penetrations
- Exterior — siding, windows, doors, grading, and drainage away from the foundation
- Foundation — visible signs of movement, cracking, or settling
- Structural — framing, attic, insulation, and ventilation
- Electrical — panel, wiring, outlets, switches, GFCI protection
- Plumbing — supply lines, drain lines, water heater, fixtures
- HVAC — heating and cooling systems, ductwork, filters
- Interior — walls, ceilings, floors, stairs, windows, and doors
What Happens After?
You'll receive your Spectora report the same day — usually within a few hours of the inspection wrapping up. It includes photos of every finding, organized by category and severity: Maintenance items, Recommendations, and Safety Hazards. The report is designed to be readable by a normal person, not just contractors.
From there, your agent helps you decide what to negotiate, what to accept, and what to walk away from. The inspection doesn't tell you whether to buy — it gives you the information to make that decision with your eyes open.