How Long Does A Home Inspection Take? Factors That Matter

Updated for 2026

Most home inspections in Alabama, Southwest Georgia, and Northwest Florida take around 2–3 hours from start to finish. Larger or older homes with crawlspaces and outbuildings typically take longer, while smaller or newer homes are usually quicker. This guide breaks down what affects timing and how to plan your day around the inspection.

If you’re buying a home in Dothan, across the Wiregrass, in Southwest Georgia, or along Florida’s 30A corridor, one of the first things you’ll want to know is how long a home inspection typically takes. Most buyers are juggling deadlines, trying to coordinate with agents, and planning around work or travel. The short answer is that a typical home inspection in the Dothan area usually takes about 2 to 3 hours. Some homes can take less time, and others take longer, depending on a few key factors.

Below is a simple breakdown of what affects the timeline and what you can expect on the day of your inspection.

• Average Time for a Home Inspection (Alabama | Southwest Georgia | Northwest Florida
• What Makes an Inspection Take Longer?
• What Usually Makes an Inspection Faster?
• What Happens During the Inspection?
• Do You Need to Be There the Whole Time?
• When Will I Get the Inspection Report?
• Quick Tips to Make the Process Faster
• Final Thoughts

Average Time for a Home Inspection (Alabama | Southwest Georgia | Northwest Florida

For most homes in Southeast Alabama, Southwest Georgia, and Northwest Florida, the on-site portion of the inspection takes roughly 2 to 3 hours. That includes a start-to-finish review of the home’s major systems, the exterior, interior, attic, crawlspace (if accessible), and all mechanical components.

Your report is delivered the same day in nearly every case.

What Makes an Inspection Take Longer?

Every home is different, but the following things can add time:

1. Square Footage

Larger homes simply have more to inspect. Bigger attics, more outlets, more fixtures, and more roof surface all require additional time.

2. Age of the Home

Older homes tend to have more wear and tear, previous repairs, mixed materials, and older systems. Inspectors slow down to document these items accurately.

3. Crawlspaces

A home with a crawlspace almost always takes longer than a slab foundation. Moisture levels, insulation, plumbing, ventilation, and structural components all have to be checked carefully.

4. Multiple HVAC Systems

Many homes in our area have two or three air conditioning units. Each system is inspected individually.

5. Outbuildings and Extras

Detached garages, shops, guest houses, pools, and similar structures add extra time if they’re included in your inspection.

What Usually Makes an Inspection Faster?

Newer Homes

Recent construction with modern systems and clean attics/crawlspaces often takes less time.

Homes Under 1,500 Square Feet

Smaller footprints simply mean fewer components to inspect.

Homes Without Add-Ons

No outbuildings, no pool, no crawlspace, and only one HVAC system can streamline the process.

What Happens During the Inspection?

While every inspector works slightly differently, a typical inspection includes:

• Roof and attic
• Foundation, structure, and crawlspace (if accessible)
• Exterior siding, windows, and grading
• Electrical system
• Plumbing system
• HVAC systems
• Water heater and fixtures
• Interior rooms, appliances, and safety features

Your inspector takes photos, notes visible defects, and evaluates how the systems are performing at the time of the inspection.

Do You Need to Be There the Whole Time?

You’re welcome to be present for all or part of the inspection, but it isn’t required. Many buyers choose to come toward the end so they can walk through the findings in person. Others prefer to review the report later and ask questions by phone. Either option is completely fine.

When Will I Get the Inspection Report?

With Cornerstone Home Inspectors, your digital report is delivered the same day. Even if the inspection runs longer than expected, your report will still be in your inbox that evening.

Quick Tips to Make the Process Faster

• Make sure all utilities are on
• Unlock gates, garages, and outbuildings
• Clear access to the electrical panel, attic, and crawlspace
• Make sure pets are secured

Small things like this help keep the inspection moving smoothly.

Final Thoughts

Most homes in Southeast Alabama, Southwest Georgia, and Northwest Florida take about 2 to 3 hours, but the exact time depends on the size, age, and layout of the home. What matters more than speed is thoroughness and accuracy. A careful inspection gives you the information you need to make confident decisions before closing.

If you have a home under contract in Southeast Alabama, Southwest Georgia, or the Santa Rosa Beach / 30A area and want a reliable same-day inspection, we’re always here to help. Contact us anytime to book your inspection—wherever you’re buying across Alabama, Georgia, or Florida’s Emerald Coast.