Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about home inspections, specialty services, and working with Priority Inspection Services. Can't find your answer? Give us a call.
General Home Inspection
14 questionsGeneral Home Inspection
Why should I spend the money on a home inspection?
A home inspection is one of the smartest investments you can make during the home buying process. It provides a detailed evaluation of the property's condition, helping you identify hidden issues that may not be visible during a casual walkthrough. A small upfront cost can save you from unexpected repairs that could cost thousands later, uncover safety hazards with electrical, plumbing, roofing, or structural systems, and give you the leverage to negotiate repairs or price adjustments with confidence.
How long does a home inspection take?
Most residential inspections take 2–4 hours depending on the size and condition of the home. Larger or older homes may take longer. We recommend being present for the inspection so we can walk you through our findings in real time.
When will I receive my report?
Your detailed digital inspection report is typically delivered within 24 hours of the inspection. In many cases, you'll have it the same day.
Should I be present during the inspection?
Yes — we strongly encourage it. Being present allows us to walk you through our findings, answer your questions on the spot, and help you understand the condition of the home firsthand. We do ask that you give the inspector a 1.5-hour head start.
What if the inspector finds problems?
Finding issues is the whole point. Our job is to give you an accurate picture of the home's condition — not to kill deals. Most homes have some issues. We'll help you understand which are serious, which are minor, and what to prioritize in negotiations.
Do you inspect new construction homes?
Absolutely. New construction homes are not immune to defects. We offer phase inspections throughout the build process and final walkthrough inspections before closing.
Are you licensed in Texas?
Yes. All of our inspectors hold active TREC (Texas Real Estate Commission) licenses. Our company TREC license number is #22689. You can verify any inspector's license at the TREC website.
What areas do you serve?
We serve San Antonio and surrounding areas, as well as the Texas Hill Country. We cover 50+ counties. Call us at (210) 625-5412 or (830) 217-2819 to confirm we serve your area.
Can I book online?
Yes! We offer 24/7 online scheduling through our [Book Online](/book-an-inspection) page. You can also call us at (210) 625-5412 during business hours.
How much does a home inspection cost?
The cost varies based on the size, age, foundation type, and any optional add-on services requested. Our base pricing for a standard home inspection typically starts around $350–$450 for average-sized homes in the San Antonio area. Larger homes or properties with additional systems may have higher pricing. You'll always know the price before booking — call us at (210) 625-5412 for a fast quote.
Will you let me know if my home is up to code?
A home inspection is not a code compliance inspection. We inspect based on TREC Standards of Practice, which focus on the condition, safety, and functionality of the home's systems — not current building code enforcement. However, if we notice deficiencies that don't meet today's typical safety standards (such as recalled panels, missing GFCIs, or improper water heater installations), we will note those in the report.
I am selling my home — can you do a pre-listing inspection?
Yes! We offer pre-listing home inspections designed for sellers who want to get ahead of potential issues before putting their home on the market. A pre-listing inspection helps you identify and address repairs before buyers find them, avoid surprises during negotiations, disclose known issues up front to build buyer trust, and price your home accurately and confidently.
I have a mobile or manufactured home — can you inspect that?
Yes! We inspect mobile and manufactured homes throughout San Antonio and surrounding areas. Our inspections follow TREC Standards of Practice and are tailored to the unique construction and support systems of manufactured housing. We also offer HUD Compliance Certifications and engineering reports for permanent foundation systems.
Do you offer radon inspections?
At this time, Priority Inspection Services does not offer radon inspections. In South Texas, including San Antonio and surrounding areas, radon is generally not considered a high-risk concern according to EPA data. If you would still like a radon test, we're happy to refer you to a qualified local specialist.
Mold Assessment & Testing
What is the difference between mold testing and mold remediation?
Mold testing (assessment) is the process of identifying whether mold is present, what species it is, and how extensive the problem is. Mold remediation is the physical removal and cleanup of mold. Priority Inspection Services performs the assessment and provides a remediation protocol — we do not perform the remediation itself, which ensures there is no conflict of interest in our findings.
How long does a mold assessment take?
A typical residential mold assessment takes 1–2 hours on-site. Lab results are generally returned within 3–5 business days, after which we compile and deliver your full written report.
Do I need to leave my home during the assessment?
No. You do not need to vacate your home during the assessment. Our inspector will move through the property systematically and will let you know if any specific areas require temporary access.
What happens if mold is found?
If mold is found at elevated levels, we provide a written remediation protocol that outlines the scope of work a licensed mold remediation contractor should perform. You can use this protocol to get accurate bids from remediation companies and to verify that the work was completed correctly.
Is mold testing required when buying a home in Texas?
Mold testing is not legally required in Texas real estate transactions, but it is strongly recommended — especially if there is any history of water intrusion, flooding, or visible moisture damage. Many buyers request mold testing as part of their due diligence inspection period.
WDI / Termite Inspection
Why do I need a home inspector to check for wood destroying insects?
Licensed professional inspectors have the necessary training and experience and are familiar with termite habits, as well as other wood destroying insects such as carpenter ants. Priority Inspection Services will check for the telltale signs of Wood Destroying Insects in your home or business.
Where do termites and other pests live and what are the signs?
It depends on the type of termite or other wood destroying pest. Some signs of a problem are finding termites swarming in or around your home, forming mud tubes, hollowed out wooden surfaces, and left behind fecal matter. Carpenter ants can get inside the walls of your home to build nests and feast on dead, damp wood. Priority Inspection Services can help you determine what type of termite or pest is invading your home or business.
What type of damage is caused by termites?
Depending on the type of termite or pest, they can do damage to electrical wiring, anything cellulose-based, furniture or carpet, and of course wood. Priority Inspection Services can help you determine what type of termite or pest is invading your home or business.
How can I prevent wood destroying insect problems from recurring?
The basic premise behind prevention is to deny termites and pests access to food (wood), moisture, and shelter. Regular professional WDI inspections combined with moisture control, proper ventilation, and eliminating wood-to-soil contact around your home are the most effective long-term strategies.
Sewer Camera Inspections
How long does a sewer camera inspection take?
Most sewer scope inspections take 45 minutes to 1 hour on-site. The inspector will access the main clean-out, run the camera through the line, and document any findings with video footage. You'll receive a written summary report shortly after.
Do I need a sewer inspection on a new home?
Yes — even new construction homes can have sewer line defects. Soil movement, improper installation, or damage during construction can all cause issues that won't be visible until a camera is run through the line. We strongly recommend a sewer scope on any home purchase, regardless of age.
What happens if a problem is found?
If our inspector finds a defect, you'll receive a detailed report with video documentation of the issue. This gives you the information you need to negotiate repairs with the seller, get accurate contractor bids, or make an informed decision about the purchase.
Is a sewer scope the same as a plumbing inspection?
No. A standard home inspection covers visible plumbing components inside the home — fixtures, supply lines, and drain connections. A sewer scope specifically inspects the underground main sewer line from the home to the city connection, which is not visible during a standard inspection.
Septic System Evaluation
How long does a septic evaluation take?
Most residential septic evaluations take 1–2 hours on-site, depending on the system type and accessibility. ATU and drip irrigation systems with more mechanical components may take slightly longer.
Does the tank need to be pumped before the inspection?
It is not required, but it can be helpful — especially if the tank has not been pumped in several years. We can assess sludge and scum levels during the inspection and recommend pumping if needed. For a more thorough evaluation of the tank interior, having it pumped beforehand allows better visibility.
What is an OSSF and why does it matter?
OSSF stands for On-Site Sewage Facility — the Texas regulatory term for septic systems. TCEQ (Texas Commission on Environmental Quality) oversees OSSF regulations statewide. A licensed OSSF inspector has completed TCEQ-approved training and is authorized to evaluate these systems in accordance with Texas law.
Can you inspect a septic system at the same time as a home inspection?
Yes. We can combine a septic evaluation with your standard home inspection to save time and coordinate scheduling. This is a popular option for buyers who want a complete picture of the property in a single visit.
What happens if the septic system fails the inspection?
If we identify significant deficiencies, our report will clearly describe the issues and their severity. You can use this information to negotiate repairs or credits with the seller, or to make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the purchase.
Solar Inspections
Do I need a solar inspection if the home already passed a general inspection?
Yes. A standard home inspection covers basic visible components but does not evaluate solar system performance, inverter function, production data, or the electrical specifics of a PV system. A dedicated solar inspection is the only way to verify what you're actually getting.
Can you tell me if the solar system is actually saving money?
We review available monitoring data and compare it against the seller's stated savings claims. While we cannot predict future utility rates, we can tell you whether the system is producing at expected levels and flag any significant discrepancies.
What if the home has a solar lease or PPA?
We document the system's current condition and performance so you have accurate information before assuming a lease or power purchase agreement. We recommend reviewing all contract terms with your real estate attorney as well.
Do you inspect battery storage systems like Tesla Powerwall?
Yes. If the home includes a battery storage system, we inspect its condition, age, charge capacity indicators, and integration with the solar array and electrical panel.
How long does a solar inspection take?
A solar inspection typically adds 45–90 minutes to a standard home inspection, depending on system size and complexity. We recommend combining it with your general home inspection for efficiency.
Water Well Inspections
How long does a water well inspection take?
A full well inspection including flow rate testing typically takes 1–2 hours on site. Water quality samples are sent to an accredited lab, and results are usually returned within 3–5 business days. We include the lab report in your final digital inspection report.
What contaminants do you test for?
Our standard panel includes total coliform, E. coli, nitrates, nitrites and lead. Additional panels - including arsenic, lead, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds - are available on request.
My lender requires a well inspection — can you provide the documentation?
Yes. We provide a complete written report and water quality lab results in the format required by FHA, VA, and USDA lenders. Let us know your lender's specific requirements when you book and we'll make sure everything is covered.
How often should a homeowner test their well?
The EPA recommends testing your well water at least once a year for bacteria and nitrates, and any time you notice a change in taste, odor, or appearance. After flooding, nearby construction, or a new baby in the home, immediate testing is strongly advised.
What is a good flow rate for a residential well?
Most lenders and health authorities require a minimum of 0.5 gallons per minute (GPM) sustained over a 4-hour period, though 3–5 GPM is considered adequate for a typical household. We measure and document your well's actual flow rate and compare it against these benchmarks.
Still Have Questions?
Our team is happy to answer any questions before you book. Give us a call or schedule online — we're here to help.