What Does a Home Inspection Actually Cover?

Condos, townhouses, co-ops, and manufactured homes all have different inspection scopes. Know what you are getting — and what you are not.

Typical Inspection Cost — Condo

$250–$400 (less than SFH — scope is limited to the unit interior)

Key note: Your inspector can only evaluate what is inside your unit. The building's condition — roof, structure, common systems — is the HOA's responsibility. Review HOA financials before buying.

✓ What a Standard Inspection Covers — Condo

✓Interior walls and surfaces within the unit
✓Electrical panel and wiring serving the unit
✓Plumbing within unit walls (supply and drain lines accessible)
✓HVAC system serving the unit (air handler, thermostat, vents)
✓Windows and exterior doors (unit's own)
✓Interior fixtures: lights, outlets, switches, plumbing fixtures
✓Appliances included in the sale
✓Ceilings and floors within the unit
✓In-unit laundry hookups or equipment

✗ What It Does NOT Cover

✗Roof (common area — HOA responsibility)
✗Exterior walls and building envelope
✗Foundation and structural systems
✗Elevators, stairwells, corridors
✗Parking structure, garage, or lot
✗Pool, gym, or other common amenities
✗Common-area plumbing and electrical
✗Building HVAC systems (if central)

Additional Steps to Request for a Condo

›Request last 2 years of HOA meeting minutes — look for unresolved issues
›Request the HOA reserve fund study — underfunded reserves = future special assessments
›Ask about any pending or recent special assessments
›Review the HOA master insurance policy — know what is and is not covered
›Check for any litigation the HOA is involved in

What Does a Home Inspection Actually Cover?

✓ What a Standard Inspection Covers — Condo

✗ What It Does NOT Cover

Additional Steps to Request for a Condo

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