If you’re buying a home in Dallas, one of the most important steps in the process is the home inspection. But exactly how long should you plan for it to take?
Let’s break down what you can expect in 2025, how the timeline has changed since the pandemic, and why some inspections might take longer than others—even if the inspector is in and out in just a few hours.
The Quick Answer: 2 to 4 Hours
In most cases, a home inspection in Dallas takes between two and four hours according to Stonebriar Property Inspections. This can vary based on:
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The size of the home — Expect roughly one hour for every 1,000 square feet.
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The age and condition of the home — Older homes or those with complex renovations tend to take longer.
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Extra features — Pools, spas, outbuildings, or detached garages add time.
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Accessibility — Hard-to-reach attics or crawlspaces can slow things down.
So if you’re buying a 3,000 sq. ft. home with a pool and a detached garage, plan for a 3 to 4-hour inspection at minimum.
What’s Covered in a Typical Dallas Home Inspection?
Even a small home needs a full top-to-bottom review. Your inspector will typically examine:
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Roof and attic
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Foundation and grading
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HVAC systems
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Electrical and plumbing
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Windows, doors, and walls
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Decks, driveways, patios
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Appliances and insulation
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Crawl spaces and basements (if applicable)
That’s a long list—especially if any of those systems need more attention or follow-up testing.
COVID-Era Changes That Are Still in Play
Even though restrictions have loosened, the inspection process in 2025 still reflects changes brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic:
Inspectors work solo: Most Dallas inspectors now prefer to do the walkthrough alone and follow up with buyers later via phone or video call.
Protective gear adds time: Expect your inspector to suit up in gloves and a mask, and to sanitize their equipment and high-touch surfaces before and after they inspect.
Post-inspection is digital-first: Gone are the days of immediate in-person debriefs. Today, you’ll likely receive a detailed digital report with photos and videos, plus a follow-up call to discuss the findings.
This remote-first approach adds a bit of time on the back end but helps maintain safety and convenience.
So, How Long Does It Really Take in 2025?
The on-site portion of the home inspection still takes 2–4 hours on average. However, the full process—including follow-up, report delivery, and Q&A—can stretch that timeline a bit. Here’s how it breaks down:
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Inspection: 2–4 hours
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Report prep: Within 24–48 hours, often same-day
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Virtual debrief: 15–30 minutes (via phone or video call)
So from inspection to final report review, plan on about 1–2 days total to wrap up the entire process.
While home inspections in Dallas haven’t changed dramatically in terms of how long they take, how they happen has. Remote consultations, digital reports, and safety protocols are the new norm—but none of it compromises the thoroughness of the inspection itself.
Whether you’re buying your first home or your fifth, knowing what to expect helps you plan better and feel more confident about the process.
Have questions about home inspections in Dallas or want help scheduling one? Reach out—we’re always happy to help guide you through it.