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Should I get more than one home inspection?
I put an offer on a home that's about 40 years old. I know there are things that need to be replaced and want to go into the deal with as much knowledge as possible. I get that humans make mistakes or don't see things. So, I'm wondering if I should get 2 home inspections and see what they both say. Could I use both reports to negotiate?
Asked By Sofia | Albany, NY | 14 views | Buying | Updated 14 hours ago
Answers (6)
Amanda Courtney
REP Realty Group
Get a second, specialized inspection if the general report flags "red zone" issues like foundation cracks, sewer line bellies, or aging electrical panels. A general inspector is a "GP"; you need a "Specialist" (structural engineer or plumber with a camera) to give you a hard repair estimate before you sign off on the due diligence.
- 12 hours ago
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Jordana Jared Proctor
Keller Willams Westfield
I wouldn’t pay for two general inspections—you’ll mostly get the same report twice. A good inspector on a 40-year-old home should catch the big stuff.
Where it does make sense to spend more is on targeted inspections if something looks off: sewer scope, roof, HVAC, electrical, maybe foundation.
And yes, you can use inspection findings to negotiate within reason depending on the market youre in.
Where it does make sense to spend more is on targeted inspections if something looks off: sewer scope, roof, HVAC, electrical, maybe foundation.
And yes, you can use inspection findings to negotiate within reason depending on the market youre in.
- 7 hours ago
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Phong Tran
Real Broker
You can get two inspections, but it’s usually not necessary unless the first inspector is rushed or you have specific concerns. A few points to consider:
Cost vs benefit – Two full inspections can be expensive, and most qualified inspectors will catch the major issues in one.
Usefulness – Sometimes different inspectors notice slightly different things, but a good inspector’s report is usually enough to negotiate repairs or credits.
Negotiation – You can use both reports to negotiate, but the seller may push back if it seems like you’re “shopping for issues.” Usually, one thorough, detailed inspection report is enough to ask for repairs or price adjustments.
A practical alternative is: get one inspection, and if it flags major issues, you can bring in a specialist (like a structural engineer or electrician) for a second opinion on that specific problem. That’s usually cheaper and more credible.
Cost vs benefit – Two full inspections can be expensive, and most qualified inspectors will catch the major issues in one.
Usefulness – Sometimes different inspectors notice slightly different things, but a good inspector’s report is usually enough to negotiate repairs or credits.
Negotiation – You can use both reports to negotiate, but the seller may push back if it seems like you’re “shopping for issues.” Usually, one thorough, detailed inspection report is enough to ask for repairs or price adjustments.
A practical alternative is: get one inspection, and if it flags major issues, you can bring in a specialist (like a structural engineer or electrician) for a second opinion on that specific problem. That’s usually cheaper and more credible.
- 9 hours ago
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Emily Matthews
RE/MAX Universal Realty
In theory, a person could do that. But it makes more sense to have follow up specialized inspections based on what the inspector finds. Just make sure you have enough time to get them done. You might need an extension of the inspection contingency
- 11 hours ago
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Lana Rovinelli
RE/MAX Creative Realty
Get an inspection, termite, and radon report. If any red flags occur during the general property inspection, like structural, roof, etc., then get the specific inspector for those types of things. Make sure that your Realtor understands the importance of these reports and is readily available to assist you.
- 8 hours ago
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Megan Rickner
Windermere Real Estate Whidbey
You can absolutely use both reports to negotiate, but I would only add a second inspection if the first called out anything needing further inspecting - like if the inspection found mold, structural defects, pests, or anything that would require an inspection with a separate specialist.
- 12 hours ago
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