FAQs

A property inspection is a thorough, unbiased examination of a property’s condition by a trained professional. It assesses the structural integrity, safety, and functionality of the home’s major systems — foundation, roofing, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC — so you know exactly what you’re buying, selling, or maintaining.

An inspection uncovers hidden defects before they become expensive surprises: failing sewer laterals, outdated electrical panels, roof damage, or moisture intrusion. For buyers, it’s negotiating power. For sellers, it prevents escrow fallout. For owners, it’s a maintenance roadmap.

A standard Universal Inspect home inspection covers structural components (foundation, walls, framing), the roof, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC, interior and exterior conditions, and built-in appliances. In Southern California we pay special attention to common regional issues like cast-iron and clay sewer laterals, galvanized plumbing, aging electrical panels, and unpermitted additions.

A typical home inspection takes about 2 to 4 hours, depending on the size, age, and condition of the property. Larger or older homes with more systems to evaluate take longer.

Our general home inspection packages range from $449 to $699 depending on the size of the property, with online booking savings already applied. Optional add-ons: pool inspection $200, spa $50, sewer lateral camera inspection $249, and mold inspection $199. You’ll see exact pricing before you book — no surprises.

Yes. Universal Inspect is led by Brett Mars, a Certified Master Inspector (CMI) — the inspection industry’s highest professional designation. We are a California licensed contractor, CSLB #1138550 (A – General Engineering, B – General Building), an EPA Lead-Safe Certified firm, IICRC certified, and NRCIA roof certified.

A commercial property inspection is a comprehensive evaluation of a commercial building’s condition, including its structural systems, mechanical and electrical systems, roofing, and compliance with applicable safety standards.

We inspect office buildings, retail spaces, warehouses, industrial facilities, and multi-unit residential buildings throughout Southern California.

Commercial inspections are broader in scope and may include additional assessments such as environmental concerns, zoning and code compliance, ADA considerations, and tenant improvements. The report is tailored to investors, buyers, and property managers.

Book online through our Schedule Now page or call us at 310.880.9718. We serve Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties, and we’ll find a time that works with your escrow or project schedule.

Make sure all areas of the property are accessible, including the attic, crawl spaces, electrical panels, water heater, and HVAC equipment. If you have prior inspection reports, repair records, or permits, having them on hand helps.

Yes. You’ll receive a detailed digital report with photographs and clear descriptions of our findings, plus recommendations for any repairs or further evaluation — delivered fast so your transaction stays on track.

Discuss the findings with your real estate agent to decide how to proceed — whether that’s negotiating repairs, requesting credits, or planning future maintenance. As inspectors, we stay independent: we report what we find, plainly and without bias.

Yes — we encourage it. Walking the property with your inspector lets you ask questions in real time and leave with a much clearer understanding of the home’s condition.