Yes, you can get a home inspection after closing, and in some cases, it may be essential—especially if you’re experiencing problems that weren’t disclosed before the sale. For many homeowners, a post-closing inspection is less about routine maintenance and more about protecting themselves legally when something seems off.
What Is a Post-Closing Home Inspection
A post-closing inspection—sometimes called a move-in inspection—is a professional evaluation of a home’s condition that takes place after the property has been purchased. Unlike a pre-purchase inspection, this type of inspection is not about negotiating price—it’s about verifying the home’s condition, documenting defects, and, when necessary, preparing for legal or warranty action.
Certified professionals such as Ellingwood Pro provide a full inspection report covering structural, mechanical, and safety issues that may not have been apparent before closing.
Why Homeowners Choose Post-Closing Inspections
While post-closing inspections do help with maintenance planning, the real value often lies in uncovering hidden or undisclosed problems. Common motivations include:
- Experiencing issues shortly after moving in
- Suspecting that the seller failed to disclose defects
- Wanting documentation for a potential legal claim
- Preparing to file a home warranty request
- Verifying workmanship on new construction homes
If you waived your inspection contingency or bought the home “as-is,” this step becomes even more important.
Common Problems Found After Closing
| Area | Common Issues |
| Foundation | Settling, cracks, moisture intrusion |
| HVAC System | Airflow problems, thermostat failures |
| Plumbing | Leaks, poor drainage, pressure loss |
| Electrical | Dead outlets, tripped breakers |
| Roofing | Leaks, missing shingles |
| Structure | Termite damage, door/window warping |
Many of these issues only become apparent after weeks of regular use.
Legal & Disclosure Implications
If your inspection uncovers serious issues that should have been disclosed before closing, you may have legal recourse. Most states require sellers to disclose known material defects, and failure to do so can qualify as fraud or negligence.
Steps to take:
- Review the seller’s disclosure statement in detail
- Compare findings with your inspection report
- Document everything with photos, receipts, and timelines
- Consult a real estate attorney if the issue appears to have been knowingly concealed
Common defects with legal implications include:
- Structural damage
- Water intrusion or mold
- Major HVAC or electrical failures
- Pest infestations
Benefits of a Post-Closing Inspection
A post-closing inspection with Ellingwood Pro offers:
- A detailed baseline of your home’s condition
- Evidence to support home warranty or insurance claims
- Guidance on urgent vs. long-term repairs
- Legal documentation if seller fraud is suspected
- A better understanding of your home’s systems and risks
Typical cost ranges from $475 to $1,400, depending on size and complexity.
When to Schedule Your Post-Closing Inspection
For legal and practical reasons, it’s best to schedule your post-closing inspection within 3 to 6 months of purchase. This timing allows for:
- Early discovery of issues while still fresh in the transaction timeline
- Timely claims under warranties or applicable statutes
- Better planning before renovations or upgrades
Ellingwood Pro offers flexible scheduling:
- Call (276) 566-5669
- Use our online tool for free quotes and fast booking
What to Do With the Results
After receiving your inspection report:
- Prioritize any safety or system-related issues
- Document all findings thoroughly for legal or warranty use
- Request estimates or second opinions from specialists
- Use the report in consultation with your real estate attorney if needed
- Store all documents securely for insurance or resale purposes
While you can’t renegotiate with the seller post-closing, this inspection gives you a clear foundation for any next steps—whether legal, financial, or structural.
How Ellingwood Pro Helps
Ellingwood Pro specializes in post-closing inspections that support both maintenance and legal needs. We offer:
- Same-day digital reports
- Thorough inspections from foundation to roof
- Photo documentation of every issue
- Trusted expertise in residential construction
- Flexible scheduling online or by phone at (276) 566-5669
Whether you need peace of mind or potential legal evidence, a post-closing inspection can give you the clarity and confidence you need to move forward.
