Real estate inspection fees depend on the experience and certification of the inspector. The report usually includes a detailed report on the condition of the house and a photo of the house. The fees will vary according to the size and age of the house.

Typical real estate inspection fees in Southern USA are:
1. $10 per 100 square feet with a minimum fee of $250
Additional fees are charged for houses with a pier & beam foundation
Area of attached garages will be added to the total area
Duplex houses will be charged extra
The fees may vary according to the location of the house as it affects travel time
2. Swimming pool : $65
3. Sprinkler system: $20
4. Septic system : $100
All fees are usually to be paid in advance before the inspection starts.

In USA, Canada,UK and other countries, real estate purchase papers often state that the condition of the house is checked and certified by real estate or home inspector before it is sold. The real estate inspector is usually professional qualified and trained to assess the condition of the house, so that the buyer gets an unbiased report on the repairs, if any, which will be required to make the house habitable.

In many states in USA and Canada, the home inspector has to be licensed and regularly upgrade their knowledge about new products and services by take continuing education course to renew their license. However professional engineers may be exempted from the licensing requirements, since they already trained in these aspects while studying engineering. Home inspectors who are professional engineers are additional able to suggest methods of repair or improvement based on their engineering knowledge.

In USA, the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) certifies home inspectors who meet their qualifying requirements. These inspectors can display the ASHI logo on their website. Additionally a home inspector may obtain certification for inspection of the insulation, termite and pest control, septic systems.