Why I Don't Offer "Pay at Closing"

While this has never been asked of me, at least as of November 2025, an increasing number of inspectors now offer to defer payment for a home inspection until the closing date, often called “pay at closing.” While I understand why this option might seem convenient, especially during the hectic process of buying a home, I’ve chosen not to offer it for several important reasons.

1. The inspection is for YOU, not the “deal”
A home inspection is an independent assessment meant to protect your interests, not the transaction’s. When payment is tied to the closing, there’s an implied connection between the inspection and the deal’s success, or between the inspector and real estate agent(s) that can create unnecessary pressure or perceived bias. I prefer to keep the inspection process completely separate from any real estate dealings so you can be confident that my only focus is giving you clear, honest information about the property.
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2. Delayed payments create unnecessary complications
Closings can take weeks or months, and occasionally they don’t happen at all. If the deal falls through, inspectors are often left waiting indefinitely or chasing down payment. By collecting payment at the time of inspection, I can keep my business simple, efficient, and focused on providing great service rather than managing delayed accounts or paperwork.

3. It helps keep prices fair for everyone
Pay-at-closing programs typically involve third-party billing services that charge extra fees to the inspector. Those costs often get passed back to clients through higher inspection fees. By avoiding those programs, I can keep my rates below the industry average for all clients and continue investing in better tools, training, and reporting.

4. It reflects the professional value of the work
Home inspections are performed before closing for a reason: they provide essential information you need to make decisions about one of the largest purchases of your life. Payment at the time of service simply reflects the fact that the work is completed and delivered at that point, much like an appraisal, a survey, or any other professional service in the homebuying process. Of course, I am always happy to answer any of my client’s questions with no time limit, but an actual home inspection is completed when the report is delivered.

I believe in keeping things simple and transparent. When you hire me, you get an honest, thorough, and unbiased inspection with a clear, straightforward payment process. No extra fees, no delays, no hidden costs and many of our standard inspection fees are listed on our website for all to see.