Find a home inspector in Portland, OR
A home inspector examines a house's structure and systems and writes a report on problems and safety issues. Buyers hire one before closing, and sellers sometimes order one before listing. A good inspector is independent, thorough, and explains which issues are urgent and which are normal wear.
How many home inspectors are in Portland?
The Census Bureau counted 9 home inspectors with employees in Portland, OR ZIP codes in 2023.
Countywide, Multnomah County has 11, or 1.4 per 100,000 residents: fewer than the US rate of 2.0, and 132nd of 155 large US cities per resident.
Another 42 self-employed businesses in building inspection services are based in Multnomah County, the kind of one-person operation the employer count leaves out.
The ZIP codes with the most: 97219 (3), 97223 (3), 97224 (3).
Half of Portland's homes were built before 1966, and 47% of households rent, which shapes the kind of work local pros see most.
| Businesses with employees (city ZIP codes) | 9 Census ZBP 2023 |
|---|---|
| Per 100,000 residents, Multnomah County | 1.4 US: 2.0 |
| Rank among large US cities | 132 of 155 county count per resident |
| Small businesses (under 5 staff) | 67% |
| Self-employed, Multnomah County | 42 Census NES 2023: building inspection services |
| Median year homes were built | 1966 ACS 2023 |
| Households that rent | 47% ACS 2023 |
| Population | 642,715 ACS 2023 |
What do home inspectors in Portland help with?
- Pre-purchase inspections
- Pre-listing inspections
- New construction inspections
- Radon testing
- Mold testing
- Sewer camera inspections
- Termite and wood-destroying insect inspections
- Pool and spa inspections
- Roof and attic checks
- Annual maintenance inspections
How do you choose a good home inspector in Portland?
- Check the inspector's license where your state requires one.
- Ask to see a sample report.
- Choose an inspector you hire yourself, not one tied to the sale.
- Ask what the inspection includes and what costs extra, like radon or sewer scope.
- Attend the inspection if you can.
- Ask about errors and omissions insurance.
Many states license home inspectors, and some do not; ask for a license number where one is required. See how licensing works for home inspectors in Oregon.
Questions to ask before you hire
- Are you licensed and insured?
- What does the inspection cover?
- Can I see a sample report?
- How long will it take?
- When will I get the report?
- Do you offer radon, mold or sewer testing?
Red flags to watch for
- Offering to do the repairs they find.
- A very short report with no photos.
- Rushing through a large home.
- Ties to the selling agent that are not disclosed.
What changes the price?
- Home size
- Age and condition
- Add-on tests
- Travel distance
- Type of property
- Report turnaround
Get two or three written quotes for the same scope of work; prices vary a lot between businesses.
Questions people ask
How many home inspectors are there in Portland?
The Census counted 9 home inspectors with employees in Portland, OR in 2023, plus 42 self-employed businesses in Multnomah County.
Do I need a home inspection for a new house?
It is still a good idea. Even new homes can have defects.
Can a house fail an inspection?
No. An inspection reports findings. You and the seller decide how to handle them.
Should I go to the inspection?
Yes, if possible. You will learn how the house works and what needs attention.
Home Inspectors in nearby cities
Home Inspectors in other cities
Sources: US Census Bureau ZIP and County Business Patterns 2023, Nonemployer Statistics 2023 and ACS 2023 5-year estimates. Census industry groups can include closely related businesses. Expert Helper is a free matching service, not a home inspector.