Can the inspection period be extended?

Asked by: Gracie Mills  |  Last update: February 6, 2026
Score: 4.6/5 (50 votes)

Yes, an inspection period can be extended, but it requires mutual agreement and a written, signed contract addendum from both buyer and seller; a verbal OK isn't enough, and the seller can refuse, leaving the buyer to proceed as-is or cancel. Extensions are common for specialized inspections (like mold or well) or negotiations after issues arise, and agents typically negotiate this to keep the deal together, often adding days to the deadline for a written extension.

How to extend inspection period?

When buying a home, inspection periods are critical for buyer protections. If sellers delay access--such as turning off utilities--buyers can request an extension via a signed addendum. Both parties must sign this document to modify contract terms legally.

How to get an inspection extension?

How Do I Request an SB 721 Inspection Extension? If you believe your property qualifies for an extension, you'll need to contact DrBalcony for us to start working on your 1-year extension by contacting California governor.

What is an inspection extension?

An extension of the due diligence occurs when your agent requests that the due diligence in the contract be extended a few days to work out additional details. This may include having different contractors come to the house to further evaluate items noted in the inspection report.

Can you get an extension on your closing date?

Grant the extension

Your real estate agent can negotiate a new closing date that generally will add an additional 10 to 30 days to the closing date, giving the buyer more time to tie up their loose ends. While the situation is frustrating, it's generally to your advantage to keep the sale alive.

How to Negotiate Repairs AFTER a Home Inspection!

23 related questions found

What is the 3 day rule for closing?

The "3-day closing rule" refers to the federal requirement under the TRID (TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure) rule that lenders must provide borrowers with the final Closing Disclosure (CD) at least three business days before closing (consummation). This rule, enforced by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), gives homebuyers time to compare final loan terms and costs with the initial Loan Estimate, ask questions, and ensure everything is accurate before signing. Receiving the CD late, or if significant changes occur, can trigger a new 3-day waiting period, delaying the closing.
 

What happens after the inspection period ends?

Once the inspection period is finalized, the sale will move forward into the appraisal and closing stage. Lenders require an appraisal to determine the current value of the property. The sale price and other terms can change or be negotiated if the appraisal is low.

How do I ask for a deadline extension?

Key takeaways:

  1. Ask for an extension as soon as you know you'll need it.
  2. Meet with your supervisor in person, if possible, to explain the situation.
  3. Offer valid reasons why you're asking for an extension and the ways you've tried to keep the project on track.

How long does a landlord need to give for an inspection?

Inspections can occur between 8am and 7pm for rental properties, and between 8am and 6pm for boarding houses. The maximum frequency for inspections is once every four weeks. Notice of an inspection must be given to the tenant at least 48 hours before the inspection, and not more than 14 days in advance.

Is inspection before closing?

Final inspections are often performed a day or two prior to the scheduled closing for your new home. You'll tour the home with your builder (or inspector) to spot flaws, test systems, and verify everything is move-in ready.

What is an expanded inspection?

Expanded Inspection – Applied to high-risk vessels or those operating under certain flags. Covers everything, from engine logs to crew quarters. Follow-Up Inspection – Required if your vessel had outstanding deficiencies from a previous port state visit.

What happens after the 90 due diligence period is up?

When the due diligence period ends, buyers usually have a few options depending on what their investigations revealed. If everything checks out and no major issues are found, they can move forward with the purchase by finalizing financing and preparing for closing.

What happens if the buyer does not complete on time?

If contracts have been exchanged and completion does not happen on the expected day the party at fault for the delay will be liable to pay compensation. The party who was ready to complete may also eventually be able to cancel the contract.

What is a good reason for extension of contract?

You may need a contract extension when a deadline is approaching, but the parties involved still wish to continue working together. Rather than negotiating an entirely new agreement, extending the existing contract is often faster, more cost-effective, and less disruptive.

How many hours can an annual inspection be exceeded?

The 100-hour limitation may be exceeded by not more than 10 hours while en route to reach a place where the inspection can be done. The excess time used to reach a place where the inspection can be done must be included in computing the next 100 hours of time in service.

What is a good reason to ask for an extension?

You lose a job, you have to move, you get sick, there's death in the family. These are the reasons you should ask for an extension.

How do I ask for an extending deadline?

It may be uncomfortable, but be honest and direct if you need a deadline extension and do it as seldom as possible. It's best to have the conversation in a way that is very clear. Share your intent to complete your work but clearly express that you need more time to finish.

How do you politely ask for extra time?

Make your request

Talk to your manager about your desire for more hours. Emphasize your passion for your job, and share your potential solutions. Explain that you feel receiving more responsibilities and hours may allow you to help the company achieve success.

Can you ask for price reduction after inspection?

A home inspection is your best tool for negotiating a home sale. After going through the home inspection report with your realtor, bring up the concerns to a home seller. You can ask the seller to make repairs or do maintenance before the sale closes. You can also negotiate a lower price instead.

What happens if you move in before final inspection?

Contractual Violations: Moving in before the final inspection could violate your purchase contract. Some states have strict regulations about final inspections. Ignoring these laws could result in fines or legal complications. Being aware of these potential consequences is crucial.

What is the biggest red flag in a home inspection?

The biggest home inspection red flags involve costly structural, water, electrical, and pest issues, including foundation cracks, sloping floors, major water intrusion (roof/basement), active leaks, outdated/unsafe electrical systems (knob & tube, aluminum wiring, overloaded panels), and pest infestations (termites, rodents), as these threaten safety and incur significant repair bills. Fresh paint, strong odors, and improper grading are also major warnings, often masking deeper problems. 

What is the 3 3 3 rule in real estate?

The "3-3-3 Rule" in real estate isn't one single rule but refers to different guidelines, most commonly the 30/30/3 Rule for Buyers (30% down, 30% income for mortgage, total price under 3x income) for financial safety, or for agents, a focus on three connection activities (call, note, resource) to build client relationships and referrals. Other variations include saving 3 months of emergency funds, making 3 property evaluations, and ensuring 3x annual income for land purchases.
 

Can a buyer ask for an extension on closing?

When selling a home, it's not uncommon for your buyer to ask for more time before closing. This request to extend the closing date might be due to financing, inspection, paperwork delays, or life changes, among other reasons.

Why would a buyer ask for an extension?

Buyers might seek to extend the closing date due to financing, inspection, or paperwork delays, or life changes. Sellers should view these as practical requests, not dealbreakers, ensuring buyers are prepared for ownership. Common causes: Financing delays: Lenders need more time to finish underwriting.