How much does an apartment inspection by a specialist cost in 2026?

The cost of an apartment inspection depends primarily on the size of the property. The larger the floor area, the more elements need to be checked, which directly affects the amount of time required by the specialist. Approximate market rates are as follows.

The location of the property also affects the price of an apartment inspection. Rates in large metropolitan areas may be higher than in smaller towns. The scope of services included in the basic price is also important, as some companies charge separately for services such as thermal imaging or the engineer’s travel expenses.

It is worth knowing that the inspection of a single-family house is usually more expensive than the inspection of an apartment because there are more installations and structural elements to assess, as well as the roof and façade. Before choosing a particular company, always check the full price list and ask exactly what is included in the basic service.

How much does an apartment inspection cost with additional services?

Many companies offer technical inspections at an attractive base price, but the final amount often increases due to additional services. Before placing an order, it is worth knowing what extra charges you may need to pay.

1. Engineer’s travel to the development - usually from PLN 100 to 200 depending on the distance.
2. Thermal imaging inspection - from PLN 250 to 350; useful for detecting thermal bridges and moisture that cannot be seen with the naked eye.
3. Inspection of appurtenant areas, such as a balcony, storage unit or parking space – approx. PLN 50 per item.
4. Inspection with an authorised representative - approx. PLN 100 if the buyer cannot attend in person.
5. Laser measurement of the usable floor area - verification that the floor area complies with the plans.
6. Assistance with preparing the inspection report – professional wording of technical comments.

Also read what to pay attention to when preparing an apartment inspection report from a developer, so that the document effectively protects your claims for repairs.

What does a specialist check during an apartment inspection?

A professional technical inspection involves much more than a quick look at the walls and floors. A specialist uses certified measuring equipment and has knowledge of current construction standards, which allows them to detect defects that an ordinary buyer may not notice. Find out what to pay attention to when inspecting an apartment from a developer so that no defect goes unnoticed.

During a technical inspection, the specialist checks, among other things:

• the level of floor screeds and the vertical alignment of plastered walls – deviations can directly increase finishing costs,
• the tightness and proper operation of electrical, plumbing, sewage and ventilation systems,
• the condition of windows and doors – fittings, seals and mechanical damage,
• wall moisture levels – to detect potential dampness and mould problems,
• the geometry of the apartment – angles between walls and surface evenness for the future installation of custom-made furniture,
• the condition of appurtenant areas – storage unit, basement and garage parking space.

A properly prepared report listing all identified defects obliges the developer to remedy them.

If you want to know how much time the developer has to repair a defect, read our detailed guide to the defect reporting procedure.

What does signing the inspection report mean?

The inspection report has legal significance and works both ways. A document listing defects obliges the developer to remedy them, but a report signed without any comments confirms that the property complies with the terms of the agreement. If a defect that was visible on the inspection date is reported later, the buyer may then need to pursue a claim under the statutory warranty, and the burden of proving that the defect already existed may rest with the buyer.

This is where the real value of having a specialist present becomes apparent. An engineer formulates comments in a way that reduces the risk of them being rejected on formal grounds, and the precision of the description often determines how effective the defect report will be. A well-prepared apartment inspection report includes the location of each defect, its nature and the method used to measure it, rather than a general statement that a wall is uneven.

Is it worth hiring a specialist for an apartment inspection?

Buyers who decide not to use a specialist often expect to save a few hundred zlotys. However, the cost of repairing defects discovered only after the inspection may have to be covered entirely from their own budget. The average cost of fixing defects overlooked during the inspection of a standard apartment can reach several thousand or even more than ten thousand zlotys.

A professional engineer knows exactly how to formulate comments in the report so that the developer cannot reject them on formal grounds. This knowledge can be invaluable if a dispute arises over the scope of repairs or the deadline for completing them. It is also worth remembering that having an engineer present does not indicate a lack of trust in the contractor. Developers such as J.W. Construction treat inspections carried out with a specialist as a standard part of the procedure and provide buyers with full access to the property during the inspection.

The cost of an apartment inspection by a specialist is an investment that can help protect the budget intended for interior finishing.

How to choose a specialist for an apartment inspection?

The property inspection services market is not regulated, so the buyer is responsible for verifying the service provider. Before placing an order, ask for four documents:

• the company’s NIP tax identification number together with confirmation that you will receive an invoice after the service,
• professional liability insurance covering property inspection services,
• a sample report from a previous primary-market property inspection,
• a written quotation specifying any additional services.

The third document often reveals the most. The report shows whether the specialist describes defects in a way that can be formally reported, including their location and measurement method, or whether they simply provide a list of general observations. You should also ask about the equipment used, as some companies do not have thermal imaging cameras or moisture meters, without which it is difficult to detect thermal bridges or moisture hidden beneath plaster.

You can also ask for a sample report from a previous inspection. The document will show whether the specialist describes defects in a way that is suitable for reporting or merely lists general observations.

FAQ - frequently asked questions

How much does a specialist for an apartment inspection cost?

The cost of an apartment inspection by a specialist usually ranges from PLN 300 to 800, depending on the size of the property and the scope of services. The inspection of a single-family house may cost between PLN 800 and 1,200.

Is it worth hiring a specialist for an apartment inspection?

Yes, it is definitely worth considering. A specialist can detect defects that are not visible to the naked eye and ensure that they are properly included in the report in a way that effectively obliges the developer to carry out repairs.

What is the penalty for living in a house without final approval?

Living in a building without the required occupancy permit or final building approval is illegal. The owner may be ordered by the building supervision authority to leave the property and may also be required to undergo a legalisation procedure, which can be costly and time-consuming.

Who should you hire for an apartment inspection?

For a technical inspection of an apartment purchased from a developer, it is best to hire an engineer or inspector from a company specialising in technical property inspections. A certified construction expert is usually needed mainly when the matter goes to court and an official technical expert opinion is required.