How Much Does Thermal Imaging Inspection Cost in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

Thermal imaging inspections cost $400 on average. Most homeowners pay between $200 and $500, but costs can be as low as $100 to $700. An infrared scan reveals hidden moisture, insulation voids, and electrical hotspots before they spiral into expensive repairs.

Thermal Imaging Inspection Cost Factors

Home size, inspection scope, and travel time all play a part in what you’ll pay for a thermal imaging inspection.

Labor

Many home inspectors fold thermal imaging into their standard home-inspection fee, while others treat it as a $50 to $200 add-on. If you only need a stand-alone infrared scan to chase a specific issue, expect to pay an extra $100 to $300 on top of the inspector’s base rate.

Home Size and Project Complexity

Some inspectors quote one flat fee, while others raise the price as square footage, floor count, or HVAC zones climb. A one-bedroom apartment will run less than a four-bedroom, two-story house that also needs a roof check. Thermal scans take 30 minutes to 1.5 hours. Homes over 4,000 square feet may push the job past two hours—and into a higher price tier.

Location

Expect higher rates in dense metro areas than in small towns. An inspector who drives a long distance may also tack on mileage or travel fees to the final bill.

DIY vs. Hiring a Thermal Imaging Inspection Pro

A DIY thermal scan may seem inexpensive, but the risks outweigh the savings. Professional-grade cameras cost plenty, and reading the images takes training. Missed moisture, wiring, or structural issues can snowball into repairs far pricier than a pro’s fee. When accuracy matters, hire a certified home-inspection pro near you.

Budgeting Tips for Thermal Imaging Inspection Costs

Save on your thermal imaging inspection costs with these budgeting tips:

• Compare quotes from different inspection pros near you.

• Make sure the inspection areas in your home are clear and accessible for when the inspector arrives.

• Bundle home inspection services with thermal imaging for a lower overall rate.

• Keep up with your home's maintenance and repair needs to reduce the need for inspections.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.