Inspecting a duplex or small multi-family property involves everything a single-family inspection covers, plus a few considerations unique to shared structures. Here's what changes.
Per-unit vs. shared systems
Confirm whether HVAC, water heaters, and electrical panels are separate per unit or shared across the building. Shared systems change both your maintenance cost allocation and how quickly a single failure affects multiple tenants.
Common area and structural review
Shared hallways, stairwells, and the building's overall structural condition need their own review, separate from individual unit walkthroughs — issues here affect every tenant at once.
Occupied unit access
If units are tenant-occupied, coordinate access in advance and expect the inspection to take longer per unit than an equivalent vacant single-family home, simply due to scheduling and courtesy considerations.
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Fire separation and safety
Multi-family properties often have specific fire-rated wall or door requirements between units that a single-family inspection wouldn't need to address. Flag this specifically with your inspector if it's relevant to the property's configuration.
Key takeaways
- Confirm whether major systems are shared or separate per unit before budgeting.
- Common areas and overall structure need their own dedicated review.
- Occupied-unit inspections require more coordination and time than vacant single-family homes.
- Fire separation requirements between units are a multi-family-specific item worth flagging.