Stucco Inspection: Identify Hidden Issues Before It’s Too Late

Stucco covers nearly 30% of new homes all over North America, but if you live in Canada, where wet weather and freeze–thaw cycles hit harder, stucco inspection isn’t optional - it’s essential.

Let’s break down what a stucco moisture inspection is, why it matters, what it includes, and, more importantly, how much it costs.

What Is a Stucco Inspection?

A stucco inspection evaluates a building’s stucco exterior (traditional or EIFS) to identify visible damage and moisture intrusion before the structure is seriously damaged.

If the property has a stucco cladding, both homeowners and prospective buyers need to schedule this inspection, because typical home inspections don’t include looking for hidden moisture, mold inspection, or wood rot behind the stucco.

When Should You Get a Stucco Inspection?

You should get a stucco inspection when you’re about to buy or sell your house, whenever you notice visible cracks, staining (like efflorescence or runoff streaks), bulges, etc., and after storms or any other water damage due to heavy rain, hail, flooding, or even leaks.

Plus, if you’re living in a high‑moisture area, you might need stucco moisture inspection more frequently, as even one of these signs alone can be alarming.

What Does a Stucco Inspection Include?

A stucco inspection combines 3 levels of assessment to detect everything, from the slightest surface issues to hidden problems that damage the structure. Based on these levels, a stucco inspection includes:

• Level 1 (Visual Inspection): Scanning the surface to detect cracks, discoloration, signs of mold or mildew, issues with weep screed, sealant around vents, pipes, and electrical boxes (also covered in electrical inspection), kickout, window, door, and roof‑to‑wall flashing.
• Level 2 (Non-invasive Inspection): During a non-invasive inspection, the inspector uses an infrared/thermal camera to detect temperature anomalies. Cool areas indicate moisture and help find problems that aren’t visible at first.
• Level 3 (Invasive Inspection): The invasive EIFS inspection includes drilling small holes (approx. ¼″) in suspect areas, and using a moisture meter to read the wood or sheathing’s moisture content. If the readings are too high or the substrate material is unknown, core sampling may be necessary too.

When the stucco moisture inspection is done, the holes are filled with color‑matched waterproof sealant; and within 24 hours, you’ll receive a report highlighting the findings, moisture mapping, risk summary, and recommended remediation or monitoring.

Stucco Inspection Cost and What Affects It

A standard stucco inspection costs between $600 and $1,200 CAD for residential homes. For complex properties or systems (EIFS, multiple levels, full invasive testing), it can cost up to $1,500 and $1,800. These are the factors that affect the final price:

• Home size and stucco surface area: More square footage and stories equal higher cost.
• Number of sides with stucco: Each additional side or elevation adds more probe points and time.
• Stucco system type: EIFS or synthetic types need a more detailed, specialized testing; that’s why EIFS inspection is more expensive.
• Inspection depth: Visual inspection costs less, but when invasive equipment and testing are needed, the stucco inspection cost will increase.
• Accessibility: High‑story homes or obstructed exteriors may require lifts or scaffolding, with additional fees.
• Inspector expertise: Certified stucco specialists tend to charge more but offer impeccable diagnosis and repair tips. The same goes for other inspections, such as furnace Inspection.

Check out this blog to see what EIFS is (exterior insulation finishing systems).

Why Are Stucco Inspections Essential?

Stucco inspections are essential because they detect hidden moisture, mold, or rot that silently damage the structure and cost you thousands of dollars.

Standard home inspections often miss these issues and won’t alert you about trapped water behind stucco or EIFS systems; a seemingly simple problem that affects both exterior as well as the interior and reduces home value.

FAQ

How long does a stucco inspection take?

A stucco moisture inspection takes about 1-2 hours for single-family homes, and up to several hours for larger or more complex properties.

What are the common signs of stucco failure?

Cracks, warping, staining, soft spots, mold, and separating trim or sealant gaps (especially around windows, doors, and rooflines) are the most common signs that indicate trapped moisture.

Is invasive testing necessary?

If the visual inspection suggests potential hidden moisture or damage, then yes, invasive testing would be necessary.

Can stucco be repaired after inspection issues?

Absolutely. Based on the damage, the repair scope ranges from minor crack sealing and re-caulking to full removal and remediation.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Home’s Exterior with a Stucco Inspection

Skipping a stucco inspection could cost you dearly in Canada’s cold, damp climate. If your home features a cement‑based or EIFS stucco, a thorough inspection helps pinpoint underlying defects before they compromise your house’s integrity.

Don’t know reputable experts? No problem. Submit a request here at Houmse to get free quotes from multiple inspectors, and hire the best one after exploring their services, covered areas, client reviews, and more in their dedicated profiles.