Thermal Imaging

See what the eye can't.

Inspector holding a thermal imaging camera in front of a house, the screen showing the building's heat signature in red, yellow and blue

Thermal imaging maps surface temperature patterns that can help investigate insulation gaps, heat loss, electrical hot spots and possible moisture. Findings depend on access and conditions at the time of the inspection.

Tell us about the property, the rooms or systems of concern, and any known leaks or comfort issues. We can confirm whether thermal imaging fits your needs, which areas can be evaluated and how the findings will be documented.

Inside The Technology

What is Thermal Imaging?

A thermal camera displays differences in surface temperature using a color palette. It does not see through walls. The colors depend on the selected palette and temperature scale; a cool-looking area is not proof of water. Suspected moisture needs confirmation with an appropriate moisture measurement or further evaluation.

Illustrative warm-to-cool palette
Dark blue Cooler in this displayed palette Bright red Warmer in this displayed palette
Where It Can Help

Temperature Patterns Worth a Closer Look

When conditions are suitable, thermal imaging can highlight patterns associated with the following concerns. A pattern may need another inspection or test to establish its cause:

Heat Loss Around Walls & Floors
Heat Loss at Windows & Doors
Energy Loss
Electrical Hot Spots
Patterns Near Chimneys
Areas Needing Follow-Up
Possible Moisture Indicators

Thermal imaging can help identify areas that warrant a closer look during a property inspection. For a business property, review our commercial building inspections. Share the address, areas of concern, access details and preferred timing when you request a quote, so the team can confirm the appropriate inspection scope.

From Real Inspections

Home Inspections can include Thermal Imaging

Four thermal-image examples, with observations and questions that may need follow-up. A temperature pattern alone does not establish the cause.

Thermal image of an electrical panel where one breaker glows bright yellow against the cooler purple of the panel
Thermal capture · Temperature difference at an electrical panel
Electrical Safety

Electrical Hot Spots Detection

Thermal imaging can highlight unusual temperature differences at accessible electrical components while equipment is operating. An image alone does not identify the cause.

What The Image Shows

The brighter area warrants closer evaluation alongside visible conditions and equipment load. A qualified electrician can determine the cause and any needed correction.

Thermal image of a window where the frame and surrounding wall read cold purple against a warm orange interior
Thermal capture · Cold band around a window frame
Building Envelope

Heat Loss at Windows

The image shows a temperature contrast around the window frame. Air leakage or insulation differences may be contributing factors, depending on the conditions during the inspection.

What The Image Shows

The inspector considers indoor and outdoor temperatures, access and visible conditions when deciding what needs follow-up. Thermal imaging alone does not quantify energy savings.

Thermal image with a small bright area circled and labelled Mouse
Thermal capture · An annotated temperature pattern
Reading the Image

A Thermal Pattern Needs Confirmation

A thermal image alone cannot confirm an infestation or identify a pest species. Surface temperature differences can have several causes. For a broader review of the property, see our residential home inspection service.

What The Image Shows

The annotation marks an area to investigate; it is not evidence that the camera sees through a wall. Suspected pest activity requires a separate pest evaluation.

Thermal image of a room corner showing a dark purple band where the wall meets the floor against warm orange surfaces
Thermal capture · Cool band where wall meets floor
Insulation

Heat Loss Around the Walls/Flooring

You may also have heat loss around your walls/flooring.

What The Image Shows

A temperature difference near the wall and floor can point to an area needing a closer look. Insulation and air leakage are possible explanations; the displayed color alone does not establish the cause.

Sample Report

View a Thermal Imaging Report Example

See how thermal images, photographs and written observations are organized in a sample report. The scope and documentation for your appointment depend on the service selected.

Thermal & Visible Images
Area-by-Area Observations
Condition Ratings
Scope & Access Notes
View Thermal Sample
Call Schedule