Homeowners, buyers, sellers, and investors in Upper Darby Township should be aware of a new cost associated with property transfers. Beginning January 1, 2026, Upper Darby has implemented fees for residential Use and Occupancy (U&O) inspections, which are required during many home sales and rentals.

What Is Changing With U&O Inspections?

Under the new policy, a U&O permit fee must be paid at the time of application. The fee structure varies by property type:

• Single-family homes: $110

• Duplex properties: $135

These fees include:

• One initial inspection

• One re-inspection, if needed

This two-inspection structure was recommended by Realtors and SRA staff during discussions with township officials to help limit unexpected costs during a transaction.

Additional Inspection Fees

If a property requires more than one re-inspection, an additional $75 fee per inspection will apply.

Apartment buildings with three or more units, as well as commercial properties, fall under a separate fee schedule.

Cancellation and No-Show Fees

Upper Darby Township has also outlined penalties for inspection cancellations or access issues. A $100 fee will be assessed if:

• An inspection is canceled with less than 24 hours’ notice

• Access to the property is not granted

• The applicant fails to appear for the scheduled inspection

These fees are important for sellers and landlords to keep in mind when coordinating inspections during a transaction.Homeowners, buyers, sellers, and investors in Upper Darby Township should be aware of a new cost associated with property transfers. Beginning January 1, 2026, Upper Darby has implemented fees for residential Use and Occupancy (U&O) inspections, which are required during many home sales and rentals.

What Is Changing With U&O Inspections?

Under the new policy, a U&O permit fee must be paid at the time of application. The fee structure varies by property type:

• Single-family homes: $110

• Duplex properties: $135

These fees include:

• One initial inspection

• One re-inspection, if needed

This two-inspection structure was recommended by Realtors and SRA staff during discussions with township officials to help limit unexpected costs during a transaction.

Additional Inspection Fees

If a property requires more than one re-inspection, an additional $75 fee per inspection will apply.

Apartment buildings with three or more units, as well as commercial properties, fall under a separate fee schedule.

Cancellation and No-Show Fees

Upper Darby Township has also outlined penalties for inspection cancellations or access issues. A $100 fee will be assessed if:

• An inspection is canceled with less than 24 hours’ notice

• Access to the property is not granted

• The applicant fails to appear for the scheduled inspection

These fees are important for sellers and landlords to keep in mind when coordinating inspections during a transaction.

Source: Upper Darby Township; 1/1/2026