Home Inspections: Protecting Your Purchase

Surprises are never welcomed when purchasing a new home.  The more information that you have, the easier it is to plan for any expense that may come up.

One way to help avoid or at least deal with these surprises is to hire a qualified home inspector, who will help guide you through your new home, from the roof to the foundation.

What is a Home Inspection?

A Home inspection is just that; it’s a thorough examination of a home that you are planning on moving into, be it a new construction home or a resale home. The inspection typically lasts three to four hours, and includes assessments of the plumbing, electrical, roof, foundation, and other important areas of the home. The goal is to keep the buyer as informed as possible, and to diagnose any unknown issues. After the inspection, the inspector will then present you with a report, which will detail any issues that need remedy.

Who is the Home Inspector?

A home inspector is a trained and registered expert who detects and diagnoses any structural and/or physical issues that could affect your home. They will check the home in detail, from light switches to plumbing systems. Inspectors are experts in their field and usually have a long history of construction or home building.

When is a Home Inspector Hired?

Typically, a home inspector is hired by a buyer of a home after an agreement has been reached to purchase the home but before closing.  The home inspection is a very common condition on any real estate agreement.

What does a Home Inspector look for?

The Inspector will look for anything that could be an issue for the purchaser. They will do a general visual inspection of the home, to see if there are any issues that must be identified. They will look at the roof for signs of wear, and look in the basement for signs of significant moisture. They will confirm that the mechanical aspects of the home, like a furnace or air conditioner, work as they should.

How Do I Find the Right Home Inspector?

When looking for a home inspector, there are a few things to focus on.

Experience: Make sure that the inspector has a history of home inspections, and comes from a construction background.

Qualifications: The inspector that you hire should be registered and come with a wealth of references.

Educational background: Its important to choose an inspector with an engineering or appropriate degree.

For more information on Home Inspectors, visit the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors