What is a home inspection?
A Home Inspection is a professional, non exhaustive, and complete visual examination of the all the systems and components of a home. This would include: roofing, structure, electrical, plumbing, heating, air conditioning, interior, insulation and exterior. The focus of the inspection is to identify existing and potential future problems that may affect your purchase decision.
Should I get a home inspection?
A home is the biggest purchase you will ever make and a home inspection will help you make an informed decision before finalizing your purchase. It only makes sense to know what you are buying and to find out as much as you can about the house. It will also help you avoid costly future repairs.
Are home inspections mandatory when purchasing a home in Canada?
The short answer is no, inspections are generally not required when buying a home in Canada. But most lenders may ask you to get one when applying for a mortgage.
How long does an inspection take?
A standard home inspection can take up to 3 hrs depending on the square footage of the home, complexity and issues found.
What should I look for when choosing a home inspector?
Look for an inspector who's been through an accredited home inspection training program and is associated with OAHI (Ontario Association of Home Inspectors), the CAHPI (Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors) and follow their standards of practice. Inspectors who have those affiliations are required to have formal training from an accredited college, E & O insurance and go through a rigorous peer review process. Training updates are done annually through additional seminars and conferences.
Can a home fail a home inspection?
There is no pass or fail for a home inspection. A home inspection is simply a visual examination of a house's overall condition. An inspection is performed to help you make an informed decision as to whether you should move forward with the purchase, or back out if the inspection is not satisfactory.