•  What is a home inspection?

•  A home inspection is a comprehensive visual examination of the home's overall structure, major systems and components.

•  A properly trained home inspector will review your house as a system, looking at how one component of the house might affect the operability or lifespan of another. Components that are not performing properly should be identified, as well as items that are beyond their useful life or are unsafe. The purpose of the home inspection is to provide the client with a better understanding of the property conditions, as observed at the time of the inspection.

•  When do I need a home inspection?

•  Are you buying a home? A pre-purchase home inspection can provide you with the information you need to know about the condition of the house you plan to purchase. More information equals an informed purchase decision, which equals fewer surprises. Minimize the risk to your investment. No one wants to face serious, unexpected costs shortly after a purchase.

•  Considering a renovation? A home inspection can help homeowners prioritize repairs and maintenance. A pre-renovation inspection equals money spent in the right places.

•  Selling a home? Show prospective purchasers that every effort has been made to disclose the condition of the home. A listing inspection can equal a faster sale.

•  What kinds of leverage can a home inspection give me?

•  If identified before finalizing a deal, the cost of major repairs can often be negotiated into the final purchase price or repairs can be done by the vendor prior to purchase. "A subject to home inspection" clause can equal money saved on repairs.

•  Gain an understanding of the systems in your home, their operation, and required maintenance. Preventative maintenance equals fewer headaches later.

•  How long does a home inspection take?

•  A professional home inspection usually takes between two and four hours, depending on the size, age and condition of the house. It is critical that the inspector can access all areas and/or systems. If certain areas are inaccessible, the inspection can be hampered and take longer than necessary. The client may need to reschedule and pay for a return visit to the site.

•  Should I attend the home inspection?

•  Canada Mortgage & Housing Corporation (CMHC) article "Hiring a Home Inspector" recommends that potential homebuyers accompany the inspector as the inspection takes place. It can be a valuable learning experience. You can also take this opportunity to get more familiar with your new home, to take measurements of rooms and/or windows. More importantly, you can ask your home inspector questions on the spot.

•  How much does a home inspection cost?

•  Pricing can vary depending on your area of service. The pricing criteria is usually based on the square footage of the house. Ask your home inspector. Also remember that some inspectors may have surcharges for a crawlspace, basement suite, age of house, mileage, etc.

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