A home or condo inspection is a visual examination of the condition of the major systems of the home. These include the roof, exterior, structure, electrical, heating, cooling, plumbing, insulation and interior. Its goal is to identify and report on any existing major problems. A home inspection is neither a guarantee that nothing will go wrong with a house nor an insurance policy that will cover any problems that may develop. It is designed to minimize your risk, not eliminate it.
The benefit of a home inspection for a buyer or seller is the opportunity they will have to familiarize themselves with the condition of the home. They also have the opportunity to learn more about the safety and maintenance features of the home such as, shut off valves, heating and cooling systems and electrical systems.
A final home inspection will typically take between three to four hours, depending on the size of the home and other relevant factors. Some older and/or larger homes or ones that have an additional suite can take longer. As a courtesy to the vendor, they should be informed of the time involved once the inspection is arranged.
Our typical fee for an inspection is between $350 – $550 and is based on the size, age and complexity of the home. If you are comparing home inspection firms, the fee charged should not be the sole deciding factor, unless of course the level of service and experience offered is identical.
A home inspection is a visual evaluation of the condition of the home’s heating, central air conditioning, plumbing, electrical systems, roof, attic, floors, foundation and structure at the time of the inspection. A home appraisal is the formal process of estimating a property’s value as it relates to other similar homes in the same area and the sole purpose is to provide the estimate for the mortgage loan or mortgage insurance company and for the buyers benefit. An appraisal does not itemize defects or reflect potential problems in the home.
Certainly, I would be glad to answer any questions you might have during or after the inspection or even after you have moved into your new home.
You will be issued a detailed and comprehensive inspection report including pictures of the home, documenting the home’s condition and outlining major deficiencies as observed at the time of the inspection. An electronic version of the inspection report will be sent to you via email within 24 hours of your inspection. By request, a hard-copy report will be sent to you via express post.
The major systems of the house will be inspected. These include the roof, exterior, structure, electrical, heating, cooling, plumbing, insulation and interior. Our goal is to identify any existing major problems that would affect a typical purchaser’s buying decision or identify for the seller what repairs will be needed in the near future. All home and condo inspections are entirely visual. No destructive testing is performed.
As a professional building inspector, it is a conflict of interest for us to recommend contractors to perform repairs. We offer an unbiased opinion on the condition of the property.
The buyer should attend the home inspection so that they can get familiar with the condition of the home and its components. Prior to attending the home inspection, the buyer should have a list of questions ready to ask the inspector.
A seller should prepare the home as much as possible for a thorough home inspection, making sure that there is access to crawlspaces, attics and mechanical room whenever possible.
The purpose of the inspection is to prepare you for any upcoming repairs or improvements that may need attention in the near future. If the home inspector discovers problems, it doesn’t mean you should or shouldn’t buy the house.
If you have more questions about home inspectors or home inspections, please ask the expert. Give Rick a call. 604-220-0222 He is happy to outline the process, answer your preliminary questions and book your home inspection service.