Hey folks! Good Monday morning to you!
A few words on home inspection.
Note: My intention is not to give a thorough overview of home inspections but to provide some basic information and advice. Here we go.
A home inspection is a third-party, objective visual examination of a house and property including all of the major systems in a home such as the plumbing. electrical, heating and air conditioning and is usually performed within 10 days of an offer to purchase. Unlike the homebuyers themselves whose observations are partial, a home inspector performs his role with an unbiased attitude and with the best interest of the the customer in mind.
A home inspector will do a visual inspection of the foundation, doors, ceiling, roof, walls, windows, plumbing, ventilation, insulation, sewage system, lot and garage including as many as 400 items or more. Upon completion the homebuyer will be presented with a printed report covering all findings and identifying potential concerns.
The process usually take about three hours and the homebuyer is encouraged to accompany the inspector so that he may explain the process and clarify any concerns that may emerge upon inspection. This is an excellent time to have all your questions and concerns addressed immediately as they arise. You get to see first-hand the condition of each of the key-components of the house and property and learn about the operation of your new home’s systems and locations of major valves and shut-offs. Before the inspection prepare a list of questions and bring it along to aid your memory.
An inspection costs between $350 and $450 (plus GST) depending on your area and the size of the job to be done.
It’s important to find a qualified and experienced inspector. There are no set regulations for inspectors but you can go to the Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors website for a list of inspectors in your area that meet the association’s Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. There is also some invaluable information pertaining to all aspects of home inspection on this site. Check it out.
Once presented with the home inspection report you can see what items of concern need to be addressed by the vendor before the sale is complete or renovations that might be made by you after the purchase.
This is the most important purchase of your life. Protect yourself and your peace of mind.
Sources: CMHC, Amerispec, Cdn Real Estate Magazine, CAHPI
Gary Johnston
Real Estate Consultant
Hanlon Realty
(709) 691-9853