How to choose a property inspector
Homebuyers should always offer to buy a home subject to the property meeting certain conditions, and a critical requirement is a satisfactory home inspection. A home inspector will do a physical inspection of the home, will review the sellers’ disclosures, and, in the case of a condo, they will also review the strata documents. They will report the condition of the home and the cost of any repairs that will be needed in the near future.
Remember that the home inspection is primarily a visual inspection and may not uncover problems hidden behind the walls. Nor will it necessarily tell you if work has been done on your home without appropriate permits.
How to Choose an Inspector
Let’s assume you’ve looked up three inspectors and need to narrow your choice down to one inspector.
Home inspectors in Canada are not universally licensed. Licensing and regulation of home inspectors vary by province and territory. Some provinces have established licensing requirements and regulatory bodies for home inspectors, while others do not have specific licensing regulations in place.
As well, there are no standard inspection report requirements.
This is why interviewing your home inspector is important.
What to ask about:
Credentials and Licensing: Ensure that the property inspector is licensed and certified by a recognised authority in Canada, such as the Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors (CAHPI) or the provincial regulatory bodies. A licensed inspector typically demonstrates professionalism and expertise in conducting property inspections.
Ontario: Home inspectors are required to be licensed by the Home Inspection Act and regulated by the Home Inspection Regulatory Authority (HIRA).
British Columbia: Home inspectors must be licensed and regulated by the BC Home Inspectors Association (BCHIA) or Consumer Protection BC.
Alberta: Home inspectors are not required to be licensed, but some associations, like the AlbertaACHI (Alberta Association of Certified Home Inspectors), offer certification programs and standards.
Quebec: Home inspectors are not regulated by a licensing authority, but there are various associations and organisations that offer training and certifications.
Experience and Expertise: Look for an inspector with a solid track record of conducting property inspections in the area where you are buying a home. For apartments, you will find that local inspectors often know the histories of buildings in the area, and this can be helpful context in their report. An experienced inspector is more likely to identify potential issues, offer accurate assessments, and provide comprehensive reports. Inquire about their specific expertise in the type of property you're considering (residential, commercial, condominiums, etc.).
References and Reviews: Ask for references from previous clients or seek online reviews and testimonials. Positive feedback from past clients can provide valuable insights into an inspector's reliability, thoroughness, and overall quality of service. Conversely, negative reviews or consistent complaints should raise red flags.
Sample Inspection Reports: Request to see sample inspection reports to gauge the inspector's level of detail and clarity in their reporting. A well-structured report should cover all major aspects of the property, including structural components, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC, and more. The report should be easy to understand and include clear explanations and visual documentation of any issues.
Communication and Availability: Effective communication is key throughout the inspection process. Choose an inspector who is responsive, approachable, and willing to answer your questions before and after the inspection. Discuss their availability and timeline for delivering the inspection report, as a timely report is essential for making informed decisions about the property.
Remember that choosing the right property inspector can greatly impact your decision-making process when purchasing real estate in Canada. Take your time to research and evaluate potential inspectors to ensure you're making a well-informed choice.
