FAQ
What is a home inspection?
In its simplest terms,a home inspection is a professional, complete visual and non-evasive examination of all the systems and physical structural elements of a home. The emphasis is on identifying existing or potential problems that would affect a purchasers buying decision. These include:
- Roof, vents, flashings, and trim.
- Gutters and downspouts.
- Skylight, chimney and other roof penetrations.
- Decks, stoops, porches, walkways, and railings.
- Eaves, soffit and fascia.
- Grading and drainage.
- Basement, foundation and crawlspace.
- Water penetration and foundation movement.
- Heating systems.
- Cooling systems.
- Main water shut off valves.
- Water heating systems.
- Interior plumbing fixtures and faucets.
- Drainage sump pumps with accessible floats.
- Electrical service line and meter box.
- Main disconnect and service amperage.
- Electrical panels, breakers and fuses.
- Grounding and bonding.
- GFCIs and AFCI.
- Fireplace damper door and hearth.
- Insulation and ventilation.
- Garage doors, safety sensors, and openers.
- And much more.
|
 |
 |
Back to top
What is included in a home inspection?
Our inspections are performed to the Canadian Association of Home & Property Inspectors’ (CAHPI) and National Association of Home Inspectors’ (NACHI) Standards of Practice. It is a thorough visual assessment of the readily accessible features of the property. It is not invasive or destructive
in nature.
 |
Exterior
including lot grading, drainage, eaves and downspouts, stairs, railings, walkways, decks and porches, exterior finishes, all protrusions through the home, to the outside, including intake and exhaust vents, windows and doors, electrical service entrance, natural gas service, central air conditioning components, garages, garage doors, exposed foundation walls and more. |
 |
Structure
Consisting of the foundation, walls, floors, ceilings, columns, beams and roof members. These are the essential components that incorporate the structural integrity and strength of the home. |
 |
Roofing
including, coverings, drainage, flashings, drip edges, chimneys, skylights, eaves and soffits and downspouts, vents and all protrusions through the decking and covering and any visible roof-related issues. |
 |
Attic
insulation, ventilation and framing. |
 |
Interior
walls, floors, ceilings, stairs, railings banisters, windows, doors, egress and insulation and vapor barriers in unfinished spaces |
 |
Kitchens
Including sinks, faucets, drainage, ventilation, outlets and lights |
 |
Laundry Rooms
plumbing, ventilation, receptacles, lights, tubs, taps and faucets. |
 |
Bathrooms
showers, tubs, sinks, taps and faucets, toilets, valves, exhaust fans, drains, piping and functional water flow. |
 |
Heating
outputs of furnaces and boilers, radiators, flues, piping, ducting, air flow at registers, thermostat controls |
 |
Cooling
outputs, thermostat controls, line temperatures and air flows at registers |
 |
Plumbing
main shut-offs, piping materials, supply and waste piping, cross connections, hose bibs, clean-outs, water pressure, flow, hot water heaters, gas supply pipes, meter and main shut off, traps and venting. |
 |
Electrical
service entrance, main and distribution panels, amperage and voltage of service, main shut off, branch circuit conductors and their over current protection, receptacles, polarity and grounding, switches and light fixtures. |
 |
Garage
Vehicle doors, openers, automatic closers, floors and gas proofing. |
| |

|
|
Back to top
How long does it take?
A typical inspection should take 2 to 3 hours to complete, start to finish. Larger homes, or homes in poor condition, it may take longer.
Back to top
Can I follow the inspector?
Yes, absolutely! In fact we encourage it. It is important for you to understand how the house works from a technical standpoint. By attending the inspection, you are able to see first-hand the conditions that will be described in the report. It also allows the inspector to show you what to do in case of emergency regarding the electrical, plumbing and furnace. We always encourage questions and take the time to explain things to you so that you can make a well informed decision to purchase the home.
Back to top
Can I ask questions after inspection?
Yes, absolutely! Our commitment to you does not end with the presentation of the final report. You are welcomed to contact us anytime with for telephone follow up questions free of charge for up to 1 year.
Back to top
Is there a warranty or guarantee offered with the inspection?
No. Inspectors are not insurance companies. What you are buying from us is our opinion about the home. This opinion is based on our expert knowledge and experience, but is still a time sensitive and limited visual inspection of the home. What is hidden, non-accessible, and apt to happen over time is not within the scope of the inspection.
Back to top
How do we pay for our inspection?
Payment can be made via cash or cheque.
Back to top |
|