FAQ

A home inspection is a limited visual and non-evasive examination of all major systems of a home. The focus is on identifying existing or potential problems. 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.

A typical inspection should take 2.5 to 4 hours to complete, start to finish. Larger homes, or homes in poor condition, it may take longer.

Yes! In fact your participation is essential. Not only will you get a "play by play" of all the issues as they are discovered, it also gives you a complete understanding the homes true condition before you leave the property and the opportunity to ask any questions to ensure you understand the importance and significance. When you receive the report later in the day, it's a perfect summary for you to evaluate.

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.

Payment can be made via etransfer, cash, or cheque.

The Occupational Health and Safety Act (OSHA), ONTARIO REGULATION 490/09 DESIGNATED SUBSTANCES (O. Reg. 490/09), allows for certain toxic substances to be especially designated. This means that specific regulations have been constructed for the control of these substances. There are eleven (11) designated substances:

• Acrylonitrile
• Arsenic
• Asbestos
• Benzene
• Coke Oven Emissions
• Ethylene Oxide
• Isocyanates
• Lead
• Mercury
• Silica
• Vinyl Chloride

A Designated Substance Survey includes a visual inspection (walk-through) of the site, to identify the readily-accessible areas for the presence of designated substances used in building and construction materials. Accordingly, we assess the type, characteristics and condition of the building materials and when necessary, samples of certain materials will be collected for subsequent laboratory analysis.

The result is a Designated Substance Survey (Assessment Report) that outlines materials of concern on the job site, lab analysis and results of materials tested, overall discussion of the materials (types, locations) found in the job site and conclusions/recommendations made according to these observations and testing.

Whether you’re just thinking about renovating, have started to look around for a contractor or are considering doing the reno work yourself, our consultants provide impartial, expert advice that will save you time and money.