Home Inspections

Unless a home is inspected by a qualified professional, neither the buyer nor the seller can really know what the true condition of the property might be. The professional home inspector will evaluate all the major elements of the home, including heating, cooling, structural, electrical, and plumbing etc.

An professional inspection is a good investment because 1) you can be confident you won't get surprised by major defects you hadn't anticipated, 2) you will be well informed about the condition of the major components of the property you are buying, 3) you will learn how all the systems of the home work and how they should be maintained, and 4) you will understand the construction and function of structural components and safety features.

It is a good idea to accompany the inspector during the home inspection or at least meet with them at the end in order to have the results explained in detail. This is an excellent opportunity to get informed on all the major systems, appliances and fixtures, establish maintenance routines, and have the finer points of the report explained. This is your opportunity to ask questions of the inspector. Be sure you understand the inspection report and that problems have been resolved to your satisfaction before proceeding with your contract to purchase.

A home inspection does not guarantee the home or serve as a home warranty and does not ensure that nothing will go wrong with your home, however, it will inform you of the condition of the property at the time of the inspection. All homes require ongoing repair and maintenance.

Some local inspectors you may wish to consider:

• Ace Home Inspection Corp. ( www.acehomeinspection.ca ) ( [email protected] )
• Homeworks Home Inspections ( [email protected] )
• Pillar to Post ( http://www.pillartopost.com/ ) ( [email protected] )

Canadian Association of Home & Property Inspectors

www.cahpi.bc.ca

Selecting the right home inspector is important. The Canadian Association of Home & Property Inspectors was formed to protect home buyers by maintaining and regulating national standards for professional home inspectors. This site offers links to its provincial affiliates.