In its simplest terms, a home inspection is a technical analysis of the major systems of a house. These include Roofing, Exterior, Structure, Electrical, Heating, Cooling, Insulation, Plumbing and the Interior.

The unknown can be a source of anxiety for any home buyer. A home inspection is for buyers who want to know the true condition of the house. After deciding that a home is suitable in terms of location, size, interior layout and other lifestyle factors, it is also important to learn about the mechanical features.

A properly written report will identify the condition, corrective action (provide, repair, monitor), where to find it on the home and the time frame the action should take place. Some inspectors will also estimate costs for repair.

A typical inspection should take 2 ½ to 3 hours to complete, start to finish. This can vary given the current condition of the home, size, accessibility of mechanical systems and so on.

Absolutely. 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 is the perfect time to answer any questions and/ or concerns. A good inspector will encourage questions and also take the time to explain things as you walk through the home. The inspector can also show you how to perform basic maintenance on the furnace, humidifier, water heater, etc. It is therefore very beneficial for you to attend the inspection.

Generally, 72 hours is preferred in order to ensure a time that works best for everyone involved. However, depending on availability next day or same day inspections can also be accommodated.

It is important that you choose your inspection company carefully. The Ontario Association of Home Inspectors (OAHI) is a professional body that oversees its members. To become a member, inspectors require a passing grade on a series of examinations, monthly upgrading of education, and adherence to the strict Standards of Practice and Code of Conduct. If you choose an inspector who is not a member of OAHI, you run the risk of getting a less than adequate (or accurate) inspection report.

There are no such designations as Certified and Licensed in Ontario. They sound good, but the inspectors who use these titles are not members of the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors(OAHI) and, consequently, you cannot verify their credentials.

RHI stands for Registered Home Inspector. This is the highest level of accreditation in Ontario. These Inspectors have achieved the highest level of educational requirements as set by the Association and performed a predetermined number of paid inspections. Inspectors in their first year would require a minimum of 200 paid inspections along with all the educational requirements before being considered for the RHI designation. They must also complete annual educational updates to maintain their designation.