Question 1

How long does a home inspection take?

Accepted Answer

A typical inspection should take 2 to 3 hours to complete. This can vary, given the current condition and size of the home, the accessibility of mechanical systems, and so on. As a courtesy to sellers, we recommend that they be informed of the timeframe in a pre-purchase home inspection situation.

Question 2

What do you look at?

Accepted Answer

We inspect the major systems of the house. These include the Roof, Exterior, Structure, Electrical, Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, Insulation, and Interior. Our goal is to identify any existing major problems that would affect a typical buyer's decision to purchase.

Question 3

How much does an inspection cost?

Accepted Answer

Our typical fee for an inspection is $500+GST for a single family home. However, some factors will affect the fee. If you are comparing home inspection firms, the fee charged should not be the deciding factor unless the level of service offered is identical. Remember, you are considering a major purchase and your choice of home inspector should be based on getting the best value, not just the best price.

Question 4

What is included in the fee?

Accepted Answer

The fee includes all of the following:
 
1.  Complete home inspection conducted by an experienced professional.
2.  Comprehensive written home inspection report.
3.  Technical support for as long as you own your home.

Question 5

Can I come to the inspection?

Accepted Answer

Definitely. We encourage you to attend the inspection at the end so we can go over the report. The inspection is a valuable learning experience for most homebuyers.
If you are not able to attend the inspection we can go over the report over the phone with the report in front of both of us on the computer.

Question 6

Do I have to take notes?

Accepted Answer

You don't have to take notes during the inspection. We will document everything in a written report. It's much better to follow the inspector through, listening to his comments to make sure you understand. It's also a great opportunity to ask questions and to clarify anything that confuses you.

Question 7

Can I ask questions?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! You may want to bring some questions that you have regarding the home. You should also feel free to stop the inspector and ask questions as you go. If the inspector's comments or explanations are not clear, please ask for further explanation.

Question 8

Can I bring my family?

Accepted Answer

We recommend that you not bring your family; this is a technical evaluation, and you should focus on the inspector's comments - the fewer distractions, the better.

Question 9

Do I get a written report? When?

Accepted Answer

You do receive a written report. It would be unfair to ask you to remember all of the things we cover during a home inspection. The report includes a summary of the condition of the home and details on all the major systems of the home. You will receive a emailed copy of the report.

Question 10

If it's really bad, will you tell us not to buy the house?"

Accepted Answer

No. Our goal is to report on the condition of the house, indicating potential repairs and expenses. Ultimately, it is your decision as to whether or not you buy the house. The home inspection is very important but it is only one piece of the puzzle. Only you know all of the factors at play.

Question 11

Do you offer a warranty on the house?

Accepted Answer

A home inspection is a professional opinion based on less-than-complete information. It's a little like getting a check-up from your doctor: It improves your odds of good health but there is no guarantee or warranty.
 
Some problems can only be discovered by living in a house - they cannot be discovered during a home inspection. For example, some shower stalls leak when people use the shower but don't leak when you simply turn on the shower. Some roofs and basements only leak when specific weather conditions exist. Some problems will only be discovered when carpets are lifted, furniture is moved or finishes are removed. As such, we cannot and do not offer a warranty on the house.

Question 12

What are your inspectors' qualifications?

Accepted Answer

Our inspectors are graduates of the Carson Dunlop training program. All were hired for their excellent communication skills and their hands-on experience. Their knowledge and experience are reinforced by the more than 20 years of home renovations experience.
 
Our inspectors also keep their skills current with continuing education programs both through the company and on their own.

Question 13

How many days notice do I need to give you?

Accepted Answer

Our team of inspectors is ready to serve you quickly. However, when the sale of a home is conditional on the results of a home inspection, we recommend that you allow at least three days to arrange for a home inspection.

Home inspection FAQ

Answers to our most commonly asked questions