A home inspection is an educational process which is designed to reduce a consumer’s risk when buying a home and is not a guarantee or a warranty on a property. It’s critical to have a good understanding of what to expect from your home inspector.  We strongly advise consumers to find out the specifics about the services an inspector provides by reading through their Association’s Standards of Practice.

If you live in BC and are considering a home inspection, here are some tips:

When Considering a Home Inspector

• Use the Consumer Protection BC licensee search to obtain the name of a licensed home inspector.  It is recommended that you consider at least three licensed inspectors.
• Research the organization that certified the individual including the certification process and background of the individuals.
• Interview the prospective candidates and get referrals from past clients. When you decide to enter the market to buy a house, consider finding your home inspector first before you start seriously looking for your new home.
• Leave time to select an inspector to ensure you can do your research and that the individual is available.   One week prior to subject removal is recommended as a minimum.
• Make your selection on qualifications and not solely on the lowest fee or quickest availability.

We know that in today’s real estate market, getting the home you want can come down to a bidding war where seconds count but it’s important to give yourself the time to make the most informed decision around such a big purchase.

The Inspection

• Familiarize yourself with your home inspector’s standards of inspection.  A home inspection is a visual inspection and there are limitations as to what an inspector is physically able to see.
• You are not required to have your real estate agent present during the inspection or walk through, nor are they entitled to receive a copy of the inspection report.

After the Inspection

• If a deficiency is found by the inspector the consumer should obtain three quotes for the repairs from independent firms.  The inspector will not provide estimates nor should they recommend firms to use.
• Request a walk through with verbal summary of the property inspection plus a hard copy report of the deficiencies.  Don’t be embarrassed to ask questions, you want to get a full understanding of the deficiencies and the general working of the dwelling.

Home inspectors are trained to recognize signs and symptoms of major problems, but are not experts in all fields and may need to refer consumers to specialists.  It’s important for consumers to recognize that a home inspection cannot eliminate risk, only reduce it.

If you are unhappy with the services provided by your licensed home inspector, please contact the Association to which your inspector belongs to file a complaint. If you are not satisfied with the manner in which your complaint was handled by the Association, we encourage you to contact our Inquiry Centre.