Whether you’re a first-time buyer or buying your third or fourth house, you know that a home inspection can make or break the deal. While Canadian home buyers often feel slightly overwhelmed when it comes to an inspection, the task does not have to be daunting! 

Professional home inspectors in Ontario must be licensed and qualified to perform the inspection. A 2016 announcement by the Ontario Minister of Government and Consumer Services introduced laws to establish minimum standards for home inspections. The legislation set minimums in licensing standards on over 1,500 home inspectors in Ontario that include regulations on the information that should be disclosed to home buyers and regulates the language the inspectors use in their contracts. 

In many cases, a professional home inspection is mandatory within the purchasing contract. Even if it is not required, most people prefer to hire a professional to make sure everything is squared away with the property, and if there are things that need to be fixed, they can be negotiated with the current owner before the final paperwork is signed. 

Be Present

The most important rule to remember during a home inspection is to be present. You should be engaged in the process during the inspection. It will allow you to observe and ask specific questions when necessary. When you get to the inspection, keep your phone turned off. The inspection will only take a couple of hours. Without your full attention, you might miss something that can make or break the property! 

Create a Checklist

To ensure that every corner of your potential new home has been covered. The checklist should include common household inspection items both inside and outside. This consists of the bathrooms, bedrooms, garage, electrical, foundation, and other vital areas of the home. The checklist will help you keep track of what you have and haven’t looked at to ensure that you don’t check the same room twice.

Bring Someone You Trust

When it comes to running a home inspection, two heads are better than one. Even the most knowledgeable home buyer can’t catch every single potential inspection issue, so having an extra set of eyes helps ensure that nothing is missed. An inspection buddy can also help make sure that you stay thorough throughout the entire process in case you view the home with “rose-colored” glasses.

The average inspection costs around $350, and it is important to be prepared upon arrival to the inspection. Give the inspector your full attention and observe everything he/she is doing to get the answers you need to determine if the house is an excellent investment!

For more information on the process of home inspections or if you are looking to purchase a home in the Richmond Hill area, please contact Mehran Redjvani of Re/Max West.