What you should know about hiring a home Inspector
As a buyer, it’s difficult to put emotions aside and be totally objective about the condition of the property you are interested in purchasing. Some repairs like leaky faucets and worn carpets can be quite noticeable. But few prospective homebuyers go into the attic or crawl space area under the foundation in search of structural flaws and maintenance problems. Moreover, few have the training to uncover these potential hazards.
Realtors know the value of home inspections in helping their clients make a more informed buying decision. But it’s not just homebuyers who enlist the services of a home inspector.
Sellers can use an inspector’s report to show prospective buyers that they have nothing to hide. Inspections can also highlight assets of the property, pointing out which major systems have recently been updated. But property inspections are subjective, and therefore, only as good as the person who performs them.
Hiring a diligent and competent inspector can be challenging, particularly in the absence of provincial regulation over home inspectors. Consequently, it’s important to do some homework before hiring a professional inspector.
Professional Membership
Look for membership in a professional trade organization like the Canadian Association of Home Inspectors (CAHI). While membership does not provide regulatory protection, it is a good indication of professionalism since members are required to uphold high standards of performance and ethical conduct. It’s also a good indicator of an inspector’s commitment to quality service and continuing education.
Errors & Omissions Insurance
Even very experienced inspectors are only human and can make errors or overlook problematic areas. Any reputable inspector will have Errors and Omissions insurance in the event of such negligence. This insurance protects the home inspector and you against disputes arising from any oversights made by the inspector.
The Inspector’s Report
Most home inspections last about three hours and cost between $250-400, depending on square footage. The inspector should look at all key components of the home such as the roof, siding, foundations, basement, flooring, walls, drainage, electrical, heating, plumbing, etc. Additionally, he or she should look for wood rot, mold and the presence of destructive insects or oil tanks. Older homes should be examined for lead paint, aluminum or knob and tube wiring, asbestos and urea formaldehyde foam insulation (UFFI), since the presence of any of these may affect the appraised value of the home.
Ask the inspector to provide a sample checklist or inspection report. The information written in the report should be clear and descriptive – never accept a verbal report. Be skeptical of inspectors who offer to repair items outlined in their report. This is an obvious conflict of interest and they might not offer an objective opinion. You should also be wary of inspectors who discourage you from attending the inspection. Being present at the inspection provides you with the perfect opportunity to ask questions when discrepancies areidentified.
Don’t be shy to ask open-ended questions about the inspector’s training and work experience, including proof of qualifications.
Obtain the names and phone numbers of several homeowners who have used his or her services. It’s best to talk with people who have owned their homes for a few months or longer as some problems overlooked by an inspection can take a while to surface. When verifying references, find out if the homeowner was satisfied with the report and if the inspector did a professional and thorough job.
A professional home inspector can help you make a confident and informed purchase decision about the value of a particular home and any future repair costs.
Talk to your Realtor about any questions you may have concerning hiring a home inspector. Ask him or her to provide you with a list of home inspectors they are familiar with and trust.