How do I choose a home inspector?

1.  If a home inspector or home inspection business is recommended by friends or others, were they satisfied?

If you contact industry associations to find a home inspector:

• What are the inspector’s qualifications, education, training and experience?
• What is required to be a member of the association?
• How does the association handle a consumer complaint?

2. Ask the home inspector:

• Does he or she have a licence from the Government of Alberta? Ask for their number.
• What is their education, training, qualification and experience?
• Can they provide references?

3. Check the references.

4. Read the contract:

• Is it in writing?
• Is it legible?

5. Does the contract contain:

• your name and address,
• the home inspection business name, licence number, business address,
• the name and licence number of the home inspector,
• the date of contract,
• the date of inspection,
• the address of the home to be inspected,
• a list of the things to be inspected?

6. Ask about items that are not on the home inspectors list of things to be inspected.

7. Home inspection report:

• Is it in writing?
• Is it legible?
• Does it cover the condition of the things to be inspected as listed in the contract?

Not all inspectors are the same; by asking questions you will ensure that you are hiring the right person.

Not all inspections include the same services; By asking questions you will ensure that you are getting the best value for the inspection price.