A home inspection is an unbiased and non-invasive visual examination of the physical condition of a property. It is often, but not always connected to a real-estate transaction. However, with the growth of the industry, 95% of all real estate home transactions nowadays involve an inspection.
A home inspection will usually include an examination of the foundation and basement or crawlspace, roof, attic, heating and cooling systems, electrical and plumbing systems, as well as the general condition of the structure itself. As for a condo, it will include electrical, plumbing, heating, deck & other interior components of the unit, plus garage (and roof if access is permissible) An inspector will look for poor construction practices and make note of any repairs that might be required or any general maintenance issues. Importantly, they will also make note of any fire and safety issues that need to be addressed.
Booking an appointment is as simple as a phone call to Platinum Home Inspections. On the day of the inspection, the inspector will arrive at the property and start the inspection. After the inspection is complete, the inspector will do a walk-through with you and explain the items that require attention. Then payment will be taken on site. A detailed and thorough inspection report will be follow by email to you within 24 hours of the inspection.
We appreciate in today’s busy world it won’t always be possible but we strongly encourage the client to attend. This is a great chance to learn about your new home and ask questions to the professional about the condition of the home and how to maintain it.
The simple answer is No. A professional home inspection is visual inspection of the major components of the home. There is no pass or fail grade in a professional home inspection. There are no perfect homes, so therefore there are no perfect inspections.
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.
