A professional home inspection is a visual evaluation of the readily accessible systems and components in and around the home, based on the OAHI Standards of Practice. The objective is to discover major defects and safety issues that may affect your home buying decision. The thing to remember is that all homes, even new ones, will have at least a few building defects.

A home inspection breaks down into three components:
the inspection, the verbal presentation, and the written report.

The Inspection
We begin the inspection with the signing of the contract, followed by an inspection of the roofing, eavestroughs and downspouts, and chimneys. From there, we inspect the exterior of the home, which includes the siding, walkways and driveways, site grading and drainage, porches, decks, patios, visible portion of the foundation’s exterior, windows and doors, and so on. Once inside, we start in the basement, inspecting the electrical panel, heating system, plumbing system, foundation, and so on. We then move on to the rest of the house, inspecting fireplaces, windows and doors, floors, stairs, walls and ceilings, kitchens and baths, heat sources for rooms, as well as numerous other fixtures and components. As one of the last items we will check the attic, roof sheathing and insulation.

The Verbal Presentation
Throughout the inspection we will communicate the various conditions, explain how systems function, and educate you on the home you are considering buying. However, all throughout the inspection we will strive to keep matters in perspective. Think of as the inspection as an educational seminar. That’s why we feel it is important and essential for you to personally attend the inspection.

The Written Report
At the end of the inspection, we will detail all our findings in a comprehensive written report for your review.

The Value
The inspection, verbal presentation, and written report will help you make an educated decision on whether to: buy the property as is; re-evaluate certain items, request further information from the vendor, address any significant repair requirements or possible monetary compensation or the responsibility for necessary repairs. You will also have a better idea of what to budget for future repairs and improvements, as well as what concerns require immediate attention.

When you consider that a professional inspection typically costs approximately 1/1000th the price of an average house in Toronto, and that it can save you money by helping you avoid unexpected and costly surprises, it is money well spent.