FAQs

  1.   How long will the inspection take?
  2.   Should I attend the inspection?
  3.   My Realtor says “I don’t need an inspection”, what do you think?
  4.   As a buyer, how do I prepare for the inspection?
  5.   As a seller, how do I prepare for the inspection?
  6.   Should I have my new home inspected?
  7.   Isn’t it a waste of time if you don’t find anything wrong?
  8.   What do you inspect in a condominium, town house or mobile home?
  9.   What is a WETT inspection?
  10.   Why do I need a WETT inspection?
  11.   Are there energy rebates available at this time?
Answers
  1.   How long will the inspection take?
  A.   The time required to perform an inspection depends on the size, age and condition of the house. As a guideline, you should plan for the inspection to take 2.5 to 4 hours. The report will be completed following the inspection.
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  2.   Should I attend the inspection?
  A.   You are highly encouraged to attend the inspection. That way you can see and learn firsthand all the features and any concerns about the house. It is easier and clearer to observe an item/issue than to try and understand a point in a report. By attending the inspection, you also get to ask questions to ensure that you understand the house as best as you can.
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  3.   My Realtor says “I don’t need an inspection”, what do you think?
  A.   It does not benefit you at all to forego the inspection. The Realtor will have you sign a waiver, stating that you declined an inspection. If problems arise after you move in, you are “on your own” for repair costs. Remember – this is probably going to be the biggest investment you will ever make
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  4.   As a buyer, how do I prepare for the inspection?
  A.  
  • You are strongly encouraged to attend the home inspection to hear and see the inspection findings and advice firsthand.
  • Read carefully the Home Inspection Agreement, which includes the contract and limitations & conditions of a home inspection – emailed to you. You must accept and submit the terms online to confirm your appointment, before arriving at the inspection.
  • Arrive at the property at the agreed upon inspection time.
  • Please do not bring children or more than one other person along during the inspection. They can be a distraction, a safety threat, and can interfere with the inspection process. If you want your parents or friends to view the house, set up another time with your Realtor.
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  5.   As a seller, how do I prepare for the inspection?
  A.  
  • You can help ensure that the inspection will go smoothly, with as little disruption as possible, by providing clear access to all the areas of your home. For example, provide clear access to the water meter, hot water tank, electrical panel, furnace, and the attic hatch (clear the closet if the hatch is in a closet).
  • Make sure there is room to safely work in front of the electrical panel.
  • Clear the areas under each sink, so that all the plumbing can be seen.
  • Remove from the house (or contain) all pets including dogs and cats.
  • Put away all jewellery, cash, or other valuables.
  • Remove contents from around the walls in the basement to inspect for water damage.
  • Turn off all computers in the house.
  • Electric circuits will be tested. You may have to reset clocks or timers, especially in the kitchen or bedrooms.
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  6.   Should I have my new home inspected?
  A.   Yes. Even a new house could have deficiencies. Usually these deficiencies are things the builder or sub-trades missed or didn’t finish. Remember you will also be getting an education on how to maintain your home, as well as problems to look out for in the future.
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  7.   Isn’t it a waste of time if you don’t find anything wrong?
  A.   First of all, there is never “nothing wrong” in a house. There is no such thing as a perfect home. Even if the concerns are minor, it is best that they be identified and corrected before they become significant and costly. The home inspection has the added benefits of educating you about the home. The more you know about your house the better off you are. You can save money on future repairs.
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  8.   What do you inspect in a condominium, town house or mobile home?
  A.   Inspecting a condominium, town house, or mobile home is just like any other house inspection. Everything that is visible and accessible is inspected. All the available systems are operated and inspected: the plumbing, heating, a/c, electrical, windows, etc. Even the structure and roof are inspected as they relate to your home.
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  9.   What is a WETT inspection?
  A.   A WETT inspection (Wood Energy Technology Transfer – SITE Basic Inspection) is a basic visual inspection of a wood-burning system for insurance purposes – sometimes necessary for the purchase of a home equipped with a wood-burning appliance. It is a general overview of the readily accessible parts of the heating system to determine if it meets current regulations (code compliance) – from the floor pad to the chimney – and everything in between. It does not include repair or cleaning.
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  10.   Why do I need a WETT inspection?
  A.   Often, when a home changes hands, your insurance company will insist that the existing woodstove or fireplace be inspected. Lately, they have been pushing for all wood-burning systems to undergo a WETT inspection – for safety’s sake – i.e. even homeowners who’ve had a wood fireplace for many years without issue.
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  11.   Are there energy rebates available at this time?
  A.   Yes – there are actually several programs available with rebates for upgrades completed – i.e. insulation, furnace, water heater, windows, doors, etc. One program even offers free insulation and installation to qualifying natural gas customers! Many seniors have been able to take advantage of this government-initiated incentive.
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