Residential & Commercial Inspections in Barrie, Huronia, Collingwood, Wasaga Beach, Stayner

Choosing a qualified and ethical home inspector is the newest challenge facing buyers in today’s real estate market

Checking a home inspector’s affiliation with a professional association is an important prerequisite in selecting a qualified home inspector.

The Canadian Association of Home & Property Inspectors (CAHPI), a non-profit, self-regulated professional home inspection organization, made up of individual, independent home inspectors, tests and screens prospective home inspectors based on technical and professional requirements, and grants full membership only to those who meet its high standards.

Furthermore, CAHPI’s strict Code of Ethics protects consumers from potential conflicts of interest by prohibiting inspectors from doing any of the repairs themselves in the homes which they inspect.

Most consumers are not able to judge the professional qualifications and experience of a home inspector, and can be too easily impressed by a good sales pitch or contrived testimonials.

A qualified home inspector is a “generalist” who from his book learning and field experience gets to know how a home’s many systems and components work together and how they stand the test of time.

He will have the expertise to tell the buyer not only whether the electrical service is proper and has the necessary protection devices, but also if it needs to be updated.

He can identify wet basement problems and recommend solutions.

He can explain the importance of attic and house ventilation to protect the building’s structure, and how to conserve energy without “suffocating” the house.

And, along the way, he’ll provide valuable maintenance advice to help the home buyer preserve and enjoy his or her new home in the years to come.

A good home inspector is not one who will look at the house you are concerned about and give you the report; they will offer sound advice and make themselves available with information, as stated, to help you preserve and enjoy your new home in the years to come.

Some questions to ask your prospective inspector are.

  • How long does an inspection take? (2 1/2 to 3 hours is average)
  • Do you have actual construction experience? How much?
  • Have you taken any training to be a home inspector?
  • Do you have Errors and Omissions Insurance?
  • Are you a member of a recognized Professional group?
  • Can I come on the inspection?
  • Can I ask questions?

    • Your Home Inspector should be more than willing to share this information with you. His information should make you feel, that you are making an informed decision.