BUILDING INSPECTIONS

A home inspection is a visual exam-ination of the physical structure

and systems of a house—from roof to foundation. Your inspection should be performed by an inspector who op-erates according to the Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics of The Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors (www.cahpi.bc.ca).

WHY DO I NEED AN INSPECTION?To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected dif-ficulties, you want to learn as much as you can about a newly constructed or existing house BEFORE you buy it. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence.

WHAT DOES INCLUDE?Check The Canadian Association of Home and Prop-erty Inspectors website (www.cahpi.bc.ca) for a de-tailed overview of the inspection process. Generally an inspection includes a home’s heating system; interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and structural com-ponents.

HOW LONG DO IT TAKE?An average size home (from 1,000 to 3,000 sq. ft.) takes approximately 2-2% hours to inspect, plus ‘z - 1 hour to review the report with the inspector. A condo inspection takes approximately 1 - 1% hours.

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WILL I MEET THE INSPECTOR?Most inspections are performed in two parts. The inspec-tor will usually perform the inspection on their own, then afterwards prepare a written report for the buyer client. Once the report is finished, the buyers will usually meet with the inspector on site for what is called the “Walk-Through”. A walk-through includes a detailed review of the completed inspection report and an opportunity to ask questions of the inspector. Typically, the Buyer’s Agent will also attend the walk-through to provide additional advice is needed.

PASS OR FAIL?A professional home inspection evaluates the current con-dition of a house. It is not an appraisal—which determines market value. Nor is it a municipal inspection, which veri-fies code compliance. A home inspector will not “pass or fail” a house. What they do is to describe its physical con-dition and indicate components and systems which may need repair or replacement.

THERE’S A PROBLEM!No house is perfect. If a problem is discovered you are now armed with information that lets you know in advance what to expect if you do buy the house or that may help in determining what purchase price you may offer— keeping in mind what deficiencies may need to be remedied — ei-ther by the Seller prior to completion of the sale, or by you as the new owner. If major problems are found, the Seller may agree to make repairs.

WHAT DOES AN INSPECTION COST?Cost should not be considered a factor in whether or not to get a home inspection. If no defects are uncovered during the inspection, you will have invested in valuable maintenance information and have a good overall picture of the condition of your home and the location of its com-ponents. Whether a house is in obvious need of repair, new, or appears to be in excellent condition, an inspection can uncover defects unnoticed by both Seller and Buyer. The lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a bargain. Check your inspector’s qualifications and experience. You can verify an inspector’s qualifications at the CAHPI web-site: www.cahpi.bc.ca

The average fee for a typical house is $400 and $300 for a Condominium.

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