Relax. Most of your inspection will be maintenance recommendations, life expectancies and minor imperfections. These are nice to know about. However, the issues that really matter will fall into four categories:
- Major defects. An example of this would be a structural failure.
- Things that lead to major defects. A small roof-flashing leak, for example.
- Things that may hinder your ability to finance, legally occupy or insure the home.
- Safety hazards, such as an exposed, live buss bar at the electric panel.
Anything in these categories should be addressed. Often a serious problem can be corrected inexpensively to protect both life and property (especially in categories 2 and 4).
Most sellers are honest and are often surprised to learn of defects uncovered during an inspection. Realize that sellers are under no obligation to repair everything mentioned in the report. No home is perfect. Have realistic expectations. Keep things in perspective. Do not kill your deal over things that do not matter. It is inappropriate to demand that a seller address deferred maintenance, conditions already listed on the seller’s disclosure or nit-picky items.
Home inspection industry is not regulated in Ontario.
In the absence of licensing many home inspectors claim to be certified. An important question to ask here is “By whom?”. Many inspectors are certified by their respective associations. This is not an adequate certification and mainly reflects the inspector’s level of membership in this particular association. The only valid credential is a certification by third party or an independent certified body, such as National Home Inspection Certification Council (NHICC). You should ask to see the proof of certification and check an on-line directory from the corresponding certification authority.
The certification level determines inspector’s knowledge, experience and a fee that is charged for the inspection. We are not the cheapest home inspection company and we know that. But we are the most thorough, sophisticated and dedicated to our services.
Read an article in “Toronto Star” about energy audit performed by Yuri Olhovsky
Watch video: The importance of quality home inspection:
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