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If you require further information or one of your questions is not listed below, please do not hesitate to contact the CAHPI(BC) Registrar.
What is a home inspection?
Why should I consider hiring / recommending a CAHPI (BC) home inspector?
When do I need a home inspection?
What kinds of leverage can a home inspection give me?
How do I find the right home inspector?
What does the home inspector do?
How long does a home inspection take?
Should I attend the home inspection?
What type of report should I expect?
How much does a home inspection cost?
Do home inspectors perform services other than residential home inspections?
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a comprehensive visual examination of the home's overall structure, major systems and components.
A properly trained home inspector will review your house as a system, looking at how one component of the house might affect the operability or lifespan of another. Components that are not performing properly should be identified, as well as items that are beyond their useful life or are unsafe. The purpose of the home inspection is to provide the client with a better understanding of the property conditions, as observed at the time of the inspection.
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Why should I consider hiring / recommending a CAHPI (BC) home inspector?
As a consumer, retaining the services of a CAHPI(BC) member to perform your home inspection assures you that you are hiring a professional with proven ability, experience and impartiality, who can give you peace of mind and help you make a confident and informed buying decision.
As a real estate professional, referring your client to the CAHPI(BC) office or website for the names of qualified home inspectors can reinforce your relationship with your clients. They will feel more confident with the condition of the property, and the quality of your advice.
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When do I need a home inspection?
Are you buying a home? A pre-purchase home inspection can provide you with the information you need to know about the condition of the house you plan to purchase. More information equals an informed purchase decision, which equals fewer surprises. Minimize the risk to your investment. No one wants to face serious, unexpected costs shortly after a purchase.
Considering a renovation? A home inspection can help homeowners prioritize repairs and maintenance. A pre-renovation inspection equals money spent in the right places.
Selling a home? Show prospective purchasers that every effort has been made to disclose the condition of the home. A listing inspection can equal a faster sale.
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What kinds of leverage can a home inspection give me?
If identified before finalizing a deal, the cost of major repairs can often be negotiated into the final purchase price or repairs can be done by the vendor prior to purchase. "A subject to home inspection" clause can equal money saved on repairs.
Gain an understanding of the systems in your home, their operation, and required maintenance. Preventative maintenance equals fewer headaches later.
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How do I find the right home inspector?
Not all home inspectors are equally trained and qualified!
The best source is by far a "word of mouth" referral; ask a friend, family or co-worker if they can recommend a home inspector they have used in the past and were satisfied with the services. Other sources are your mortgage lender or mortgage broker. Your real estate professional can also refer you to the CAHPI(BC) website or our toll-free number for a referral to a home inspector.
If you are looking in the Yellow Pages, most home inspection companies can be found under the headings "Building Inspection Services" or "Home Inspection Services". In addition, our online database allows you to find a home inspector in the areas where you need a home inspection done. Our members have been asked to list ALL of the areas where they provide home inspection services independent of where their offices are located.
Whatever your referral source, please perform due diligence when selecting an inspector. Discuss your expectations with the inspector to ensure that the report provided will meet your specific needs.
To help you in your selection process CAHPI (BC) has developed some questions to ask.
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What does the home inspector do?
Please refer to the CAHPI(BC) Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.
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How long does a home inspection take?
A professional home inspection usually takes between two and four hours, depending on the size, age and condition of the house. It is critical that the inspector can access all areas and/or systems. If certain areas are inaccessible, the inspection can be hampered and take longer than necessary. The client may need to reschedule and pay for a return visit to the site.
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Should I attend the home inspection?
Canada Mortgage & Housing Corporation (CMHC) article "Hiring a Home Inspector" recommends that potential homebuyers accompany the inspector as the inspection takes place. It can be a valuable learning experience. You can also take this opportunity to get more familiar with your new home, to take measurements of rooms and/or windows. More importantly, you can ask your home inspector questions on the spot.
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What type of report should I expect?
Following the inspection, the buyer is presented with a written report, consolidating the details of the inspection. The home inspector should be willing to answer any questions a buyer might have and to clarify the limitations of the inspection to avoid misunderstandings.
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How much does a home inspection cost?
Pricing can vary depending on your area of service. The pricing criteria is usually based on the square footage of the house. Ask your home inspector. Also remember that some inspectors may have surcharges for a crawlspace, basement suite, age of house, mileage, etc.
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Do home inspectors perform services other than residential home inspections?
Several home inspectors offer a wide range of services including commercial inspections, indoor air quality investigations, new construction deficiencies list, building envelope surveys, WETT (wood stove) inspections, etc. These types of inspections are not included under the CAHPI(BC) Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. As a consumer, please perform due diligence in your inspector selection. Ask for references, ask for a copy of past reports, and enquire about their training and experience.
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