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Why is it important to get a home inspection?
A proper home inspection is really indispensable. Buying a home is one of life’s greatest financial investments, therefore, clients want to make sure that the home they are buying is safe and dependable. A home inspection can provide a sense of security and peace of mind during an otherwise stressful process.
What we look at:
When we inspect a home, we take an in-depth look at a whole host of systems and structures to examine if the work is done properly, and perhaps more importantly, how these systems are holding up under the test of time. From the heating, plumbing, electrical systems, condition of the roof and structures such as the foundation wall, floors, and building envelope, we look for thousands of unique conditions that may be present in the home.
We organize and share these findings with our clients to give them the clearest picture of their potential home and to support their purchasing decision.
We then craft a detailed report which gives our clients the necessary understanding to address and prioritize the big ticket items or issues they’ll need to address if they choose to move forward with their purchase.
New Trade:
Since home inspection is still a relatively new profession with the first associations forming in the 1970s, there are still many buyers who choose to opt out of getting their home inspected. With the current cost of housing and the huge potential for unforseen costs, we believe this to be extremely risky. Most people would not buy a vehicle nowadays without first having it inspected and we believe that the same level of thoughtful precaution should be taken when buying a home.
BC and Alberta are currently the only provinces in Canada that have regulated the home inspection industry. Here in BC, all home inspectors must have a current license with Consumer Protection BC (CPBC) which is the regulating body that sets out our minimum education and training requirements.These regulations place the consumer in a really good position when choosing a home inspector.
What to look for when choosing an inspector:
One thing to look for when choosing an inspector is whether they have chosen to join with a recognized provincial or national association. Hemlock Home Inspection is a member of HIABC which provides a higher level of accountability through continued education as well as greater training requirements than those set out by Consumer Protection BC.
Clients should look for an inspector who will encourage them to meet at the property as well as take the time necessary to explain all the important issues found at the time of inspection.
I would encourage clients to ask if their inspector will be going onto the roof and into the attic and crawlspace if possible. The scope of inspection, which outlines what the inspector is responsible for inspecting, should be made available to the clients prior to the inspection. Home inspectors should also be using appropriate equipment when inspecting the house such as moisture meters, outlet testers, and thermal imaging cameras.
Ultimately, clients should choose a home inspector who is an unbiased third party who can provide them with an accurate understanding of their potential home, so that they can confidently make an informed decision.
