| If you require further information or one of your
questions is not listed below, please do not hesitate to contact us.
What is a home inspection?
Why should I consider hiring / recommending a HIA-BC home inspector?
When do I need a home inspection?
What kinds of leverage can a home inspection give me?
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?
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 HIA-BC home inspector?
As a consumer, retaining the services of a HIA-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
HIA-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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What does the home inspector do?
Please refer to the HIA-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) 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.
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