HOME INSPECTION - FOREARMED IS FOREWARNED
One of the most important and prudent steps in the buying process is getting a home inspection done. Conditions are normally put in an offer allowing for a set time period for the purchaser to arrange for an inspection to be done. Normally, if major deficiencies are found, the buyer can opt out of the deal.
In addition, there are other inspections that may be necessary, depending on the type of property you are buying. For example, properties in areas noted for termite activity are suggested. Also, rural properties with well systems and septic systems will definitely need to be inspected, along with a water test for potability. These inspections should be suggested by your Realtor and documented in the offer, depending on the type of property that you buy.
What is a home inspection?
The objective of the home inspection is to provide the buyer with a better understanding of the house. It may calm many of the anxieties held by the average purchaser. The inspection is more of an informative educational seminar than a negative critique of the home. The inspector will review the functional aspects of your home: (see list below). Cosmetic issues like carpet condition or surface scratches on wall and ceilings are not the focus.
Who is a home inspector?
Most experienced home inspectors are fully accredited members of the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors (OAHI). This criteria will ensure that the inspector is impartial, experienced, ethical and is properly insured. All parties involved in the real estate transaction benefit from an accurate and fair building inspection report.
What does a home inspector do?
The inspection is primarily visual. There will be be no drilling into walls or dismantling of components. Most inspectors will climb onto your roof. They will review the major systems of your house using normal operating controls such as operating the thermostat, plumbing fixtures and turning on lights. The inspector will enter the attic. Sometimes this is a messy undertaking. You may want to anticipate this and make provisions for easy access.
- Duration - The inspection will take approximately 2 to 3 hours.
- Tools - The inspector will bring a ladder, flashlight and a small assortment of hand tools and electronic testing equipment. They will not bore holes or deface your property.
- Foundation - The foundation will be checked for cracks and signs of seepage.
- Plumbing - The water pressure and drainage will be checked by operating faucets and filling up tubs and sinks.
- Attic/Crawlspace - These areas will be accessed for dampness, proper insulation and ventilation. Please provide clear access to the attic hatch. You may want to remove articles of clothing from the closet.
- Electrical System - The panel cover of the fuse box will be removed. A number of electrical outlets will also be checked.
- Heating/Cooling - Each system will be turned on and checked
- Equipment - Proper operation using normal operating controls.
- Roof and Siding - Age and general maintenance requirements will be noted.
- Windows/doors - Each will be checked for acceptable operation.
- Pavement/driveways - Surface conditions will be checked for buckling and cracking.
- Interior - Interior walls, ceilings and floors will be checked for cracks and stains.
- Basement/crawlspace - will be examined for evidence of current or previous leaks.
- Drainage - We will provide advice about the eaves, downspouts and grading.
When will the inspection happen?
It may take the purchaser two to three business days to arrange for a OAHI inspector to visit the house. The average home inspector will need approximately two to three hours in your house.
Does a seller get a copy of the report?
The home inspector provides a copy of the report to the purchaser only. The inspector cannot communicate their findings to anyone else but the purchaser unless instructed otherwise.
Should the seller be present for the home inspection?
It is not necessary for the Seller, to be in attendance. However, the Seller may feel it is important to brief the inspector on a few unique aspects of their home. Some home Sellers have found the process to be a bit unsettling and have opted to be somewhere else.
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JANICE VARASTEH | SALES REPRESENTATIVE | BOSLEY REAL ESTATE LTD., BROKERAGE | 276 MERTON STREET | TORONTO | ONTARIO | M4S.1A9 | PHONE. 416.481.6137 | FAX. 416.480.2548 | ASKJANICE@LIFESTYLESPECIALIST.COM
