How long does a home inspection take?
A typical inspection should take 2 to 4 hours to complete. This can vary, given the current condition and size of the home, the accessibility of mechanical systems, and so on. As a courtesy to the sellers, we recommend that they be informed of the timeframe in a pre-purchase home inspection situation.

What do you look at?
We inspect the major systems of the house. These include the Roof, Exterior, Structure, Electrical, Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, Insulation, and Interior. Our goal is to identify any existing major problems that would affect a typical buyer's decision to purchase.

How much does an inspection cost?
Our typical fee for an inspection starts at < $350 >, except for small Condos or High Rise Residence units. However, some factors will affect the fee. If you are comparing home inspection firms, the fee charged should not be the deciding factor unless the level of service offered is identical. Remember, you are considering a major purchase and your choice of home inspector should be based on getting the best value, not just the best price.

What is included in the fee?
Complete home inspection conducted by an experienced professional.
Comprehensive written home inspection e-report.
Technical support for as long as you own your home.
Can I follow along?
Definitely. Not only do we encourage you to attend the Home Inspection but we insist on it. This is where you get an extensive Verbal Report. The inspection 'walk-about' is a valuable learning experience for most homebuyers and should not be missed. It will fast-track your own familiorization with the Home. And, should you buy the Home, you will know how to begin taking care of it and /or upgrading it to suit your personal style.

Do I have to take notes?
You don't have to take notes during the inspection, but some people do anyway. The written report will document what needs to be brought to your attention. It's much better to follow the inspector step by step, listening to his comments to make sure you understand. It's also a great opportunity to ask questions and to clarify anything that confuses you.

Can I ask questions?
Absolutely! You may want to bring some questions that you have regarding the home. You should also feel free to stop the inspector and ask questions as you go. If the inspector's comments or explanations are not clear, please ask again for further explanations.

What should I wear?
You should dress comfortably and be prepared to spend roughly 2 to 4 hours walking with the inspector through the home inside and outside: be weather ready . You won't have to climb on the roof or go into the attic or crawlspace, so your clothes won't get dirty.

Can I bring my family?
We recommend that you not bring your family; the Inspection of your 'possible' future Home is a technical evaluation, and you should focus on the inspector's comments - the fewer distractions, the better.

When do I get the written e-report?
It is usually delivered within 24 hours after the inspection. Occasionally, to better serve my client(s), I may need more time to complete the Report if there is some serious issues I need to analyse, i.e. when renovations are considered.
You don't have to remember all of the things we cover during a home inspection. The report includes a summary of the conditions of the home and the details on all the major systems of the home. It will be prepared electronically in my office and delivered via e-mail.

If things are really bad, will you tell us not to buy the house?
No. Our goal is to report on the condition of the house, indicating potential repairs required. Ultimately, it is your decision as to whether or not you buy the house. The home inspection is very important but it is only one piece of the puzzle. We work toward empowering you with sufficient knowledge through the inspection process. In the end, only you knows all of the factors at play.

Do you offer a warranty on the house?
A home inspection is a professional opinion based on less-than-complete information. It's a little like getting a check-up from your doctor: It improves your odds of good health but there is no guarantee or warranty.

Some problems can only be discovered by living in a house - they cannot be discovered during a home inspection. For example, some shower stalls leak when people use the shower but don't leak when you simply turn on the shower. Some roofs and basements only leak when specific weather conditions exist. Some problems will only be discovered when carpets are lifted, furniture is moved or finishes are removed. As such, we cannot and do not offer a warranty on the house.

Home warranty programs are available from others.

How long have you been in the Housing business?
In various capacities since 1969: as a T.Q. Carpenter, Supervisor/Consultant, Contractor and Home Inspector.

How many inspectors do you have?
I currently operate as a sole Independent Home Inspector, full-time, available to perform inspections.

What is your background and qualifications as an inspector?
.Undergraduate University degree;
.Construction Management degree;
.Carpentry certification (T.Q.);
.Extensive supervisory and mediation training and experience.
.Inspector training and examinations by an Association of Home Inspectors, C.A.H.P.I. BC.

As an inspector I also keep my knowledge and skills current with continuing education programs offered by the various Building Associations, Provincial regulatory agencies and our Inspectors' Association.

Are you a member of professional organization?
As a Home Inspector I am a members of the Canadian Association of Home and Property Association [C.A.H.P.I.BC] and bound by the "Association's Standards of Practice" and "Code of Ethics". See <www.cahpi.bc.ca>

How many days of notice do I need to give you?
I am ready to serve you quickly. However, when the sale of a home is conditional on the results of a home inspection, I recommend that you allow at least one or two days to arrange for a home inspection. I also make myself available on some week ends to accommodate those of you who cannot get a day off during the week to attend the inspection.