Share this:

As of March 31, 2009, BC became the only province in Canada to require that home inspectors be licensed. Licensing enhances consumer protection as licensed businesses licensed with Consumer Protection BC have obligations under the law and must adhere to the standards of their association such as educational requirements and a code of ethics.

What Does a Home Inspection Cover?

A home inspection is an educational process which was designed to help reduce the consumer’s risk when buying a home. Be aware the home inspection is by no means a warranty on the property. A home inspection is a thorough VISUAL examination of the home and garage and all the associated systems. The inspector will look at the structural components, foundation, basement, electrical, ventilation, and if there is central air, interior, attic, insulation, heating system, plumbing, roof & the exterior of the home. In Whistler we receive more snow and colder temperatures, the inspector will perform a more in-depth look at certain items. 

Why Inspect

The obvious is the price you are going to pay, it propbably is one of your larger investments. You need to know if there is anything about the home you can’t see just by walking through it, and if there is any immediate repair work needed, and potential cost of this work.  A home inspection is not an easy out of the contract if you change your mind, or get buyers remorse. An inspection is like a discovery, an intimate introduction to your future home…. The inspector will go over things that you can keep an eye on, future maintenance, and an estimate of costs down the road, like a new roof, or fresh paint.

The home inspection when complete usually includes about an hour or two of discussion on the property, a binder of information on all the areas the home inspector covered…and a feeling of confidence moving forward with subject removal… or not. The binder will be an excellent source of information to refer back to as a home owner. Usually your home inspector invites you call them with any further questions that might come up about the home after you move in.

Selling a property

Often I have recommended to a seller in a more difficult market to have a home inspection done for two reasons, one to make sure there are no hidden surprises that could compromise a sale, and to have the report available on the table for all showings; this might help the buyer feel confident and comfortable with the home they are potentially buying.

Example of subject clause

Subject to the buyer, on or before (date) at the buyer’s expense, obtaining and approving an inspection report against any defects whose cumulative cost of repairs exceeds ( select a monetary value) and which reasonably may adversely affect the property’s use or value This condition is or the sole benefit of the buyer. The seller will allow access to the property for this purpose on reasonable notice.

• The home inspection report is prepared and paid for by the buyer and in most cases is never shared with the seller

Excellent Links (I did not shorten the URLs because they are self-explanatory)

http://bcipi.net/ BC Institute of Property Inspectors

http://www.hpo.bc.ca/  HomeOwner Protection Office

http://www.canequity.com/mortgage-resources/home-inspections/british-columbia/whistler.htm 

http://www.consumerprotectionbc.ca/consumers-home-inspections/consumer-tips/646-know-who-you-are-hiring-for-ensuring-a-valid-home-inspector-licence 

http://www.recbc.ca/pdf/Buyinghome.pdf

Conclusion 

Home inspections are serious and helpful, and should be an integral part of the home buying experience. If a buyer decides they do not wish to go ahead with an inspection; be sure to ask the agent to refer to the buyers decision in writing on the contract of purchase and sale. The buyer should consider at least three choices before hiring an inspection company, and should ask friends and family for referrals; the buyer is recommended not to have family members inspect the home on their behalf. The cost of an inspection will vary because homes come in different sizes,  place, and condition.

My last tip is “StAY OUT OF THE INSPECTORS WAY”

Happy Negotiating!  

Advertisement