What is a home inspection, is it required when buying a home, and what happens if I don’t get one? These are a few questions we often get from buyers who are ready to offer on a home, and the topic of a home inspection comes up. A home inspection is the best way to get an idea of the overall condition of a home and avoid the costly mistake of buying a home in need of major repairs. It helps buyers make an informed decision and ensures that their investment is secure.

What is a Home Inspection?

During a home inspection, a professional inspector examines the home and documents visible problems. The home inspector will examine every accessible area of the property, including the roof, foundation, ceilings, walls, and the electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems. They’ll take photos to document defects and look for evidence of mould and signs of water damage.  

Following the inspection, the inspector will prepare a report that points out any areas of concern, and projects that could be done to address them. They’ll often give an estimated cost for the work they suggest, along with the timeframe on when it should get done to help buyers prioritize and budget. Home inspection fees vary based on the size, age, and type of property, usually starting around $300.

Is a Home Inspection Required?

Home inspections are not technically required in Canada but are highly recommended by each province. Whether the home is 5 years old or 50 years old, it’s always a good idea to get an inspection done. Don’t be tempted to bypass a one to save on the fees. It can save you a lot of money down the road if major issues come up that would have been noted in the report.

What Happens if I Don’t Get One?

Typically, if a listed property doesn’t have a home inspection available for review, we’ll suggest that you put in an inspection condition when offering. If the inspection shows that expensive work needs to be done, or work has been done without permits, the condition gives you leverage to request a price adjustment you’re offering, or even back out of the deal depending on how your condition was worded.  If you opt not to get an inspection, once the property closes, you’ll be on the hook for any expensive home repairs, or penalties for illegal work that would have otherwise been the seller’s responsibility to address and pay for.

An inspection report is also a great reference tool when deciding to replace or repair something down the road. It gives you a detailed understanding of what you’ve bought. While it’s easy to get hung up on the beauty of a home and its good points, the more you know, the better homeowner you will be. Without one, you’ll be missing out on detailed insights of your home that may not be obvious until there’s a need for action.

What about Latent Defects?

A latent defect is a defect that you can’t see or observe; something that a regular inspection wouldn’t uncover. This type of defect would make the home dangerous or unfit to live in. Things like faulty electrical wiring hiding behind a wall, or mould damage that would not be detectable by the inspection and would ultimately be found by the buyer after closing and possession of the property has been taken. The buyer would have to prove that the seller knew about the latent defect if they want to claim damages against the seller. The good news is latent defects don’t happen that often, but it’s important to be aware that not even a home inspection can show every potential problem with a home.

When buying a home, a home inspection is one step you don’t want to miss. It helps provide transparency, and peace of mind in one of the largest transactions any of us will undertake in our lives. If you have any questions about home inspections in the buying process, I’d be happy to help in any way I can!

‍