The process is very simple
A few things to prepare, 2.5 to 3 hours on site, and a report in your inbox within 24 hours.
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Before inspection day
Please confirm that:
- You've read and accepted the inspection agreement.
- You've reviewed the Standards of Practice.
- The home isn't in the middle of a major renovation or construction, and is in livable condition.
- The date and time work for everyone involved: you, your listing agent, and any tenants.
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Access
The inspection is visual, and we can't move your belongings. Before we arrive:
- Clear access to the furnace, water heater, electrical panel, attic hatch, crawlspace and garage.
- Make sure water, gas and electricity are all on.
- Confine pets, if needed.
- If the home is staged or occupied by tenants, give them a heads-up.
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During the inspection
You and your agent are welcome to be there. We'll explain the home's condition as we go, point out the most important items and talk through repair options. Everything ends up in the final report.
The inspection usually takes 2.5 to 3 hours, and we'll confirm the timing with everyone in advance.
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Our general process
We follow industry Standards of Practice, in this order:
- Exterior
- We start outside and work around the home: grading, foundation, windows, doors, walls, chimney, gutters, downspouts, porch, deck, patio, electrical service, AC unit and garage.
- Roof
- Checked for damaged or worn shingles, granule loss, exposed fasteners, past patching, sagging and leak-prone areas like valleys, penetrations and flashing.
- Attic
- Roof structure, insulation, ventilation and signs of moisture. Good insulation and ventilation cut energy costs and deter mould.
- Interior
- Every floor, wall, ceiling, window and door on every level, plus the kitchen, laundry and bathrooms, using professional-grade equipment to look for hidden moisture and other concerns.
- Foundation and structure
- Basement or crawlspace for movement, significant cracks, seepage and signs of past wetness, like rust stains on the furnace.
- Electrical
- Panel issues like double taps or undersized wiring. Main disconnect location and amperage. Switches, receptacles and fixtures throughout.
- Heating and cooling
- The furnace and its expected life (typically 18 to 25 years). AC is run when it's above 18°C outside. Supply and return registers in every room.
- Plumbing
- Main water shut-off, water heater, every fixture for flow and leaks, and the drain, waste and vent system. Water quality is tested as a courtesy.
A full inspection covers close to 500 items, focused on the significant issues a buyer will care about.