Willowdale Real Estate Blog
|
Blog Category
|
 Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ, Home Inspection Willowdale, Toronto Ontario FAQ - Home Inspection What is a home inspection? When a professional (home inspector) is hired to inspect a home in person, it is referred to as home inspection in the real estate industry. The home inspector uses the necessary tools to examine the home's condition from the roof to the foundation. The home inspection typically includes a full report prepared by the inspector. What is the cost of a home inspection? In Willowdale, Toronto area, the home inspection cost starts at $450. The price can be higher depending on the type of report and the size of the home. Who hires the home inspection? Typically homebuyers hire and pay for the home inspection. However, the sellers may get home inspectors before listing their home; to assess issues and repair or have an inspection ready to present it to the buyers. Where do you find a reputable home inspector? You may ask your trusted real estate agents since they require professional inspections done routinely. Brokerage usually has the names of a few home inspectors available for you. You can search the internet for home inspectors in the area. It would be best if you interviewed the home inspector before hiring them. Are the home inspectors licensed? As of now, Ontario does not license home inspectors; however, that may change in future. Do home inspectors have insurance? Home inspectors are required by law in Ontario to be licensed and have proof of liability errors and omissions insurance coverage. Keep in mind to ask the inspector about insurance, you may also ask to see the insurance paperwork. Why do I need a home inspector? The list of items that the home inspector checks are extensive and only a professional can thoroughly inspect—starting from the house's exterior and from roof to the foundation. Considering the home inspection's relatively low cost provides invaluable information that can save thousands of dollars for home buyers. Can I inspect the home myself? We do not advise that you inspect the home by yourself unless you are a professional real estate inspector with full training in the industry. Experienced inspectors see and inspect many houses; they see issues, details that can be easily missed by anyone else. My cousin is a custom home builder; can I ask him to do the home inspection? You may ask for a second opinion from your family members; however, we suggest hiring a reputable real estate inspector. In Ontario, inspectors are licenced and are expected to perform to industry standards; they are liable for missing major or minor problems. Perhaps it would be impractical to sue your family members for missing to notice the issues that cost you thousands of dollars. You would like to have a professional report stating the details of the home's condition. Can I ask my real estate agent to do the home inspection? Most top real estate agents avoid serving as the home inspector. Particularly in their transactions because of a possible conflict of interest and potential legal issues. Should my real estate agent present during a home inspection? Your agent should be present during the home inspection for the following reasons. The agent gets to see the issue up close and firsthand and can explain if necessary. When it comes to negotiation, the agent will have a clear idea of the problem. The experienced real estate agents will know which issues are worth emphasizing and which ones not; hence they will not create unnecessary stress and jeopardize a deal. How long does it take for a home inspection? The onsite inspection takes three hours or longer, depending on the house. The report also takes the same amount of time; the report is usually sent to you the same day or the next day. What inspections are included in a home inspection? The home inspection involved onsite inspection of the structural and overall home condition; here is a list of the items commonly inspected.
What is NOT included in the home inspection? A home inspection focuses on the home's performance, livability, and safety, NOT cosmetic or design issues. Also, a home inspection does not address building regulation issues, environmental review, energy audit, or life expectancy of the property. Here is a brief list of items that are NOT included.
What issues are considered serious in a home inspection? There are some issues that the buyer may think twice before considering the purchase of the house. If the house is relatively old, the seller may consider a home inspection and repair the major issues before listing the property. Here is the list of the problems (issues) that can kill a deal, or the buyer may come back for a tough negotiation.
Should I hire a home inspection if the seller already has a home inspection report available? You should review a copy of the written inspection report; make sure the inspection was done recently by a reputable company (inspector). However, we advise our clients to hire their inspection; considering the inspection's low cost, it is not worth the risk. Can I be present during the home inspection? Inspection is a necessary part of home purchase; hence, we advise our clients to be present and ask questions to understand the insection process and the extend of the problems reported. It is also crucial for your real estate agent to be available for inspection. Should I expect the inspector to tell me to buy the house or not? The short answer is no. Purchasing a house is a complex process, and home inspection is one of the many crucial steps to help the buyer make decisions. Your top real estate agent will be able to guide you through the findings. Is there a warranty or guarantee offered with the inspection? The home inspection companies do NOT offer a warranty or guarantee. They are hired to provide professional consulting and opinion on the status of the house. How should I know I selected the right inspector? Here is a checklist that will guide you to select the right home inspector.
Canadian Association of Home & Property Inspectors (CAHPI) National Institute of Building Inspectors ("NIBI")
What if I am not happy with the home inspector and inspection report? You may try to get in touch with the inspector and raise the concern you have. Many times the reason is miscommunication. Most reputable companies are dedicated to customer satisfaction, and they will try to address the problem. However, if you are still not satisfied with the result, you may consider filing a complaint. https://www.ontario.ca/page/filing-consumer-complaint  AuthorThe above Real Estate article was provided by David Khosravi, a leader in his field in Willowdale, North York, Toronto. Reach out to David via email: drdavidkg@gmail.com or by phone: 416.990.2424 Comments are closed.
|