THE HOME INSPECTION & YOU

Why do I need a home inspection? The purchase of a home is probably the largest single investment you will ever make, and you should have a clear understanding of what you are about to purchase.  A home inspection is a thorough, comprehensive, visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home or building.  It covers hundreds of items . . . everything from the basement to the roof, including the electrical, heating and plumbing systems, the foundation walls, the insulation, ventilation system, eavestroughing, attic, roof, etc.  The professional home inspector then interprets to you what he finds, so that you will be able to make your decision knowledgeably and confidently.     

What kind of Home Inspector should you call? Call a qualified Registered Home Inspector (R.H.I.) associated with the professional organization called the Ontario Association of  Home Inspectors (.O.A.H.I.) These OAHI-affiliated inspectors have satisfied all the educational and experience criteria, and perform their inspections in accordance with the high Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics of OAHI, and participate in the approved insurance program. Call an inspector who encourages you to accompany him on the inspection tour, and who provides a complete, written report of all his findings.

How much will it cost? The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geographically, as does the cost of housing. Similarly, within a given area, the inspection fee may vary depending on a number of factors such as the size of the hose, its age and possible optional services such as septic, well or radon testing.

Do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a home inspection or in the selection of your home inspector. The sense of security and knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a bargain. Use the inspector's qualifications, including experience, training and professional affiliations as a guide.

Why can't I do it myself? Even the most experienced home-owner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector. An inspector is familiar with the elements of home construction, proper installation, maintenance and home safety. He or she knows how the home's systems and components are intended to function together, as well as why they fail.

Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may have an effect on their judgment. For accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial, third-party opinion by a professional in the field of home inspection.

Can a house fail an inspection? No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of a house. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value. It is not a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what components and systems may need major repair or replacement

What is the OAHI? Home inspections began as a consumer service in the early 1970's in direct response to the growing demand by home buyers. It soon became apparent that selecting a Home Inspector was becoming as important as finding the right home. To meet this need, the Canadian Association of Home & Property Inspectors (CAHPI) (new modified name) was formed in 1982; this is the national Association that all provincial organizations are members of. Nationally, the home inspection profession is growing rapidly, and CAHPI now has provincial organizations across Canada. All of these organizations are part of a national initiative with government agencies to maintain national standards for the home inspection profession.

The OAHI is the CAHPI member in Ontario and was formed in 1987. On December 9th, 1994, the OAHI became a self-regulating professional body when the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors Act received royal assent , granting the OAHI the exclusive right to define qualification requirements, regulate its members and grant the designation "Registered Home Inspector" and "RHI" to qualified practitioners in the Province of Ontario.

The OAHI is dedicated to enhancing the technical skills and professional practice of home inspectors, and maintaining high professional standards through education and discipline.

What is the ASHI? Since 1975, ASHI has worked to build consumer awareness of home inspection and to enhance the professionalism of its membership. The ASHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics serves as a performance guideline for home inspectors, and is universally recognized and accepted by many professional and governmental bodies

Who belongs to ASHI? ASHI is an organization of independent, professional home inspectors who are required to make a commitment, from the day they join as Candidates, to conduct inspections in accordance with the ASHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics, which prohibits engaging in conflict-of-interest activities that might compromise their objectivity. Candidates work their way to Member status as they meet rigorous requirements, including passing a comprehensive, written technical exam and performing a minimum of 250 professional, fee-paid home inspections conducted in accordance with the ASHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. Mandatory continuing education helps the membership stay current with the latest in technology, materials and professional skills.

When do I call a home inspector? Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms and conditions to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

Do I have to be there? While it's not required that you be present for the inspection, it is highly recommended. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions as you learn about the condition of the home and how to maintain it.

What if the report reveals problems? No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn't mean that you should or shouldn't buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. If your budget is tight, or if you don't want to become involved in future repair work, this information will be important to you. If major problems are found, a seller may agree to make repairs.

If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection? Definately. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence. You'll have learned many things about your new home from the inspector's written report, and will have that information for future reference.

Buying a house is one of the most significant moves you will make in your lifetime!