• HOW A HOME INSPECTION CAN SAVE YOU A BUNDLE

    If you are considering whether or not to hire a Home Inspector before you commit to purchasing a home, here are five things you need to know:                                                                                  

     

    1. In BC, Home Inspectors are required to be licensed through Consumer Protection BC. That licensing process ensures that Inspectors meet specific training criteria and are adequately insured. Inspectors carry specialized diagnostic tools that help them to identify deficiencies that may otherwise go unnoticed.

     

    1. A professional home inspection can reveal critical information about the condition of a home and its systems. This makes the buyer aware of what costs, repairs and maintenance the home may require immediately, and over time. If a buyer isn’t comfortable with the findings of the home inspection, it usually presents one last opportunity to back out of the offer to buy.

     

    1. A home inspection can identify safety issues within a home, such as suspect electrical wiring, carbon monoxide risks, and the possible indications of asbestos or mold. A professional inspector may recommend further investigation of these issues by others who specialize in these fields. Some issues can be expensive to mitigate, which a buyer should be made aware of prior to subject removal.

     

    1. A home inspection can reveal whether additions, alterations or structural changes were done without proper permits. Clues such as inadequate bearing, improper fasteners or telltale “homeowner” electrical/plumbing can add up to paint a clear picture. Non-permitted work can affect insurance, may present safety issues, and may be a municipal or encroachment issue. Some municipalities may require work that was done without a permit to be removed, which can present a significant expense/loss.

     

    1. A home inspection report is a valuable educational resource. A good report will often include specific tips on how to maintain a home, and ultimately save you thousands of dollars in the long term.