• How long does a home inspection take?

A typical inspection should take 2 to 3 hours to complete. This can vary, given the current condition and size of the home, the accessibility of mechanical systems, and so on. As a courtesy to sellers, we recommend that they be informed of the timeframe in a pre-purchase home inspection situation.

• What do you look at?

The Inspection is performed in accordance with the Standards of Practice of Ontario Association of Home Inspectors (OAHI). Clients sometimes assume that a home inspection will include many things that are beyond the scope. We encourage you to read the Standards of Practice so that you clearly understand what things are included in the home inspection.We inspect the major systems of the house. These include the Roof, Exterior, Structure, Electrical, Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, Insulation, and Interior. Our goal is to identify any existing major problems that would affect a typical buyer’s decision to purchase. Here are example items included in the standard home inspection：

• What is included in the fee?

• • Complete home inspection conducted by an experienced professional.
  • Comprehensive written home inspection report
  • Technical support for as long as you own your home

• Can I follow along?

Definitely. We encourage you to attend. The inspection is a valuable learning experience for most home buyers.

• Do I have to take notes?

You don’t have to take notes during the inspection. We will document everything in a written report. It’s much better to follow the inspector through, listening to his comments to make sure you understand. It’s also a great opportunity to ask questions and to clarify anything that confuses you.

• Can I ask questions?

Absolutely! You may want to bring some questions that you have regarding the home. You should also feel free to stop the inspector and ask questions as you go. If the inspector’s comments or explanations are not clear, please ask for further explanation.

• What should I wear?

You should dress comfortably and be prepared to spend roughly 2 1/2 hours walking through the home with the inspector. You won’t have to climb on the roof or go into the attic, so your clothes won’t get dirty.

• Can I bring my family?

We do not recommend you bringing your family; this is a technical evaluation, and you should focus on the inspector’s comments – the fewer distractions, the better.

• Do I get a written report? When?

You do receive a written report. It would be unfair to ask you to remember all of the things we cover during a home inspection. The report includes a summary of the condition of the home and details on all the major systems of the home. It is delivered within 24 hours after the inspection.

• If it’s really bad, will you tell us not to buy the house?

No. Our goal is to report on the present condition of the house, indicating potential repairs and expenses. Ultimately, it is your decision as to whether or not you buy the house. The home inspection is very important but it is only one piece of the puzzle. Only you know all of the factors at play.

• Do you offer a warranty on the house?

A home inspection is a professional opinion based on less-than-complete information. It’s a little like getting a check-up from your doctor: It improves your odds of good health but there is no guarantee or warranty.

Some problems can only be discovered by living in a house – they cannot be discovered during a home inspection. For example, some shower stalls leak when people use the shower but don’t leak when you simply turn on the shower. Some roofs and basements only leak when specific weather conditions exist. Some problems will only be discovered when carpets are lifted, furniture is moved or finishes are removed. As such, we cannot and do not offer a warranty on the house. Read More……..

Home warranty programs are available from others. We would be happy to help you contact a warranty company.

• I found other problems in the house after I moved in, what is wrong with your home inspection?

            I hope What Things Go Wrong can help you.

• What are your qualifications?

I obtained my Ph.D of Materials Science and Engineering at McMaster University. And I am a Professional Engineer and registered with Ontario Association of Home Inspectors (OAHI).

I always keep my skills current with continuing education programs both through the training program and on my own.

• Are you members of a professional organization?

Yes, I am fully licensed member of Professional Engineers of Ontario (PEO) and Registered Home Inspector, R.H.I. with Ontario Association of Home Inspectors (OAHI).

• How many days notice do I need to give you?

The inspector is ready to serve you quickly. However, when the sale of a home is conditional on the results of a home inspection, we recommend that you allow at least two days to arrange for a home inspection.