Frequently Asked Questions About Home Inspection

Performing a home inspection is a way homeowners can minimize unexpected costs when purchasing a house, it can also give you important information on maintaining your home as well. However, to gain maximum information about your home and make the most out of your home inspection, a certain amount of self-study is needed.

Often, while researching there are a ton of questions clients have about home inspections and home inspectors, however some answers may be difficult to come by. To ensure you have all your doubts cleared, Shawn Culley at Advanced Home Inspections has answered some of the most frequently asked questions about home inspection.

1. How long does a home inspection take?

Depending on the size, age and condition of the house, timelines can vary significantly. It is critical that the inspector has ready access to all areas and/or systems. If certain areas are inaccessible, the client may need to reschedule and pay for a return visit to the site. A typical house (2000-2500 sq. /ft.) can take between 2.5 - 3.5 hours.

2. Should I be there for the inspection?

As stated in the H.I.A.B.C inspection contract, article 1.1-D "The client is encourage, at their own risk, to participate in the inspection and understand the importanceof doing so". It can be a valuable learning experience. You can also take this opportunity to get more familiar with your new home, take measurements of rooms and/or windows. More importantly, you can ask your home inspector questions on the spot.

3. Should I check for asbestos?

In homes constructed before 1990, many of the building materials have a chance of asbestos presence. Inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause serious health issues. To avoid health risks through prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers, proper precautions must be taken during renovation or repair work. Home inspectors do not typically test for asbestos, so if you’re planning any kind of renovation to the house you buy; make sure you test for asbestos.

4. Why is aluminum wiring a concern?

If installed incorrectly, aluminum wiring is both a safety hazard and an insurance issue. Verifying aluminum wiring is done by looking at the electrical service panel. Significant electrical upgrades may be required if solid aluminum wiring is found in your house.

5. Do I have a buried oil tank on my property?

Be sure to have a qualified contractor inspect your property, if you believe there's any chance of having a buried oil tank. Any house built prior 1970 has a high probability of a buried oil tank. This is an environmental concern and may affect both your insurance and mortgage. Underground storage tanks are a concern because they are a potential source of contamination of soil and groundwater. They also pose a fire and explosion hazard under certain conditions.

6. Do I need a W.E.T.T Inspection?

There are specific codes in Canada that cover installations of wood burning appliances and fireplaces. A W.E.T.T (Wood Energy Technology Transfer) inspection is necessary when obtaining fire insurance on a building containing a wood burning appliance. This is a requirement of the insurance companies and must be carried out by a WETT certified inspector. It is wise to have this inspection done as a condition of sale when purchasing a building as repair or replacement of a non-conforming installation can involve significant cost.

If you have any more questions about home inspection, get in touch with Shawn Culley at Advanced Home Inspections. Offering home inspections in Campbell River, Comox, Courtenay and surrounding areas. Advanced Home Inspections is one of the fastest growing, modern home inspection companies on Vancouver Island. Providing expert residential home inspections, W.E.T.T inspections, recall check and infrared camera inspections. To learn more about how we can help you, please click here or contact us by clicking here.