Hiring a reputable Ottawa home inspector

Home Inspection Ottawa

Taking the Guesswork out of choosing a

Reputable Building Inspector in Ottawa

Hiring a reputable Ottawa home inspector

When you typed home inspection Ottawa into the Google search box, you were probably not prepared for all the results you received. Sifting through all of the choices can be a daunting task. It seems to create more questions than it answers.

Purchasing a new home could very well be the most important and most expensive purchase you will make in your lifetime. You need to make sure that you hire a quality inspector to represent you during the inspection process. So how do you determine quality? Figuring out if an inspector is qualified is not too difficult if you do a little research.

Make sure that the inspector has an RHI certification. This means that the inspector has been verified to have specific qualifications in the areas of education, technical background and experience. In addition to these qualifications, RHI members must agree to a code of conduct. This governing body also requires disclosure of whether the inspector carries liability insurance or not. Only qualified members of the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors are allowed this distinction.

Once you have chosen an inspector, you may wonder what takes place during the actual inspection. The inspector should examine the home in these key areas:

Structural Soundness

The construction of all walls, ceilings, floors roof and foundation should be looked at for any abnormalities or damage.

Exterior

He should also assess the condition of the exterior covering of the house, drainage, driveway, sidewalks, landscaping, windows and trim.

Core Systems

Heating and air units are some of the most expensive items to fix in a home. Make sure that the inspector gives these units a thorough investigation. The duct work for these units should be intact and free from leaks. Water heaters, the chimney, and fireplace should also be inspected.

Electrical

The main electrical panel and circuit breakers should be looked at to insure that they are installed properly and don’t pose a fire hazard. During this process he should look for faulty wiring or outlets.

Appliances

All major appliances should also be inspected to determine age and condition. A good inspector who has enough experience should be able to give you an estimate on how long he thinks they’ll last.

Armed with the results of a reputable inspection, you are now ready to address any potential issues with the seller before you buy. Purchasing a new home is an exciting time. By having the home inspected, you will be able to purchase your new home with confidence that you made the right choice.