What certification should an Ottawa home inspector have?

Home Inspection Ottawa

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What certification should an Ottawa home inspector have?

If you got here by searching for home inspectors Ottawa , you are probably in the process of purchasing a new home. Before you sign that contract, it is vital that you know what you’re getting into in terms of any unexpected repair costs further down the road. Paying for a quality inspector now, will stave off financial and emotional hardship later.

When visiting the various websites for inspectors, you’re going to see various acronyms thrown around in reference to an inspector’s qualifications and certifications. You need to understand what they mean to you in terms of reliability and expertise.

OAHI (Ontario Association of Home Inspectors) is an association that offers training and membership at different levels:

Applicant Level

Members at this level have not completed all the mandatory educational requirements, paid inspection requirement, or the required technical background upgrades. Members at the applicant level can only use the OAHI logo for self- promotion and affiliation if they have successfully completed the basic requirement exam and their reports comply with the standards of the association.

Associate Members

Associate members have completed all of the educational requirements for the highest level, yet have not completed enough paid inspections or technical background upgrades to qualify. Members at this level must continue to update their education on an annual basis. Once the required number of inspections is achieved or technical background upgrades completed, they then can move to the highest level of affiliation.

Registered Home Inspector (RHI)

This is the highest level of membership achievable within the association. RHI inspectors have completed all of the educational requirements and the predetermined number of paid inspections. They must complete educational updates every year.

All members of the OAHI must adhere to the codes of conduct of the association. When advertising their affiliation, they must disclose their current membership level.

Another association that you might see in your research is the CAHPI (Canadian Association of Home & Property Inspectors). This is a national organization that works as a governing body over the smaller regional associations. The CAHPI administers the NCP (National Certification Program) and offers their own level of RHI membership.

When screening a potential inspector, make sure that if they claim affiliation with any of these organizations that they are adhering to their codes of conduct. If they claim to be a member of the OAHI ask them what level of membership they have achieved. By asking questions, any potential inspector will know that you’ve done your research and will be more likely to answer your questions honestly. By making your expectations clear, you are insuring a positive experience for both you and the seller.