How long does the 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 examine?

We examine readily accessible systems and components of a building in accordance with the National Standards of Practice, where applicable using normal operating controls and opening readily openable access panels.

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.

What is vermiculite/asbestos?

Vermiculite is a mineral substance made from mica. This insulation was available in loose fill and looks like small rectangular shaped pieces, one brand Zonolite came from ore and contained asbestos. If your house was built before the late 70’s you may have this product in the attic, it may be under other insulation and has been a resale issue which can cost between $10,000 to $15,000 to remove and replace with new insulation.

How do I clean mold/mildew?

Mild soap and water is best recommended and there are new products safe to use in your local hardware store. If you are planning on using bleach know that the fumes are harder on your lungs than the mildew you are cleaning up.

How do I keep water out of my basement?

Did you know that 90% of all the water that will come around your foundation will come off your roof? Extending downspouts 6ft away will help control water and the last 10% will be poor grading or mother nature will drive it there. Cleaning your gutters out spring and fall will help to ensure they drain properly.

Is FLEX-HEAT Ceiling Heating System dangerous?

Ontario Hydro is warning homeowners that Flex-Heat electric radiant ceiling heating is dangerous and that if your house has such a system you must disconnect it immediately. The system can fail without warning and may become a fire hazard. Most houses with Flex-Heat have a label on the electrical panel box or a label on the thermostat indicating that it is a Flex-Heat system. If the house has electric radiant heat but no stickers indicating that it is Flex-Heat, the attic should be inspected (under the insulation) to determine whether black plastic panels have been installed immediately above the ceiling. Flex-Heat was only installed after 1975.

FAQs