WHAT IS A "HOME INSPECTION"?

A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home, from the foundation to the roof. Having a home inspected is similar to giving it a physical check-up. If symptoms or problems are found, the inspector may recommend further evaluation.

WHAT DOES A HOME INSPECTION INCLUDE?

Hendley Building Consultants will review the condition of:

• Roof, vents, flashings and trim

• Gutters and downspouts

• Skylights, chimney and other roof penetrations

• Decks, stoops, porches, walkways and railings

• Eaves, soffit and fascia

• Grading and drainage

• Basement, foundation and crawl space

• Central heating and cooling systems

• Interior plumbing fixtures and faucets

• Water heating system

• Drainage sump pumps with accessible floats

• Electrical service line and meter

• Main disconnect and service amperage

• Electrical panels, breakers and fuses

• Grounding and bonding

• Fireplace damper door and hearth

• Visible insulation and ventilation

• Garage doors, safety sensors and openers

• And much more!

IS A HOME INSPECTION FOR A CONDO DIFFERENT?

Hendley Building Consultants performs a condo inspection in the same manner as a house inspection. Some inspection companies do not inspect the exterior since the condominium association is usually responsible for the exterior maintenance. Hendley Building Consultants believes that you should be aware of the exterior condition since it may affect the interior of the condo.

WHAT WILL IT COST?

The fee for a typical house (including one garage) inspection ranges between $400 - $500. The inspection fee is based upon the size of the house, particular features of the house, additional outbuildings and its age. It is a good idea to check local prices on your own. However, do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a home inspection. The knowledge gained from a Hendley Building Consultants inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspector is not necessarily a bargain. An inspector's qualifications, including their experience, training, and professional affiliations, should be the most important consideration.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?

Hendley Building Consultants performs a very thorough inspection that usually takes 2 -3 hours. Some inspections may take more or less time based on the home's condition, age, size, etc.

CAN'T I DO IT MYSELF?

Even the most experienced home owner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector who has inspected hundreds (perhaps thousands) of homes in his or her career. An inspector is familiar with the many elements of home construction, their proper installation, and maintenance. He or she understands how the home's systems and components are intended to function together, as well as how and why they fail. Above all, most buyers find it very difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may affect their judgment. For the most accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial third-party opinion by an expert in the field of home inspection.

Please note: Beware of home inspection companies that offer to make repairs based on their findings, i.e. repairing the roof, furnace, etc. We believe a professional inspector should be objective and not looking for a way to benefit financially by "improving" your home.

HOW DO I FIND A HOME INSPECTOR?

If you are located within the Eastern Ontario region, contact Hendley Building Consultants and we will be happy to provide home inspection services for you. If you are outside the Eastern Ontario region, the best source is a friend, or perhaps a business acquaintance, who has been satisfied with and can recommend a home inspector they have used in their area. You could also use the Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors-Ontario (CAHPI) or Ontario Association of Home Inspectors (OAHI), both of which Hendley Building Consultants is a member, to locate a particular inspector in a specific area.

CAN A HOUSE FAIL INSPECTION?

No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of your prospective home. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value, nor is it the equivalent to a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what may need repair or replacement.

WHEN DO I CALL IN THE HOME INSPECTOR?

A home inspector is typically contacted right after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed, and is often available within a few days. However, before you sign, be sure that there is an inspection clause in the contract, making your purchase obligation contingent upon the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

DO I HAVE TO BE THERE?

It is not necessary for you to be present for the inspection, but it is recommended. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions directly, as you learn about the condition of the home, how its systems work, and how to maintain it. You will also find the written report easier to understand if you've seen the property first-hand through the inspector's eyes.

WHAT IF THE REPORT REVEALS PROBLEMS?

No house is perfect. If Hendley Building Consultants identifies problems, it doesn't necessarily mean you shouldn't buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. A seller may adjust the purchase price or contract terms if major problems are found. If your budget is tight, or if you don't wish to become involved in future repair work, this information will be extremely important to you.

IF THE HOUSE PROVES TO BE IN GOOD CONDITION, DID I REALLY NEED AN INSPECTION?

Most definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with piece of mind as to the condition of the property and all its equipment and systems. You will also have learned many things about your new home from the report provided by Hendley Building Consultants, and will want to keep that information for future reference.