Frequently Asked Questions:

What is a home inspection?

A home inspection is a visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation. Our inspections are performed according to the Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics of our professional association, The Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors (www.cahpi.bc.ca). The Association is universally recognized and accepted by many professional and governmental bodies.

Why do I need an inspection?

Buyers: To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you’ll want to learn as much as you can about a newly constructed or existing house before you buy it. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence.

Owners: If you already are a homeowner, a home inspection can identify problems and suggest preventive measures that might help you avoid costly future repairs.

Vendors: If you are planning to sell your home, a home inspection can give you the opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition and minimize the need for negotiations once a buyer makes an offer subject to their own inspection.

What does a home inspection include?

Please access the link above and refer to the Standards of Practice for a detailed overview of the inspection process. Generally an inspection includes a home’s heating system; interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and structural components. Click here for sample report pages.

What are your qualifications?

We are professional Registered Inspectors. Registered Inspectors meet rigorous requirements, including passing comprehensive written technical exams and performing a minimum of 250 fee-paid inspections conducted in accordance with the Standards of Practice of the Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors. Mandatory continuing education keeps members current with the latest technology, materials and professional skills. Please see the CAHPI website (www.cahpi.bc.ca) for details on becoming a Registered Home Inspector.

The B.C. Government has recently instituted regulations requiring that all home inspectors hold licenses through the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Authority of B.C.  Our inspectors meet all BPCPA's licensing requirements and carry current license identification.  

Does your company belong to the Better Business Bureau?

Yes. We are current members of the BBB and are proud to maintain an A+ rating with the Bureau.

How far ahead do we need to book?

Most times we can accommodate clients within a day or two, although there are times we're booked ahead for four or five days, so it is best to give us as much notice as possible.

How long does an inspection take?

An average size home (from 1000 to 2000 sq. ft.) takes approximately 2 -2 ½ hours to inspect plus ½ - 1 hour to review the report with the inspector. A condo inspection takes approximately 1 – 1 ½ hours. We maintain flexible hours to accommodate clients.

May we attend the inspection?

Yes. Our clients are encouraged to attend inspections. Time onsite with inspectors provides buyers with excellent opportunities to learn more about their prospective homes. Please be sure your agent and/or the vendor are aware that you would like to attend the inspection. Most clients choose to attend only at the end of the inspection, for the ‘walk-thru’, which includes a detailed review of the completed inspection report and an opportunity to ask questions of the inspector. For those who cannot attend, e-mailed reports and telephone consults cover all information that would normally be reviewed onsite.

Can homes ‘pass’ or ‘fail’ an inspection?

No. A professional home inspection evaluates the current condition of a house. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value, and it is not a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance. A home inspector will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate components and systems which may need repair or replacement.

What if the inspection uncovers problems?

No house is perfect and discovering problems doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. If major problems are found, a seller may agree to make repairs.

How much do inspections cost?

Cost should not be considered a factor in whether or not to get a home inspection. If no defects are uncovered during the inspection, you will have invested in valuable maintenance information and a good overall picture of the condition of your home and location of components. Whether a house is in obvious need of repair, new, or appears to be in excellent condition, an inspection can uncover defects unnoticed by vendors or buyers. The lowest priced inspection is not necessarily a bargain. Check inspector’s qualifications and experience. Members’ qualifications can be verified with CAHPI (www.cahpi.bc.ca).

Our base fee for an average size house is $395.00 + $19.75 GST.

Larger homes or properties outside our base service area may cost an additional $25.00 or more.

Our base fee for an average size condo is $300.00 + $15.00 GST.

Larger condos or properties outside our base service area may cost an additional $25.00 or more.

Which forms of payment do you accept?

We accept personal cheques, cash, Visa and Mastercard. The inspectors accept payment onsite at the end of your inspection.

When do we get the report?

Your inspection report is prepared onsite, e-mailed to our office for editing, and sent to you within 24 hours. Most reports are e-mailed late in the evening on the day of your inspection.  If you have questions after the inspection, the inspector will be happy to answer them on the phone.

If you have further questions, please call us at 250-881-1086 or e-mail (admin@inspectionsvictoria.com).