ecently, the popular Canadian television show, W5, aired a controversial program describing the potential downfalls of hiring an unqualified home inspector. Before you employ the services of a home inspector, make sure you know what you're getting - or not. By knowing what to look for, a good inspection will help make your home-buying experience more exciting and pleasant by giving you the confidence that your decision is a sound one.

The home inspection experience should be a positive one, providing you with the confidence that your investment is secure.

As more and more home owners include a home inspector as part of their purchasing team, there is a corresponding increase in the number of people providing this service. But all are not created equal. It is important to do your research first.

There are many ways by which you may hear of a home inspector. Your real estate agent may suggest one or a number of inspectors. Other names may come to you from your friends, relatives or coworkers. At Cornerstone, most of our business comes from referrals. What often surprises us however, is how many people do not further their research by asking about our background or credentials.

Currently, the home inspection industry in Ontario is largely unregulated and researching the credentials of a potential inspector can be challenging. However, there is specific information that you need to know. For instance, there are a number of home inspection associations in Ontario who have their own standards of practice and code of ethics. Membership in one of these associations usually means that the inspector carries errors and omissions insurance. This insurance may protect you against a situation where a negligent inspector misses a potential problem which develops into a costly and very real repair.

It is also a good idea to ask about an inspector's training and background. Because the industry is largely unregulated, it is possible to call yourself a home inspector without being properly certified and/or registered. Also, ask what will happen during the inspection: Will you be allowed on the inspection? What type of report is provided and when will it be available? Although exact estimates are not given, it is realistic to expect some estimation of costs and the priority in which repairs should be done. It is also valuable to have a home inspector who is available for follow-up after you move in.

The home inspection experience should be a positive one, arming you with the information you need to negotiate or providing you with the confidence that you have made a sound investment.

Best of luck in your house-hunting ventures!

Mark Wildman
Cornerstone Inspections