The Ottawa Home Inspector - Five Questions

Posted on April 7, 2008 
Filed Under Buying Your New Home, Moving to Ottawa, Valerie Zinger

Hire a home inspector before signing on the dotted line.

Who?  I think the only person who should not hire a home inspector when buying a house is - a home inspector.  Even if you are buying a brand new house and the company has indicated that it will walk you through the final inspection, it is to your benefit to have an objective third party, the home inspector.

What?  According to the Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors ”a qualified Registered Home Inspector will examine the home’s major systems including…

The home inspector will not make the buying decision for you.  An inspector will provide you with the information you need to help make that decision wisely.

When? Normally a house inspection is one of the conditions attached to your Agreement to Purchase.  In Ottawa, the normal period for these types of conditions is 5 days so….  Hop to it and call House Inspectors until you get one at a mutually convenient time during the five days.  The sooner you have the inspection report, the longer you have to decide if you want to continue with the purchase or to go back to the seller and ask for repairs to be made or the selling price to be adjusted.  In many many cases, there is nothing to negotiate.  The house is fine in its current condition.

What will it Cost?  Costs will vary.  Budget between $300 - $450 dollars with the low end being a townhome and the higher end being a large older single family dwelling.  Depending upon the size and age, prices vary. 

Why?  A professional registered home inspector will be able to give you an indication of the condition of your home - from the visible clues.  If this is going to be your first house, then the home inspector is going to be extra valuable to you as he or she will discuss home maintenance and repairs with you. 

You will benefit most from your inspection if you can be at the house during the inspection.  The home inspection is the perfect opportunity to become familiar with the house.  Do not hesitate to ask questions.  A good inspector will be glad to take the time to explain proper maintenance and operating procedures for many of the building components.

Invest in your decision.  Hire a Home Inspector.

Valerie Zinger ~ Ottawa, Canada ~ Ph 613-723-5300 ~ Email vzinger@royallepage.ca

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