HOME INSPECTORS - USE THE GOOD ONES

 

Home Inspectors Do Not Have a National Standard

The home inspection industry in Canada and the various provincial associations, have been working towards the development of a national code of occupational standards and hopes to have a certification program for inspectors developed and implemented within the next few years. Some provincial associations such as the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors (OAHI) offer certification designations and extensive training programs, but so far there is no standard across the country.  There are also a number of private inspection associations and organizations across the country, each with different inspection standards and levels of qualification. 

The Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors (CAHPI) is the driving force behind this national initiative along with support from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and Human Resources Development Canada.  CAHPI hopes a national certification program will elevate the level of professionalism in the home inspection industry, especially in the eyes of consumers and lead to regulation of the industry. Along with minimum standards to become a certified home inspector, the association is also developing a code of ethics and standards of performance for training home inspectors.

While this National standard for the Home Inspection industry is not yet in place, the following questions can help Buyers (or Sellers) to select a "qualified" inspector and ensure that the job is performed professionally, accurately, and completely.

  • How long have they been working as home inspectors?

  • What qualifications, training and education do they have?

  • Do they belong to an industry association?

  • Can they provide references?

  • What does the inspection include?

  • Is the inspection strictly visual?

  • Can the client accompany the inspector during the inspection?

  • Are there re-inspections if necessary, to inspect repairs?

  • Do they also do renovation work?

  • Are they working on behalf of a real estate professional?

  • Will a written report be provided and when?

  • Will they identify current problems as well as those that are imminent?

  • Do they have errors and omissions insurance?

  • Do they have any disclaimers or limitations as part of their contract?

 

Gary & Candi Grant ... in Touch with the Heartbeat of Real Estate©
A Client Testimonial - We are comfortably settled in our new home and about to leave for some time at the "compound". We wanted to thank you for all your hard work and diligence. The hustling of your "buns" paid off! When you get a chance, drop by. We will be home for you anytime.  (Rick & Karen)

 

Back to Home Page