Home inspections can help prevent dealing with the unexpected

The Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario (IBAO) recently issued a notice about the importance of arranging a home inspection before a property sale is finalized.

For peace of mind and financial health, IBAO recommends having home inspections for both resale and newly built homes. New buyers will find that some lenders insist on a home inspection before closing the sale, especially for older homes.

IBAO reports a comprehensive home inspection will examine all areas of the structure, including the roof, attic, electrical, plumbing and heating systems, appliances, floors, interior and exterior walls, foundations, windows and doors. 

To carry out the inspection, always choose someone who can be trusted to be objective and independent and works only for the homebuyer, suggests Randy Carroll, chief executive officer of IBAO. A professional inspector will be trained to interpret issues such as watermarks on walls or ceilings, and cracks in ceiling, walls or foundations.

Before hiring an inspector, ask how long the person has been in business, his or her qualifications and whether or not he or she can provide at least three references.

Once the inspection is completed, an inspector will provide a detailed analysis of the property’s major systems and components that can reduce the chances of discovering unexpected and costly defects after moving in.