Home Inspection: What Buyers Need to Know

A home inspection is one of the most important steps in buying a property. This guide explains what to expect and what to look for.

A professional inspection can reveal:

• Structural issues (foundation, roof)
• Electrical and plumbing problems
• HVAC system condition
• Pest or mold issues
• Safety hazards

A standard home inspection covers:

Exterior

• Roof condition and remaining lifespan
• Siding, soffit, and fascia
• Driveway and walkways
• Grading and drainage

Interior

• Foundation and basement
• Electrical panel and wiring
• Plumbing systems
• Heating and cooling systems
• Insulation and ventilation
• Windows and doors

Home inspections typically cost $400-$600 in Canada, depending on property size and location.

Foundation Issues

• Visible cracks (especially horizontal or stair-step)
• Water intrusion in basement
• Uneven or sloping floors

Roof Problems

• Missing or curling shingles
• Sagging roof deck
• Water stains on ceilings

Electrical Hazards

• Aluminum wiring (common in 1960s-70s homes)
• Outdated fuse panels
• Exposed wiring

Plumbing Concerns

• Galvanized or lead pipes
• Low water pressure
• Signs of leaks or water damage

Pre-Purchase Inspection

The most common type, conducted after an accepted offer (conditional on inspection).

Pre-Listing Inspection

Sellers commission this before listing to identify and address issues proactively.

New Construction Inspection

Even new homes can have defects. An inspection before the final walk-through is recommended.

Ontario

• $4,000 first-time buyer LTT rebate may help offset inspection costs

British Columbia

• Home warranty insurance required for new construction
• Rain screen issues common in coastal areas

Alberta

• Foundation cracks common due to clay soil and freeze-thaw cycles
• Poly-B plumbing (polybutylene) common in 1980s-90s homes

If issues are found, you can:

1. Negotiate repairs or price reduction
2. Walk away (if conditional)
3. Accept as-is and plan for future repairs

For a comprehensive property assessment, try our AI Health Check tool. For financial planning of potential repairs, use our Calculators.

This guide is for educational purposes only. Always hire a certified home inspector.