The Complete Home Inspection

The Complete Home Inspection - What does it entail?

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Canadian Consumer Magazine - 1989 No. 3, p. 36

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We asked two experts - Paul Wilson of the Ottawa-Carleton Building Inspectors' Association and Ian Cdn.Consumer MagazineWoods, a chartered surveyor - to describe an appropriate home inspection for us.

Both agreed that inspectors should look for (among other things) any signs of foundation movement, moisture penetration, infestation by insects and rodents - and problems with the structural stability of the building (such as with the wood frame). The inspection should also focus on the quality and safety of roofing, plumbing, electrical and heating systems (including chimneys). It should also give you some idea of how much heat the house may lose in the winter, whether because of improper insulation or air leakage through deteriorating windows, doors and caulking.

While inspectors shouldn't be expected to take the house to pieces and examine every part, they should be willing to dig in and get their hands dirty, according to Mr. Wilson. "That means getting into the fireplace and checking the chimney for loose bricks and creosote buildup; inspecting the attic for adequate and proper insulation, and for signs of roofing and structural problems; checking electrical wiring and, where applicable, opening up parts of the heating system to determine its state of maintenance."

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While inspectors shouldn't be expected to take the house to pieces and examine every part, they should be willing to dig in and get their hands dirty, according to Mr. Wilson

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"Unless the roof is unsafe, the inspector should definitely go up there," said Mr. Woods. Some inspectors merely look at the roof with binoculars from street level, but this isn't likely to reveal such warning signs as loose shingles, uncaulked joints and loose or deteriorating masonry.

Make a point of asking the inspector what he or she doesn't look at. Some inspectors, for example, won't check insulation, or look for infestation by insects and rodents. Both of our experts said these exclusions are ridiculous since they affect the basic soundness of the building. Some inspectors won't evaluate the condition of storm windows, doors, shutters, awnings, locks and other security devices. You can likely check these yourself.

Understandably, most inspectors won't risk an accident by moving heavy articles such as furniture or debris that may limit access or visibility. It's up to you, the buyer, to insist that the homeowner make all areas of the property accessible to the inspector. The closet leading to the attic should be free of clutter; the view of walls shouldn't be obstructed. (Some sellers try to camouflage cracks and moisture sports on foundation walls by stacking furniture and other heavy objects against them)

Don't expect the inspector to comment on the property's market value. For this and other such information you should consult and experienced, unbiased real estate appraiser (someone who doesn't profit from the sale of the house).


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