As you have probably heard many times, buying a home is the single most important investment that you will make in your life. With this very valuable statement in mind it is extremely important to have a qualified and experienced home inspector evaluate the home before you purchase it.

 
A professional home inspector reviews the operating systems and structure of a home of any age.  The home inspector will review the inspection report with you and will give you a written report to keep as a reference guide.  Typically the home inspector will comment on the condition of the roof, plumbing, electrical system, heating and cooling systems, foundation, attic and other significant structural factors and may outline costs of repair or replacement where necessary.

 
The Home Inspection will cost between $350.00 and $500.00 plus HST  depending on the size and features of the home. It will usually take between 2 to 3 hours to complete the home inspection.  It is very important that you are present for the entire inspection.  If you are not available, you should have a family member attend the inspection on your behalf.  The inspector should then be asked to email the report directly to you with a contact number to review any questions or concerns.  The home inspector would be more than happy to explain the report to you.

 
No home is the same;  therefore, there may be a need to also seek out the services of specialized individuals such as a septic tank inspector, swimming pool inspector, water quality inspection for a property with a well, electrical or plumbing inspectors, air quality inspectors where mold may be evident, etc.
 

Your Real Estate Sales Representative should advise you on how to include a home inspection as a condition of buying the property. Your offer would be conditional upon a professional home inspection being completed at the buyer’s sole and absolute discretion. If the inspection report indicates some big expenses, or problems that you do not want to deal with, your offer can be either terminated and your deposit returned or re-negotiated to help remedy the problems reported.

 
In conclusion it is important for me to mention that there are people who disclaim the validity of a home inspectors report and some feel that it is a waste of time. The home inspector should be licensed under the (CAHPI)  Canadian Association of Home Inspectors, he should carry liability insurance, be bonded,  and provide a high level of professionalism.  In my professional opinion, having a qualified home inspection is one of the most important aspects in the home buying process and should not be taken lightly.