What Does the Home Inspection Process Look Like?
Whether you are buying, selling or maintaining your home, Quality Pro Home Inspections provides professional and quality service from the moment you call us. As a certified home inspector, I will walk through your home with you and teach you as much as you want to learn. To ensure a comprehensive inspection, we follow the Scope of Inspection for home inspectors established by the Home Inspectors Association of British Columbia.
After we walk through the home together, we will explain the general condition of the home and systems with you and your agent. We will talk through any major issues that need to be addressed sooner rather than later. We will also mention the items that you will want to keep an eye on for deferred maintenance. All of this will be detailed in our easy-to-read Spectora report, which will be delivered in HTML and/or PDF format. From that report, you will be able to see the items we discussed, with images for reference.
Structural Systems
We inspect the visible foundation walls, and structural components such as rafters, trusses, joists, sub-flooring, and framing. We inspect and report on indications of cracking, settling, and water infiltration into the foundation area. We report on any concerns that may, in the inspector’s opinion, present a structural compromise or safety concern.
Exterior
We inspect the grounds for proper grading away from the house, soil in contact with anything other than the foundation, vegetation in contact with or close to the structure that could cause damage. We inspect the siding, flashing, soffit, fascia, window frames, exterior doors, stairs/steps, decks/balconies, garages and other associated systems. Reporting on signs of potential water entry or other notable deficiencies or safety concerns.
Roofing
The roof is one of the most costly and important structures. We will inspect the roof, its structure, shingles/tiles, flashing, gutters, downspouts and more. We report on roof coverings and systems in need of repair or replacement.
Attic and Crawlspace
We inspect the crawlspace and attic looking for signs of moisture entry. We report on insulation, ventilation systems and crawlspace moisture/vapor barriers. We inspect the attic roof sheathing condition, roof penetrations, and structural members, and overall condition of the spaces.
Electrical Systems
We inspect both interior and exterior electrical systems including service drops, circuit breakers and other such systems, test receptacles, lights and switches. We report the absence of smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors AFCI and GFCI receptacles and report on the presence of solid conductor aluminum branch circuit wiring if readily visible.
Plumbing
We test plumbing fixtures, faucets, and inspect accessible water supply and distribution piping as well as drain, waste and vent systems. We report on signs of leakage and supply piping that has a record of poor performance, such as galvanized steel and polybutylene. We report on the water heaters age, inspect vents, flues, and any sump pumps or fuel storage and distribution systems. We report on the location of the main water shut off valve.
Doors, Windows & Interior
We operate doors and windows, inspect cabinets and countertops, walls, floors, ceilings, stairs and railings. We inspect the condition of all interior spaces. We report on the absence or ineffectiveness of guards and handrails or other potential injury hazards.
Appliances
We courtesy check most major appliances for basic operation such as dishwashers, ranges, refrigerators, washer and dryers and report on observable leaks or other notable deficiencies.
Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Systems
We operate the heating and cooling systems(weather providing). We inspect readily accessible ducts, filters, vent systems, chimneys, fireplaces and flues. We report as in need of repair, systems which do not operate or have other notable deficiencies. We report the age of the HVAC system.
SAFETY
We identify safety concerns that may be found in the above systems.