Home Inspection
No House is Perfect
Not even brand new Calgary homes are flawless. But that doesn't mean you should give up the search for your dream home. It does mean that when you find the right house, you need to go one step further and find out what problems could arise in the future. Buying a house is one of the biggest investments most people will ever make, so it makes good sense to have it checked out by a certified professional. That is when you should call on the services of a qualified Integra home inspector.
What is a Calgary Home Inspection?
In its simplest terms, a home inspection is a technical analysis of the major systems of a house. These include a checklist of the roofing, exterior, structure, electrical, heating, cooling, insulation, plumbing and the interior.
Why Have a Home Inspection Performed?
The unknown can be a source of anxiety for any home buyer. A certified home inspection is for Calgary relocations and buyers who want to know the true condition of the house with a due diligence check. After deciding that a home is suitable in terms of location, size, interior layout and other lifestyle factors, it is also important to learn about the mechanical features.
Some of the items covered during an inspection are:
- What (if any) structural work is necessary to ensure safety?
- How long before the roof will need replacement?
- Is the chimney safe and functional?
- How long before the furnace / air conditioner will need replacement?
- Is the electrical panel properly wired? Any special safety concerns?
- Are the insulation levels adequate?
- Is the fireplace safe?
- Basement leakage – causes and cures
A properly written home inspection report will identify the condition, corrective action (provide, repair, monitor), where to find it in the home and the time frame in which the action should take place. We will also provide guidelines for repair costs.
How Long Does it Take?
A typical home inspection should take 2.5 to 3 hours to complete, start to finish. This can vary a little bit given the current condition of the home, size and accessibility of mechanical systems.
Can I Follow the Inspector and Ask Questions as We Go?
Absolutely. It is important for you to understand how the house works from a technical standpoint. By attending the home inspection, you are able to see first-hand the conditions that will be described in the home inspection report. It also allows the home inspector to show you what to do in case of emergency regarding the electrical, plumbing and furnace. If you have any particular concerns about the property, this is the time to get answers. A good Calgary home inspector will encourage questions and take the time to explain things off the checklist so that you can be more comfortable with your decision to purchase the home. Some inspectors will also show you how to perform basic maintenance on the furnace, humidifier, water heater, etc. For that reason alone, it's important that you intend the inspection.
How Much Lead Time is Required to Book an Inspection?
You should allow yourself at least 72 hours to be sure of arranging a time that works for everyone involved, but certainly it is not uncommon to get next-day appointments.
The purchase of a home in Calgary is one of the most exciting and important decisions you'll make and you can't afford to gamble on the outcome. So, before you buy your next house, let an Integra Calgary Home Inspector examine it first.
Thanks so much for meeting with us yesterday! You were so amazing at answering our "first time home owner" questions. I would recommend you to any of my friends! Thanks for being so friendly and approachable, and so knowledgeable! You’ve made our home buying experience so much more relaxing, peaceful and FUN!
