There are many things to consider when choosing your home inspector. Here is some information that will help you understand certain aspects of the inspection service and, we hope, help you make an informed choice for your inspector.
How long should an inspection take?
There are many factors that can influence the time required to perform a visual inspection of a building. Here is an estimate by building type:
- Condominium: 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on the condition of the property.
- Single-family home: Between 3 and 4 hours, including an exterior inspection (1 hour), basement (1 to 1.5 hours), main floor and attic (1 hour).
- Duplex: Similar to a single-family home, between 3 and 4 hours.
- Multiplex: Add 30 to 45 minutes per unit. For a fourplex, allow approximately 4 to 5 hours in total.
How much should an inspection cost?
Costs can vary depending on several factors such as the type of building, its age, and the distance to be traveled. Here is an average estimate:
- Condominium: Pre-purchase or pre-sale: $400-450 tax.
- Single-family home: Pre-purchase or pre-sale: $650-750 tax.
- Duplex: Pre-purchase or pre-sale: $700-750 tax.
- Multiplex: Add $50-100 per additional unit, starting at $700-750 tax. For example, a fourplex may cost between $900 and $1000 tax.
- Note: Prices may vary depending on building specifications or additional services requested.
What should I expect in the inspection report?
A complete inspection report includes several essential elements:
- General Information: Table of Contents, Introduction, Summary, Certificate, Conclusion.
- Categories: The report is organized by category for ease of understanding (e.g., Electrical, Exterior, Plumbing).
- Photos: Clear, in color, often annotated to highlight identified problems.
- Findings: Identification of the anomaly, associated risks, detailed recommendations.
- Note: The report must comply with the standards of practice established by a recognized association, such as the APCHQ.
What is a hidden defect?
A latent defect is a flaw or problem present in a property that is not visible during a normal inspection and that renders the property unfit for its intended use or significantly diminishes its usefulness. Here are the criteria considered under Quebec law:
- Definition of a defect: A flaw that reduces the use or value of the property.
- Seriousness of the defect: Must be serious enough to influence the purchase decision or justify a price reduction.
- Knowledge of the defect: The buyer must not have been informed of it by the seller.
- Latent nature: The defect must be unknown to the buyer at the time of the sale.
- Pre-existing nature of the defect: The problem must have existed before the sale, even if its effects become apparent later.
