Factors to Consider During a Home Inspection

Published on 14 September 2022 in Blog Ottawa by Jenn Chamberlain

Last updated on April 13th, 2023 at 03:38 pm

The mere thought of purchasing a home, whether it’s your first or your fourth, can be overwhelmingly exciting. That said, when the time comes for a home inspection, it’s crucial that you don’t skip or overlook any of the important details. Otherwise, you may wind up having to pay a pretty penny to address underlying issues, which can be frustrating if you thought that you were getting a good deal on the property in the first place! To aid you in your home search as a buyer, and to help you get the most out of your home inspection, here are several key areas of focus to bear in mind:

What Condition is the Foundation in?

Stone foundations are beautiful and, if maintained well, can last for many decades. However, they’re also susceptible to cracks and separation, especially during those frigid Canadian winters we know so well. Other types of foundations come with risks and conditional issues, so be sure to have your home inspector check this important part of the property. After all, foundation issues can lead to structural problems, expensive repairs, and even wasted heating and cooling (the latter resulting in higher energy bills).

Is the Electrical Work Compliant and Safe?

Outdated or questionable wiring is no fun to deal with, especially if outlets aren’t grounded. This can result in a cat-and-mouse game of determining where the fault is located. Of course, there’s also the chance that you may need to have new wiring installed, which isn’t cheap. Your home inspection will reveal whether electrical issues would need to be resolved if you purchase the property.

What Kind of Shape is the Roof in?

Roofs tend to last for a very long time with proper care and maintenance, but there are red flags to watch out for that may indicate a need for a serious repair or even a replacement. Sagging, missing shingles, moisture buildup in the attic or leaks, damage around the chimney or its flashing, and eavestrough-related problems are some of the issues that can be spotted with the help of a home inspection.

Are there Plumbing Issues?

Blockages, low flow, leaks, and other plumbing issues are no fun to deal with, and an experienced home inspector should be able to spot them when visiting the property in question. Like electrical work, plumbing can require ripping out many components across a large area of square footage within the home, which can mean a considerable added expense as well as the need to renovate affected spaces.

Is the HVAC System Reliable and Efficient?

When purchasing a home, it’s good to find one with at least a relatively recent heating and cooling setup installed. Newer furnaces will require less maintenance, and you’ll get many more years out of them without running into issues. You might also be interested in a central air system rather than blocking windows with air conditioners. With that said, what kind of shape is the HVAC system in? Is it reliable and easy on energy bills, or is it outdated and inefficient?

Air Quality is Essential!

Mold, dry conditions that allow airborne particles to travel and dust to accumulate quickly, and other air quality issues can make actually living in a home less of a joy. Your home inspector should check the indoor relative humidity (35% to 40% is best for health and comfort, and above 60% is too damp) along with gas readings for carbon dioxide, radon, and carbon monoxide. These are just some of the key areas that a home inspector can address, helping you make a more informed decision about a potential property purchase with peace of mind! For more information or assistance, reach out to us today for a free home buyer’s guide. We’re happy to help!