FAQs
How do I choose a Home Inspector?
What should I ask a Home Inspector?
What is a home inspection?
Why do I need a Home Inspector?
What does a Home Inspector do?
How long does a home inspection take?
Should I attend the home inspection?
What type of report does RMC INSIGHT provide?
How much does a home inspection cost?
What additional information would be helpful
to assist the process?
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What
Does the Home Inspector Do?
The home inspector is a generalist who should
be well-versed in all the major components of a home. When you
are selecting a home inspector it is important to carefully screen
several home inspectors before you hire one
The home inspection process is a systematic inventory of all the
visible components of a particular house and its surroundings.
The
home inspector should:
- Climb
on the roof (if it is safe and will not damage the roof) and
check the condition of the roofing materials and their application,
the flashing materials around chimney, vents, skylights and
inspect the gutters.
- Enter
the crawl space and attic if there is sufficient access. The
inspector should check for signs of condensation or moisture
penetration, deterioration of wood components and signs of
insect infestation. Foundation walls should be examined for
cracking and signs of settlement - other signs of excessive
settlement should be sought in all other areas of the building.
- Thoroughly
inspect the electrical, plumbing and heating systems.
- Operate
doors and windows and their hardware.
- Inspect
interiors of closets and cabinets in kitchens and bathrooms,
and the operation of doors and hardware.
- Operate
garage doors, door bells, etc.
- Thoroughly
inspect exterior and interior components for any signs of deferred
maintenance.
- Examine
the site drainage, decks and patios.
Inspectors
should not be expected to:
- Look
inside walls or under carpets
- Move
personal belongings
- Enter
any area or perform any procedure which may damage the property
or its components or be dangerous to the inspector or other
persons.
Please
refer to the Canadian
Association of Home Inspectors STANDARDS OF PRACTICE and CODE
OF ETHICS for a complete description of their minimum requirements
as well as a list of limitations and exclusions. |