As a buyer, it s difficult to put emotions aside and be totally objective about the condition of the property you are interested in purchasing. Some repairs like leaky faucets and worn carpets can be quite noticeable. But few prospective homebuyers go into the attic or crawl space area under the foundation in search of structural flaws and maintenance problems. But it s not just homebuyers who enlist the services of a home inspector.
Sellers can use an inspector s report to show prospective buyers that they have nothing to hide.
Inspections can also highlight assets of the property, pointing out which major systems have recently been updated. But property inspections are subjective, and therefore, only as good as the person who performs them. Hiring a diligent and competent inspector can be challenging, particularly in the absence of provincial regulation over home inspectors. Consequently, it s important to do some homework before hiring a professional inspector. While membership does not provide regulatory protection, it is a good indication of professionalism since members are required to uphold high standards of performance and ethical conduct.