As of March 31, 2009, B.C. became the first Canadian province requiring home inspectors to be licensed by the Business Practices and Consumer Protection Authority (BPCPA). BPCPA also requires all home inspectors to carry errors and omission insurance, as well as general liability insurance in order to obtain a licence.
Roofing/Gutters
Siding/Windows/Doors
Foundation/Steps/Railings
Before licensing requirements became mandatory, anyone could have called themselves a home inspector and did.
To become licensed, home inspectors will need to meet the qualifications of either:
- The B.C. branch of the Canadian Assoc. of Home & Property Inspectors or;
- The Applied Science Technologists & Technicians of B.C. or;
- The Canadian National Association of Certified Home Inspectors or;
- The National Home Inspector Certification Council.
Although this is a step in the right direction, Buyers should not feel a false sense of security because errors can still be made when it comes to identifying major problems. Credentials and references still need to be checked out thoroughly before hiring.
The price for a property inspection usually depends on the size of your home. Look at the magnitude of the inspection they will perform – what will it encompass? If you are in attendance, the inspector will give you an on-site verbal report. A detailed written report will follow which will include repair and maintenance recommendations.
Perfect Homes Do Not Exist
Even newly constructed buildings can often have problems, so do not have expectations that the inspection report on the home you are about to buy will not show any defects. What you are looking for in a new or used home, are any major problems that are going to affect the future enjoyment of your home such as inferior construction materials and systems and aging components.
A home inspection is not like a municipal inspection to verify local code compliance nor is it an appraisal to determine market value. What the inspection should discover is the home’s physical condition and indicate what repairs and maintenance will be required in the short term.
It is highly recommended that buyers be present when the inspection takes place.