What is a Home Inspection?

Understanding Home Inspections: What They Are and What They Aren’t

A home inspection is a professional consulting service that evaluates the current condition of a home’s major systems through a visual examination of accessible features. Unlike cosmetic, code, or design assessments, a home inspection focuses on the home’s performance. While inspections are commonly conducted during real estate transactions, they can be performed at any time to ensure the home’s condition.

What a Home Inspection Is:

• In-Field Evaluation: A professional inspector provides an opinion on the performance of the readily accessible installed systems in the home at a specific point in time.
• Visual Examination: The inspection is primarily visual, focusing on what can be seen without invasive procedures.
• Identification of Issues: It aims to identify components that are significantly deficient, unsafe, or nearing the end of their useful life.
• Written Report: Findings are documented in a detailed written report.

What a Home Inspection Is Not:

• Not an Insurance Policy: It does not provide a guarantee or warranty on the home.
• Non-Invasive: The inspection is not invasive or destructive.
• Not for Hidden Defects: It is not intended to identify concealed defects.
• Not a Code Review: It does not involve reviewing building codes or design standards.
• No Future Predictions: It does not predict future performance or the life expectancy of the home’s components.
• Not an Environmental Review: The inspection is not an environmental review or energy audit.

Components Included in a Home Inspection:

• Roof: Examination of the roof’s condition and any visible issues.
• Structure: Assessment of the home’s structural integrity.
• Exterior: Inspection of the home’s exterior elements.
• Electrical System: Evaluation of the electrical systems and components.
• Heating and Air Conditioning: Inspection of the HVAC systems.
• Plumbing System: Review of the plumbing system for any visible issues.
• Insulation and Air/Vapour Barriers: Assessment of insulation and air/vapour barriers.
• Interior: Inspection of the home’s interior spaces.
• Ventilation Systems: Examination of mechanical and natural ventilation systems.

What’s Excluded from a Home Inspection:

• Cosmetics: Cosmetic issues are not covered in the inspection.
• Code Compliance: Building regulations, bylaws, and code compliance are not part of the inspection.
• Outbuildings: Structures like sheds and detached garages are excluded.
• Pools and Spas: Swimming pools and spas are not inspected.
• Specialty Systems: Systems such as telephone, cable TV, and alarm systems are not included.

A home inspection provides a valuable snapshot of a home’s condition, helping buyers, sellers, and homeowners make informed decisions. By understanding what is and isn’t included in a home inspection, you can better appreciate the service and its limitations, ensuring you have realistic expectations. For more information or to schedule a home inspection, contact IG Inspections today.