What is a home inspection?

A home inspection is an extensive visual examination of the physical structure and systems related to the home. The intent of a professional inspection is to visually investigate and report, whether there are any major defects, health & safety hazards, or areas that may need further investigation by specialists.

The purchasing of a home could possibly be the largest investment that you may ever make. I strongly urge clients to be present during the inspection, to ask any questions, and also to learn all of the basic equipment functions that are related to the home. The knowledge that is gained from the inspection, will assist you in making a more informed and educated purchase decision.

A written report is provided to the client upon the completion of every inspection. This written report is incorporated within the Home Reference Book , (HRB), at no extra cost. The HRB is about 400 pages and includes all of the information that is needed, to better familiarize yourself with all the elements that make up a home. It is also easy to read, offers tips on how to maintain , repair, or upgrade, all of the different components within the home. The Life Cycles and Costs section of the HRB, lists components and systems that are used in constructing a home. It also provides their respective and approximate repair or replacement costs. This may be especially handy when estimating a future repair, renovation, or expansion.

Why do I need a home inspection?

A professional home inspection is needed to familiarize you with all of the components and systems within the home. An inspection will also identify any major defects, health & safety hazards, or areas which may need further investigation by a specialist. Your presence during the inspection will give you the opportunity to ask any questions that you may have, and be answered right there on the spot. The main reason for having a professional inspection is to " give you that peace of mind that you deserve " . It also enables you to make a more informed purchase decision.

What should I expect from the inspector?

A properly trained home inspector will review the home as a system, looking at how one component might affect the operability or lifespan of another. A home inspector will go through the property and perform a comprehensive visual inspection to assess the condition of the house and all of its systems. A home inspector will determine the components that are not performing properly as well as items that are beyond their useful life or are unsafe. Inspectors will also identify areas where repairs may be needed or where there may have been problems in the past. Inspections are intended to provide the client with a better understanding of property conditions, as observed at the time of the inspection.

A home inspection will usually take between two and three hours. A written report is given to the client upon the completion of every inspection. The written report is incorporated within the Home Reference Book , HRB . The inspector should take the time to go through the report with the client, explaining the items that have been consolidated within the report, and also answer any further questions. At this time, the inspector should also clarify all of the limitations of the inspection, to avoid any misunderstandings.

When should I have a home inspection?

You should have a home inspection if:
• You are planning to purchase or sell a home.
• You are planning a renovation.
• You are planning an expansion.
• Your builder is having their " walk-through " or " pre-delivery " inspection.
• Your New Home Warranty is about to expire.
• You are planning a maintenance budget prior to purchase. " Rows or Units ".

Why choose O'Driscoll Home Inspections?

• Years of experience within the Residential Construction Industry.
• Constant education of the latest developments within the sector.
• The client always comes first.
• Ongoing Professional Inspectors training and qualifications.
• Not affiliated with any construction or renovation companies.
• Post-inspection service and phone consultation.
• Bound by the OAHI 's code of ethics and standards of practice.
• Fully insured.