The Inspection Process

Contract

The first step in any inspection is to read and agree on the contract provided by DoubleCheck Inspections Inc., provided through the Property Inspection Network Inc. Click here to see a sample contract in PDF format. It's also important that you review the Standards of Practice for a pre-purchase visual home inspection to become more familar with the inspection process.

Once you have reviewed and signed the contract, the inspection process can start. If you have questions before, during or after the inspection, please contact your inspector. Payment is required at the end of the inspection. You may pay by cheque or cash only.

Preparing for the Inspection

Your inspector will usually be early for the inspection, however unforeseen circumstances may cause delays. Please make sure that the inspector has a telephone number in advance to contact you should such a situation arise. Set aside time to attend the entire inspection.

Come prepared with pen and paper to take notes, as some details beyond the scope of the inspection may not be recorded in the inspection report. Prepare a list of questions. Wear comfortable clothing and footwear, including appropriate outdoor clothing.

The Inspection Process

Most inspection takes two to three hours, depending upon the size of the property, the defects found and the time taken for consulting and discussion during the inspection process and at the end.

Upon arrival the inspector will introduce himself and give you an overall review of the inspection process. We suggest that you accompany the inspector throughout the inspection/consultation process so that you see the defects discovered. However, you will not be allowed to go on the roof or up the inspector’s ladder, as you are not covered under his insurance.

If you choose to not go outdoors, or are not able to be with the inspector all the time, he can summarize the different portions of the inspection with you as they are recorded in the inspection report.

Discussion is an essential part of the inspection process. Please feel free to ask questions at any time – either during or after the inspection. This will assist you in subsequent matters relating to the property – whether you are buying, selling or renovating. Remember: This is your one time in with the inspector at this home. Don’t be shy about asking questions and take many notes!

Inspect first! To book a DCI inspection online click here; email us at info@doublecheckinspections.ca,
or call 1-613-322-3682.

Central Mortgage and Housing Canada (CMHC) www.cmhc.ca has a wealth of information on home ownership, some of which is noted below. CMHC is located at 800 Montreal Road in Ottawa. You may wish to e-mail or contact them by: telephone at 1-800-688-2642, or by fax at 1-800-245-9274

Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) also has useful information, some of which is listed following.

• Dwellings: Energy Conservation
• Consumers Guide to Buying Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors
• Dwellings: Insulation
• Insulation: Heat
• Keeping The Heat In