Why Home Inspections Matter
A thorough home inspection protects you from costly surprises and informs your purchase decision. In Toronto's competitive market, understanding inspection findings—and knowing when to walk away—can save you tens of thousands of dollars.
Choosing Your Home Inspector
Qualifications to Look For
- Registered Home Inspector (RHI) designation
- Errors and omissions insurance
- Minimum 5 years experience
- Familiarity with Toronto housing stock
- Clear, detailed reporting
Questions to Ask
- How long does the inspection take?
- Can I attend the inspection?
- What's included in the written report?
- Do you inspect specific systems (HVAC, electrical)?
- What's your turnaround time for the report?
What Inspectors Examine
Structural Components
- Foundation: Cracks, water intrusion, settling
- Framing: Structural integrity, modifications
- Roof structure: Sagging, truss damage
- Basement/crawlspace: Moisture, support
Exterior
- Roof covering: Shingle condition, age, repairs
- Siding: Damage, rot, maintenance needs
- Windows/doors: Seals, operation, age
- Grading: Water drainage away from foundation
- Driveway/walkways: Condition, safety
Plumbing System
- Pipes: Material, condition, age
- Water heater: Type, age, capacity
- Fixtures: Function, leaks
- Drainage: Flow, blockages
- Water pressure: Adequate supply
Electrical System
- Panel: Capacity, condition, safety
- Wiring: Type, condition, code compliance
- Outlets/switches: Function, grounding
- GFCI protection: Bathrooms, kitchen, exterior
HVAC System
- Furnace: Age, condition, efficiency
- Air conditioning: Function, age
- Ductwork: Condition, insulation
- Thermostat: Operation, type
Toronto-Specific Concerns
Common Issues in Older Homes
Toronto has many homes built before 1950:
- Knob-and-tube wiring: Insurance issues, fire risk
- Galvanized pipes: Corrosion, water pressure
- Vermiculite insulation: Possible asbestos
- Lead paint: Health hazard in pre-1978 homes
- Oil tanks: Buried tanks, contamination
Condo-Specific Inspections
Condo inspections focus on:
- HVAC systems within unit
- Plumbing fixtures and visible connections
- Electrical panel and outlets
- Windows, doors, balcony
- Signs of moisture or leaks
Note: Building systems are covered by reserve fund and status certificate review.
Red Flags to Watch
Major Concerns
- Foundation cracks: Horizontal or step cracks
- Water infiltration: Active leaks, mold growth
- Roof issues: Multiple layers, active leaks
- Electrical hazards: DIY work, obsolete systems
- HVAC failure: No heat/cooling, carbon monoxide
Expensive Repairs
Budget estimates for major repairs:
- Foundation repair: $10,000 - $50,000+
- Roof replacement: $8,000 - $25,000
- Electrical upgrade: $8,000 - $20,000
- Furnace replacement: $4,000 - $8,000
- Plumbing re-pipe: $5,000 - $15,000
Using Inspection Findings
Negotiation Strategies
After receiving the report:
- Separate major issues from minor ones
- Get repair quotes for significant items
- Prioritize safety and structural concerns
- Consider whether seller will negotiate
Approaches
- Price reduction: Best for major issues
- Repair credits: Money at closing
- Seller repairs: Before closing (less desirable)
- Accept as-is: If priced accordingly
When to Walk Away
Consider terminating if:
- Structural issues exceed budget
- Multiple major systems need replacement
- Seller refuses reasonable negotiation
- Health hazards discovered (mold, asbestos)
- Repair costs exceed property value increase
The inspection condition exists to protect you. Use it wisely.
Need a trusted home inspector recommendation? Contact us for referrals to qualified professionals.
