A home inspection is an important part in the process of purchasing a property. A thorough home inspection should find potential future problems as well as current conditions that will require immediate repair. This information is invaluable when budgeting for the future and for negotiating a purchase price with the seller. Home inspectors in Ontario and Quebec (as well as a variety of other places) are not government regulated so it is up to you to choose wisely. One of the best ways to choose any kind of contractor is to get referrals from friends, family members and colleagues. They will more than likely give you honest opinions of their own experiences. The education and experience of your home inspector is obviously critical as well. There are a few schools that offer specific instruction in regard to home inspection and provide a solid foundation for their graduates. There are also several home inspection associations. Associations generally require inspectors to meet certain standards and codes of conduct to become and remain members. If your inspector has no education and no affiliation that could be cause for concern. Hands on experience with inspections and building construction is also invaluable. When "interviewing" an inspector ask them for their credentials, experience, what is covered in their inspection, cost and for a sample copy of the inspection report you would receive. With a little research you should be able to find a competent and qualified inspector in your area.
How to find reliable green home builders in your region and what questions to ask them. How to find a certified Green Builder? It’s not common to find a reliable ‘green home…
Choosing a building team in design and construction: weigh the options between a DIY home build, hiring a general contractor, purchasing a Pre-fab kit. 1. Hiring an architect…
In relation to Tiny Homes, the question we are asked most often is "Can I park a Tiny House on my property legally?" - Often fueled by needing an additional living unit for…
Advice from a green building project manager: how to develop a construction budget and stick to it. The following is an interview with Patrick Ranger, General Manager at…
A roof leak isn't really a roof leak if it’s leaking in on a sunny spring day as the snow finally starts to thaw. It's more likely a build up of frost and ice in your roof…
A blower door test identifies air leakage in a home; you can find and fix those air leaks for a more airtight, mold & rot-free and energy-efficient sustainable green home. What…
Solutions for preventing and eliminating some common pests and insects safely & humanely (if possible). Insects & Rodents, how to show them the door... Below is a list of some…
A home inspection is an important part in the process of purchasing a property. A thorough home inspection should find potential future problems as well as current conditions that will require immediate repair. This information is invaluable when budgeting for the future and for negotiating a purchase price with the seller. Home inspectors in Ontario and Quebec (as well as a variety of other places) are not government regulated so it is up to you to choose wisely. One of the best ways to choose any kind of contractor is to get referrals from friends, family members and colleagues. They will more than likely give you honest opinions of their own experiences. The education and experience of your home inspector is obviously critical as well. There are a few schools that offer specific instruction in regard to home inspection and provide a solid foundation for their graduates. There are also several home inspection associations. Associations generally require inspectors to meet certain standards and codes of conduct to become and remain members. If your inspector has no education and no affiliation that could be cause for concern. Hands on experience with inspections and building construction is also invaluable. When "interviewing" an inspector ask them for their credentials, experience, what is covered in their inspection, cost and for a sample copy of the inspection report you would receive. With a little research you should be able to find a competent and qualified inspector in your area.