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What is a home inspection?A home inspection is a detailed, non-invasive examination of a property’s physical structure and major systems. At Leppard Inspections, we conduct a comprehensive assessment to provide a full understanding of the condition of your home. This includes evaluating the foundation for any signs of settlement, cracks, or water penetration, as well as assessing the roof for the condition of shingles, flashing, gutters, and overall drainage. We also examine the exterior, looking for any damage to walls, windows, doors, and other elements that may cause future issues. The plumbing system is thoroughly tested to ensure proper water pressure, drainage, and to check for leaks or corrosion in pipes. The electrical system is inspected to verify that the wiring, outlets, panels, and circuits are safe. In addition, we evaluate the heating and cooling systems to confirm that the furnace, air conditioning, and ventilation are operating safely and efficiently. Inside the home, we inspect the walls, ceilings, floors, stairs, and railings to ensure structural integrity and to identify any safety concerns. The attic is also checked for proper ventilation, insulation effectiveness, and any moisture issues that may exist. We don’t overlook the basement or crawl spaces, either, examining them for water damage, structural concerns, organic growth, or signs of pests. Ultimately, the goal of a home inspection is to uncover potential problems, whether they are minor maintenance items or significant defects that could affect the safety, value, or livability of the home. Following the inspection, we provide a detailed report with photos and descriptions of any issues, along with recommendations for repairs or further evaluations. Your report will include information needed for your home insurance, will identify your home’s shut off locations, and will offer maintenance advice.
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Why should I get a home inspection?A home inspection helps you make an informed decision by revealing any hidden issues with a property, such as structural problems, electrical faults, or plumbing leaks. For buyers, it offers peace of mind and can be used to negotiate repairs or price reductions with the seller. For sellers, a pre-listing inspection helps identify and fix issues, making the home more attractive to buyers. Ultimately, it protects your investment and ensures you're fully aware of the home's condition before making a commitment. Beyond this, a home inspection will also teach you valuable information about your property, and how to maintain it.
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What does a home inspection include? What are you looking at?A home inspection covers the major systems and components of a property. This includes evaluating the foundation, roof, exterior, and structure for any visible damage or defects. We also check electrical systems, plumbing, heating and cooling systems, and ventilation to ensure everything is functioning properly and safely. Inside, we inspect walls, ceilings, floors, and doors for structural issues, and we look at attics, basements, and crawl spaces for moisture, insulation, and ventilation problems. The goal is to give you a clear understanding of the home's overall condition.
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How much does a home inspection cost in Ontario?The cost of a home inspection in Ontario typically starts around $500 and can increase depending on the size, age, and complexity of the property. Larger homes or properties with additional structures may have higher fees. For a personalized quote based on your specific needs, please contact Leppard Inspections directly.
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How long does a home inspection take?A typical home inspection takes about 2 to 4 hours, depending on the size and condition of the property. Larger or older homes may take longer, while smaller homes may be quicker. We recommend attending the inspection to ask questions and get a better understanding of the property.
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When should I schedule a home inspection?Ideally, after your offer has been accepted but before finalizing the purchase. You can have an inspection done at any time though! Some clients were not able to have a home inspection done before purchasing their home to make a more competitive offer, and have opted to do a home inspection after the fact to better understand their property. Others have had a home inspection done before listing their home for sale to make their listing more attractive to buyers.
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Are home inspections mandatory in Ontario?Home inspections are not mandatory in Ontario, but they are highly recommended. While not required by law, a home inspection can help you avoid costly surprises by identifying potential issues before you buy or sell a property. It’s a valuable tool for making informed decisions and protecting your investment.
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Do Condos need an inspection?Yes, condos should be inspected just like single-family homes. An inspection can reveal potential issues with the unit’s structure, electrical systems, plumbing, and appliances. While the condo association typically handles common areas and building systems, it's important to ensure that the individual unit is in good condition before buying.
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Do new homes need inspections?Yes, new homes should definitely be inspected. While newly built homes are expected to meet current building codes and standards, construction errors or oversights can still occur. An inspection helps ensure that everything is in good working order, identifies any issues with workmanship or materials, and verifies that all systems, such as electrical, plumbing, and HVAC, are functioning correctly. It provides peace of mind and ensures that your new home is safe and ready for you to move in. Further to this, new homes should be covered under the Tarion warranty. A home inspection gives you the opportunity to identify issues and have them repaired while your home is still covered under the warranty.
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How does an inspection differ for older homes versus newer homes?Inspections for older homes focus on issues like outdated systems and structural wear. Older homes may have more wear and tear and require updates. Newer home inspections typically check for construction quality, system functionality, and minor defects. While newer homes are less likely to have major issues, inspections still ensure everything is up to standard. They also provide an opportunity to identify issues and have them repaired while your home is still covered under the Tarion warranty.
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What can you not see in a home inspection?A home inspection doesn’t cover hidden or inaccessible areas like inside walls, behind finished surfaces, or underground. We also can’t detect issues that require specialized equipment, such as certain types of organic growth, pest infestations, or issues with buried utilities. Weather conditions can also affect the inspection; for example, snow or heavy rain might obscure roof conditions or exterior damage. Additionally, an inspection doesn’t include future maintenance needs or aesthetic concerns.
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How does the season affect a home inspection in terms of what you can and cannot inspect?Seasonal conditions can impact a home inspection in several ways. During wet weather conditions, it can be easier to identify active leaks. In winter, snow and ice may cover the roof and exterior, making it difficult to assess these areas thoroughly. Cold temperatures can affect the functionality of heating systems and expose issues like frozen pipes. In summer, high temperatures may reveal problems with cooling systems, but extreme heat can also affect certain components. Weather conditions can limit access to some areas and affect the visibility of potential issues, so inspections may need to be supplemented with follow-up checks.
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What is a pre-listing inspection?A pre-listing inspection is conducted before a home is put on the market. It helps sellers identify and address potential issues in advance, making the property more attractive to buyers and potentially preventing last-minute surprises during the sale. This proactive approach can also help set a fair price and build trust with potential buyers by demonstrating transparency about the home's condition.
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What makes Leppard Inspections different?First and foremost, I am certified and fully insured. While there is no licensing for home inspectors in Ontario, (meaning anyone can call themselves a home inspector) I am a member of the world’s leading organization of certified inspectors, the International Association of Certified Home inspectors (InterNACHI®.) I’m a Certified Professional Inspector CPI®, and I take a minimum of 24 hours of continuing education every year to maintain my certification as a home inspector. In addition to this, I am also certified in numerous other types of inspections as well. You can view each of these here. My previous work experience also helps make me stand out among inspectors. I’ve worked in many different trades giving me experience and knowledge on all of the components of your home. I’ve worked with electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, concrete finishers, drywallers, flooring installers, roofers, framers, and firefighters. Even jobs where I wasn’t working in trades, I’ve always landed in inspection. I didn’t always know it, but all of my experience in life has lead me to home inspections. I’m great at spotting things that most people wouldn’t notice. Most importantly, I do this because I love it and I genuinely care. This isn’t just a job for me. My goal is to provide you with exceptional service and the right information you need in order to make the best decision for you. This may be the most important decision and biggest investment that you'll ever make. And I'm honoured to help you at this moment. I will show you how your home works, how to maintain it, and how to save home energy. I will show you everything that I inspect, and everything that you should know about the home or building. I will provide you with an inspection report that is easy-to-read and clear-to-understand. It will have a short summary report included. I will provide you with a home maintenance book, which will include information on what a house problem looks like before it becomes a major defect. It will explain how to make home repairs yourself. It will also provide you with a home maintenance checklist - things to do at each season of the year. I will utilize an infrared camera, which allows me to see things that you can't see. I will also use other specialized tools such as a moisture meter, GFCI and AFCI tester, crawlspace gear, and a drone. I will invite you to join my network of clients who are my neighbours. And I make myself available to my clients at anytime, particularly when they experience a problem with their house. I'll be sharing information each month in my newsletter with important home and maintenance information. Welcome to the neighbourhood.
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How do I choose a home inspector?When choosing a home inspector, look for someone with proper certification, experience, and positive reviews. Ensure they are insured in your area, and check that their inspection process is thorough and detailed. It’s also helpful to ask for sample reports to gauge the quality and clarity of their findings. Personal referrals and recommendations can also guide you to a reputable inspector.
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How can I verify the inspector’s credentials?To verify an inspector’s credentials, check if they are certified and insured. Leppard Inspections is certified through the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI). You can find our listing on their website here.
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Can I get a second opinion if I’m not satisfied with the inspection?Yes, you can get a second opinion if you’re not satisfied with the inspection. It’s a good idea to consult another certified home inspector for a fresh perspective or additional insights. If you have concerns about the original inspection, seeking a second opinion can provide more clarity and help ensure you make informed decisions about the property.
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Is there a warranty on the home inspection?Typically, home inspections do not come with a warranty. The inspection provides a snapshot of the property’s condition at the time of the visit but does not guarantee that issues won’t arise in the future. Some inspectors may offer limited guarantees or additional services, so it’s important to inquire about any such options and understand their terms before scheduling your inspection. Leppard Inspections is backed by InterNACHI’s $25,000 Honour Guarantee. You can read more about this guarantee here.
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What is not covered in a home inspection or “extra”?A standard home inspection does not include specialized testing for certain types of organic growth, pests, or issues with buried utilities. Inspections typically don’t address future maintenance needs or cosmetic concerns. Some testing or evaluations, if needed, are a separate service and would cost extra such as: Pool/spa inspections Wells and septic inspections Radon testing Organic growth testing/samples (for example, to test for mold.) WETT inspections for wood burning stoves/fireplaces Sewer scopes If there are services you’re interested in, please let us know and we can either quote you a price for us to perform or connect you with the appropriate professional. Additionally, we will notify you in your home inspection report if any of these services are necessary or recommended.
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What happens after the home inspection?After the home inspection, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining the findings, including any issues discovered and recommendations for repairs or further evaluations. For buyers, this information can be used to negotiate repairs or adjustments with the seller. For sellers, addressing issues before listing can enhance the property’s appeal. It’s important to review the report carefully and consult with professionals if needed to understand the implications and next steps.
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Will a home inspection uncover every problem?A home inspection aims to identify visible and accessible issues but may not uncover every single problem. It doesn’t include hidden areas like inside walls or underground, and some issues may require specialized equipment or further investigation. While a thorough inspection provides valuable insights into a property’s condition, it’s not a guarantee that all potential problems will be detected.
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What tools do home inspectors use?Home inspectors use a variety of tools to assess a property, including a flashlight for inspecting dark areas, a moisture meter to detect dampness in walls and floors, a thermal imaging camera to identify heat loss or hidden issues, and a ladder to access roofs and high areas. They also use standard tools like screwdrivers, pliers, and various testers for checking electrical systems. These tools help ensure a thorough and accurate inspection.
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What are some major "red flags" that you would highlight for a potential buyer versus examples of items that are normal wear and tear in a home that's been lived in?“Red flags” on a property can be subjective. If you’re buying a newly built home and anticipating receiving the keys to a “perfect” property, you may be upset about any defects found. On the flip side, if you’re buying a “fixer upper” and anticipating a couple months of renovations before moving in, many defects may not be upsetting. In general, your inspection report will flag items as being a major defect such as structural issues like large cracks in the foundation, sagging floors, or noticeable settling. Electrical concerns, like outdated wiring, frequent circuit breaker trips, or exposed wires, are also critical. Plumbing issues that might raise alarms include leaks, corrosion, or extensive water damage around key areas such as sinks and toilets. Roof damage, such as missing shingles, substantial wear, or evidence of leaks, and signs of mold or mildew, such as visible growth or musty odors, are also significant and warrant attention. On the other hand, normal wear and tear in a home that’s been lived in includes minor cosmetic issues, such as scratches on walls, worn-out carpets, or scuffs on floors. Aging appliances might be slightly outdated but still functional, and paint fading is a common result of exposure to sunlight and everyday use. Small settling cracks in walls or ceilings are generally not cause for concern if they don’t indicate serious structural problems. Your inspection report will categorize all issues into 3 categories to help you prioritize and know what is important to focus on: Major defects. These will be your top priority to focus on, and include important items such as safety concerns or structural defects. Minor defects. These problems are not as urgent, but you should still consider them to ensure they don’t escalate into larger issues or a major defect. Maintenance items. These are not typically actual problems with the property, but just suggestions or advice to help you maintain the property to the best of your ability. Proper home maintenance can help prevent future defects or repairs, and extend the life of your home’s systems/components
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How should I prioritize problems found in my home inspection report?Your report from Leppard Inspections will categorize any defects found into a few categories: Major defects. These will be your top priority to focus on, and include important items such as safety concerns or structural defects. Minor defects. These problems are not as urgent, but you should still consider them to ensure they don’t escalate into larger issues or a major defect. Maintenance items. These are not typically actual problems with the property, but just suggestions or advice to help you maintain the property to the best of your ability. Proper home maintenance can help prevent future defects or repairs, and extend the life of your home’s systems/components.
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Can a home fail an inspection?A home cannot "fail" an inspection, as inspections are not pass/fail evaluations. Instead, the inspector provides a report detailing the property’s condition and any issues found. The findings can help you make informed decisions about repairs, negotiations, or whether to proceed with the purchase. It’s an opportunity to address concerns rather than a formal pass/fail judgment.
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What should I look for in the inspection report?In the inspection report, focus on identifying major issues such as structural problems, electrical or plumbing concerns, and roof damage. Pay attention to the condition of essential systems like heating, cooling, and insulation. Look for notes on safety hazards, code violations, and areas needing immediate repair or further investigation. Understanding these aspects will help you assess the property’s overall condition and make informed decisions. Overall, does the information in this report line up with your expectations for the property? Are there any major/costly repairs needed and how does this look with your current financial situation?
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What should I ask my home inspector?When meeting with your home inspector, ask about any major issues they found and their significance. Inquire about the condition and functionality of key systems, such as electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. Ask for clarification on any terms or findings in the report that you don’t understand. Request advice on any immediate repairs or maintenance needs and their estimated costs. Finally, ask if there are areas of the home that may require further evaluation by specialists. Are there any other inspections or testing your inspector recommends such as a sewer scope, or samples for potential mold?
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How can I prepare for a home inspection?To prepare for a home inspection, ensure that all areas of the property are accessible, including the attic, basement, and utility rooms. Remove any items blocking access to important systems like the furnace, water heater, or electrical panel. Ensure that all the utilities are on. If you’re the seller, consider addressing minor repairs or maintenance issues beforehand to facilitate a smoother inspection. Make sure pets are secured and provide the inspector with any relevant information about the home’s history or recent repairs. Clear communication with the inspector can also help address any specific concerns you might have. If you’re a new buyer and don’t have access to the property prior to the inspection, just show up for the inspection! Leppard Inspections loves when clients can attend the inspection. If you have any questions or think of any as the inspection is conducted, keep a list and discuss with the inspector after the inspection. We’re always happy to stay after the inspection to discuss any findings/recommendations or answer questions. We love all things inspection related and can talk about it for days so ask away!
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What should I look for in the inspection report?In the inspection report, focus on several key areas: first, review any major issues such as structural problems, electrical or plumbing concerns, and roof damage. Pay attention to the condition of critical systems like heating and cooling. Look for notes on any safety hazards or code violations. The report should also highlight areas that may need immediate repair or further investigation. Understanding these details will help you assess the overall condition of the property and make informed decisions.
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Can I use the inspection report to negotiate the price?Absolutely! If the report reveals issues with the property, discuss them with your realtor. You can request that the seller make repairs or offer a price reduction to account for the cost of addressing the problems. They won’t always agree so you want to consider your negotiating power in the transaction, but it never hurts to discuss this option with your realtor. The inspection report provides a basis for negotiation and can help ensure that you’re making an informed decision about the purchase.
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What should I do if the home inspection reveals problems?If the home inspection reveals problems, review the detailed report provided by the inspector to understand the issues. If you have any questions, contact us for clarity. For buyers, if something in the report is concerning to you, discuss it with your realtor. You may be able to use the report to negotiate repairs or a price reduction with the seller. You may also request that the seller address significant issues before finalizing the purchase. For sellers, consider addressing problems identified in the inspection to make the property more appealing and avoid complications during the sale. Consulting with contractors or specialists for further advice on the identified issues can also be helpful.
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Can I attend the home inspection?Yes, you can attend the home inspection, and Leppard Inspections strongly recommends it. Being present allows you to see the property firsthand, ask the inspector questions, and gain a better understanding of the home’s condition and any issues that may arise.
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