Do you really need a home inspection? The answer is a big, bold YES. Buying a home is stressful enough—there’s the bidding wars, the offers, the paperwork—so the last thing you need is a surprise when you’re already moved in. Sure, the house might look like your dream home, but that dream can quickly turn into a nightmare if you don’t know what is going on behind the drywall (and let’s not even talk about the foundation). 

In today’s hot real estate market, you might feel the rush to make an offer, but skipping the inspection is a big mistake. One of the conditions on your offer should always be: passing a home inspection. Buying a home is likely the biggest purchase you will make in your life! Protect yourself and your investment before you find out the roof’s leaking or your plumbing’s a disaster. You just spent your savings on a down payment so the budget might be tight if anything needs fixing. 

We sat down with the experts at Twenty20 Master Inspections to answer your burning questions—and maybe spill some dirt along the way! 

Recently, a member of our team had them do her new home inspection. The report was thorough and easy to understand, and she appreciated the respect she was given as a single woman buying a home. 

*Twenty20 Master Inspections has various locations across Canada and one in the USA. Qualifications may vary state to state and province to province.

Home Inspections:

First things first, Why are house inspections so important to have done before moving forward with a home purchase?

There’s no such thing as a flawless house—not even brand-new ones. That’s why a home inspection is your secret weapon before committing to the biggest investment of your life. It’s not just about spotting issues; it’s about truly understanding your new home—how it functions, what needs attention and what could be lurking beneath the surface.

Sometimes, even the sellers and builders are unaware of hidden deficiencies and that’s where a skilled home inspector makes all the difference.

Here’s why a home inspection is non-negotiable:

• Uncover Hidden Issues: From structural concerns to unnoticed maintenance problems, inspections reveal what’s beneath the surface.
• Make Informed Decisions: Know exactly what you’re walking into, including potential repairs and future maintenance needs.
• Gain Negotiation Leverage: Use your inspection findings to renegotiate terms or pricing, giving you the upper hand.
• Peace of Mind: Most importantly, ensure there are no surprises after you sign on the dotted line.

A home inspection isn’t just an extra step—it’s the confidence you need to move forward with clarity and security. Don’t buy blind; invest smart.

How do you find a reputable inspector? What qualifications would you look for? How would you find them?

To find a reputable home inspector:

• Recommendations: We’d be happy to provide a recommendation, if not ask your realtor or a friend.
• Research: Review online feedback to assess the inspector’s reputation and have a look at their demo home inspection report, usually available on the company website.
• Sample Reports: If their demo report is not available online, request an example report to evaluate clarity and thoroughness. Make sure your inspector is using inspectagram.
  • Demo report
• Qualifications: Ensure the inspector is certified by recognized organizations like InterNACHI and has relevant experience.

A well-qualified inspector provides clear, understandable reports, aiding informed decisions. This report will also become your go-to maintenance guide for your home.

What can a person expect to pay for a home inspection?

Many people assume all home inspections are the same, but that’s simply not true. Pricing can vary significantly depending on factors such as the number of inspectors involved and their level of expertise, including industry certifications (e.g., Red Seal, Journeyman, or building experience). Location, property size, and current market conditions also play a role in determining costs.

In Canada, home inspections typically range from $500 to $1,300. For a precise estimate tailored to your needs, it’s best to contact local inspection professionals. Most reputable inspectors provide transparent pricing on their websites, making it easier for you to compare options. 

Remember: a thorough, professional home inspection isn’t just a service—it’s an investment in your peace of mind.  

What advice can you give to people house hunting? Are there any telltale signs of a house’s quality you immediately notice on a walk-through?

When house hunting, look at: 

• Cleanliness: A well-maintained home often reflects pride of ownership.
• Mechanical Room: A tidy mechanical room indicates regular maintenance and attention to detail.
• Make your own list of items you want to look into – chat with your inspector upon arrival to review these items.

Observing these aspects can provide initial insights into a property’s overall condition.

If you were shopping for a home, are there any immediate red flags that would make you cut your walk-through with the realtor short and run for the hills?

• Foundation Issues: Visible cracks or signs of shifting can indicate serious structural problems.
• Unexplained Moisture: Water stains or dampness without an obvious source may suggest hidden leaks.
• Neighborhood Vibes: Observe the surrounding homes and general neighborhood conditions.
• Smell: A musty or damp smell could indicate water issues, mold, or poor ventilation.
• Trust Your Gut: If something feels off or too good to be true, investigate further.

Such issues can lead to significant future expenses and may warrant reconsidering the property.

Are there different things to look for when inspecting new homes vs. older homes, or is it mostly the same?

While many inspection aspects are consistent, certain issues are more prevalent in specific eras:

• 1970s Homes: Potential for aluminum wiring.
• 1990s Homes: Higher likelihood of Poly B plumbing pipes.
• Check out our Chronological Watch List – this list tells you things to look out for year by year, up to current day.

Regardless of age, inspectors check for common issues like plumbing leaks, poor wiring, and inadequate attic ventilation.

What kinds of issues would you personally let slide, vs. which are so serious that you would walk away?

It’s kind of like looking at your face in a vanity mirror. On one side, things look pretty good. But flip it to the zoom side, and suddenly, you’re spotting every little zit, stray hair, and blackhead you didn’t even know existed. These are not important to us. For example, cosmetic damage to walls/flooring, things like loose door handles, burnt out light bulbs, these things might not make the report but will be discussed in person. A “red flag”  issue would be something like foundation issues. Anomalies that can’t be explained and that are reoccurring, like water appearing where no plumbing is present.  A deficiency that you can see on the surface and can simply get fixed is not really considered a big problem.  

Cleaning homes, we have come across some doozies. Do you have a home inspection horror story you want to share with us? We’re talking about the worst home you’ve had to enter where you were like, ‘Whoa, no one should be living here.’

Where to start! We’ve done 100 plus year old homes that don’t have a straight wall or flat floor anywhere in the home. We have done some hoarder homes; the ones that you want to burn whatever clothes you were wearing during the inspection and make sure you’re up on your vaccinations. There’s always interesting stories with home inspections – but the Police being called in because the tenant won’t let us in to do an inspection is a memorable one.

This question is giving me an idea, maybe a Home Inspection reality show.

What is the strangest thing you’ve seen a builder or homeowner try to cover up?

While deliberate cover-ups are rare, they do happen. Some examples include attempts to conceal a death in the home, fire damage with fresh paint, grow operations, wood rot masked with a coat of paint or odors disguised with heavy fragrances.

More often than not, sellers are genuinely unaware of existing issues. However, it’s important to note that significant problems, such as structural damage or hazardous conditions are legally required to be disclosed to avoid potential legal consequences down the line.

A thorough home inspection ensures nothing is left to chance, protecting you from hidden surprises.

New Build Inspections:

Would you build with a company that does not allow an inspection?

It’s advisable to avoid builders who prohibit third-party inspections. Put it this way: if a builder stands behind their work and quality, they should be encouraging their buyers to do an inspection. 

If you fail an inspection on a new build, what recourse does the buyer have with the builder?

• If a new build fails an inspection, buyers have several options. Reputable builders are typically cooperative and will address issues promptly, as they are bound by warranties—such as a 2-year warranty on workmanship, a 5-year warranty on the building envelope, and a 10-year warranty on structural components.
• If a builder is uncooperative, a holdback can be negotiated, where a portion of the payment is withheld until the issues are resolved. This approach ensures compliance and protects the buyer. Buyers can also escalate concerns through programs like Alberta New Home Warranty, which provides additional support for unresolved deficiencies.
• Thoroughly researching a builder’s reputation and warranty practices before committing to a new build can help avoid complications. Choosing a builder with a strong track record is key to a smoother experience.

What kinds of problems should a homeowner look for at their 1-year walk-through on a new build?  

At the 1-year walk-through on a new build, homeowners should focus on identifying issues that may have developed since moving in and ensure all components are functioning as expected. Key areas to inspect include:

1. Structural Integrity: Look for cracks in walls, ceilings, or the foundation that could indicate settling issues.
2. Mechanical Systems: Test HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems for proper operation. Check for leaks, unusual noises, or inadequate heating/cooling.
3. Doors and Windows: Ensure all doors and windows open, close, and seal properly. Look for drafts, misalignment, or water infiltration.
4. Exterior: Inspect the roof, siding, and gutters for signs of wear, damage, or improper installation.
5. Interior Finishes: Check for cosmetic issues such as paint peeling, uneven flooring, or poorly installed fixtures.
6. Water Intrusion: Look for signs of moisture or water damage, especially in basements and around windows or doors.
7. Warranty Items: Review your warranty and ensure that any covered issues are addressed before the warranty expires.

Document any problems and present them to your builder for resolution. The 1-year mark is an important opportunity to address defects while they are still under warranty, so a thorough inspection is essential.

So there you have it, we hope this helps you find the home of your dreams! In the end, a home inspection isn’t just a box to check off—it’s your ticket to making an informed decision about the biggest investment of your life. Whether it’s uncovering hidden issues or giving you peace of mind, a thorough inspection can save you from unexpected headaches down the road. So don’t skip it!

For more help with buying a home, see our Realtor Q&A here. 

Lana @GoCleanCo