By Josh Bernard Team
An inspection is one of the most important steps between an accepted offer and closing day, yet many first-timers are unsure what happens during it. An inspector walks through the property, studies its major systems, and reports what can be seen on the day. The report helps you decide whether to proceed, negotiate, or walk away from a deal.
We reviewed published guidance from Ontario legal and industry sources, and we note where details vary by inspector.
Key Takeaways
- Schedule: Inspections are usually written into the Agreement of Purchase and Sale as a condition with a short window, often about five to seven days.
- Duration: A typical visit runs roughly two to four hours, with larger or older homes taking longer.
- Cost: Published guides put a standard house at about $400 to $700, with condos often lower and larger or older homes higher.
- Regulation: Ontario does not currently license home inspectors, so checking credentials and insurance matters.
Schedule the Inspection as a Condition of the Offer
Most Ontario offers include an inspection condition that gives a limited number of days to complete the visit and decide what to do next. Options usually include proceeding, requesting repairs, negotiating the price, or withdrawing.
Condition Basics
- Short window: Sources describe typical inspection conditions of about five to seven days, and the exact period is set in the agreement.
- Advance notice: Contact an inspector as soon as the offer is drafted, since the condition period is short.
- Possible outcomes: After the report, the purchaser may proceed, ask for repairs or a price change, or withdraw under the condition.
Your lawyer and agent can explain the wording of the condition and the deadline for waiving or completing it. A missed deadline can change your rights, so keep track of the date.
What the Inspector Examines
A standard inspection looks at the major systems and visible condition of a home. The scope is based on what can be seen and safely accessed on the day.
Areas Covered
- Exterior and roof: The inspector reviews the roof, exterior walls, windows, and doors for visible wear and damage.
- Structure and foundation: The foundation is checked for visible signs of water damage.
- Major systems: The electrical panel, plumbing, heating, cooling, insulation, and interior components are reviewed.
Each area is assessed on its visible condition, which helps you understand upcoming maintenance needs. Ask the inspector to explain anything in plain language.
What a Standard Inspection Does Not Cover
Limits matter as much as scope, because a standard visit cannot see everything. Guides commonly list several items that need separate testing or a specialist.
Common Exclusions
- Hidden areas: Interior wall cavities and other concealed defects cannot be seen during a standard visit.
- Specialized testing: Mould, asbestos, radon, pest, septic, and well water testing are typically separate services.
- Structural questions: Structural engineering assessments require specialists rather than a general inspector.
Extras such as a sewer scope or thermal imaging are priced separately. Ask which add-ons suit the age and type of the home.
Costs and Choosing an Inspector
Fees vary with the property, and the credentials behind the name matter. Ontario does not currently license home inspectors, according to recent legal and industry sources.
Inspector Selection Tips
- Typical fees: Guides list roughly $300 to $450 for a condo or small home, $400 to $700 for a standard house, and $700 or more for larger or older properties, with Toronto often higher.
- Credentials: Industry sources suggest asking about designations such as Certified Professional Inspector, Certified Master Inspector, or Registered Home Inspector.
- Insurance and samples: Confirm that the inspector carries errors and omissions coverage and request a sample report before you book.
Regulations may change, so check current provincial information before you hire. A clear sample report shows how the inspector communicates findings.
Attend the Inspection and Use the Report
Plan to be on site, since the walkthrough is your best chance to ask questions. The written report then becomes the basis for your next decisions.
Inspection Day Tips
- Be present: Attend the walkthrough so you can see issues firsthand and ask the inspector to explain them.
- Take notes: Photos and notes help you compare the report with what you observed.
- Report limits: The report documents condition on the day of the visit and does not guarantee future performance.
Discuss significant findings with your agent and lawyer before the condition deadline. Minor items are common, so focus on structure, major systems, and costs you would face soon.
FAQs
How long does a home inspection Ontario appointment usually take?
Most visits take roughly two to four hours, depending on the size, age, and condition of the property. Larger or older homes can take longer.
Does Ontario require home inspectors to be licensed?
Not at present, according to recent legal and industry sources. The Home Inspection Act passed in 2017, but sources say it has not been brought into force, so confirm current rules before you hire.
Should I attend the inspection?
Yes, attending lets you see issues firsthand and ask questions while the inspector is on site. Come with questions about maintenance, the age of major systems, and likely repairs.
Reach Out to Us at Josh Bernard Team
Josh Bernard Team walks clients through each step from offer to closing, including inspections. Call or message us today to talk about your next home purchase.
