The Value of a Home Inspection. Getting your home inspected is one of the most vital steps you can take to ensure your new home is everything you expect a high quality structure, safe for your family, and a compelling long-term investment.
Unfortunately, many people do not fully comprehend the mechanics of a home inspection OR what they are required to do to get the most out of it. A big mistake with this process can result in time intensive and costly repairs. Read more to find out what home inspectors feel are the five biggest mistakes home buyers make during the home inspection.
Avoiding an inspection since the home is “new”
It has been observed that even expert homebuyers sometimes make this costly mistake. Their assumption is that by clearing all local codes and ordinances, a home must be in good shape. However, not all home builders are of equal quality. Some take shortcuts to boost their profits at the expense of the future occupants. It requires a thorough home inspection to identify potential problems with the foundation or structure.
Just because the home has passed its code inspection, do not assume that the builder or the contractors have completed all the necessary work. Your home inspector can detect potential problems and alert you to any potentially costly future work.
Choosing a “wrong” home inspector
When choosing a home inspector, you’re actually selecting a professional who is qualified to give your home a top-to-bottom checkup. Therefore, it is vital to go with someone who is knowledgeable, detail-oriented, professional and reliable. First-time buyers often make the mistake of selecting the least expensive home inspection company. Unfortunately, such “low cost” inspectors often lack the resources and experience to thoroughly investigate your future home.
It is important to ask the home inspection company about the licensing, credentials, and experience of the home inspectors who will be inspecting your home. This is not a decision to be taken lightly!
Not being “present” during the inspection
The home inspection report will provide you with detailed information about your home, it can never replace the experience of being a part of the inspection process. The face-to-face interaction inter-action with the home inspector is extremely beneficial since it allows you to ask questions about every aspect of your home as you walk through it.
Ignoring the inspector’s recommendations
Many buyers do not follow-up on the home inspector’s recommendation(s) regarding the property. People may fall in love with the home, and avoid confronting the seller about their concerns. Doing so may result in a very expensive repair, and a bad case of buyer’s remorse. It never fails to amaze me when a seller leaves out an old inspection report how many of the deficiencies are the same and never have been repaired.
It is important to pay attention to the home inspector’s recommendations and solicit a professional estimate of necessary repairs.
Expecting “too much” from the home inspector
Even a professional and experienced home inspector cannot predict the condition of your home in the long-term. The inspector can point out the current problems and potentially identify certain future issues that may eventually arise. Regardless, certain problems are unidentifiable. For example, it is impossible to predict future weather that could impact the quality of the roof.
It is important to remember that a home inspector is hired by to comprehensively review the property in question. The inspector provides you with the report based on the current condition of the home à clairvoyance is not part of the job description!
Thermal Imaging for Barrie Alliston and Orillia. Thermal Imaging has made a significant impact on the Home Inspection industry with the reduction in costs associated with owning a Thermal Imaging Camera. Investing in new technology has always been a priority with my company and we were the first Home Inspection company in Simcoe County to offer this Free service with our home inspections. Even Mike Holmes has been a vocal advocate of Thermal Imaging Cameras and I believe all his “home inspectors” now offer this service as part of the Mike Holmes package.
The Barrie Home Inspector has invested in this technology to provide their clients with the best possible inspection available in Simcoe County. Thermal Imaging is the measurement of energy wavelengths emitted from materials. Each product has its own energy signature and this allows your professional home inspector to record any variances from the norm. This shows up as hot spots, cold spots and even drafts when there is a temperature differential of 10 degrees or more. As shown on our Thermal Imaging page, what looks normal to the naked eye can often be concealing hidden damage.
Infrared cameras identify areas of temperature differences, allowing your inspector to identify areas of heat loss; water penetration and leaks; overloaded electrical circuits, pests and insect infestations; missing insulation and structural concerns. Finding critical heat loss provides the tools to not only reduce energy cost but prevent unnecessary damage from occurring within the home.
Lack of or missing insulation can be detected with the proper use of thermal imaging cameras except that unless there is a temperature difference of over 10 degrees the information is basically useless. Thermal imaging will only measure differences in temperature and is unable to measure the thickness of your insulation. If the temperature difference is not extreme then the insulation will perform its job even if not installed to required R value. So as you can see Thermal Imaging does have its limitations.
Infrared Electrical inspections are an ideal method for inspecting electrical service equipment for defective components, poor connections, and overloaded circuits. The most effective way to maintain an electrical system is to detect any potential electrical failures and take the corrective action that will prevent any interruption of the normal system operation. Thermal Imaging is also being used by Ontario Hydro to check power lines. Some large companies have annual inspections of their electrical vaults and panel boards to prevent costly maintenance shut downs. When it comes to electrical connection, global standards show that when the variance in temperature between the hot spot and the normal connection in the electrical components surpasses 25 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius), you should call an electrician immediately to make the necessary corrections.
Home owners now understand the importance of infrared home inspection. From seeing what you are getting in a new home purchase, pre-post renovations, to finding current home problems in making corrective action determinations and cost decisions, to knowing how and where you need to make improvements in cutting down your energy bills making your home as efficient as possible. Realizing that infrared can do this for you and show you the actual images of exactly where you need to spend money and resources make an infrared home inspection very appealing to knowledgeable home owners.
Free thermal imaging inspection of home during residential home inspection.
Power Line Clearances. The Canadian Electrical Code Part I gives electrical utilities an exemption from the code for “installations and equipment in its exercise as a utility, located outdoors or in buildings or sections of buildings used for that purpose.” The CEC Part I is “a voluntary code for adoption and enforcement by regulatory authorities.” When adopted into the provincial regulations, this exemption is almost always maintained for work that falls within the scope of an electrical utility’s business.
Over time, many electrical utilities have either developed their own design standards or use standards developed by others. Two CSA standards are often used as authoritative references for utility installations. These are CAN/CSA-C22.3 No. 1- M87 Overhead Systems and C22.3 No. 7-94 Underground Systems. In some instances, utility standards may meet or exceed electrical code requirements, or they may also fall short. One would hope that utility standards should satisfy minimum electrical safety requirements, especially for installations on private property.
In a brave new world of less regulation and greater competition, electrical utilities may want to take a closer look at their own design standards, to determine whether they should conform with the Canadian Electrical Code. In this article, we will look at some examples where the CEC Part III standards fail to meet the minimum safety requirements of the CEC Part I, and visit another issue that might affect electrical utilities as changes evolve.
Let’s begin by comparing some of the differences in high low and high voltage clearances. I will refer to the Canadian Electrical Code as CEC Part I and the CSA Part III overhead standards as CEC Part III. Both prescribe minimum horizontal and vertical clearances for a broad range of voltage classifications. As an aside, there are a few instances where the CEC Part I actually references CEC Part III when an installation strays beyond the parameters set out in the code. As a result, some paragraphs of CEC Part III actually become requirements of our electrical code.
For our first example, CEC Part I specifies a minimum vertical clearance of 4.0 m for low voltage service conductors across a residential driveway. This increases to 5.0 m when crossing the driveway to a commercial or industrial facility. Using the same example, CEC
Part III would require minimum clearances of 3.7 m for low voltage service conductors across a residential driveway, and 4.42 m crossing the driveway to a commercial or industrial facility. Obviously, there is some disparity between the two standards.
CEC Part I specifies a minimum vertical outdoor clearance of 7.0 m for 46 kV exposed live parts such as cable terminations, fuseholders and switches, located outside a substation fence. CEC Part III has different requirements for areas accessible only to pedestrians and where there is also access by vehicles. The comparable 46 kV CEC Part III clearances would be:
• 3.7 m – where accessible only to pedestrians
• 5.2 m – where also accessible to vehicles
Here there appears to be a major difference between these standards for the elevation of high voltage exposed live parts.
Horizontal clearances between power lines and buildings is another place where there are differences. CEC Part I, requires a minimum 3 m horizontal distance between 46 kV lines and buildings (still far too close in this writer’s opinion). However, CEC Part III goes even further. Here the minimum horizontal distance between 46 kV lines and buildings is 1.0 m plus conductor swing to “a normally inaccessible surface” and 1.8 m plus conductor swing to a
“readily accessible surface.”
The CEC Part III definition of readily accessible is “that an object is accessible to persons without the use of special means” (for example, a ladder). The amount of conductor swing depends upon whether the line is considered to be sheltered from the wind. In the writer’s opinion, the horizontal clearances in both CEC Part I and Part III are both deficient.
However the CEC Part III requirements have a greater potential for problems and electrical accidents.
A further requirement of CEC Part I is calculating the 5000-volt maximum ground potential rise, and the step and touch voltages in substations. These are determined from the ground electrode resistance and the available ground-fault current. The first step normally involves ground resistivity measurement, then calculating the maximum step and touch potentials as specified in Table 52 of CEC Part I. Parameters for these calculations are found in the IEEE No. 80 substation grounding standard.
Ground potential rise can be calculated from station ground resistance and the available ground-fault current. Some electrical utilities are more interested in minimizing ground potential rise, since the GPR may affect any communications equipment installed in stations.
Step and touch potentials have also been identified as a safety issue and therefore should be considered as well.
For the reasons mentioned, electrical utility installations should comply with the Canadian Electrical Code Part I, particularly on customers’ property. As with previous articles, you should consult the electrical inspection authority in each province or territory as applicable, for a more precise interpretation of any of the above.
Always consult your local utility for their regulations regarding clearances or installation.
The Barrie Home Inspector has many more articles on electrical issues and regulations that would be of interest to most home owners.
Innisfil Real Estate Agents. Choose from some of the areas top Real Estate agents when buying or selling property in Innisfil ON, These Realtors’ are also experts in Rent to Own, Bank Foreclosures and Investment properties.
Robert Young is a Professional Innisfil Real Estate agent whose motto is “I will treat you the way I would want to be treated” Robert’s goal is to provide you with such outstanding personal service that you’ll always feel like you’re his only client. Robert can do this because he is equipped with the tools, information and support needed to make the most of your relationship- enabling him to be by your side, serving you throughout every step of the entire process. Robert Young wants to be Your REALTOR of choice for Life! Contact Him Today!
Shelley Coulter works for Sutton Group Realty. Shelley is a firm believer in customer service and always goes the “extra mile’ to ensure her clients are happy and achieve the results they were looking for. To ensure satisfaction in your next real estate transaction in Innisfil,, contact Shelley today. Shelly has experience and can help guide you through the complicated process of Rent to Own, Bank Foreclosures, Power of Sale, Condominiums, Investment and Buying or Selling properties in Innisfil.
From Hugh Hardy – Let me tell you a little bit about me and the way I work. I have been selling real estate since 1988 and I am an Broker at RE/MAX Crossroads Realty Inc., Brokerage. Prior to ’88 I worked as a broadcast engineer at CBC radio – after completing an Honours B.A. at the University of Toronto as well as a Music Industry Arts/Recording Engineering Diploma at Fanshawe College in London, Ontario.
As you can see, real estate is a second career for me – and perhaps it is this added perspective that has shaped my attitude to be somewhat different. I try to operate less like the stereotypical salesperson and more like a business professional. My goal is to serve the needs of my clients in the best, most professional, and ethical manner possible. The only way that I “push” is by pushing myself to work harder and perform better. My clients tell me that I am never pushy or “salesy”. I feel that this philosophy has paid off over the years – and the job is more fun to do as well!
As you can see, real estate is a second career for me – and perhaps it is this added perspective that has shaped my attitude to be somewhat different. I try to operate less like the stereotypical salesperson and more like a business professional. My goal is to serve the needs of my clients in the best, most professional, and ethical manner possible. The only way that I “push” is by pushing myself to work harder and perform better. My clients tell me that I am never pushy or “salesy”. I feel that this philosophy has paid off over the years – and the job is more fun to do as well!
Sharon Madeley is a Professional Real Estate agent with CHAY RE/MAX Barrie. Sharon Madeley is a graduate of Humber College’s Child and Youth Worker Program. She spent eight years working for the Toronto Children’s Aid Society. During those eight years Sharon worked with families providing family support, crisis support and individual counselling. Sharon’s interest in families is what drew her to Real Estate. The gratification of bringing loved one’s together under one roof and creating a feeling of somewhere they can call “HOME.” Her on-going interests have always been the same, whether it is a career in real estate or any of her previous endeavours. Sharon believes it is her job to; “DO MY BEST TO KEEP FAMILIES TOGETHER”. Sharon is a hard working professional Innisfil Realtor. She is an experienced negotiator with expert knowledge of the local market. You can count on her to always work with your interest in mind and to represent you and your wishes to the best of her abilities. Sharon understands that the needs of each client are unique and need to be addressed as such. Customer Service is the key. If you are a “BUYER” or “SELLER” Sharon Madeley looks forward to making your “DREAMS” a “REALITY.”
The Barrie Home Inspector has been performing Professional Home Inspections for over eight years. To date he has conducted over 4,000 paid inspections. This experience will enable you to have Peace of Mind when purchasing your next home.
Roger is a member of Nachi, The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) is the world’s most elite, non-profit inspection association. Our home buying clients enjoy the professionalism only InterNACHI Certified Inspectors can provide. We are a member of NACBI, National Association of Commercial Building Inspectors, representing the only professional in Ontario belonging to this association.
The Barrie Home Inspector is a Certified Building Code Official through membership with the Ontario Building Officials Association. This certification is obtained after obtaining the necessary credits in both Part 9 and Part 3 of the Ontario Building Code.
Roger was a registered building with HUDAC, which has been replaced by Tarion, and also spent 7 years in charge of Project Reviews, which included Plan Review and Job Site inspections of all phases of construction. From building homes to reviewing and inspecting Roger has the knowledge and experience you want when purchasing your new home.
A home inspection is a limited, non-invasive examination of the condition of a home, often in connection with the sale of that home. Most Realtors now recommend their clients use a Home Inspector’s services and include a clause in the offer.
Roger Frost offers an un-conditional Money Back guarantee on all home inspections. If you, as the client, are not happy, for any reason, your money is refunded without questions. This has been our policy for over 7 years and we do stand behind our quality of service when performing your home inspection.
Our Fair Pricing Policy enables us to give a fair and reasonable quote on any home inspection. The Barrie Home Inspector charges $299.00 for a single residential home. Extra kitchens or outbuildings are an extra fee. This way a person knows in advance what his or her inspection will cost. There are no hidden fees, we publish our fee structure on our websites. Basically you pay for the services you receive.
Whether buying or selling your home the Barrie Home Inspector is available for all your inspection needs in the Barrie Ontario area. We offer the best prices and the most knowledge and experience in the area.
TARION and PDI Inspections in Barrie – Choose a Certified Building Code Official to help ensure your new home is all it is meant to be. Finding all your homes deficiencies prior to taking possession is your best defense against having to fix problems yourself.
Tarion Home Owners Warranty Summary.
Summary of new home warranty protection from Tarion Warranty Corporation, Ontario’s new home builder regulator.
The pre-delivery inspection (PDI) is an important step in the condo home ownership process. As of now, new construction home buyers in Ontario will have the option of hiring a certified New Construction Inspector (NCI) to help them carry out the PDI. Some Home Inspector Associations are only now training their inspectors on how to perform a Pre Delivery Inspection. What about all the clients that had their homes inspected prior to receiving training?
The Trained Professional Home Inspector will also be able to help the buyer navigate the Tarion warranty program. Tarion Warranty Corporation, mandated by the province of Ontario, provides backing for new home warranties and administers the laws pertaining to new home ownership in the province. It is recommended that buyers bring a copy of their purchase agreement to the PDI, as well as a copy of the Tarion warranty coverage checklist which can be found on Tarion site. Builders are required by law to provide buyers with a copy of Tarion’s Homeowner Information Package before the PDI.
TARION & PDI Inspections in Barrie. Finding all your homes deficiencies prior to taking possession is your best defense against having to fix problems yourself.The number one thing to remember about Tarion is the fact that they are not accountable to anyone. Although your fee is paying for their organization to operate unless you cross every T and dot every I you will not get any service from Tarion. They have turned down peoples warranty requests because, even though they sent the paperwork into Tarion, the builder did not get a copy.
An Analysis of the Ontario Licence Appeal Tribunal’s
Prehearings Orders, Settlements and Decisions
relating to the Ontario New Home Warranty Plan Act:
2007 compared to 2006
Introduction
Many Ontario new homeowners have advised Canadians for Properly Built Homes ( CPBH) that they are dissatisfied with the services of the Tarion Warranty Corporation( Tarion).
Ontario homeowners may appeal Tarion’s Decisions to the Licence Appeal Tribunal (LAT). Many Ontario new homeowners have also advised CPBH that they were dissatisfied with the process of the LAT and/or their outcome at the LAT.
CPBH has undertaken an analysis of some of the key aspects of the Pre-hearings, Orders and Decisions for the calendar years 2007 compared to 2006 related to the Ontario New Home Warranties Plan Act. The information used for this analysis was obtained from the LAT’s website.
Please note that this analysis does not include the results of other responsibilities of the LAT in relation to newly built home issues, such as the adjournments, motions, and builder
registration.
Visit the Canadians for Properly Built Homes for more information
Choose a Certified Building Code Official to help ensure your new home is all it is meant to be. Finding all your homes deficiencies prior to taking possession is your best defense against having to fix problems yourself.
