Guide
The pre-purchase inspection.
Before you buy, have the whole building inspected. Your broker must recommend it and suggest more than one inspector.
A good inspector
Four requirements.
According to the OACIQ, the recommended professional or building inspector must:
- 1Hold professional liability insurance
- 2Use a recognized inspection service agreement
- 3Inspect according to a recognized standard of practice
- 4Provide a written report
Depending on the case
Three situations to know.
Before buying
The inspection is set as a condition in the promise to purchase and must be done within the agreed period.
A previous report
A previous inspection report must be declared. A buyer who asks for it receives it in full, without personal information.
A new home
Even under warranty, an inspection with the builder may be required before moving in. Bring a building professional with you.
For sellers
The pre-sale inspection.
A good practice, according to the OACIQ. It lets you:
- 1Know the condition of the property before listing it
- 2Make the repairs, or know their cost through written quotes
- 3Avoid surprises in the middle of a negotiation
- 4It does not replace the buyer's pre-purchase inspection
A list of inspectors, on request.
Vanessa has a list of building inspectors she can suggest. You always remain free to choose your own.
Sources
Information checked on October 18, 2026 with the sources below.
General information: it does not replace legal, tax or financial advice.