What to know before an inspection.
Clear answers about the process, scope and limitations of a building inspection.
How much does an inspection cost?
Pricing varies according to the building type, size, age and location as well as the scope of work. A quote request is free and allows us to recommend an appropriate scope.
How long does an inspection take?
A single-family home often requires two to three hours on site. The actual duration depends on the building’s size, condition, accessibility and the requested assignment.
Can I attend the inspection?
Yes. We encourage clients to attend so they can see the main findings, understand their context and ask questions during the visit.
Can a building be inspected in winter?
Yes. Winter can reveal conditions related to frost, condensation and ice accumulation. Snow and ice may nevertheless limit access to or observation of some components.
Is thermography always used?
A thermal camera is a complementary tool. Its usefulness depends on temperature differences, weather, materials and observed indications. Thermal images must always be interpreted in context.
Should every unit in a multi-unit property be inspected?
Inspecting all accessible units generally provides a more complete picture. A sampling scope may sometimes be agreed upon based on objectives, unit count and constraints, provided its limitations are clearly understood.
What can an inspection not confirm?
An inspection is mainly visual and concerns visible and accessible components. It cannot guarantee the absence of hidden defects, see through finishes or replace a specialized assessment when observed indications justify further investigation.
How should the building be prepared?
Clear access to the electrical panel, attic, crawl space, mechanical equipment and areas below sinks. Gather available invoices, declarations, reports and documents, and notify occupants of the visit.
Which standard of practice will apply?
It depends on the building type, assignment and professional qualifications. The service agreement should identify the applicable scope. Our main reference documents are available in the Documentation section.