A home inspection by an educated and experienced Home Inspector facilitates the home buyer in making an informed decision
The home inspection industry is unregulated in Ontario and most of Canada. As a result, the market is saturated with self proclaimed Home Inspectors that have varying levels of knowledge and experience. How can a home buyer ensure that they are hiring someone that is not only knowledgeable and experienced, but adheres to a standard of practice and code of ethics.
As the first, and largest, self-regulating professional home inspection organization, The Ontario Association of Home Inspectors (OAHI) is recognized by government groups and reputable associations for its high standards and commitment to a strict Code of Ethics. The OAHI is the CAHPI member in Ontario and was formed in 1987. On December 9th, 1994, the OAHI became a self-regulating professional body when the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors Act received royal assent , granting the OAHI the exclusive right to define qualification requirements, regulate its members and grant the designation “Registered Home Inspector” and “RHI” to qualified practitioners in the Province of Ontario. Its sister organization, the Canadian Association of Home & Property Inspectors – Ontario (CAHPI-Ontario), communicates best practices to the consumer marketplace. The mission of CAHPI-Ontario is to educate home buyers in the proper selection of choosing a reputable home inspector, so that they, in turn, can come away with an informed understanding of the complete building system of the house they are looking to purchase, along with identification of the related components and possible construction defects.
Full members of OAHI must successfully complete mandatory accreditation courses that test the applicant’s knowledge, and how they apply that information into a comprehensive report. Standards of Practice identify a home inspector’s professional capability through a universally-recognized benchmark of performance.
As with all professions, practical experience is of the utmost importance, and OAHI requires a minimum number of performed inspections prior to a member receiving the RHI (Registered Home Inspector) designation. Registered Home Inspector (RHI) is the highest accreditation in the province.
Annual education credits must be achieved by each member in order to retain this designation.
With over 700 members spread throughout the province of Ontario, local and regional meeting groups have been established to provide a source of continual education to its members. Industry experts address these groups to discuss various topics such as electrical, heating and ventilation, identifying potential grow op properties, and unwanted wildlife tenants to name a few.
Technology enables this geographically diverse group to electronically meet on a regular basis through online forums and broadcast messaging, allowing members to exchange ideas, discuss their findings, and share information.
As part of its self-regulatory responsibilities, the OAHI Discipline & Professional Practices Committee is charged with investigating complaints received from consumers about the conduct of any of its members.
How to Evaluate a Home Inspector
A home inspection should be performed with an objective and impartial view to the condition of the property with no emotional or financial attachments.
It is estimated that OAHI members make up less that half of the Home Inspectors on the market in Ontario alone. That is not to say that non OAHI members are not qualified, but when shopping for a Home Inspector, the consumer should ask questions of candidates that relate to their education and experience. Far too often, selection by the home buyer is related to price alone. There are many self proclaimed home inspectors on the market that will take the job for a fraction of the price of a qualified, educated, and experienced Home Inspector.
Here are some important questions to ask:
1. What professional associations does the inspector belong to? (This demonstrates standards, and pride of practice)
2. Is the inspector a member of OAHI and CAHPI-Ontario? (This tandem is the main professional organization for home inspectors in Ontario, and can confirm qualifications and experience)
3. Does the inspector supply a written or printed report? And will the inspection and report be done in accordance with substantial Standards of Practice? (These should be made available)
4. Does the inspector or home inspection company have a proven track record? (References should be volunteered happily)
5. Is the inspector specifically experienced in residential construction? (Residential is different than commercial or institutional)
6. Does the company offer to do any repairs or improvements based on their inspection? (This would be a conflict of interest.)
7. How long will the inspection take? (The average is 2 1/2 to 3 hours – anything less isn’t enough time to do a thorough inspection. More for larger homes.)
8. How much will the inspection cost? ($350 to 450 is reasonable; 1/10th of 1% of the cost of the average house is inexpensive)
9. Does the inspector encourage the client to attend the inspection?
(This is an invaluable educational opportunity, and an inspector’s refusal should raise a red flag.)
10. Does the inspector participate in continuing education programs to keep his/her credentials up to date? (Critical)
For further information or to obtain the names of qualified home inspectors in your area, contact the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors (OAHI) at 416.256.0960, 1.888.744.6244 or visit www.OAHI.com
