The inspection
A home inspection is a visual assessment of what can be safely reached and seen on the day. Here is what that covers, and just as importantly, what it doesn't.
What we inspect
A detailed look at the systems and components we visually inspect, where accessible. Select any area to see what it covers.
Viewed from the ground, from a ladder at the eaves where it is safe to do so, and with a drone where a closer look is warranted.
The visible exterior of the chimney and the readily accessible parts of a fireplace or solid-fuel appliance. Flue interiors are outside the scope of a visual inspection.
Entered where there is safe access, or viewed from the hatch where there is not. Nova Scotia winters tend to reveal themselves up here first.
A walk around the building, looking at the surfaces that take the weather and the joints where water tends to find its way in.
Where a surprising number of basement problems actually begin. We trace where water goes once it reaches the ground.
The costliest thing to get wrong, so cracks are read for what may have caused them rather than simply counted.
Inspected where there is safe, reasonable access. Finished walls and stored belongings limit what can be seen, and the report says so plainly.
A visual inspection of the accessible electrical system, not a code-compliance inspection. Older wiring types matter here, because insurers ask about them.
Supply, drainage and the water heater, plus a moisture meter wherever staining suggests something may still be wet.
Operated using normal controls where it is safe to do so. Age and manufacturer are recorded where the data plate is legible. We do not predict how many winters are left in it.
Ductless heads and outdoor units included. Equipment is only operated when outdoor temperatures make it safe for the unit.
Room by room, including the parts people stop noticing once they live somewhere: railings, alarms, and the windows that no longer close properly.
Attached structures get the same attention as the house. Deck framing and guard heights are a common source of findings.
Every area above is part of the $449 inspection. What can be seen on the day depends on access. Anything that cannot be reached or viewed is reported as such, rather than assumed to be fine.
Inspection tools
Professional inspection tools help us investigate conditions that may not be obvious during a standard visual walkthrough.
What it helps us investigate
An infrared camera reads surface temperature. It reveals unusual patterns that can point to insulation gaps, air leakage, possible moisture, or heating and cooling that is not performing evenly. It shows where to look more closely, not what is behind the wall.
What it helps us investigate
Areas where staining, a temperature anomaly or another visible sign suggests moisture may be present. It is how we tell an old repair apart from something that is still wet.
What it helps us investigate
Roofing and exterior areas that are difficult or unsafe to view closely from the ground. That includes steep pitches, upper storeys, and fragile coverings that should never be walked on.
Also carried on every inspection
These support the inspection rather than replace it. Findings are always confirmed against what can actually be seen and reached on the day.
Being straight about the limits is part of doing this properly. A home inspection is visual and non-invasive. We don't open up walls, lift carpet, or dismantle equipment. Anything hidden behind finishes, stored belongings or snow simply cannot be assessed.
Where something falls outside the scope but looks like it matters, you'll be told, and pointed toward the right specialist.
Ready when you are
$449 plus HST, whatever the size of the home. Same-day report. Available seven days a week, including evenings.
