Frequently Asked Questions about Home Inspections

The duration of a building inspection depends on the size and condition of the property. On average, inspections take between 2 to 4 hours.

A standard inspection covers the roof, exterior, structure, attic, crawl spaces, electrical, heating, cooling, insulation, ventilation, plumbing, and interior.

It's recommended to schedule a building inspection before purchasing a property, after significant renovations, or if you notice potential issues such as cracks, leaks, or electrical problems. Regular inspections are also advisable for older properties.

If the inspection uncovers significant problems, you can negotiate with the seller to have them repaired or to adjust the purchase price.

Yes, home inspections are non-invasive and visual. Inspectors do not move furniture, access locked areas, or dismantle systems. Specialized inspections (e.g., for pests, radon, asbestos) require additional services.

Ideally, schedule the inspection after your offer is accepted but before the subject removal date.

The cost of the home inspection is dependent on the type of property to be inspected – single or multifamily house, townhome, condo, duplex or mobile home – and the square footage of the home for a specific price quote.

You will receive a comprehensive and thorough inspection report within 24 hours, and often the same day, so as not to delay the purchase of your property. Also, feel free to phone the inspector with any follow-up questions you have at any time.

In Side Out Home Inspection Inc. was established in 2000 by Vaughn Manley (Licence #50812), licensed owner and certified inspector, who has been in the construction industry for more than 30 years with a background in new construction, renovation, restoration and building materials sales.

Yes. Our inspectors are licensed through Consumer Protection BC, are certified home inspectors, members of Applied Science of Technologists & Technicians of BC, and British Columbia Institute of Property Inspectors, with training at British Columbia Institute of Technology. Our inspectors are fully insured with errors and omissions and general liability insurance coverage. In addition, we follow the American Society of Home Inspectors Ethics and Standard of Practice guidelines. We are also a member, in good standing, of the Better Business Bureau of BC.

Yes, even a new home may have defects. Gain knowledge about your investment, whether it is new or a heritage home – information is key.

Yes, we encourage the client to attend the home inspection. By doing a walk around with the inspector, who will point out the locations of key components of the home and discuss any defects along with their remedies, you will gain full knowledge of the property and have the opportunity to ask questions.

The inspection takes as long as it needs to; there is no specific time allotment because it depends on the type and size of property. Also, the age and condition of the property should be considered. On average, the home inspection takes between 2½ to 4½ hours.

We are available 7 days a week; there are no additional charges for weekend inspections. Contact us anytime to schedule your inspection.

The best time to schedule your inspection is right after you have had an offer accepted by the seller. The sales contract should have a time period for the subjects to be removed, and the home inspection should be done before this time period runs out. Have the home inspection done sooner rather than later in order to have more time to deal with potential problems found during the inspection.

A home inspection report outlines the inspector's findings, including any observed defects or potential issues. It often includes photos and detailed descriptions.

Condo or townhouse inspections are similar to house inspections except that the focus differs for all inspections.

It is possible to conduct a basic house inspection on your own. However, it is recommended that you hire a professional to conduct a thorough inspection to determine the correct condition of your property.

Consider additional inspections for radon, mould, or septic systems depending on the property's age, location, or specific concerns.