A home inspection is one of the most valuable $500–$700 you’ll spend in your entire real estate transaction. But to use your inspection report effectively, you need to know exactly what inspectors look at — and what falls outside their scope.
Inspectors check for foundation cracks, water infiltration signs in the basement, wall movement, and structural integrity. Foundation issues are the most expensive repairs in residential real estate — waterproofing or underpinning can cost $30,000–$100,000+. If the inspector flags foundation concerns, request a structural engineer’s assessment before proceeding. This is not optional.
Inspectors assess the roof’s age, shingle condition, flashing, chimney sealing, and eavestroughs. Ontario’s standard asphalt shingles last 20–25 years — a near-end-of-life roof should be factored into your negotiation. Full replacement runs $8,000–$15,000 for a typical detached house. Clogged or improperly graded eavestroughs often cause basement water issues, so drainage is closely examined.
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Heating, Cooling & Hot Water (HVAC)
The inspector runs and evaluates the furnace, central A/C, and water heater. Key question: how old is each system? Furnaces last 15–25 years; replacements run $3,000–$6,000. Also critical: if the water heater is a rental (very common in Ontario), that rental contract transfers to you as the buyer — you’re taking on a monthly payment. Ask about ownership status before closing.
Inspectors check the electrical panel for knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring — both are fire hazards and may cause home insurance to be declined or cost significantly more. On the plumbing side, they check for lead pipes, galvanized steel (rust prone), and any signs of active or past leaks. Modern homes should have copper or PEX — if yours doesn’t, plan for upgrades.
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What Inspection Does NOT Cover
Standard inspections exclude: mold, asbestos, radon gas, pests (termites, carpenter ants), underground oil tanks, and environmental testing. These require specialized add-on tests ($100–$500 each). For pre-1985 homes, asbestos in insulation and floor tiles is a real concern. Radon is especially relevant in basement suites. Ask your inspector which add-ons are appropriate for the specific property.
Arthur’s Pro Tip: Pre-Offer Inspections
In competitive Toronto markets, you may need to bid without an inspection condition. In that case, consider a Pre-Offer Inspection before submitting your offer — attend an open house, pay $300–$500 for a walk-through inspection, and get some peace of mind without needing a condition. Always use an OAHI-certified inspector. The fee is non-refundable, but so is a nasty surprise after closing.
AZ
Arthur Zhao, Broker
SRS · ABR · MCNE · AZ Real Estate Team
📞 416-277-3836 · arthurzhao.realtor
Home Inspection Ontario
OAHI Inspector
Foundation Issues
HVAC Inspection
Ontario Buying Guide
Toronto Real Estate
