June 13, 2024

How much does a home inspection cost?

Are you considering the purchase of a house that’s caught your attention? It’s a great idea to have the property inspected before diving in. Read on for more about home inspection fees.

Buyers often forego an inspection, but it’s an essential step when purchasing a home. Check out our article Pre-Purchase Inspections: What You Should Know to learn why this step is so important.

What does a building inspector do?

Now that you’re convinced of the importance of getting an inspection done before buying a property, you might be wondering what, exactly, a building inspector does. Simply put, they inspect various aspects of the property. A professional inspection includes a thorough check of property elements, such as:

Ventilation
Plumbing
Electricity
Building structure
Exterior cladding
Heating system
Roof

The inspector will then provide a detailed inspection report to help you decide whether to purchase the home.

Buying a home for the first time is a momentous occasion, but it can also be quite stressful. To help guide you when the time comes, check out our article 5 tips for buying your first property.

Report and recommendations

After the inspection, you will receive an inspection report that includes certain recommendations. A certified inspector does not provide advice as to whether you should purchase a property. They can offer suggestions, such as replacing windows. They may also recommend certain upgrades. A building inspector’s expertise and duty lies in assessment and recommendation.

Buying property can seem complicated. To help you prepare, read our article A comprehensive 12-step guide to buying a home.

How much does a home inspection cost?

The big question. If you’re thinking of buying a home, before you close the deal, how much would a pre-purchase inspection cost?

According to the Quebec Association of Building Inspectors (AIBQ), which represents 50% of the inspectors in Quebec, based on the current market of 2024, the price would be between $750 and $850 for a single-family residential building. For the private portion of a condo, the inspection fees are slightly lower, while for a plex, the price is higher depending on the number of units. Other factors that can affect the price are the year of construction, the surface area and the geographical location.

Tempted to hire an inspector who charges less? We strongly advise against it. It’s a bad idea to work with someone uncertified or uninsured who falsely claims to be an inspector. Get the facts before you do business with an unqualified inspector.

A good credit score counts for a lot when it comes to buying a home. Read more in the article Buying a property: The importance of a good credit score.

To help you in your search for a property, don't hesitate to consult a real estate broker!

A comprehensive 12-step guide to buying a home

The HBP, a tool to increase the down payment of a first property