What to Expect During a Home Inspection

If you’re buying a home in Cornwall or the surrounding areas, you’ve probably heard your agent mention the importance of a home inspection. But what actually happens during one?

A home inspection is one of the most important steps in the buying process. It helps you understand the true condition of the home before you make one of the biggest investments of your life. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, knowing what to expect can make the process smoother and less stressful.

Let’s take a closer look at what happens during home inspections in Cornwall, why they matter, and how you can get the most from yours.

What Is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is a detailed check-up of a property’s condition. Think of it as a “health report” for the home. A certified home inspector looks at all the major systems and structures…things like the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical, heating, and much more.

Their goal is to find any hidden issues that could turn into expensive surprises later.

In Cornwall, many homes are older and may have unique features like oil furnaces, older wiring, older foundations or the infamous no-corrode pipe. That’s why home inspections in Cornwall are especially valuable as they help you spot issues that are common in local properties before you sign on the dotted line.

How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?

Most home inspections in Cornwall take between two and three hours, depending on the size and age of the home.

If it’s a smaller bungalow or townhouse, it might be a little quicker. Larger or older homes can take longer because there’s more to inspect.

You don’t need to be there for the entire inspection, but it’s highly recommended that you attend. Seeing things in person gives you a better understanding of the property and allows you to ask questions on the spot.

What Do Inspectors Look For?

A home inspector follows a detailed checklist to examine all visible and accessible areas of the home. Here’s what they typically cover:

• Roof and attic: Checking for missing shingles, leaks or poor insulation.
• Foundation and structure: Looking for cracks, moisture or signs of settling.
• Plumbing: Testing water pressure and checking for leaks, corrosion or slow drains.
• Electrical system: Ensuring outlets, panels and wiring are safe and up to code.
• Heating and cooling: Inspecting the furnace, ductwork and air conditioning systems.
• Windows and doors: Checking seals, locks and signs of drafts or signs of moisture penetration.
• Exterior: Looking at siding, grading, eaves and gutters to make sure water flows away from the home.
• Interior: Checking ceilings, floors and walls for damage or unevenness.

In Cornwall, inspectors also pay close attention to issues caused by our climate, like ice damming on roofs, basement dampness or insulation problems that lead to heat loss.

The above is by no means an exhaustive list, however it gives you a good idea of the things they will be looking at. 

After the Inspection

Once the inspection is complete, you’ll receive a detailed written report. This usually includes photos, notes and a summary of any issues found.

Don’t panic if the report lists a lot of items.  Every home has a few minor concerns, even brand-new builds. What matters most are the major issues that could affect safety, structure or cost you thousands to repair.

Be sure to thoroughly review the report as it will help you to decide what to do next.

You might choose to:

• Ask the seller to fix certain items before closing.
• Request a price reduction to cover future repairs.
• Move forward as-is if everything looks good.

Having this information gives you peace of mind and bargaining power…two things every buyer wants!

What a Home Inspection Won’t Cover

It’s important to know that a home inspection is not a guarantee or a pass/fail test. Inspectors can’t see inside walls, under floors, or behind heavy furniture. They also don’t test for things like asbestos, mold or pests unless you order a separate inspection.

If your inspector spots something that looks suspicious, they may recommend hiring a specialist for further testing, such as a plumber, electrician or structural engineer.

How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost in Cornwall?

Prices vary depending on the home’s size and age, but most home inspections in Cornwall cost between $500 and $700 plus HST.

It might seem like a lot, but it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. Spending a few hundred dollars now can save you from spending thousands later, on hidden problems.

How to Prepare for a Home Inspection

Here are a few quick tips to get the most from your inspection:

• Attend the inspection. You’ll learn a lot by seeing things firsthand.
• Bring a notepad or phone and take notes if something stands out.
• Ask questions. Inspectors are happy to explain what they find and what it means.
• Read the full report. Review everything carefully before making decisions.
  

Final Thoughts

Buying a home in Cornwall or the surrounding area is a big step and a home inspection helps make sure it’s a smart one.

When you understand what to expect during home inspections in Cornwall, you can approach your purchase with confidence, knowing you’ve done your due diligence.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re planning to buy or sell a home in Cornwall, I can help connect you with trusted local home inspectors and guide you through the process from start to finish.

Whether you need advice on what to look for, how to read your inspection report, or how to negotiate repairs, I’m here to help every step of the way.

Reach out today to get expert guidance on buying or selling your next home in Cornwall. Let’s make your move a smooth and stress-free experience!