What to Expect During the Home Inspection Process

A home inspection is one of the most important steps in buying a home, yet many buyers walk into it unsure of what to expect. Knowing what the inspector looks at, what they do not and how to use the report can help you buy with confidence and avoid costly surprises later.

What the Inspector Looks At

A home inspection is a visual examination of the parts of the home that can be readily reached. Under the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors' standards, that typically includes:

• Structure: foundation, framing, floors, walls and roof structure
• Exterior: siding, trim, doors, decks, grading and drainage
• Roof: roof covering, eavestroughs, flashing, skylights and chimneys
• Plumbing: supply and drain lines, water heater and sump pump
• Electrical: service, panel, wiring, GFCI outlets and a sample of outlets and switches
• Heating and cooling: furnace, air conditioning, vents and flues
• Interior: walls, ceilings, floors, stairs, windows and doors
• Insulation and ventilation, including the attic where it is accessible

What an Inspection Does Not Cover

This part surprises many buyers. An inspection is not technically exhaustive and will not find conditions hidden behind walls or under finished floors. Inspectors generally do not move furniture, open walls or confirm building code compliance.

Some items need a separate test or specialist, such as:

• Radon testing
• A sewer line camera scope
• Mould, asbestos or lead paint testing
• Septic systems, wells, pools and outbuildings

Whether past renovations had permits is a question for your real estate lawyer, not your inspector.

How Long It Takes and What It Costs

A standard inspection of a detached home usually takes two to three hours. A condo unit is often closer to 60 to 90 minutes. Larger or older homes can take longer.

Typical 2026 costs reported for Ontario:

• Condo unit: about $300 to $450
• Townhouse: about $400 to $500
• Detached home: about $450 to $700 or more, depending on size
• Add-ons: radon test about $150 to $250, sewer scope about $200 to $350, thermal imaging about $100 to $200

Why You Should Attend

Being there is the best way to understand your future home. You can ask questions in real time, see problems for yourself and learn how serious each one really is.

A good inspector explains things in plain language and tells you what is normal for a home of that age and what needs attention soon. Bring a notepad, wear comfortable shoes and ask where the main water shut-off and electrical panel are.

Your Inspection Report

After the inspection, you receive a written report with photos. Inspectors are expected to point out items that are unsafe, not working or near the end of their life, with recommendations.

Keep the report after you buy. It becomes a handy maintenance guide for the systems that will need attention in the years ahead.

Deal-Breaker or Normal Wear?

Usually minor and easy to fix:

• Worn weatherstripping
• A loose showerhead or dripping tap
• A missing GFCI outlet

Worth a closer look, and possibly a renegotiation:

• Significant structural issues
• Signs of water getting in
• An outdated electrical panel or wiring
• A furnace or air conditioner near the end of its life

If the report raises serious concerns, read my post on what happens if a home fails inspection to see your options.

Choosing a Home Inspector

1. Ask about credentials. Ontario passed the Home Inspection Act in 2017 to license home inspectors. Ask your inspector about their licence and any professional designations, such as Registered Home Inspector (RHI).
2. Confirm insurance, including errors and omissions coverage.
3. Ask for a sample report so you know what you will receive.
4. Book early, so the inspection fits well within your condition deadline.

Buying your first home? Download my Free Buyer's Guide or visit my First-Time Home Buyers page.

Tarlika Sehgal, REALTOR®, SRS®, ABR® | eXp Realty Of Canada, Inc., Brokerage

Sources

• Ontario Association of Home Inspectors: Standards of Practice
• Home Inspection in Ontario 2026: What It Covers, What It Costs and How to Choose an Inspector
• CanLII: Home Inspection Act, 2017 (Ontario)

This article is general information, not professional or legal advice. Inspection scope, costs and rules vary. Please confirm details with your inspector and real estate lawyer. Information is current as of October 2026.