Home inspections for London buyers

A home inspection is a visual review of a home's structure and systems before you firm up your purchase, usually written into your offer as a condition. Before you hire an inspector, ask about their training, association membership and insurance, and look at a sample report.

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A red-brick Gothic Revival house with gingerbread trim after a snowfall

What does a home inspection cover?

A standard inspection looks at what can be seen and operated safely:

roof, gutters, grading and drainage away from the foundation;
foundation walls and signs of water in the basement;
electrical panel, wiring type where visible, outlets;
plumbing supply and drain materials, water heater;
furnace, air conditioning and ventilation;
windows, doors, attic insulation and ventilation.

It does not open walls, test for every hazard or guarantee future performance. Specialists (sewer camera, WETT for wood stoves, septic and well testing in rural areas) are extra.

What should I ask about in an older London home?

Many homes in Old North, Woodfield, Old East Village and Wortley Village are a century old or more. Ask your inspector about original wiring, older plumbing and drain lines, the age of the roof and heating system, and past water in the basement. Homes in a heritage conservation district also carry rules for exterior changes, so know how heritage district rules work in London before you offer.

How does an inspection condition work?

The offer gives you a set number of days to inspect and be satisfied. If the inspection turns up a problem, you can waive the condition and proceed, negotiate a price change or repair, or let the deal end as the condition allows. In a competitive situation some buyers inspect before offering; we tell you honestly when that makes sense.

Questions and answers

How do I choose a home inspector?

Ask for proof of training, association membership and insurance, and a sample report so you know what you will get.

Should I inspect a new build?

Yes. A pre-delivery inspection with the builder is standard, and an independent inspection can catch items to list for warranty.

Do condos need an inspection?

The unit, yes. For the building, the status certificate and reserve fund study tell you more than an inspector can.

What extra inspections does a rural home or cottage need?

Beyond the standard inspection, specialists test the well and inspect the septic system, and a WETT inspection covers any wood stove. For a cottage, put well, septic and shoreline questions into your conditions. We go through the full checklist in choosing between Lake Huron and Lake Erie.

Where to next

Found the house?

We help you write the inspection condition and read the report with you.

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