What are the red flags in older Edmonton homes?
Poly-B, knob-and-tube, vermiculite, galvanized pipes and more: what each looks like, why insurers ask about it, and which specialist to call next.
· 5 min read
Who it’s for
Homeowners getting ready to sell who want to deal with issues early instead of during a buyer’s condition period.
What's included
We inspect
- RoofCoverings, flashing, gutters, downspouts and visible signs of leaks.
- StructureFoundation, framing and visible signs of movement or settling.
- ExteriorSiding, windows, doors, decks, walkways and grading around the house.
- PlumbingSupply and drain lines, fixtures, the water heater and visible leaks.
- ElectricalService panel, wiring type, outlets, and GFCI and AFCI protection.
- Heating and coolingFurnace or boiler, venting, and air conditioning when the weather allows.
- Insulation and ventilationAttic insulation, airflow, bathroom and kitchen exhaust.
- InteriorWalls, ceilings, floors, stairs, railings and built-in appliances.
Not included
- Opening walls or moving furnitureThe inspection is visual and non-invasive.
- Mould, radon or asbestos testingSpecialists can test for these if the report suggests it.
- Sewer line camera scopeRecommended for older homes; done by a plumbing specialist.
- Building code complianceThat is the role of the municipality and its permits.
- Cosmetic itemsPaint, finishes and other matters of taste.
How it works
Step 1: Send your details
Tell us about the property, your timing and any condition deadline.
Step 2: We confirm
We reply to confirm the date, the price and what the inspection covers.
Step 3: Inspection day
We go through the home system by system. Join us for the walkthrough.
Step 4: Your report
A clear report with photos and next steps, and answers to your questions.
Why sellers inspect first
Fix things on your schedule
Repairs done before listing cost less than repairs negotiated in a rush during conditions.
Price with confidence
Know the condition of the roof, furnace and other big items before you set a price.
Fewer surprises
When a buyer’s inspector finds the same things, nothing catches you off guard.
Pre-listing home inspection: common questions
What does a home inspection include?
A visual, non-invasive look at the home's major systems: roof, structure, exterior, plumbing, electrical, heating, insulation and ventilation, and interior. You get a written report with photos explaining what was found and what to do next.
Do I have to share a pre-listing inspection with buyers?
The report is yours, and you decide whether to share it. Sellers in Alberta are expected to disclose known material defects that a buyer could not easily see, so ask your REALTOR® how to handle anything the inspection turns up.
How long does a home inspection take?
Plan for about two to four hours for a typical detached house, and less for most condos. Larger or older homes, and homes with a suite, take longer. Leave time at the end for the walkthrough and your questions.
What does a home inspection not cover?
An inspection is visual. It does not open walls, test for mould, radon or asbestos, scope sewer lines, or check that the home meets building code. If we see signs that one of these is worth doing, the report says so.
Related reading
What can a winter home inspection check in Edmonton?
Snow and cold limit a few parts of an inspection, but the heating system, attic and interior can be checked well. Here is what a winter report covers and what to look at again in spring.
· 5 min read
Pre-purchase vs pre-listing inspection: which do you need?
Buyers and sellers both use home inspections, at different times and for different reasons. Here is how to tell which one fits your situation.
· 5 min read
Where we offer this
Edmonton and the surrounding communities.
- EdmontonCity
- St. AlbertCity · about 25 min away
- Sherwood ParkSpecialized municipality · about 25 min away
- Spruce GroveCity · about 35 min away
- Stony PlainTown · about 40 min away
- LeducCity · about 35 min away
- BeaumontCity · about 30 min away
- Fort SaskatchewanCity · about 35 min away
- MorinvilleTown · about 40 min away
- DevonTown · about 40 min away
Buying or selling a home in the Edmonton area?
Get on the priority list and we'll contact you to confirm availability and a quote.