# Pre-listing home inspection

> A pre-listing inspection is done for the seller before the home goes on the market. It shows you what a buyer’s inspector is likely to find, so you can fix things on your own schedule, price with confidence and avoid surprises during conditions.

Know what buyers will find before you list.

## Who it's for

Homeowners getting ready to sell who want to deal with issues early instead of during a buyer’s condition period.

## At a glance

- Time on site: About 2 to 4 hours for a typical detached home
- Report: Usually within 24 hours, by email
- Price: From $449, plus GST, varies by size

## What's included

- Roof: Coverings, flashing, gutters, downspouts and visible signs of leaks.
- Structure: Foundation, framing and visible signs of movement or settling.
- Exterior: Siding, windows, doors, decks, walkways and grading around the house.
- Plumbing: Supply and drain lines, fixtures, the water heater and visible leaks.
- Electrical: Service panel, wiring type, outlets, and GFCI and AFCI protection.
- Heating and cooling: Furnace or boiler, venting, and air conditioning when the weather allows.
- Insulation and ventilation: Attic insulation, airflow, bathroom and kitchen exhaust.
- Interior: Walls, ceilings, floors, stairs, railings and built-in appliances.

## Not included

- Opening walls or moving furniture: The inspection is visual and non-invasive.
- Mould, radon or asbestos testing: Specialists can test for these if the report suggests it.
- Sewer line camera scope: Recommended for older homes; done by a plumbing specialist.
- Building code compliance: That is the role of the municipality and its permits.
- Cosmetic items: Paint, finishes and other matters of taste.

## How it works

1. **Send your details**: Tell us about the property, your timing and any condition deadline.
2. **We confirm**: We reply to confirm the date, the price and what the inspection covers.
3. **Inspection day**: We go through the home system by system. Join us for the walkthrough.
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.