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| Today, the provincial government announced updates to BC’s Home Inspector Licensing Regulation, to take effect September 1, 2016. Please read the government’s press release here. You can also read the Order in Council for more details. As the regulator and licensing body for the home inspection industry, we know there will be questions about the implications of the changes announced today. We will have more comprehensive information on our website leading up to September 1st so please continue to visit www. If you have a specific question, please email operations@ Thank you, Consumer Protection BC
New requirements for home inspectors will give consumers increased confidence when they purchase a home.
The rules take effect on Sept. 1, 2016, and will enhance home inspector licensing qualifications, strengthen home inspection reports, contracts and insurance requirements, and improve enforcement, by requiring the following:
In 2013, the provincial government invited public input on an improved regulatory model for home inspectors. The resulting changes are based on public input, as well as research and consultation with home inspector associations and home inspectors, Consumer Protection BC and other stakeholders.
The Province will also undertake a comprehensive review of the qualifications required to perform home inspections and develop new, more rigorous training and examination requirements for those wishing to become home inspectors. This review will help develop a single occupational standard for all B.C. home inspectors. Results are expected to be in place in 2017.
Quick Facts:
Learn More:
Looking for information about home inspections? http://www.homeinspectionrightsbc.ca
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In British Columbia all home inspectors must be licensed with Consumer Protection BC and are required to follow specific laws.
What happens before the inspection?
When you’re picking a home inspector, do a little research first. You can ask to see their licence, call our office to check (1-888-564-9963) or use our online licensed home inspector search tool. It’s a good idea to ask the home inspector about their qualifications or background, and for a referral or two. You may want to ask family and friends for recommendations and always remember that the lowest quote isn’t always the best choice. Make sure you fully understand what’s going to be included in your home inspection before you sign the contract.
What happens during the inspection?
During the inspection, your home inspector will perform a visual inspection of the home based on the terms and conditions of your agreement. It’s really important to know this means there are certain limitations as to what the home inspector can see and check – a home inspection may reduce risk, but it can’t eliminate it altogether. You can ask to tag along during the inspection, but know there are no legal requirements to have your real estate agent present. The inspection will usually take a couple of hours to complete.
What happens after the inspection?
After the inspection, your home inspector will provide you with a report that lists the potential deficiencies he or she noticed (remember: it’s not a pass or fail test!). Your home inspector will not provide estimates for the fixes and they will not suggest contractors to do the work (it’s a good idea to get three quotes for the repairs from independent businesses). By law, your home inspector isn’t allowed to share your home inspection report with anyone else but you (unless they have your permission to do so, it’s required by law or if there is a serious health or safety risk).
For more information about home inspections in BC, please visit Consumer Protection BC online at www.homeinspectionrightsbc.ca.
ADDITIONAL READING FROM CONSUMER PROTECTION BC:
What to expect from a home inspection
Top 5 tips if you’re buying a home
What happens before the inspection?
When you’re picking a home inspector, do a little research first. You can ask to see their licence, call our office to check (1-888-564-9963) or use our online licensed home inspector search tool. It’s a good idea to ask the home inspector about their qualifications or background, and for a referral or two. You may want to ask family and friends for recommendations and always remember that the lowest quote isn’t always the best choice. Make sure you fully understand what’s going to be included in your home inspection before you sign the contract.
What happens during the inspection?
During the inspection, your home inspector will perform a visual inspection of the home based on the terms and conditions of your agreement. It’s really important to know this means there are certain limitations as to what the home inspector can see and check – a home inspection may reduce risk, but it can’t eliminate it altogether. You can ask to tag along during the inspection, but know there are no legal requirements to have your real estate agent present. The inspection will usually take a couple of hours to complete.
What happens after the inspection?
After the inspection, your home inspector will provide you with a report that lists the potential deficiencies he or she noticed (remember: it’s not a pass or fail test!). Your home inspector will not provide estimates for the fixes and they will not suggest contractors to do the work (it’s a good idea to get three quotes for the repairs from independent businesses). By law, your home inspector isn’t allowed to share your home inspection report with anyone else but you (unless they have your permission to do so, it’s required by law or if there is a serious health or safety risk).
For more information about home inspections in BC, please visit Consumer Protection BC online at www.homeinspectionrightsbc.ca.
ADDITIONAL READING FROM CONSUMER PROTECTION BC:
What to expect from a home inspection
Top 5 tips if you’re buying a home
