Inspectors

I suggest that you review the websites below and contact several inspection companies to see which one is the best choice for your requirements.

  • Registered Home Inspectors Website at www.cahpi.bc.ca or call 604-610-5665
  • British Columbia Institute of Property Inspectors website is www.bcipi.asttbc.org or call 604-584-2447
  • Business Practices & Consumer Protection Authority website is www.bpcpa.ca to confirm an inspectors license or call 604-584-2447

As of April 1, 2009 the government changed the licensing status for home inspectors so that they must now be licensed through the government (BC) under BPCPA (Business Practices & Consumer Protection Authority of BC). Inspectors have a standard to maintain, the education program takes about 4-6 months on line with 10 written exams or 2 years of classroom at BCIT or Douglas College which includes extensive field training.

The most important qualification to look for is membership in the Canadian Association of Home & Property Inspectors (CAHPI BC). This ensures that the inspector (an associate) has passed a series of technical exams (The Dunlop Course), follows a widely recognized Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics and meets required standards for continuing education.

A Registered Home Inspector or RHI has completed over 250 inspections and is already a licensed associate member of CAHPI.

All home inspectors must carry errors and omissions insurance as well as general liability insurance. If inspectors were previously licensed but not a CAPHI member then they will have 2 years from April 1, 2009 to pass the mandatory government exam in order to keep their license. If an inspector does not take the exam they will no longer be licensed to do home inspections and the fines are severe.

To help you evaluate a Home Inspector here are a few questions I suggest:

  • Check that the inspector is a member of CAHPI or BCIPI
  • That they are able to answer your questions promptly and professionally
  • What is the cost and time allowed for the inspection?
  • What might be excluded from the inspection?
  • Inspection time is available and works for all parties involved
  • Copy of Scope of Inspection is sent or discussed prior to the inspection
  • Check the companies website
  • Make the time to be at the inspection and allow time for review