Almost every buyer knows they should get a home inspection. Far fewer know what one covers, and just as importantly, what it doesn't. That gap causes real confusion, and sometimes real disappointment, when an issue turns up later that buyers assumed the inspection would have caught.
What a standard home inspection covers
A general home inspector does a visual, non-invasive review of the major systems and structure of a home. That typically includes:
- The foundation and structural components
- The roof, from the exterior and attic where accessible
- Electrical systems and panel condition
- Plumbing, visible pipes, fixtures, and water pressure
- Heating and cooling systems
- Windows, doors, and general exterior condition
- Visible signs of moisture, damage, or safety concerns
The result is a written report describing the condition of these systems, and flagging anything that looks like a problem or is approaching the end of its useful life.
What it doesn't cover, and why that surprises people
A general inspection is visual and non-invasive. That means an inspector won't cut into walls, move furniture, or test things they can't safely access. A few things buyers are often surprised aren't automatically included:
Wood stoves and fireplaces. These usually need a separate WETT inspection (Wood Energy Technology Transfer), which looks specifically at whether a wood-burning appliance is installed and functioning safely. This matters for insurance too, some insurers won't cover a home with a wood stove without one.
Sewer lines. Especially in older Ottawa neighbourhoods, a sewer scope, a camera run through the line, can catch root intrusion or collapse that a standard inspection simply can't see.
Mold and air quality. A general inspector may note visible signs of moisture, but formal mold testing is a separate, specialized service.
Wells and septic systems. If you're buying anything rural or semi-rural, these need their own inspections entirely.
A home inspection tells you the condition of what's visible today. It isn't a warranty, and it isn't a guarantee against every future problem.
How to use the report
An inspection report is information first and ammunition second. Some of it will affect your offer, and some of it is simply useful to know as a homeowner, like which systems are nearing the end of their life so you can budget for them.
If something significant turns up, that's the moment to loop in your agent about what's reasonable to ask for, whether that's a price adjustment, a repair, or simply walking away.
Know what the inspection can't tell you
A general home inspection is one of the best tools a buyer has, but it has real boundaries. Knowing what those boundaries are, and when a specialized inspection makes sense, is what protects you.
If you're not sure what kind of inspection a specific property needs, ask before you waive a condition to find out.
Not sure what inspection you need?
Tell me about the property and I'll point you in the right direction.