Home Inspections

Can I Get An Inspection In A Bidding War?

By Steve Irvine, Home Sweet Home Inspections

Trying to get an inspection in bidding wars has become almost impossible. If you put in a conditional clause there is a good chance that your offer will not be considered by the seller. So, how do you protect yourself and avoid the big problems? I’ve been doing 30 minute to 1 hour pre-offer inspections for about 1/2 the cost of a full inspection.

In a full inspection timeline I would open & close each window, kitchen cupboard and drawer. I test every electrical outlet that I can access. I would check every heating vent for proper air flow. The explanations are more in depth. It’s an involved process that lasts 2-1/2 to 3 hours.

For a shorter inspection timeline, I go through the house quickly looking for big ticket items. The roof, exterior and structure are looked at. I’ll open the electrical panel, but not test every plug. The furnace and if possible by exterior temperature, the air conditioner are inspected. The attic is looked at for insulation, ventilation and leaks. I look for plumbing leaks, loose toilets and run a moisture meter over the tiled enclosures in showers and bathtubs to make sure no moisture is getting through. Basement leaks are also checked. Like I said, it’s just looking at the big stuff. At least you have an idea what your buying. Some go well, but some have obvious issues. I had one recently that was going to need +50k in repairs. You don’t want to place a bid on a house at top dollar and then find that out once you move in.

As I am not doing a full inspection, there is no full report. Liability laws still exist. I encourage you to take notes or record the process. Ask your agent if Inspectors in your area are offering these services.

Doing what I can, however I can, to protect buyers during pandemic times.

www.steveirvine.ca steve.irvine.1960@gmail.com FB Steve Irvine’s Home Sweet Home Inspections Inc.