Home Inspection Costs

Standard Home Inspection Costs

A standard home inspection in the GTA typically costs between $400 and $600, depending on the size, age, and type of property. Smaller condominiums may cost as little as $300 to $400, while larger detached homes or older properties can cost $500 to $700 or more.

The inspection fee covers a thorough visual examination of the home's major systems and components, along with a detailed written report that documents the inspector's findings, photos of any issues, and recommendations. The inspection typically takes two to four hours to complete.

What a Standard Inspection Covers

A qualified home inspector will examine the following systems and components:

• Roof covering, flashings, skylights, and chimneys
• Exterior walls, cladding, windows, and doors
• Foundation, basement, and structural components
• Plumbing systems, water heater, and visible supply and drainage lines
• Electrical panel, wiring, outlets, and fixtures
• Heating and cooling systems (furnace, air conditioner, heat pump)
• Insulation and ventilation in accessible areas
• Interior walls, ceilings, floors, and stairways
• Kitchen appliances and bathroom fixtures
• Garage, driveway, and grading around the foundation

It is important to understand that a standard inspection is visual and non-invasive. Inspectors do not open walls, move furniture, or test for hidden issues like mold or radon without additional specialized services.

Specialized Inspections and Tests

Depending on the property, you may want to add specialized inspections that go beyond the standard scope. These are performed by the home inspector or separate specialists and are billed separately:

• Sewer camera inspection: $200 to $350. Sends a camera through the main drain to check for cracks, tree root intrusion, or bellied pipes. Highly recommended for older homes.
• Mold testing and air quality sampling: $300 to $500. Lab analysis of air samples to detect elevated mold spore levels. Recommended if you see visible signs of water damage or musty odours.
• Radon testing: $150 to $300. Measures radon gas levels in the home. Health Canada recommends testing, particularly for homes with basements.
• WETT inspection (wood-burning appliances): $250 to $400. Required by most insurance companies if the home has a wood-burning fireplace, stove, or insert.
• Pool and spa inspection: $150 to $300. Covers the pool structure, equipment, safety barriers, and electrical connections.
• Thermal imaging scan: $200 to $400. Uses infrared cameras to detect moisture issues, insulation gaps, and electrical hot spots not visible to the naked eye.
• Well water testing: $100 to $250. Required for rural properties with private wells to confirm water quality and potability.
• Septic system inspection: $300 to $600. Includes a pump-out and assessment of the tank and distribution field for rural properties.

Choosing a Qualified Inspector

In Ontario, home inspectors are not currently required to hold a provincial licence, although there has been ongoing discussion about regulation. This makes it especially important to choose your inspector carefully.

• Look for membership in a recognized association such as the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors (OntarioACHI) or the Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors (CAHPI)
• Verify they carry errors and omissions insurance
• Ask about their experience, training, and how many inspections they complete annually
• Request a sample report to see the level of detail and quality of their reporting
• Ensure they encourage you to attend the inspection so they can walk you through findings in person

Should You Skip the Inspection?

In competitive GTA markets, some buyers choose to waive the home inspection condition to make their offer more attractive. While this can help you win a bidding war, it comes with real risk. An inspection can uncover issues that cost tens of thousands of dollars to repair, such as a failing foundation, knob-and-tube wiring, or a deteriorating roof.

The Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) recommends buyers carefully consider the risks before waiving inspection conditions. If you feel pressure to waive the condition, consider getting a pre-offer inspection. Some inspectors can accommodate a quick walkthrough before you submit your offer, giving you basic information about the home's condition without needing a formal condition in your agreement.

Even when buying a new-build home, a pre-delivery inspection (PDI) is valuable. New homes can have construction defects that are easier and cheaper to address before you take possession through the builder's warranty.