When you’re about to make one of the biggest investments of your life, you want to choose the right home inspector. You know, someone thorough, trustworthy, and experienced. 

It may take some shopping around, but a good inspection can uncover issues that might otherwise cost you thousands down the line. So, it’s worth doing right the first time.

Here’s what to look for, what to ask, and how to vet your options with confidence.

Focus on Credibility, Not Just Credentials

A good home inspector brings more than technical skills. They bring sound judgment, clear communication, and a track record that builds trust. 

Since home inspectors aren’t currently required to obtain formal licensing here in Ontario, that kind of credibility matters. Be sure to ask about their training, certifications, and how long they’ve been doing the work.

It’s worth finding out how they work, too. Ideally, an inspector is independent, meaning they’re not financially tied to the outcome of the sale. That lowers the risk of bias and helps ensure you get a thorough, honest assessment. 

Finally, make sure they carry professional liability insurance, have a clear inspection process, and are comfortable explaining their findings. You want someone who takes the job seriously and doesn’t just tick boxes.

Ask Questions That Reveal How They Actually Work

Credentials can tell you where someone trained, but questions tell you how they think. The right ones will help you get a feel for their thoroughness, communication style, and level of experience. 

Here are some home inspector questions to start with:

• How many inspections have you done in the past year?
• What kinds of homes do you typically inspect?
• What’s your current licensing or certification status in Ontario?
• What’s included in your standard inspection?
• Can I see a sample report?
• Do you allow buyers to attend the inspection?
  

You’re not just checking boxes here. The goal is to get a sense of how seriously they take their work, and how clearly they’ll communicate what they find.

Vet the Service, Not Just the Person

Once you’ve spoken with an inspector, it’s worth doing a little background digging. You don’t need to hire a private investigator or anything, but there are a couple of things you can do yourself to get a better sense of who you’re working with.

Here’s how to vet a home inspection service with confidence:

• Look at reviews across multiple platforms and pay attention to patterns, not just isolated opinions.
• Ask for references from recent clients, and follow up.
• Check their standing with professional associations or industry groups.
• Review a sample inspection report to see how detailed and clear it is.
• Reach out with a question or two and see how promptly and professionally they respond.

An inspector can be experienced on paper, but if their service isn’t organized, responsive, or clear, it may be a sign to keep looking.

Know What a Thorough Inspection Covers

A good quality inspection you can rely on goes far beyond surface-level checks. A solid home inspection checklist for buyers should include:

• Structural elements such as the foundation, roof, and framing.
• Electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC, and insulation.
• Attic, basement, and crawl spaces.
• Kitchens and bathrooms, including all visible plumbing fixtures.
• Floors, ceilings, and walls, looking for water damage, cracking, or warping.
• Windows, doors, and energy efficiency features.
• Exterior drainage, grading, and any visible water-related concerns.

Your inspector should be clear about what’s included and what isn’t, and they should flag not only immediate issues but anything that could become a problem down the line.

Let Hawkins Real Estate Help You Choose a Home Inspector with Confidence

Choosing the right home inspector isn’t just about avoiding surprises — it’s about knowing what you’re walking into before you commit. With the right information and the right people on your side, the whole process gets a lot easier.

At Hawkins Real Estate Group, we can not only help you find the right home but also recommend local inspectors who are experienced, transparent, and committed to protecting your investment. Contact us to speak with one of our experts today.