What to Expect During Your Home Inspection (And How to Prepare)

May 22

by Vineet Kauden, New Purveyors at RE/MAX Hallmark

You’ve found a home you love—now comes the part where we make sure it’s as solid as it looks. The home inspection is one of the most important steps in your buying journey, and if you’re anything like most Ottawa homebuyers, you're probably feeling a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation. That’s completely normal.

As your REALTOR®, I’m here to make sure you feel informed and confident heading into inspection day. So let’s break down what to expect—and how to prepare.

What Is a Home Inspection and Why Does It Matter?

A home inspection is a detailed visual assessment of the property's major systems and structure, typically performed after your offer is accepted but before the deal goes firm. It gives you a clearer picture of the home's condition, helps you avoid unexpected repairs, and could even give you leverage if renegotiation is needed.

In short: this step exists to protect you.

During the inspection, a certified home inspector will carefully evaluate several key areas of the home. This includes both visible concerns and hidden issues you might not catch on your own.

What Do Home Inspectors Look At?

Here are the main components your inspector will assess during your home inspection in Ottawa:

Foundation & Structure: Looking for visible cracks, settling, or parging issues that could indicate bigger problems.
Roof: If it's safe to do so, the inspector will physically access the roof to check for damage or signs of wear.
HVAC Systems: This includes your furnace, air conditioner, and hot water tank. They’ll evaluate function, age, and any obvious repair needs.
Appliances: Basic function checks for all major appliances included in the sale.
Plumbing: Testing faucets, drains, and showers for proper water flow and inspecting for leaks or moisture damage.
Pipes & Hidden Moisture: Some inspectors use infrared technology to detect active leaks behind walls or ceilings. Not all inspectors offer this service, but it’s a powerful tool that can reveal hidden issues.
Insulation & Attic Space: Checking insulation levels and looking for signs of mould, water intrusion, or critters in the attic.

And yes—it’s totally normal for inspectors to find small issues in nearly every home. The goal is to identify anything major that could impact your health, safety, or wallet.

Tips to Prepare for Your Home Inspection

A little prep can go a long way in making your inspection smooth and stress-free. Here’s what I recommend:

Clear the way: Ensure access to key areas like the furnace, attic hatch, hot water tank, and electrical panel.
Bring your phone: Take quick notes or photos of anything that seems noteworthy.
Make a list of questions ahead of time: If there's anything you’ve been wondering about, ask! No question is too small.
Set realistic expectations: No home is perfect, especially older ones in Ottawa’s historic neighbourhoods. We're looking for deal-breakers, not dings.

I’ll Be Right There With You

"I always tell my clients—it’s not about finding a perfect house. It’s about knowing what you're getting into so you can move forward with confidence."

I’ll be there during the inspection to walk through everything with you, help interpret findings, and make sure your concerns are addressed in real time. The inspector will also send a detailed report afterwards, but it’s helpful to jot down any immediate thoughts or questions during the appointment.

Final Thoughts

Your home inspection is one of the last big checkpoints before making one of the biggest investments of your life. Taking the time to understand what’s being assessed, how to prepare, and what to expect puts you in the best position to make an informed decision.

Have questions about inspection day—or need a recommendation for a great home inspector in Ottawa? I’m happy to help.

Want a quick-reference checklist to help you prep? Send me a message and I’ll send one over.