How much does a pre-purchase inspection cost in Montreal?+
For a single-family home, our rates start at $750+tax. For a condo, starting at $550+tax. The price varies based on size, age and complexity of the building. Contact us for a precise quote.
See our detailed pricing.
How long does a pre-purchase inspection take?+
A pre-purchase inspection typically takes between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the building. We take the time needed to thoroughly check everything.
What does the inspection report include?+
The report includes high-resolution photos, clear descriptions of each finding observed, identified priority items, and concrete recommendations for each issue. It is typically delivered digitally within 24h. Use our
inspection checklist to prepare for the inspection.
Is a pre-purchase inspection mandatory in Quebec?+
A pre-purchase inspection is not legally mandatory in Quebec, but it is strongly recommended by notaries and
real estate agents. It helps you understand the true condition of the property and protects you against hidden defects.
Can I be present during the inspection?+
Yes, absolutely. Your presence is encouraged. It allows you to ask questions directly to the inspector, see the findings with your own eyes, and better understand the overall condition of the property you wish to purchase.
Why do inspection prices vary so much?+
The price difference reflects the depth of the work. A complete inspection takes 2 to 4 hours on site, covers over 400 points, includes a basic FLIR thermal check (when conditions allow; advanced thermography available as add-on from $350+tax), and produces a detailed report with photos and recommendations for every finding. Price also depends on the inspector's experience, certifications, and equipment quality. For a purchase worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, the inspection is one of the best investments you can make.
What does the report actually give me after the inspection?+
The report is a comprehensive document that records every finding with photos, priority level and recommendations. It helps you understand the real condition of the building, identify work needed in the short and medium term, and plan your property's maintenance. It's a reference tool you'll keep long after the purchase.
What happens if the inspector finds a major problem?+
That's exactly why you're getting an inspection. If a major issue is found — structural crack, active infiltration, non-compliant electrical panel — you'll know before committing. You can then make an informed decision, request further assessments, or reconsider your offer. The goal is for you to move forward with full knowledge of the facts.
What questions should I ask my home inspector before booking?+
Before mandating an inspector, ask: areas of expertise and certifications (InterNACHI, AIBQ), report format and turnaround, whether attendance is allowed during the inspection, typical on-site duration, and post-inspection follow-up. For a first-time home buyer or new home buyer, these answers help confirm the inspector fits your needs.
Can I get a home inspection without a real estate agent?+
Yes. The inspection is independent of any agent. You mandate us directly, whether you are buying with or without a realtor — including first-time buyers and refinancing scenarios. The report belongs to you.
What if I signed the offer before the home inspection?+
The inspection can serve as a condition-removal step during the inspection window of your accepted offer. For very tight deadlines (a few days before closing), see our
urgent inspection page. The key is to act quickly to preserve your options based on the report findings.
Should the home inspection happen before signing with the notary?+
Yes. The inspection must precede the notarial signing so that you can act on the findings. Once the property is transferred, most recourse related to the building's condition becomes much more complex.
Does a pre-purchase inspection replace the seller's legal warranty?+
No. The inspection is distinct from the legal warranty provided by Quebec's Civil Code. It documents the visible state of the building at the time of inspection but does not replace any future recourse for
hidden defects. Our report can serve as a reference if a question arises later.
What is the difference between pre-purchase inspection, pre-buy inspection and buyer inspection?+
These three terms refer essentially to the same service. Pre-purchase inspection is the technical term in Quebec, but pre-buy inspection, buyer inspection, buyer's home inspection, inspection before buying, and home buying inspection are common synonyms. Our service covers complete property evaluation before final signing — foundation, structure, roofing, electrical, plumbing, ventilation, insulation, windows, cladding and grounds — to enable informed buyer decisions.
What timeline applies for pre-purchase inspection after an accepted offer?+
Standard inspection clauses in purchase offers typically provide 7 to 10 days to complete the inspection and receive the report. Our report is delivered within 24h* after the inspection, leaving 6 to 9 days for the buyer to evaluate, negotiate adjustments with the seller, or withdraw based on findings. We accommodate tight Montreal market timelines.
Does pre-purchase inspection cover latent defects (vices cachés)?+
Pre-purchase inspection documents visible and accessible defects at the time of inspection. It doesn't guarantee absence of latent defects (hidden defects) as defined in the Civil Code (art. 1726-1729). A latent defect is by definition a serious defect not apparent even to a prudent buyer. Our inspection significantly reduces post-purchase surprise risk by identifying visible indicators of potential problems, but doesn't replace destructive testing or specialised expertise.
What are the 400+ points covered in pre-purchase inspection?+
Our inspection covers 400+ points across: structure and foundation (cracks, deformations, drainage), roofing (membrane, shingles, flashing, gutters), electrical (panel, circuits, grounding, aluminum wiring if applicable), plumbing (piping, drains, water heater, pressure), ventilation (HRV, range hoods, exhausts), insulation and air sealing (attics, basements, vermiculite if applicable), windows and doors, exterior cladding, and grounds and drainage. Conforms to InterNACHI Standards of Practice.
What is the difference between pre-purchase and pre-sale inspection?+
Pre-purchase inspection is ordered by the
buyer before finalising — protecting the buyer.
Pre-sale inspection is ordered by the
seller before listing — protecting the seller from negotiation surprises and facilitating faster sale. Both use the same 400+ checkpoints but legal context and disclosure differ. Our
pre-sale inspection service is available separately.