Monday, March 31, 2014

Before You Hire THE Home Inspector.............

Homeownership is without a doubt one of the biggest investments you will make in your life.  Buying a home can be an exciting time, but it is also one of the more stressful times you will encounter. Whether you are buying your first home, upgrading as your family grows, or downsizing, a well performed home inspection will provide you with the unbiased, professional opinion you need to feel confident in making an informed decision.

The many choices available to you when choosing an inspection company (http://www.goldbook.ca/cambridge-on/home-inspection-service/at-home-and-play-inspection-9614/ ) can be daunting.  With a little research and knowing the right questions (http://www.athomeandplayinspections.com/home_inspection/inspection_faqs.html ) to ask, you will feel assured that the company you choose is working for you, with your best interests in mind. 

·         Professional Association/Education and training – Home inspectors belonging to a provincial or industry association, hold an accreditation that demonstrates specific training standards and experience. .

·         Written report – You should be provided with a comprehensive report (electronic or hard copy) at the end of the inspection.

·         Experience - Your home inspector should have strong experience with the type and age of home to be inspected.  Always ask for (and investigate) references (http://www.athomeandplayinspections.com/home_inspection/contact_us_client_references.html) from previous clients.

·         Length of inspection - The minimum time an inspection should take is 2 1/2 hours. Depending on home size and age, and weather conditions it may take longer.

·         Insurance – Ask if the home inspection company carries insurance, and if so make sure you understand what is and is not covered.

And remember, a reputable home inspector (http://www.athomeandplayinspections.com/home_inspection/home.html) should never offer services to repair any issues they find while making their investigations.
At Home & Play Inspections (http://www.athomeandplayinspections.com) serving Cambridge and the surrounding area, have the experts you need to make an informed decision.  For more information about services (http://www.athomeandplayinspections.com/home_inspection/services.html  ) offered,  visit the At Home & Play Inspections website (http://www.athomeandplayinspections.com) ,email athomeandplay@gmail.com or call today at 519 239 9220

Thursday, March 20, 2014

Radon and Radon Testing

Did you know that according to Health Canada 8.4 % of Ontario Homes, 11 % in Guelph, 10.4 % in Brantford and 4 % in Waterloo Homes have elevated levels of radon. These gases are tasteless, odourless and invisible. Over a very shortime they decompose and if breathed in contribute to 10% of lung cancers diagnosed. This influenced them in 2007 to reduce acceptable levels by 75% based upon a cross Canada sampling of various ages, types and styles of homes and recommend that ALL Canadians should have their homes and workplaces checked to determine the levels were at or below acceptable levels of 200 Bq/m3.
 
There are many types of sampling that can be done but Health Canada recommends at least a 91 day test before deciding to remediate and consider an extraction/ ventilation system. A short 4 day test can provide information to allow the decision to follow along with the longer more invasive test or not and this is likely more appropriate as relates to the real estate transaction.
 
If you would like more information don't hesitate to contact me and I can give you some more insight or information.