The importance of an inspection prior to acceptance of the building

Since January 2020, building inspection has been regulated.

However, you can choose to do business with the building professional of your choice. Chat with friends and colleagues who have used these services and who may recommend a qualified person. Before making your choice, find out about the person's background, experience and training.

In addition to independent professional inspectors, who can be excellent, we suggest that you call on a professional member of an order such as:

• Ordre des architectes du Québec (OAQ) (only available in French)

• Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec (OIQ)

• Ordre des technologues professionnels du Québec (OTPQ)- (only available in French)

An inspection by a member of these orders will provide you with additional protection as they must meet requirements imposed by law to follow a continuing education program, to comply with a code of ethics and to take out professional civil liability insurance. This last element is important since mistakes can occur. However, a mistake made by a professional during your house inspection will be covered by his insurance policy which can compensate you, regardless of the creditworthiness of the inspector.