In Canada today, many people assume that if the bank is willing to loan the money on a particular property, then everything is fine. Generally, the buyer's rely on their Real Estate Agent for advice on the home and the Real Estate Agent relies on the seller's honesty.

The problem with this is that the Real Estate Agents, Bankers and Buyers do not always ask enough or the correct questions. Often many do not understand the technical aspects and physical operations of their buildings & properties. When all is said and done, it's the buyer who is left with any of the problems that may have been associated with that real estate transaction. So "BUYER BEWARE."

Canada has been working on Disclosure Laws, which puts the responsibility to identify all known and unknown problems with a home on the Real Estate Agent and the Vendor (seller). In fact, Seller Property Information Sheets (SPIS), sometimes called Vendor Disclosure Statements, are becoming a more familiar part of an "Offer to Purchase".

As a result of the buyer beware syndrome and the pending disclosure issues, there is an increasing need for an independent inspector, someone who is trained on what to look for and how to present those facts in a professional manner.

Although the credentials of others, such as, Professional Engineers, building contractor's, or architects, for example, can be impressive, and have likely taken considerable time and effort by an individual to obtain, it does not necessarily mean that these individuals have the required skills to inspect a building and / or property. Although they may be well informed about certain areas they do not necessarily have the proper training in other areas, such as, roofs, heating or electrical systems for example. More important though, it means they may not have met the rigorous qualifications, continuing education requirements, nor, abide by the regulatory authorities of a Home Inspection association's Code of Ethics and Practice Standards. As a result of this need, various Associations of Home Inspectors were formed. Click here for links to the various association websites.

It is the intent of these Associations to better regulate the inspection profession and have Codes of Ethics Practice and Standards set with regard to all aspects of inspections.

Your involvement in a professional association is important to your future and will also ensure you are always working to the standards set within these associations and those of Grassroots®.

Request a Grassroots® Franchise Information Kit