Home Inspection Checklist Canada 2025 | What Inspectors Look For

What a Canadian Home Inspector Must Examine

A qualified home inspector in Canada follows a systematic process covering every accessible major system and component of the home. Use this checklist to follow along during your inspection and ask informed questions.

    Pro Tip: Attend the inspection in person. Walking through with the inspector gives you context and understanding that no written report can replicate. Ask questions — inspectors appreciate engaged buyers.
  

Exterior Checklist

Roof: shingles age and condition, flashing, eavestroughs, downspouts, chimney
Grading: does the ground slope away from the foundation?
Foundation: visible cracks, spalling, efflorescence (white mineral deposits)
Exterior cladding: brick, siding, stucco — cracking, rot, deterioration
Windows and doors: seals, operation, weatherstripping
Decks and porches: structural integrity, ledger board attachment, guard rail height
Driveway and walkways: condition, drainage
Garage: door operation, auto-reverse function, structure

Electrical System Checklist

Panel: brand, amperage, breaker types — note if Federal Pacific (Stab-Lok) or Zinsco panels are present (both are considered fire hazards)
Wiring types: knob-and-tube (pre-1940s, often uninsurable), aluminum wiring (1965–1973, needs anti-oxidant connectors)
GFCI protection in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, exterior outlets
AFCI breakers in bedrooms (required by newer code)
Grounding and bonding
Light fixtures, outlets, switches — operation and polarity

Plumbing System Checklist

Water supply: copper, CPVC, PEX — note if Poly-B (polybutylene) is present in BC-era homes
Drain and waste: ABS, PVC, cast iron — look for leaks, improper slope
Water heater: age, type (tank vs tankless), venting, pressure relief valve
Water pressure (should be 40–80 psi)
Shut-off valves: location and function
Sump pump: operation, battery backup present?

HVAC Checklist

Furnace: age, filter condition, heat exchanger (critical — cracked = CO risk)
Air conditioning: age, operation, refrigerant type
Ductwork: condition, insulation in unconditioned spaces
Ventilation: HRV/ERV operation, bath fans venting to exterior
Fireplace / wood stove: WETT inspection recommended if present
Thermostats: operation

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Basement and Attic Checklist

Basement: moisture, staining, efflorescence, cracks in walls/floor, musty odour
Sump pit condition and pump operation
Attic: insulation depth (R-value), ventilation (soffit to ridge), signs of moisture or ice damming
Attic: signs of previous roof leak (staining on sheathing)
Vermiculite insulation — if present, may contain asbestos (common in Ontario homes pre-1990)

Interior Checklist

Ceilings: water stains, cracks, sagging
Walls: cracks, moisture indicators, evidence of patched holes (may indicate previous damage)
Floors: soft spots, squeaking, levelness
Windows: operation, condensation between panes (failed seal), cracks
Stairs: riser height, handrails, guard height
Kitchen: appliance operation, cabinet function, dishwasher and sink drains
Bathrooms: tile, caulking, shower/tub operation, toilet flush, ventilation