Government Regulations
On May 12th, 2011 the Alberta Government introduced the Home Inspection Business Regulation, which comes into force on September 1, 2011. It will require all home inspection businesses and individual inspectors be licensed by the provincial government. To qualify for a license, inspectors must have successfully completed training from an educational institution approved by the provincial government and pass a test inspection, or hold a Certified Master Inspector or Registered Home Inspector designation. Home inspectors, organizations or industry associations will also have the ability to...
Read MoreThe “Check-up”
There are times when a homeowner could benefit from the knowledge of a home inspector but not have the need for a full property inspection. I have been working on addressing this and developed a home “check up” A home “check up” is a limited inspection ideal for a home owner wanting to plan for future expenses and address issues that could create large repairs in the future. The check up will report on the condition of all the major components of your home, including the roof, drainage, furnace, hot water heater, electrical components, plumbing and attic. What I don’t inspect during a...
Read MoreSpring Maintenance
Inspecting your home on a regular basis and following good maintenance practices is the best way to protect your investment in your home. Spring is here and an important season regarding home maintenance. Winter is harsh and can cause damage to your home and there are things to get ready for so you can enjoy your summer. Here are some thought starters: Check your eavestroughs and Downspouts for loose joints and secure as attachment to your home, clear any obstructions and ensure water is flowing away from your foundation. Check your sump pump. It will work very hard during the spring...
Read MoreHome Safety
Finding things getting a little boring this February, why not check your home for safety concerns. I often see dangerous things when I inspect a home, let me give you some things to help get you started on checking your home for safety. Does your home have a Carbon Monoxide detector? Where is it located? Carbon Monoxide is a deadly gas that is odorless. It is heavier than air and can only be detected with a Carbon Monoxide detector. The ideal place for a Carbon Monoxide detector is on the lower level near the furnace and hotwater heater, near a garage door or a fireplace. (Gas or Wood...
Read MoreWinter Maintenance
Winter is a quite time and your home requires very little maintenance, however there is always a few things to do. Here are some tips. Your furnace is running a lot these days so the filter gets dirty quickly. Clean or replace it monthly, this helps the furnace circulate warm air throughout your home and saves you valuable energy dollars. Drain a bucket or two of water from the clean out valve at the bottom of your hot water tank, you may have to consult your owners manual. This will control sediment and maintain efficiency, saving you more energy dollars. Clean your humidifier two or...
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