Pre-Purchase Home Inspection: For An Informed Transaction
A thorough, independent inspection before you finalize the purchase.
Understand the home’s condition, risks, and next steps.
Ideal for buyers who want clarity before conditions are removed.
Clear Decision Support
You’ll receive a photo-rich digital report that helps you understand what matters now, what can wait, and what to plan for.
Negotiation & Planning
Findings can support follow-up questions, negotiation, or budgeting—depending on your purchase conditions and timelines.
Calgary & Area Service
Serving Calgary and surrounding communities including Airdrie, Chestermere, Cochrane, and Okotoks.
What is a Pre Purchase Home Inspection?
A pre-purchase inspection is a visual evaluation of a property’s accessible systems and components—completed before the purchase is finalized. The goal is to identify material defects, safety concerns, and signs of moisture or deferred maintenance so you can make an informed decision.
→ Want to see what a report looks like? View a [Sample Inspection Report]
What’s Included in the Inspection?
Roofing & Exterior
Roof coverings (visible), flashings, siding, doors, windows, grading, drainage.
Structure & Foundation
Visible foundation, floor structure, framing, signs of movement or water entry.
PLUMBING
Supply and drain systems (visible), fixtures, water heater, functional flow checks.
ELECTRICAL
Panel overview, visible wiring, receptacles, GFCI/AFCI presence where applicable.
HEATING & COOLING
Furnace/air handler, AC unit, distribution, visible components, operational checks.
Attic, Insulation & Ventilation
Attic access permitting, insulation levels/coverage, ventilation conditions, moisture indicators.
Using an Inspection Condition in Your Offer
What a Pre-Purchase Inspection Helps You Do
1. Reduce Risk of Hidden Issues
Identify visible indicators of moisture intrusion, deferred maintenance, or installation concerns that may not be obvious during a walkthrough.
2. Plan Short- and Long-Term Work
Understand which items are higher priority versus normal maintenance—so you can budget realistically after possession.
3. Make a Confident Purchase Decision
If major concerns are identified, you can consider next steps within your condition period and avoid costly surprises.
HOW LONG IS THE INSPECTION?
Typical inspections take 2.5–3.5 hours, depending on size, age, and condition.
WHEN DO I GET THE REPORT?
Reports are delivered within 24 hours, typically the same day.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Should I Attend The Inspection?
What if the home is occupied, cluttered, or there are locked areas?
The inspection is limited to areas that are accessible and safely visible at the time of the inspection. If storage, locked rooms, or packed utility areas restrict access, those limitations will be documented in the report and may affect what can be confirmed.
Can you inspect a condo as part of a purchase?
Yes. Condo inspections focus on the unit interior (plumbing, electrical, heating/cooling where applicable, ventilation, and finishes), plus any accessible common elements that are reasonably visible from the unit. Exterior and building-wide systems are typically managed by the condo corporation. Check out our Condo Inspections page to learn more.
Do you Inspect Outside Calgary?
Yes. Service is available throughout Calgary and surrounding communities, including Airdrie, Chestermere, Cochrane, and Okotoks. Inspections outside these areas may be subject to additional travel fees, depending on location.
Can you provide repair or renovation cost estimates?
Your home inspector can explain the significance of findings and typical repair considerations, but detailed pricing should be obtained from qualified contractors who can assess the specific conditions directly.
What should I do to prepare for the inspection?
If you’re the buyer, the main step is ensuring access is arranged (lockbox, occupants aware, utilities on). If the seller is preparing the home, clearing access to key areas (electrical panel, furnace, water heater, attic hatch) helps ensure a complete inspection.
READY TO SCHEDULE YOUR INSPECTION?
For any inquiries or to schedule an inspection, feel free to email us at chris@calgaryhomeinspector.ca, text 825-863-2372, or book a time slot online.
Not looking for a pre-purchase inspection? Check out our other home inspection services to find the one that’s right for you.
We’re proud to extend our services beyond Calgary. We offer home inspection services in Airdrie, Chestermere, Cochrane, Okotoks and more!