Is your fireplace a cozy comfort or a hidden hazard? Like a magician’s trick, your fireplace can appear warm and harmless on the outside while quietly concealing risks behind the scenes. And in Ontario’s long winters, it’s easy to forget that a beautiful flame can come with real danger if your wood-burning system isn’t up to code. That’s where a …
“New” doesn’t always mean flawless. Especially when it comes to homes. Most homebuyers assume that a brand-new home, built under the watchful eye of builders and city inspectors, is move-in ready and problem-free. But here’s the reality: many new construction homes hide serious defects that only surface after you’ve moved in — or worse, after your Tarion Warranty deadlines have …
Don’t Skip the Inspection—Protect Your Investment As a professional property inspector in Ontario, I often hear condo buyers say, “It’s just a condo—what could go wrong?” Many assume that since condos are part of a larger managed building, there’s little to worry about. Unfortunately, this misconception can lead to costly surprises after move-in. Whether you’re purchasing a high-rise unit in …
What Are Ice Dams? If you’ve ever noticed large icicles hanging from the edges of your roof, you might think they’re just a normal part of winter. However, those icicles could be a sign of a bigger issue—ice damming. Ice dams are ridges of ice that form at the edge of a roof, preventing melting snow from draining properly. This …
Wood-burning fireplaces, stoves, and inserts bring warmth and character to a home, but they also require proper care and maintenance to ensure they are safe to use. WETT inspections (Wood Energy Technology Transfer) are a key step in ensuring the safety, compliance, and efficiency of these systems. Here are the main instances where WETT inspections are essential: 1. For Home …
What is the Tarion Warranty Program? Purchasing a newly built home in Ontario is an exciting milestone. To safeguard this significant investment, it’s crucial to understand the Tarion Warranty Program and the importance of a Tarion Warranty Inspection. This inspection ensures your new home meets the quality standards and building codes mandated by Tarion, providing peace of mind and protection …
As home inspectors, we often see single moms embarking on the exciting journey of buying their first home. It’s a dream come true, a promise of a safe and stable future for their families. However, the excitement of homeownership can sometimes overshadow the importance of a thorough home inspection. Why a Home Inspection Matters A home inspection is an essential …
A dry basement is a cornerstone of a healthy home environment. Yet, many homeowners overlook a critical aspect of ensuring a dry basement: exterior grading and water control. In regions like Ontario, where heavy rainfall and snowmelt are common, effective water management around the perimeter of your home is essential to prevent water penetration into the basement. Let’s explore why …
In the realm of home safety, few devices are as crucial as smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms. These small, often overlooked gadgets serve as vigilant guardians, alerting us to potentially life-threatening situations. In Ontario, where safety regulations are stringent, the importance of these alarms cannot be overstated. Let’s delve into why these alarms are so vital and how …
What is Knob and Tube Wiring? Knob and tube was the standard electrical system that was used from 1880 to 1930. Ceramic knobs were secured into wall studs or floor joists – these knobs were used as anchors for the wiring. The wiring was then fed through ceramic tubes that were cut into wall studs and flooring. In was by …
