What Does a Home Inspection Cover in Calgary?
A home inspection in Calgary is a visual, non-invasive assessment of a home’s major systems and structure, done by a trained inspector before you finalize a purchase. It typically covers the roof, exterior, foundation, attic, plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling, insulation, windows, doors, and basement. You receive a digital, interactive report with photos & videos that explains what’s in good shape, what needs attention, and what could become expensive.
Arrow Inspections provides home inspections for buyers and sellers in Calgary, Airdrie, Cochrane, Carstairs, Sundre and all surrounding areas.
What does a home inspector check?
Roof and exterior. Shingles, flashing, eavestroughs, downspouts, siding, stucco, decks, and grading around the home. Calgary’s hail and freeze-thaw cycles make roof and exterior condition especially important.
Foundation and structure. Visible cracks, settlement, moisture intrusion, and signs of movement in the foundation, basement walls, and framing.
Plumbing. Water pressure, visible pipes, fixtures, drains, water heater, and signs of leaks or past water damage. Inspectors also note the type of piping, since some older materials carry higher failure risk.
Electrical. The panel, visible wiring, outlets, grounding, GFCI protection, and safety concerns.
Heating and cooling. The furnace, air conditioning (if present), ductwork, thermostats, and general operating condition. In a Calgary winter, furnace health matters a great deal.
Attic and insulation. Insulation levels, ventilation, moisture, and signs of roof leaks.
Interior. Windows, doors, ceilings, walls, floors, stairs, and evidence of water damage.
What is not included in a standard home inspection?
A standard inspection can’t see inside walls or under flooring(even though we do our very best with thermal imaging), it doesn’t include specialized testing unless you add it. Common add-ons in Calgary include:
- Radon testing
- Sewer scope (camera inspection of the main drain line)
- Mould or air quality sampling
Ask Arrow Inspection which add-ons fit the age and type of home you’re buying.
How long does a home inspection take in Calgary?
Most inspections take about [2–3.5 hours], depending on the size and age of the home. Larger homes, acreages, and homes with basement suites can take longer. You’re welcome to attend, and we recommend it. Walking through the home with the inspector is the best way to understand what the report is telling you.
How much does a home inspection cost in Calgary?
Pricing depends on the size, age, and location of the property and on any add-on services. Arrow Inspection’s inspections start at $350. Click here to visit our pricing page. https://www.arrowinspections.ca/pricing/
When should you book your inspection?
Book as soon as your offer is accepted. Most Calgary purchase contracts include a short window for inspection conditions, so scheduling early protects your timeline and your negotiating position.
Why a home inspection is worth it
An inspection won’t make a house perfect, but it gives you clear information before you commit. If the report turns up major issues, you can negotiate repairs or price, or walk away. If it turns up little, you buy with confidence.
Frequently asked questions
Does a home inspection cover the whole house?
It covers the accessible, visible parts of the home’s major systems. It doesn’t include areas that can’t be safely reached or seen, such as inside walls.
Do I need a home inspection on a new build in Calgary?
Yes! We can’t stress this enough. New homes can have construction defects, incomplete work, or grading problems, and an inspection before possession or before your warranty period ends gives you time to document them.
Can a home fail an inspection?
No. An inspection isn’t pass or fail. It’s a report on the home’s condition so you can decide what to do next.
Who pays for the inspection?
Buyers pay for their own inspection. Sellers sometimes order a pre-listing inspection to avoid surprises.
Ready to book? Contact Arrow Inspections at 403-809-8505 or book online here.https://www.arrowinspections.ca/schedule-your-inspection/