It's good news for anyone who has to hire a home inspector.
Beginning April 1 in B.C., anyone offering house inspection services in the province must be licensed.
Previously when a home inspector did a bad job they usually just refunded the fee. Now it will now be mandatory for all inspectors to have $1 million in errors and omissions insurance.
But that doesn't mean if an inspector makes a mistake that you get a cheque in the mail. You still have to sue and prove your case in court, or in some cases, an out-of-court settlement with the insurance company. So there is money for compensation, but it may take a while to get it.
If you're looking for a home inspector, there are certain things to look for and avoid.
First, ask to see their license. It's the size of a credit card with their name, five-digit license number and an expiry date. Inspectors have to renew their license every year.
Also, ask how long they've been inspecting and what courses they've taken. Always get references and take the time to check them out.
Follow this link for a listing of licensed home inspectors in British Columbia.
Since licensing became the law two weeks ago, half the people who were calling themselves home inspectors in B.C. have not applied -- so hopefully just introducing a mandatory license has weeded out some unqualified inspectors.
