The province announced it will be implementing new requirements for home inspectors to give home buyers increased confidence when they purchase a home.
The new rules will go into effect on Sept. 1, 2016, and will enhance home inspector licensing qualifications, strengthen home inspection reports, contracts and insurance requirements, and improve enforcement, by requiring the following:
- Home inspection contracts must describe in advance what will be covered in an inspection.
- Contractual terms that limit home inspectors’ liability will be prohibited.
- New business record-keeping requirements will be put in place for home inspectors.
- Home inspectors will be required to have valid professional and general liability insurance.
Rich Coleman, Minister Responsible for Housing, “We asked the public for input in developing new requirements for home inspectors in British Columbia. Taking that feedback into account, we have developed a new approach that will make home inspectors more accountable and ensure consumers know what to expect from a home inspector.”
The Province will also undertake a comprehensive review of the qualifications required to perform home inspections and develop new, more rigorous training and examination requirements for those wishing to become home inspectors. This review will help develop a single occupational standard for all B.C. home inspectors. Results are expected to be in place in 2017.
* In 2009, British Columbia became the first jurisdiction in Canada to require licensing of home inspectors.
* British Columbia and Alberta are the only two provinces that regulate home inspectors in Canada. Ontario is considering doing so.
* There are approximately 483 licensed home inspectors in B.C.
