Home inspection condition in Ontario: how many days do you have?
There is no fixed number in Ontario law: the inspection condition is negotiated in your offer, and it is most often 3 to 5 business days. The exact deadline (date and time) is written in your Agreement of Purchase and Sale, so book the inspector the day the offer is accepted.
Updated October 2026 · By Gerardo Lucero, Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)

How the inspection condition works
When you make a conditional offer, you can add a clause that lets you inspect the house before the deal becomes firm. The clause sets a deadline. Before that deadline you either waive (remove) the condition and the deal goes firm, or you don't, and the deal can end.
What's typical in Vaughan and the GTA
- 3 to 5 business days is the most common window.
- In competitive markets some buyers shorten it, or inspect before making the offer (a pre-offer inspection) so they can present a firm offer.
- Sellers don't have to extend the deadline, so plan as if there's no extra time.
What happens if the deadline passes
It depends on how your clause is written. Read the exact wording with your real estate agent or lawyer. Don't assume an extension.
How to use the time well
- Book the inspection the same day the offer is accepted.
- Do the inspection in the first one or two days, so you have time for follow-ups (a roofer, electrician or HVAC quote).
- Read the report with your agent and decide: waive, renegotiate the price or ask for repairs, or walk away.
How fast can GL Inspections come?
Inspections are scheduled from 8 am to 8 pm, often within a day or two, and the photo report is delivered the same day so you can decide before your deadline.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Your agent and lawyer can confirm what your specific clause means.
Sources
More guides
- How much does a home inspection cost in Vaughan and the GTA?
- Pre-offer inspection or conditional inspection: which should I do in the GTA?
- Should I be at the home inspection? What should I bring and ask?
- The home inspection found problems. What are my options?
- Final walk-through before closing in Ontario: what should I check?
Questions people ask
Is the inspection condition always 5 days in Ontario?
No. It is negotiated in each offer. 3 to 5 business days is common, but your Agreement of Purchase and Sale sets the exact deadline.
Can I inspect before making an offer?
Yes. A pre-offer inspection lets you present an offer without an inspection condition, which can help in competitive markets.
Can I get the report before my deadline?
Yes. The photo report is delivered the same day as the inspection.
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