GL InspectionsShould I be at the home inspection? What should I bring and ask?
Yes, if you can. You don't need to follow the inspector for the full 2 h 30 min, but being there for the walk-through at the end is the most valuable part: you see the issues with your own eyes, ask questions and learn where shut-offs and the panel are. Bring the listing, a notepad or phone, and your list of questions.
Updated October 2026 · By Gerardo Lucero, Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)
Why showing up is worth it
A written report is detailed, but a photo of a crack can look scarier, or less scary, than it really is. Standing in the basement with me while I point at it gives you context no report can. You also learn the house: where the main water shut-off is, which breaker controls what, how the furnace filter comes out.
That said, you don't have to shadow me room by room. Many clients arrive near the end. The inspection takes about 2 h 30 min, and at the end I do a walk-through of the findings, then send the photo report the same day.
What to bring
- The listing and any seller documents: pre-listing report, renovation receipts, permits, or the Seller Property Information Statement if one was provided.
- Your phone for photos and room measurements (furniture, appliances).
- A short list of concerns from your showing: that smell in the basement, the soft spot by the patio door.
- Comfortable shoes and clothes you don't mind getting a bit dusty.
- Your plans: if you want to finish the basement or take out a wall, tell me. As a carpenter who has framed and renovated GTA homes since 2009, I can point out what I see that affects those plans, within the visual scope of the inspection.
Questions worth asking your inspector
About the big picture
- "Which three findings would you deal with first?"
- "Is this normal for a house of this age?" A 1970s home in Thornhill and a new build in Vaughan are judged against different expectations.
- "What is a safety issue versus a maintenance item?"
About specific systems
- "How old do the furnace, A/C and water heater look, and are any of them rentals?" Rental tanks and HVAC contracts are common in Ontario, so ask your lawyer to check for them.
- "Did you see any signs of water in the basement?"
- "Is anything in the panel or wiring worth an electrician's look?"
About next steps
- "Which items need a specialist before my condition expires?"
- "What should I maintain in the first year?"
What I won't do is tell you whether to buy or what price to pay. That is your decision with your agent. My job is to give you a clear, honest picture.
What to leave at home
A big group of relatives can slow things down and make it hard to hear the important parts. If family members want to help, invite them to the final walk-through. Also skip debating the findings with the seller or listing agent on site; let your agent handle negotiation.
Spanish-speaking family? I offer the inspection and walk-through in English and Spanish. Learn more about our pre-purchase inspection, read what to do if problems are found, or browse the FAQ.
Ready to schedule? Book your inspection, any day from 8 am to 8 pm.
Sources
More guides
- How much does a home inspection cost in Vaughan and the GTA?
- Home inspection condition in Ontario: how many days do you have?
- Pre-offer inspection or conditional inspection: which should I do in the GTA?
- The home inspection found problems. What are my options?
- Final walk-through before closing in Ontario: what should I check?
Questions people ask
do i have to be at the home inspection
No, it's not required, but it's strongly recommended, at least for the walk-through of findings at the end.
can my parents come to the inspection
Yes. A small group is fine; the final walk-through is the best time for family to join.
how long is a home inspection
About 2 h 30 min on site, plus the walk-through. The photo report arrives the same day.
what questions to ask home inspector
Ask which issues to fix first, what's normal for the home's age, what's a safety issue, and what needs a specialist before your condition ends.
can the inspection be in spanish
Yes. GL Inspections offers the inspection and walk-through in English and Spanish.
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