Standards of Practice: How Your Inspection Works

Every inspection follows a written standard, so you know in advance what is inspected, how, and what you'll receive. I'm Pantelis Ambatzis, a Certified Master Inspector (CMI®). My pre-purchase inspections in Québec follow the BNQ 3009-500 standard, and as an InterNACHI member I also follow the InterNACHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.

What BNQ 3009-500 means for you

BNQ 3009-500 is the Québec standard for pre-purchase inspection of residential buildings, published by the Bureau de normalisation du Québec. It sets out what the inspector examines, how the inspection is carried out and what the written report must contain. Brokers and notaries in Québec know it, which makes the report easier to use in your transaction.

Before the inspection

• We agree on the property, the scope and the price, and you sign an inspection agreement that describes what is and isn't included;
• I review what you tell me about the property, including the seller's declaration if you have it;
• I confirm access with the broker: utilities on, attic hatch and electrical panel reachable.

What is inspected

The inspection is visual and covers the components that are visible and safely accessible on the day: exterior and lot, roof, structure and foundation, windows and doors, plumbing, electrical, heating, air conditioning and ventilation, insulation and attic, and the interior. I use a moisture meter, a thermal camera and, when the roof can't be walked safely, a drone.

What is not included

A pre-purchase inspection doesn't open walls, move furniture or test for code compliance, and it doesn't predict the future life of every component. Specialized tests, such as mold and air sampling, are separate services. When I see something that needs a closer look, I recommend the right specialist before your inspection deadline.

The report

You receive a written BNQ 3009-500 report, in English or French, with photos, findings ranked by priority and maintenance advice, often delivered the same day. I stay available after the report to answer your questions.

Frequently asked questions

What standard do you follow in Québec?

My pre-purchase inspections and reports follow BNQ 3009-500, the Québec standard for pre-purchase inspection of residential buildings. As an InterNACHI member, I also follow the InterNACHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.

Does the inspection check whether the house meets the building code?

No. A pre-purchase inspection is not a code-compliance inspection. I report on the condition of what I can see and safely access, and I note when something looks unsafe or poorly built and should be checked by a specialist.

Will you open walls or move furniture?

No. The inspection is visual and non-invasive. I don't open walls, lift floor coverings or move the seller's belongings. Where something limits access, the report says so.

Can I attend the inspection?

Yes, and I recommend it. I explain what I find as we go, and you can ask questions on the spot.

More questions about the process in Québec? See the FAQ, or call 514-924-8887.