Everything You Need to Know before Having Your Property Inspected
Do you have questions about the inspection process, costs, or the importance of professional expertise? We've compiled answers to our customers' most frequently asked questions to help you make informed decisions about your real estate project.
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Why do I need an inspection if the house looks fine?
A house may look flawless on the surface while hiding major problems invisible to the naked eye. Structural defects, emerging water infiltration, non-compliant electrical systems, and the gradual deterioration of essential components often only reveal themselves with a thorough examination and specialized tools.
Our professional equipment (infrared camera, drain camera, drone) detects these hidden issues before they become costly. Even for a well-maintained property, an inspection reveals the actual condition of the systems, their remaining life, and the maintenance work to be expected.
What is the difference between a pre-purchase inspection and a pre-sale inspection?
A pre-purchase inspection is ordered by the buyer before finalizing the transaction to reveal hidden defects and negotiate the price or require repairs from the seller. A pre-sale inspection is performed by the seller before listing the property to identify issues that need to be corrected and present a report to potential buyers, which speeds up negotiations and reduces unpleasant surprises.
Both inspections follow the same rigorous methodology and examine the same building components. The main difference lies in the timing and strategic objective: protection for the buyer versus proactive transparency for the seller.
How long do I have to claim a hidden defect after purchasing a property?
In Quebec, you must act quickly upon discovering a hidden defect. The law requires that you notify the seller within a reasonable time after discovering the problem, usually a few weeks to a few months depending on the severity. The statute of limitations for taking legal action is three years from the discovery of the defect.
However, the longer you wait to react, the more difficult it becomes to prove that the defect existed at the time of sale. Our expertise in hidden defects provides the technical documentation necessary to support your claim with a report that complies with legal requirements.
Does a home inspection guarantee that there are no problems with the house?
No, a home inspection isn’t an absolute guarantee, but rather a professional assessment of the apparent condition of the building at the time of inspection. We examine all visible and accessible elements without performing destructive tests or opening walls.
Some defects may be hidden behind surfaces or develop after the inspection. However, our specialized equipment (infrared camera, drain camera, drone) allows us to detect problems that are invisible to the naked eye.
Do I need to be present during the inspection of my property?
Your presence isn’t mandatory, but highly recommended, especially for a pre-purchase inspection. Being on site allows you to see the issues identified firsthand, ask questions in real time, and better understand the systems and maintenance required for your future property.
We take the time to explain our observations, show you the defects, and discuss possible solutions thanks to our knowledge of the real estate market and renovation.
What sets La vis cachée apart from other building inspectors?
Our approach goes far beyond that of a traditional inspector. With 44 years of experience in construction, 10 years as a real estate broker, and a background in teaching architecture, we understand every aspect of your real estate project.
This multidisciplinary expertise allows us to assess the real impact of defects on value, recommend appropriate solutions, and put you in touch with the right professionals from our extensive network.
Get comprehensive guidance with La vis cachée!


