Buying or selling a home in Canada is a major life decision. With property prices on the rise, making informed choices has never been more important. One essential step in any real estate transaction is a professional home inspection.
A home inspection evaluates the condition of a property, highlighting issues before a purchase or sale. But many Canadians ask: “How much does a home inspection cost in Canada?”
This complete guide will cover:
- Average home inspection prices in Canada
- Provincial price differences
- Factors affecting inspection costs
- Services included in a standard inspection
- Extra services and hidden fees
- How inspections benefit buyers and sellers
- Tips to choose the right home inspector
- Why inspection prices are changing in 2025
Let’s explore everything you need to know.
What Is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a detailed evaluation of a property conducted by a certified inspector. Its purpose is to uncover problems that may not be visible during a normal walk-through.
The inspector examines:
- Roof and exterior walls
- Plumbing and electrical systems
- Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)
- Foundation, basement, and crawlspaces
- Windows, doors, insulation, and attic
- Potential safety hazards
A proper inspection protects buyers from unexpected repair costs and helps sellers present their property in the best possible condition.
Average Home Inspection Prices in Canada (2025)
The cost of a home inspection in Canada depends on several factors, but generally ranges between $350 and $700 CAD. Luxury or large homes can cost more, sometimes exceeding $900.
Typical prices by home type:
Home Type | Average Price (CAD) |
Condo | $250 – $400 |
Townhouse | $350 – $550 |
Detached Home | $400 – $700 |
Large/Luxury Home | $700 – $1,000+ |
These are averages. Prices may vary by city, property age, and specific inspection requirements.
Home Inspection Prices by Province
Different provinces have slightly different pricing due to local real estate markets and demand.
Ontario
- Average Price: $400 – $650
- Cities like Toronto and Ottawa are more expensive due to higher demand and larger, older homes.
British Columbia
- Average Price: $450 – $700
- Vancouver and Victoria have higher inspection prices, especially for older or complex properties.
Alberta
- Average Price: $350 – $550
- Calgary and Edmonton have moderate pricing. Newer homes cost less to inspect.
Québec
- Average Price: $350 – $600
- Montreal and Quebec City homes, especially older properties, often require more detailed inspections.
Manitoba
- Average Price: $300 – $550
- Winnipeg homes are generally more affordable to inspect, though older homes may increase costs.
Saskatchewan
- Average Price: $300 – $500
- Cities like Regina and Saskatoon offer lower inspection costs.
Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI, Newfoundland)
- Average Price: $300 – $550
- Coastal homes may need extra checks for moisture and weather-related damage.
Factors That Affect Home Inspection Price
Several factors influence the final cost of a home inspection.
1. Size of the Property
Larger homes take more time to inspect.
- Small condo → ~$250
- 2000 sq. ft. home → ~$450
- 4000 sq. ft. home → $800+
2. Age of the Home
Older homes often have outdated plumbing, electrical systems, or structural issues. Inspecting these homes may cost $100–$200 more.
3. Property Type
- Condos: Less inspection work (shared systems)
- Detached homes: Full inspection
- Rural or heritage homes: More complex inspections
4. Location
Big cities usually have higher inspection costs due to demand and property complexity.
5. Additional Services
Extra services may increase the price:
Service | Extra Cost (CAD) |
Mold inspection | $200 – $400 |
Radon testing | $150 – $300 |
Asbestos testing | $200 – $400 |
Thermal imaging | $100 – $200 |
Sewer inspection | $150 – $350 |
Pest inspection | $100 – $200 |
6. Inspector Experience
Experienced inspectors charge more but often deliver detailed and accurate reports. Less experienced inspectors may charge less but may miss critical issues.
7. Travel Fees
Remote or rural properties may include extra travel fees ($30–$100).
What’s Included in a Standard Home Inspection?
A professional inspection evaluates the following:
Exterior
- Roof, gutters, and siding
- Foundation and exterior walls
- Driveways, patios, and decks
- Garage and fencing
Interior
- Ceilings, floors, and walls
- Windows and doors
- Attic and insulation
- Basement and crawlspaces
Plumbing
- Pipes and drains
- Water pressure
- Water heater inspection
Electrical
- Outlets, switches, and wiring
- Electrical panel
- Safety hazards
HVAC
- Heating and cooling systems
- Ductwork
Appliances
- Basic functionality checks (if included in sale)
Inspection Report
- Written report with photos
- Issues and recommended repairs
- Urgency levels and future maintenance estimates
Are Home Inspections Worth the Price?
Yes. A $350–$700 inspection can save thousands in potential repair costs.
Common issues found:
- Roof damage
- Mold and moisture problems
- Plumbing leaks
- Electrical hazards
- Structural defects
- HVAC or furnace problems
Inspections allow buyers to negotiate repairs or price reductions and prevent purchasing a property with hidden issues.
Hidden Fees to Watch For
Some inspectors advertise low base prices but add:
- Travel fees
- Extra charges for basements or attics
- Weekend or evening inspection fees
- Costs for optional services
Always request a complete quote before booking.
Choosing the Right Home Inspector in Canada
Important tips:
- Certification: Choose a certified inspector recognized in Canada.
- Experience: Inspectors with 5+ years experience are usually reliable.
- Sample Reports: Check past reports for detail level.
- Reviews: Look for genuine feedback.
- Transparency: Ensure all pricing and services are clear.
Questions to Ask Your Home Inspector
- How long have you been inspecting homes?
- What is included in the inspection?
- Can I attend the inspection?
- Do you offer mold, radon, or thermal imaging services?
- Are there hidden fees?
- How long does the inspection take?
- Are you certified and insured?
Benefits for Buyers
Home inspections help buyers:
- Identify safety hazards
- Spot repair needs
- Avoid structural problems
- Evaluate plumbing and electrical systems
- Check roofing, insulation, and HVAC
Reports can be used for negotiating price reductions or repair credits.
Benefits for Sellers
Sellers benefit by:
- Building buyer trust
- Preventing negotiation conflicts
- Highlighting upgrades and maintenance
- Facilitating faster sales
Pre-listing inspections make the selling process smoother.
Why Home Inspection Prices Are Rising in 2025
- Higher housing demand in Canadian cities
- Aging properties requiring more detailed inspections
- Advanced tools such as thermal imaging
- Increased training and certification costs
- Longer inspection times for larger or complex homes
Despite rising prices, inspections are still a small fraction of overall property costs.
Hipwex: Your Trusted Home Inspection Service in Canada
Hipwex provides professional, affordable home inspections across Canada. Our certified inspectors deliver accurate reports that help buyers and sellers make informed decisions.
We focus on:
- Detailed property evaluations
- Transparent and fair pricing
- Easy-to-read digital reports
- Professional, certified inspectors
With Hipwex, you can have confidence and peace of mind during any real estate transaction.
Final Thoughts
Understanding home inspection prices in Canada helps buyers and sellers budget effectively and avoid surprises. Average inspections range from $350–$700, but the value can save thousands in future repairs.
Whether purchasing, selling, or maintaining a home, a professional inspection is essential. With Hipwex, you get reliable, accurate, and transparent inspections designed to protect your investment and provide peace of mind.
