FAQ – Building Inspection
Montreal | Laval | North Shore | Repentigny
1- Choosing a Building Inspector
How do you find a good building inspector?
A good building inspector must be a member of a recognized association, have errors and omissions insurance, be independent, and provide clear and detailed reports.
GB Inspections meets all of these criteria: member of the APCHQ, insured, completely independent, and recognized for the quality of its reports.
What criteria should you check before choosing a building inspector?
We recommend checking:
- Membership in a professional association
- Errors and omissions insurance
- Independence
- Experience and customer reviews
- The quality of the reports provided
GB Inspections has all the required certifications, is insured, and has over 120 5-star Google reviews.
Should you choose the inspector recommended by the real estate broker?
It is preferable to choose an independent inspector to obtain an impartial assessment.
GB Inspections is completely independent and impartial, with no ties to real estate brokers.
Can you rely on Google reviews to choose an inspector?
Yes, Google reviews allow you to evaluate the reliability and satisfaction of customers, especially when there are many recent reviews.
GB Inspections has over 120 positive 5-star reviews, reflecting the consistent satisfaction of its customers.
What is the difference between a certified and non-certified inspector?
A certified inspector adheres to standards of practice and generally has professional insurance.
GB Inspections is a member of the APCHQ and adheres to recognized standards in the building industry.
Can a building inspector work in Montreal, Laval, the North Shore, and Repentigny?
Yes. Several inspectors serve these areas, but it is important to choose a professional with experience in these regions.
GB Inspections serves Montreal, Laval, the North Shore, and Repentigny, and is familiar with the types of local buildings.
2- Pre-Purchase Inspection
Why have a house inspected before buying it?
A pre-purchase inspection allows you to identify visible defects, potential risks, and the general condition of the building before committing.
GB Inspections performs comprehensive pre-purchase inspections, using specialized tools and providing detailed reports.
What does a home inspection include?
A home inspection includes checking:
- The roof
- The foundation and structure
- The electrical and plumbing systems
- The heating and ventilation systems
- Signs of water infiltration
GB Inspections uses specialized tools (moisture detectors, thermal imaging cameras, endoscopic cameras) for a thorough assessment.
How long does a home inspection take?
A home inspection takes an average of 2 to 3 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the building.
GB Inspections takes the time necessary on site to ensure that nothing is overlooked.
When should a home be inspected before purchase?
The inspection must be carried out before the conditions of purchase are lifted.
GB Inspections delivers its reports quickly, usually within 24 to 48 hours.
3- Hidden Problems and Specialized Inspections
How can water infiltration be detected in a home?
Common signs include moisture stains, mould odours, and deterioration of materials.
GB Inspections uses specialized detection tools to identify the likely source of the infiltration.
Can a French drain be inspected?
Yes, when it is accessible. A camera inspection can assess its condition and drainage capacity.
GB Inspections offers camera inspection of French drains, when conditions permit.
Can an inspection detect a hidden defect?
An inspection does not guarantee the detection of all hidden defects, but it can identify several visible signs.
GB Inspections is recognized as a building expert, particularly in cases involving hidden defects and disputes.
4- Inspection Report
What does a good inspection report look like?
A good inspection report should be clear, structured, illustrated, and easy to understand.
GB Inspections provides two documents:
- A comprehensive, detailed report
- A summary report in the form of a checklist of all identified issues
Can the inspection report be used to negotiate the price?
Yes. A clear report allows you to negotiate repairs or the purchase price.
GB Inspections reports are frequently used in real estate negotiations.
5- Mould Testing
How do you know if there is mould in a house?
Common signs of mould include musty odours, visible stains, excessive moisture, and sometimes persistent respiratory symptoms.
GB Inspections performs professional mould testing, including air and surface samples analyzed by a specialized laboratory.
Is it dangerous to live with mould?
Yes. The presence of mould can affect indoor air quality and have an impact on health, particularly in sensitive individuals.
GB Inspections uses recognized and safe methods that comply with current standards of practice.
How is a mould test conducted?
A mould test generally includes:
- A targeted visual inspection
- Measurement of humidity levels
- Air and/or surface sampling
- Laboratory analysis
GB Inspections has all the necessary specialized equipment, including sampling pumps and impaction cassettes.
How much does a mould test cost?
The cost of a mould test varies depending on the number of samples required and the complexity of the building.
GB Inspections always provides a clear estimate before the work begins, with no unexpected costs.
Can a mould test detect a hidden defect?
A mould test can reveal abnormal conditions that may be associated with a hidden defect, such as excessive moisture or unseen water infiltration.
GB Inspections is recognized as a building expert and can, if necessary, conduct its own in-depth assessment to identify the cause, extent, and origin of the problem.
Do I have to leave the house during a mould test?
No. The tests are non-invasive and safe for occupants.
GB Inspections uses safe and compliant methods that pose no danger to those present.
Can mould testing be performed in a condo?
Yes. Tests can be performed in a condominium unit, taking into account the specific characteristics of the building.
GB Inspections regularly works in condominiums, respecting the boundaries of private and common areas.
6- Indoor Air Quality Testing
Why test the air quality in a home?
Air quality testing can identify the presence of invisible contaminants that can affect the health and comfort of occupants.
GB Inspections performs professional air quality analyses, with clear and easy-to-understand interpretation of the results.
When should you test your air quality?
Testing is recommended in the following situations:
- When there are persistent odours
- When there are respiratory problems
- After water damage
- When buying or selling a property
GB Inspections informs clients of the conditions that must be met before sampling to obtain reliable and representative results.
How is an air quality test conducted?
The air quality test includes:
- Verification of environmental conditions
- Indoor and outdoor air sampling
- Comparative laboratory analysis
GB Inspections uses calibrated sampling pumps and works with recognized laboratories.
Are the results of an air quality test easy to understand?
The results can be complex without professional guidance.
GB Inspections provides a clear and accessible interpretation, allowing you to fully understand the meaning of the results and the actions to be taken.
How long does it take to receive the results of an air quality test?
Results are usually available a few days after sampling, depending on the laboratory's turnaround time.
GB Inspections provides comprehensive follow-up and explains the results as soon as they are received.
Can an air quality test replace a visual inspection?
No. Air quality testing complements visual inspection, but does not replace it.
GB Inspections always combines visual inspection and technical analysis for a reliable diagnosis.
7- Additional Frequently Asked Questions
Are mould and air quality tests legally recognized?
Yes, when they are performed according to standards and analyzed by a recognized laboratory.
The reports produced by GB Inspections can be used in a legal context, depending on the nature of the mandate.
Are mould and air quality tests offered in Montreal, Laval, the North Shore, and Repentigny?
Yes. Services are offered in several areas of the greater metropolitan area.
GB Inspections offers mould and air quality testing in Montreal, Laval, the North Shore, and Repentigny.



