John Leech
Sun
Re: Home Inspectors must get serious, editorial, Oct. 21
Consumers deserve better when it comes time to engage the services of a house inspector. Just as British Columbians have come to rely on the professional services of a realtor, lawyer and notary when purchasing a house, they should have confidence that their inspector is qualified, registered and accountable.
There are two major issues with the regulation of house inspectors:
(1) There is not one uniform professional registration process or industry standard.
(2) There is no requirement for inspectors to demonstrate their qualifications and get certified and registered.
On the first point, consumers can be confident with a house inspection service if they call on an inspector registered with the Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC (ASTTBC), a self-governing professional association of some 8,500 technology professionals in B.C. Once certified and registered, these inspectors become members of the BC Institute of Property Inspectors (BCIPI), one of several institutes set up under ASTTBC. These professionals are listed at http://bcipi.asttbc.org/
As well, consumers should know about the Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors, CAHPI(BC), the second body in BC offering a good standard of care as it applies to qualifying inspectors.
Secondly, without mandatory licensing (as is the case for realtors, lawyers and notaries), many inspectors choose the path of least resistance and do not get certified and registered.
After all, why would someone voluntarily put their credentials forward for full review, agree to abide by a code of ethics and be subject to a full complaint and discipline process similar to the other professionals involved with the real estate transaction?
There is good news to report. Efforts are being made to ensure a better regulatory environment and therefore enhance consumer confidence.
The Homeowner Protection Office was recently asked by the government to undertake a survey of the marketplace. This has been completed and we are awaiting Victoria‘s response.
ASTTBC has approached CAHPI(BC) recommending we work together to put in place one uniform standard for professional certification and registration. And, ASTTBC and BCIPI are working with the Real Estate Council (the licensing body for realtors) to establish “best practices” for house inspectors and realtors.
“Buyer beware” is no longer acceptable. It is time for all parties to come together to ensure a better regulatory regime for house inspections — the part of the real estate transaction that affects health, safety and financial security.
John E. Leech is executive director and registrar of Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of B.C.
© The Vancouver Sun 2005
