How to find a building inspector for my real estate inspection in Quebec?

When purchasing real estate in Quebec, it's usually the buyer who chooses the building inspector.

Your promise to purchase has just been accepted, or you're preparing a pre-sale, pre-delivery or preventive inspection, and you need to find a building inspector quickly?

Don't panic. Here's what the inspector does, when to find one, and 5 factors to consider.

What a building inspector does

The building inspector examines the visible condition of the property and gives you a written report. Depending on the inspection type, they may:

• Pre-purchase: visit the building before the inspection condition expires and flag apparent defects;
• Pre-sale: help the seller understand the property's condition before listing;
• Pre-delivery: check a new construction before accepting the work;
• Preventive: document the building's condition outside a transaction.

A building inspection is not mandatory in Quebec, but it is strongly recommended before buying. It does not replace the notarial deed or the certificate of location.

When should you find your inspector?

As soon as your promise to purchase is accepted, or as soon as you plan a listing or a new-construction handover. The inspector needs time to travel, visit, and write the report.

Why not wait? Visit slots fill quickly in busy periods. If your inspection condition has a deadline, start now.

Do all inspectors handle real estate inspections?

No. Confirm that the inspector accepts your inspection type and property type: a divided co-ownership, a plex, and a single-family house are not inspected the same way.

Also verify their RBQ number (category 1 or 2) and, if applicable, a professional association (AIBQ, ANIEB, InterNACHI, CAHPI).

5 factors to compare inspectors

1. Inspection type and property type

Confirm they offer pre-purchase, pre-sale, pre-delivery or preventive inspections for your file, and that they accept your building type.

2. Availability

Your deadline is often written in the promise to purchase. Make sure they can visit and deliver the report on time.

3. Language

You need to understand the report. If you prefer English, ask at the first contact.

4. Google reviews

Reviews do not say everything, but they help confirm professionalism, report clarity, and respect for timelines.

5. Written quote

Ask for a written quote. InspecteurFacile does not publish inspectors' fees: you compare the offers you receive.

Where to find a building inspector?

• Your circle: word of mouth remains useful.
• Your real estate broker: they may recommend inspectors, but the choice is yours.
• The RBQ registry: to confirm an inspector is registered.
• Google reviews: handy for checking a reputation.
• InspecteurFacile: describe your inspection once and receive free quotes from multiple building inspectors. Only inspectors who accept your property type receive your request. You compare Google reviews, languages spoken, and written quotes, then you choose.

Not sure yet?

Ask for a detailed quote from more than one inspector. You'll quickly see differences in timelines, report content, and experience. Get building inspector quotes.

Questions to ask your building inspector before choosing

• Do you accept my property type and this inspection type?
• Are you registered with the RBQ, and in which category?
• Can you meet my deadline and deliver the report on time?
• Will the report be in French or English?
• What does the visit include (roof, foundations, electrical, plumbing)?
• Can you send me a written quote?

What to have on hand

To speed up the quote, prepare:

• Address of the property;
• Property type (condo, house, plex…);
• Inspection type (pre-purchase, pre-sale, pre-delivery, preventive);
• Desired visit date;
• Unit number if it is a condo.

In short

To find a building inspector, start as soon as you know your deadline. Verify that they accept your property type, require a written and detailed quote, and choose someone available with whom you're comfortable.

Find a building inspector near you

Frequently asked questions

Is a building inspector mandatory when buying a house in Quebec?

No. A building inspection is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended before buying. It helps you understand the visible condition of the building before lifting your conditions.

Does the buyer or the seller choose the inspector?

For a pre-purchase inspection, it is usually the buyer. For a pre-sale inspection, it is the seller. The parties can agree otherwise.

Do all inspectors handle real estate inspections?

No. Check the inspection type, property type, and RBQ registration from the first contact.

Does the inspector have to be in the same city as the property?

No. You can choose an inspector elsewhere in Quebec, for example closer to home, if they travel to the property.

How far in advance should you find your inspector?

As soon as possible after the promise to purchase is accepted, or as soon as you plan a pre-sale or pre-delivery inspection. The visit and report take time.

How much does a building inspector cost for a home purchase?

Prices vary by inspector, property type, and the report requested. InspecteurFacile does not publish fees: compare several written quotes.