Building inspections: consumers will benefit from additional protections as of 2027.
The government has decided to act in response to longstanding concerns regarding the absence of any regulatory framework governing professional building inspectors. The new standard 3900-500 will come into effect in 2027.
The standard’s provisions were drafted by the Bureau de normalisation du Québec (BNQ) and the Régie du bâtiment du Québec (RBQ) will be responsible for enforcing it. More exactly, the government has granted the RBQ regulatory authority to oversee building inspections by defining the conditions and terms (including rules relating to continuing education and technical standards) that a physical person must adhere to in order to obtain a certificate allowing them to practise as a building inspector.
“Inspectors will hold a licence from the RBQ, just like general contractors, as will be the case throughout Québec,” says Alexandre Cormier, co-owner of Lapello Building Inspection. “The introduction of this standard is excellent news for all property buyers. Let me point out that, at the moment of writing, anyone who wishes to do so can call themselves an inspector, which isn’t very reassuring for consumers! Purchasing a home is a big step, and it’s essential that buyers receive the best possible service when it comes to having their desired property inspected.
Times are changing. It’s important that everyone be aware of this new coming reality.
Building inspector
A Directory on the RBQ’s Website
As of 2027, consumers will have easy access to a directory of recognized, trained, and up-to-date inspectors on the RBQ’s website. This will help establish uniform practice standards for building inspectors. “The inspector is to carry out their work in accordance with predetermined criteria… eliminating a cavalier attitude that has no place in our profession,” insists Mr. Cormier.
Compulsory Insurance Coverage
People with experience in real estate know that a building inspector with errors and omissions insurance always constitutes the best choice. This provides important protection, not only for the inspector, but also for their client. Currently, however, this insurance isn’t mandatory. This will change in 2027, good news for consumers!
Reviewed Reports?
Does the new standard stipulate that the RBQ review inspectors’ reports? No. Nevertheless, inspection reports must all cover a number of prescribed categories selected to ensure that every part of the property is examined.
More Detailed Reports
Another important change, according to Mr. Cormier: “At present, reports can feel very ambiguous. It’s not always obvious while reading if the inspector has actually identified a risk. This leaves room for interpretation. With the new standard, everything will be crystal clear. For example, if you note an absence of water rings, you must prove it with photographs. It will also no longer be possible to write that you believe there’s a risk: the risk must be certain and demonstrable as per established standards.”
Confirmed Invoices
The inspector will also have to ascertain whether the description of the repairs or improvements listed in the Declarations by the Seller is accurate. “Under the new standard, we must analyze the given information and make sure the seller is telling the truth, insofar as it’s possible. For example, we need to see the invoices for any work carried out. Many inspectors already do this, but it will now be required.”
Prohibition on Touching the Electric Panel
The new standard also clearly states that inspectors aren’t allowed to open electrical panels. “Most inspectors already follow this rule, but the standard makes it mandatory. It’s for everyone’s safety. Having proper electrical training is essential before tampering with panels,” adds the co-owner of Lapello Building Inspection. However, it’s worth mentioning that experienced inspectors have developed ways of assessing the electrical systems’ condition while still complying with regulations. For example, by opening an electrical socket to check for aluminum wiring.”
It must be noted that this restriction applies not only to electrical panels, but also other components (like heating systems) that should never be opened without the presence of a specialist.
A Broker’s Attendance
The new standard likewise requires a broker’s or representative’s presence during the inspection. Although most brokers already attend the building inspection, the shift toward making this compulsory deserves attention.
New Residence Pre-Acceptance
The new standard also introduces changes to pre-acceptance inspections for new constructions. For example, the inspector must include a code number, manufacturer’s guide, or a standard, as reference when recording a finding in their report. This means some inspectors will choose to specialize in this area to work more effectively and will continuously update their skills. In short, the report must confirm that everything complies with the Québec Construction Code. “No more grey areas. Think there’s not enough clearance beneath the window? The inspector must write down the precise measurement and indicate whether it conforms with regulations,” states Mr. Cormier.
The year 2027 looks promising for property buyers: no more worries about if the inspector they’ve hired is qualified.
The implementation of standard 3900-500 is worth celebrating!
