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
