Our Services

   DSG Home Inspections is based in Orillia and serves Simcoe County, Midland and Penetanguishene in the west, east to Ramara Township, south from Alliston to Muskoka - Parry Sound in the north. Don't hesitate to call from outside the region, we will accommodate you based on our schedule or help you find a local Home Inspector. 

Pre-Purchase/Listing Inspections (PPI/PLI)

   A Pre-Purchase Inspection is performed in order to provide enough technical information for a prospective buyer to make an informed decision on their purchase. The entire house, inside and out, is visually inspected to identify deficiencies in structure, foundation, roofing, electrical, plumbing, insulation, interior & exterior finish, ventilation and heating / cooling systems. 

   Upon completion of a typical Pre-Purchase Home Inspection you will be presented with a detailed report to take away with you. Your inspector will review everything with you and answer any questions you may have. We can offer a variety of formats such as the Home Reference Book, which includes comprehensive technical information for those who plan to do their own maintenance and renovations; an electronic report accessible to those who have email; Narrative reports are also available for areas such as code assessments or specific troubleshooting.  

New Home Warranty Program Inspections (PDI)

   Many new homebuyers are unaware of their rights under the Ontario New Home Warranty Program. Those who are aware, are often unable to assess if they have a legitimate claim, or how to successfully file it. Pre-Occupancy and Pre-Warranty Expiration Inspections are both of value to the owner. 

Code Assessments

   Typically required as evidence for litigation between an owner and a builder or vendor, a code assessment is a thorough evaluation of all construction as specified in the building codes. A detailed document referring to specific code contraventions can be used by the owner or a lawyer toward obtaining compensation.

Contamination Testing

   A visual assessment of the building based on its age and physical condition can be used to establish the types of risks to the occupant. Samples are then taken and sent to a professional laboratory for analysis. The results are given to the owner for followup.

• Asbestos can be found in insulation, floor and ceiling tiles as well as stucco-like coatings. It is a cancer causing agent that can also irreversibly damage the lungs.
• Moulds are found in damp areas as well as dirty air ducts. Moulds can aggravate asthma or trigger allergies through inhalation of their microscopic spores. Although mould is everywhere, lab testing can determine the type(s) and level of risk to the health of the occupants of the home.
• Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from naturally occurring uranium in rocks of the earth's crust. This invisible gas, if present, can enter the house through cracks in the foundation and is the second leading cause of lung cancer in North America.
• UFFI (Urea Formaldehyde Foam Insulation) was used as blown-in insulation that when broken down by moisture releases formaldehyde gas, a known carcinogen.
• Lead is found in water where lead based solder was used in the plumbing system. Paints are also high risk substances in older homes, especially when doing any renovations. Ingestion or inhalation of lead can cause brain damage, especially in children.

Septic & Woodstove Inspections

   Septic Systems and Wood Burning Appliances are difficult to assess because their functioning parts are hidden. They are also subject to changing and stringent codes and regulations. However, by following guidelines set out by the Ministry of Housing (Septic Systems) and Wood Energy Technology Transfer (WETT - woodstoves) major deficiencies can be evaluated.  Where necessary DSG will hire qualified contractors to undertake these assessments.

Energy Audits (Natural Resources Canada is no longer accepting applications for ecoENERGY grants)

   With today's environmental awareness, many homeowners want to know how efficient their house is. Is it well insulated, does the toilet waste water, is heat whistling out the windows? An energy audit consists of a visual assessment of all energy consuming and conserving components and testing of the air tightness of the house. A written report offers suggestions for improvement and an estimate of the cost savings available.