A Home Inspection Victoria buyers schedule for a pre-1990s house is about more than the roof and foundation. It is also your chance to learn what is behind the walls and under the yard.

The Usual Suspects in Older Homes

Heating oil tanks. Many local homes once burned oil. If the tank was left in the ground or never properly decommissioned, leaks are a real concern. Signs include a vent pipe, fill pipe, or old fuel lines.

Poly-B pipe. This grey flexible plumbing was common in BC in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Fittings can fail, and insurers often ask whether it is present.

Knob-and-tube wiring. Found in some pre-1950s houses, it lacks a ground wire and can become a hazard when covered by insulation or overloaded.

Aluminum branch wiring. Used in some 1960s and 1970s builds. Loose connections can overheat over time.

Why Knowing Early Matters

Each of these can affect insurance, financing, or your first-year budget. Finding them before you remove subjects gives you options: negotiate, get trade quotes, or walk away.

What an Inspection Covers

An inspector works visually and does not open walls or dig up yards. What they can do is recognize the warning signs, explain how serious they are, and point you to the right specialist. Thermal imaging adds another check by revealing temperature patterns that can indicate moisture or heat issues you cannot see.

Your Action Plan

• Read the report for any mention of oil, Poly-B, or older wiring
• Get written quotes from the relevant trades
• Speak to your insurer before subjects come off
• Adjust your offer or budget based on real numbers

Get a Local Report

A BC certified home inspection team can walk you through what matters and what can wait. Call 250-812-5335 or visit maxinspections.ca.