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Pre-Delivery Inspection an important part of
new home ownership
(NC)-There is a critical first step all new home buyers in
Ontario must take before moving day, known as the Pre-Delivery Inspection or PDI.
Much more than a just a quick tour, the PDI represents the first opportunity for
buyers to view their home in its completed state and thoroughly assess its
condition prior to taking possession.
All builders of new homes and condominiums in Ontario are
required by Tarion Warranty Corporation to conduct a PDI with their customers
prior to a home's date of possession. Tarion is a private corporation that
protects home buyers according to the terms of the Ontario New Home Warranties
Plan Act, which requires that builders provide warranty coverage on every new
home built in the province.
"The PDI is an important starting-off point in the new home
warranty process," according to Carol Metcalfe, Manager of Claims at Tarion.
"Most builders are committed to constructing a quality product, but today's new
homes are large and complex, made up of many different systems and components.
The PDI therefore provides homeowners with a prime opportunity for assessing a
home's overall workmanship and features."
The PDI takes place just before occupancy and involves the
builder or their representative examining the interior and exterior of the home
with the homeowner. The objective of this inspection is to make a written record
of any items that are incomplete, damaged, missing, inaccessible or not working
properly. Items needing attention by the builder are included on a PDI Form,
which represents the official record of the home's condition before occupancy.
It is also used by Tarion as a reference for any future warranty-related issues.
"Many builders use the PDI as an opportunity to foster a good
relationship with their customers, at the start of the all-important first year
in the new home," says Metcalfe. "In addition to conducting the inspection with
homeowners, builders must explain how the various systems work, including the
heating, air conditioning, plumbing and electrical. It's important for
homeowners to be familiar with these as their improper use could affect future
warranty coverage."
During the PDI, homeowners should carefully examine the home
both inside and out. While inside, they should look for things like chips in
porcelain sinks or scratches on counter tops, damage to floors or walls, and
doors and windows that are not secure or do not open and close easily.
Outside they should check things like the quality of brickwork
and siding, whether window screens have been installed, and the appearance of
the driveway and landscaping. It is also a good idea to discuss home maintenance
with the builder, as poor or improper maintenance can jeopardize warranty
coverage.
Additional information on the PDI, including a complete of
things to look for during the inspection, can be found in 'Getting Ready for the
Pre-Delivery Inspection,' a brochure produced by Tarion. Copies can be obtained
by calling 1-877-9TARION or downloaded from the Tarion website
www.tarion.com
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