Haystack Home Inspections

Rating: 5 out of 5

Haystack Home Inspections reviews (499)

  • Review from Andrew Barnes
    Rating: 5 out of 5
    Review left on 16 Mar 2017

    Thorough and accomodating heritage home inspection with multiple suites

    From my first conversation with Chris I could tell he was the right guy for the job. He was just finishing a heritage home inspection, was friendly, and was willing to schedule my job in on the timeline I needed for the property's subject removal date. The inspection was of a heritage home w/ 5 suites. Almost immediately, Chris identified some high-level problem areas for my attention and during the inspection he was willing to provide a walkthrough of each suite when completed. The inspection was very thorough including moisture readings in concerning areas. He even lent me his laser reader so I could take measurements during the inspection, which I nearly broke. The final report provided was well organized and included a colour-coded summary page at the end to identify key problem areas, which I used to collect estimates for repairs needed immediately. I look forward to working with Chris again.

    Answer from pro:

    Hi Andrew, Helping you understand the condition of an older character home especially with five suites is definitely a process to be taken seriously. These homes have always had significant modifications to allow the separation of suites. Often times the work is performed over years by many different people with different levels of understanding about what is acceptable or for that matter even safe. While this most recent purchase was not viable I do look forward to working with you again. Sincerely, Chris Thompson

    Reply created 21 Mar 2017
  • Review from HomeOwner
    Rating: 5 out of 5
    Review left on 11 Mar 2017

    Home Inspection

    I always thought a home inspection was simply a formality and an extra expense. As soon as I spoke with Chris on the phone, I knew the inspection on our new house would be much much more. Once the actual inspection happened, my expectations were exceeded. Chris was far more thorough than I could have imagined, and he patiently walked me through the entire house (inside and out) and conducted exhaustive tests to ensure we were well-informed. Then, once we received Chris's detailed report, it was laid out in a manner that we could clearly understand. More importantly, we took the initiative to forward the report to the builder and refer to the page numbers when requesting a series of improvements. We were very happy to have the builder agree to make virtually all of the improvements, and to also have a much better understanding of our new home. The cost of the inspection (right in line with other services) became an investment rather than an expense, because we gained much more in return. I would not just recommend, but I would INSIST buyers consider Chris for their home inspections.

    Answer from pro:

    Hello C & A, Thanks so much, this is an informative and very flattering review. The fact that our inspection process and report changed your mind about what an inspection can be is more than we could ask for. At Haystack Home Inspections we do believe a thorough and well detailed home inspection is an investment. When you are buying a home you are really talking about your future and as much as possible we want to help detail what that might look like. That our prices are comparable to other services is just a bonus. Thanks again and I hope you are happy in your North Vancouver home. Sincerely, Chris Thompson.

    Reply created 21 Mar 2017
  • Review from HomeOwner
    Rating: 5 out of 5
    Review left on 8 Mar 2017

    New Build Inspection

    I am a Realtor and have known Chris since I got my license. He has done countless home inspections for myself and my team over the past 5 plus years. Most recently Chris did an inspection for a new townhouse that my wife and I purchased. His attention to detail is second to none and I feel he is the best in the business. His reports are thorough and his way of explaining complex issues to myself and my clients is very easy to understand. His communication, professionalism and ability to provide advice and solutions to problems is excellent. I would and do recommend Chris to anyone looking for a home inspector in and around Vancouver.

    Answer from pro:

    Hi Shaun, Your review is very flattering, thank you. That you feel Haystack Home Inspections is the best in the business is reassuring. A lot of time is spent developing an understanding of residential housing and putting together a reporting system that makes sharing that knowledge with clients easy. Doing business with people, like yourself, that quality and trust is a two-way street is a pleasure. Sincerely, Chris Thompson

    Reply created 12 Mar 2017
  • Review from HomeOwner
    Rating: 5 out of 5
    Review left on 8 Mar 2017

    New Build Inspection

    Haystack came highly recommended from our neighbor who works in the real estate industry. We had Chris inspect our new townhouse for the purpose of gathering information for our deficiencies list. He was able to provide us with lots of useful information that we will pass on to the developer. Chris was very personable & took the time to explain all the points of the inspection, walking me through the property. I would not hesitate to recommend Haystack & Chris & would use this company again.

    Answer from pro:

    Hi Deb, Recommendations from trusted friends in the industry always make my job a bit easier as there is a built in level of trust. That said I am glad your Vancouver town home inspection reinforced your friend's recommendation. Dealing with developers can be challenging. At Haystack Home Inspections we are here to help support you with your dealings with these contractors. Your one-year home inspection gives you a document that you are then easily able to discuss the deficiencies with your builder. Good luck going forward with you home and if there are any questions by all means get in touch. Sincerely, Chris Thompson

    Reply created 12 Mar 2017
  • Review from E & K S
    Rating: 5 out of 5
    Review left on 22 Feb 2017

    Pre-Purchase Home Inspection

    Chris was referred to us by our realtor for our pre-purchase home inspection. From the moment we contacted him, he was courteous and professional and replied quickly to set up the appointment. Chris was very detailed and communicated every aspect of the inspection list to us clearly. He pointed out all areas of concern and provided recommendations and fixes on the spot. We had many questions during the process, and he answered all of them during and even after he sent us the final report. Recently, we have come across an issue in our condo unit's structure, which was outside of the normal home inspection scope. We decided to reach out to Chris for some advise. Not only did he reply to our late night emergency email, he actually went above and beyond and drove out to our place the very next morning. Chris then spent over an hour of his own time checking out the issue in our unit, providing suggestions as well as offering referrals to services that are required to fix the issue. After he left, he continued to research for fixes and ultimately provided us with a separate report to give to our strata. Chris's professionalism made for a thorough home inspection at a very fair price. He was honest and genuinely wanted to provide us with all the help he could offer even after the fact. We would highly recommend Chris for anyone looking for a home inspection, he exceeded our expectations. Thank you, Chris!

    Answer from pro:

    Hi EK, This is such a wonderful testimonial. I really appreciate you taking the time to share your Richmond condo inspection experience. Sincerely, Chris Thompson

    Reply created 1 Mar 2017
  • Review from HomeOwner
    Rating: 5 out of 5
    Review left on 17 Feb 2017

    Home Inspection

    My wife and I has a townhouse inspected by Chris at Haystack Home Inspections. Chris was professional, clear, and friendly from our initial conversation throughout the process. He took the time to present his report to us in person, answering all of our questions, and promptly send us a digital copy as well. Shortly after he followed up to ensure that we had all the information we needed to make an informed decision about our new potential home. In the end we decided to move forward with our purchase. We were able to do so with confidence thanks Chris! We would certainly recommend Chris to anyone looking for a reliable, effective, professional and kind inspector. Thanks!

    Answer from pro:

    Hi Jeff, It was a privilege to help you. The referral from your father meant a lot. Sincerely, Chris Thompson

    Reply created 1 Mar 2017
  • Review from HomeOwner
    Rating: 5 out of 5
    Review left on 16 Feb 2017

    New home & coach house inspection

    I can't say enough good things about working with Chris. He was thorough, very detail oriented, knowledgeable, and came prepared to document everything well and clearly. His lengthy report was a breeze to run through and understand efficiently. Chris was also early so as to have a look at the neighbouring properties for possible concerns and afterwards he walked us through everything. Chris is a good communicator and was focused on our clear understanding. I would not hesitate for a second recommending Chris or calling him again in the future.

    Answer from pro:

    Hi C, Thanks for sharing your experience with Haystack Home Inspections. Focusing on your understanding of the property is paramount. The use common language in both the inspection and subsequent report is done for this reason. Speaking of language, a more appropriate title may have been New to You home & coach house inspection. I would rarely consider two nearly hundred-year-old heritage homes in Vancouver new. It's gratifying to hear that the report was a breeze to run through. A great amount of effort has been put into our reporting system to make it client friendly. Thanks again. Sincerely, Chris Thompson

    Reply created 17 Feb 2017
  • Review from HomeOwner
    Rating: 5 out of 5
    Review left on 11 Feb 2017

    home inspection

    The peace of mind that comes with a home inspection done by Chris at haystack home inspections is well worth the money. Chris was very detailed in his descriptions of the deficiencies, possible safety hazards and ways to correct them. He took the time to explain each one, as well as answer any of my questions about the property even days after the inspection. Chris is a very professional, knowledgeable and likeable guy. I would definitely recommend him to anyone looking to have a home inspection done.

    Answer from pro:

    Hi S, I am just glad everyone made it to and from the inspection with the amount of snow falling that day. Occasionally it nice to see little ones running and being carried around during an inspection because it really hits home what this is all about. Your young family is going to be living in this Richmond home for years to come. My report is important to the financial and personal safety of your family. Thanks for trusting in Haystack Home Inspections. Sincerely, Chris Thompson

    Reply created 11 Feb 2017
  • Review from valeriemaucoin
    Rating: 5 out of 5
    Review left on 10 Feb 2017

    Home Inspection

    This was my 4th house purchase, 1st time using Haystack. Chris is the most knowledgeable inspector I have hired by far. He was extremely thorough, provided pictures of everything - things we could not see ourselves (from the rooftop, in the crawlspace, etc.). Service was impeccable, I did not feel rushed, he took his time to explain things. His fee was only slightly more than other similar services but he is definitely worth it. All inspectors are not equal!!! Best home inspection report in terms of the detail given. Highly recommend Chris and Haystack!

    Answer from pro:

    Hi Valerie, I love this review about your Langley home inspection. It stands out among the others because you put the service Haystack Home Inspections provides in context with other home inspectors you have used in the past. Yes, we provide a premium service and sometimes it even costs a little more than the other guys. The fact that you thought it was worth it is all I need to hear. Impeccable is a word you used so rarely these days. It's very gratifying when use to describe the service you received from my company, doubly so because your partner is involved in construction and had some very good questions during the inspection. So often the first question we hear from a prospective client is how much. I would love to hear clients asking: What are your credentials? What is your past experience in construction? How long have you been an inspector? How long does the entire process take? Is the fact that a company finishes the report on site actually a good thing? I have to agree with you not all inspectors are created equal. Thanks for your review. Sincerely, Chris Thompson

    Reply created 11 Feb 2017
  • Review from HomeOwner
    Rating: 5 out of 5
    Review left on 9 Feb 2017

    Home Inspection

    As a realtor, my buyers often ask for recommendations. I have used Chris for newer and older home inspections and he is very thorough and provides a detailed report that have helped my buyers free confident in deciding to purchase. Very professional and knowledgeable.

    Answer from pro:

    Hi Lindy, I enjoyed helping your brother and mother with their Vancouver condo inspections. It is so rewarding when agents use my services for family members. I wish you all the best this spring and hopefully we'll meet again real soon. Sincerely, Chris Thompson

    Reply created 11 Feb 2017
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