Haystack Home Inspections

Rating: 5 out of 5

Haystack Home Inspections reviews (499)

  • Review from Bryan Jackson
    Rating: 5 out of 5
    Review left on 9 May 2017

    Home(s) inspection for potential purchase

    We employed Chris' services to inspect two potential homes. The first of which he helped us rule out based on an exterior inspection of the building's envelop-repair work. As we were particularly concerned with whether our potential unit might leak or be subject to water-damage, Chris was able to show and explain the extent of the strata's repairs, and where the work may have been more extensive. In conversation and a brief report, Chris gave us enough information to help us make a decision based on our own risk expectations and comfort. In the end we went back to looking, and wound up contacting Chris a few weeks later. For our second inspection, our timeline was particularly tight, and Chris was able to work with us, completing a thorough inspection and detailed report which he sent to us the next day; he was also able to discuss the report with us over the phone as we were out of town. Again, his experience and knowledge of various aspects of the risks and areas of interest in our potential home were helpful in giving us valuable information about the substantial investment in a first home. Throughout the process, Chris was very accommodating, always available to respond to our questions or requests on short timelines, and was friendly and knowledgable about the inspection process.

    Answer from pro:

    Hi Bryan, I love when clients are as definitive as you. On the first place we discussed the exterior for a few minutes before the agent showed up and by the time they opened the doors you had already decided the place was not for you. That happens rarely but when it does it just shows you how quickly an inspection can pay for itself. Thanks for such a glowing review and good luck in the place you decided on. Sincerely, Chris Thompson

    Reply created 15 May 2017
  • Review from HomeOwner
    Rating: 5 out of 5
    Review left on 8 May 2017

    Home Inspection

    We used Chris for a home inspection in East Vancouver. We needed someone on short notice, and within a quick turnaround time. He was very understanding and made time for us by moving something around in his schedule. He did a thorough 3-hour investigation on the house, and took my wife and I through his findings with detail and patience. He noticed small but crucial information (things that the homeowners themselves we unaware of) and gave a detailed report the next day. Chris was professional and honest, making us feel more confident and knowledgable about such a big decision. Would recommend him to anyone in need of an inspector.

    Answer from pro:

    Hello Alex, Thanks for letting us know that your inspection made you feel more confident and knowledgeable about such a being decision. Sincerely, Chris Thompson

    Reply created 15 May 2017
  • Review from Brenda in Richmond BC
    Rating: 5 out of 5
    Review left on 4 May 2017

    Home inspection

    Thank you Chris for inspecting my future home! I found your work to be very thorough and detailed. The report was extensive and helpful, and now I know what I need to pay attention to. Thanks for being willing to help on short notice and for being so friendly - your inspection helped me decide to go for the place and I'm happy I did!

    Answer from pro:

    Hi Brenda, Thanks for telling others of your great experience with Haystack Home Inspection. People always think of a home/condo inspection as something you do for a property you are not familiar with. When you decided to inspect the rental unit that you had been living in with the idea of purchasing it, a home inspection is just as important. We become familiar with our surroundings and stop questioning them. A home inspection is to question everything and find the issues that may impact you. Thanks again. Sincerely, Chris Thompson

    Reply created 5 May 2017
  • Review from Farhana Khan
    Rating: 5 out of 5
    Review left on 3 May 2017

    Home Inspection in Kits

    Chris was an absolute pleasure to work with. He was called first thing in the morning, and completed the review within 5 hours. We were then able to purchase the home at 1pm. Thank you so much for your help Chris! We really appreciate it. - Alex C.

    Answer from pro:

    Hi Alex, It's very rare to get contacted at 7:40 in the morning and then be performing an inspection 40 minutes later. I am so glad it worked out for you. Sincerely, Chris Thompson

    Reply created 3 May 2017
  • Review from Irshad Khan
    Rating: 5 out of 5
    Review left on 2 May 2017

    House inspection in Surrey, BC

    I was referred to Chris by a friend who bought his home in Maple Ridge. Having heard about his professional work, I found Chris to work very hard, and does not leave anything, including the minute detail of the property. He gave some great tips and advice. In fact, Chris helped us in avoiding a property that would have costed us tens of thousand of dollars down the road. I highly recommend his service.

    Answer from pro:

    Thanks Irshad, It has been a pleasure working with you. I only home the stars align on the inspection tomorrow and we can finally find you someplace to call home. Sincerely, Chris Thompson

    Reply created 3 May 2017
  • Review from HomeOwner
    Rating: 5 out of 5
    Review left on 1 May 2017

    Home Inspection

    We found Chris through our realtor on a very tight timeline for a home inspection. Chris arrived at the property early, and did an early walk-around. He then proceeded to conduct a very thorough, top-to-bottom inspection over the next 3.5 hours. For the time that my wife and I were on-site during the inspection he walked us through what he was finding, gave us tips on repairs/mitigation strategies, and helped us (as first-time buyers without any background in home structures or systems) understand the relative magnitude and importance of various issues. Chris prepared a very detailed report, which included a summary of the most important items that should be addressed. Aware of the tight timeline that we were working under (with conditions removal the following morning), Chris pulled this report together late at night, delivering to us just after midnight. This gave us sufficient time to read it early the next morning, think things through, and ultimately make the decision to remove conditions and finalize the property purchase. Chris followed up with us by phone the next day, and told us to feel free to call anytime as questions related to the report come up. Atop the excellent service, Chris' pricing was both transparent and very fair. His prices are clearly posted on his website, and they do not vary depending on the level of urgency. We could not have been happier with the service Chris provided. We would recommend him without hesitation to anyone else seeking a home inspection.

    Answer from pro:

    Hi Justin, Glad you found our pricing fair and honest. It is always a great place to start with an inspection. Setting prices that don't vary by urgency or regional area is a way of establishing trust with our customers. What you see on our website is what you pay with very few exceptions. Sometimes it is necessary to burn the midnight oil to help a client in a tight spot. I am glad you appreciate all we do to try and help make your life easier. Good luck in your new home. Sincerely, Chris Thompson

    Reply created 3 May 2017
  • Review from HomeOwner
    Rating: 5 out of 5
    Review left on 30 Apr 2017

    Home inspection for purchase

    I found Chris through yelp, and he was the first person to reply to my messages. Talking to him on the phone, he was really knowledgeable about things and explained very well what he would be doing. After this initial conversation, I didn't feel it necessary to consider anyone else for the job. On inspection day, Chris had shown up early and had already completed his initial external inspection before I had gotten there. He went over it all with me anyway as well. Throughout the inspection, Chris explained things very well, and was able to answer all of my questions. I am very happy with his service and would recommend him to anyone.

    Answer from pro:

    Hello Tyler, I love helping people like you with your home inspection needs. By getting back to you quick and answering any of your questions I am that much more likely to end up helping you further. At Haystack we always want our client's to feel they are important and taking the time to understand their concerns and answer their questions is the best way we know to make you feel you matter. Your inspection is important to us and we want that to show through every time. Thanks for letting others know that who you hire does matter. Sincerely, Chris Thompson

    Reply created 1 May 2017
  • Review from HomeOwner
    Rating: 5 out of 5
    Review left on 28 Apr 2017

    Buying a house

    I am a structural engineer, and I’ve had pleasure working with Chris for inspection of our future house in North Vancouver. He performed detail checking of the house without rush, and taking time sharing with me about the detail of some critical concerns. The report he provided was thorough, included rating, photos and even some recommendations. I will definitely be recommending him to other friends who may be looking to do a home inspection.

    Answer from pro:

    Hi Medi, I love helping engineers with their home inspection needs. The fact that all I had to do was point to above the garage doors and you understood that the structure was failing makes my job so much easier on site. Most people I would have to explain the implications of a what they are seeing. Thanks for taking the time to share your experience of using Haystack Home Inspections we really appreciate it. Sincerely, Chris Thompson

    Reply created 1 May 2017
  • Review from Jamie GD
    Rating: 5 out of 5
    Review left on 25 Apr 2017

    Thorough review of old house

    Chris responded quickly and was always easy to work with. The assessment was thorough and helpful for us. We were able to use the report to negotiate a lower house purchase price thanks to Chris noticing tiles that likely contain asbestos and a leak from the chimney. I recommend Haystack.

    Answer from pro:

    Hi Jamie, Buying an older house can come with surprises if you're not careful. At Haystack Home Inspection we work to reveal as many of those issues as possible. Having to pay a remediation company to remove fiber ceiling tiles is a little less painful when the sellers have helped pay for it, through a lower purchase price. It doesn't always work out that way but at least you knew about the issue before you purchased. I hope your renovations are going well and look forward to seeing it. Sincerely, Chris Thompson

    Reply created 26 Apr 2017
  • Review from HomeOwner
    Rating: 5 out of 5
    Review left on 23 Apr 2017

    Short Notice Condo Inspection

    We had a very short turnaround time to remove conditions on our offer and get an inspection done and Chris was super responsive and thorough we were seriously grateful! We knew the previous owners had done some questionable renovations and while we weren't worried about that as we planned to make changes, we were worried about what we might find when we started! Chris listened carefully to our plans and needs and went the extra mile not only to complete the inspection, but provide us some insights on what to think about as we planned our renovation and what to know. His report was very thorough and allowed us to easily incorporate conditions into our offer to ensure everything was in good working order when we moved in. We were also really pleased to learn he would be able to schedule a 2nd visit following the completion of the repairs so we could make sure before taking possession that all the work promised was done right. Would definitely use him again!

    Answer from pro:

    Hello C, Glad to hear you are so satisfied with your inspection results even a year after it was completed. Thanks for sharing your use of follow-up inspections to assure some of the identified issue were repaired to a satisfactory state. I know you are heading into a major reno of your Vancouver condo so if any questions pop up we’re here to help answer your questions. Sincerely, Chris Thompson

    Reply created 23 Apr 2017