The pre-purchase inspection report is your best negotiation tool. Yet most buyers don’t know how to read it properly. This guide explains the 5 key sections, severity ratings and repair costs to expect in Quebec in 2026.
1. Structure of an inspection report
A report that meets AIBQ (Association des inspecteurs en bâtiment du Québec) standards systematically covers 5 main sections. Each section evaluates a critical building system.
Structure and foundation
Cracks, settling, water infiltration, condition of the foundation walls and load-bearing walls. This is the most costly section if defects are found.
Roofing
Type of covering, estimated age, signs of wear, attic ventilation and flashing condition.
Plumbing
Pipe materials (copper, PVC, lead), water pressure, water heater condition and French drain status.
Electrical
Panel type (age, amperage), grounding, aluminum vs copper wiring, outlets and breakers.
Insulation and ventilation
Insulation thickness, thermal bridges, mechanical ventilation, humidity and mould.
To learn more about the full inspection process, read our complete pre-purchase inspection guide 2026.
2. Severity ratings
Each defect identified in the report receives a severity rating that determines its urgency and financial impact. Here are the 4 levels used by certified inspectors:
Cosmetic — under $2,000
Visual defects with no structural impact: peeling paint, hairline cracks, normal wear. No impact on negotiation.
Monitor — $2,000 to $10,000
Defects that could worsen: slight humidity, worn caulking, insufficient ventilation. Budget for maintenance.
Needs repair — $10,000 to $30,000
Short-term repairs needed: end-of-life roof, outdated electrical panel, problematic plumbing. Solid negotiation base.
Major — $30,000 and above
Serious structural defects: cracked foundation, failing French drain, contamination. Justifies withdrawal or major price reduction.
3. Repair cost table
Here are the average repair costs in Quebec in 2026, based on AIBQ and OACIQ data:
| Defect | Average cost | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Cracked foundation | $30,000 – $50,000 | Major |
| Roof (full replacement) | $12,000 – $25,000 | Needs repair |
| French drain | $15,000 – $25,000 | Major |
| Lead plumbing | $8,000 – $15,000 | Needs repair |
| Electrical panel | $2,000 – $4,000 | Monitor |
Negotiation formula
• Offered price: $450,000
• Cracked foundation: $40,000
• End-of-life roof: $18,000
• Total major repairs: $58,000
Negotiated price = $450,000 − $58,000 = $392,000. You save $58,000 thanks to the inspection report.
4. When to walk away
Certain situations justify walking away from the transaction, even if you love the property:
Major red flags
• Major repairs exceeding 10% of the purchase price
• Active structural cracks in the foundation
• Presence of pyrite, mould or asbestos
• Seller who refuses any negotiation despite documented defects
• Multiple issues in 3 or more sections of the report
Make sure your promise to purchase contains an inspection clause allowing you to withdraw without penalty. Read our guide on the inspection clause in the purchase offer.
5. Negotiating after the inspection
The inspection report is a powerful negotiation lever. Apply the formula: negotiated price = offered price − cost of major repairs. Present the defects classified as “needs repair” and “major” with their estimated costs.
Three strategies are available: request a price reduction equivalent to the cost of repairs, require the seller to complete the repairs before closing, or negotiate a closing credit to cover the work.
An OACIQ-certified real estate broker has the experience needed to interpret the report and negotiate effectively on your behalf. They know the real market costs and which defects justify a reduction.
Have your inspection report analyzed by an experienced broker.
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