- A general inspection usually takes 2 to 4 hours and costs about $450 to $700.
- Winnipeg's clay soil makes foundation and drainage the big-ticket items. Look outside before you look inside.
- Add specialists when something needs a closer look: sewer camera, radon test, well and septic, wood stove.
An inspection doesn't pass or fail a house. It tells you what you're buying, so you can decide whether the price still makes sense. In Winnipeg, a few local issues deserve extra attention.
The Winnipeg specials
Clay soil and foundations. Much of Winnipeg sits on heavy clay that swells when wet and shrinks when dry. Hairline cracks are common. What matters is movement: wide or stepped cracks, doors that stick, sloping floors, or a basement with past repairs. Ask whether the foundation has been reinforced (piles or pins) and whether there's paperwork.
Grading and downspouts. Soil should slope away from the house, and downspouts should drain at least a couple of metres out. This is the cheapest fix with the biggest impact.
Sump pit and backwater valve. Many Winnipeg homes have both. The backwater valve helps stop sewer backup during heavy rain; the sump pump moves groundwater from the weeping tile away from the house. Ask when they were installed, whether they're maintained and whether the sump has a battery backup.
Sewer line. Older neighbourhoods may have clay or cast-iron sewer lines with roots or cracks. A sewer camera inspection is often a good extra, especially for homes built before the 1970s.
Attic and insulation. Our winters punish poor ventilation. Frost in the attic, stained sheathing or ice dams point to air leaks.
Radon. Manitoba has some of the higher radon levels in Canada. A long-term test (90 days) is the reliable one; you can do it after you move in, and mitigation is usually straightforward.
Your inspection checklist
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After the report
Most reports list dozens of items. Sort them into three groups: safety (fix before move-in), big money (foundation, roof, furnace, sewer), and normal upkeep. Only the first two usually justify going back to the seller. You can ask for a repair, a price reduction or a credit, or let the condition fail if it's serious.
Which is usually the best sign of a serious foundation issue?
When is the best time to test for radon?
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Questions people ask
Can I inspect a home in winter?
Yes. Inspectors can't see the roof under snow or test the A/C, but they can check heating under load and spot frost and air leaks. See buying in winter.
Who pays for the inspection?
The buyer, usually directly to the inspector at the appointment.
Do I need an inspection for a new build?
It's a good idea. A pre-delivery inspection with your own inspector can catch items for the builder to fix under the warranty.
This article is general information for Manitoba, not legal, tax, mortgage or financial advice. Rules, rates and programs change; figures are estimates as of October 2026. Check your situation with a lawyer, lender or accountant before you act. Adela Strycharz is a REALTOR® with Real Broker Manitoba Ltd. If you already have an agreement with another brokerage, please speak with your own REALTOR® first.