Century Homes

Century Homes in Toronto: What a Quality Home Inspector Really Looks For

For Realtors, Buyers & Sellers

Toronto’s century homes are packed with character — original trim, mature neighbourhoods, and charm you can’t recreate. But whether the home has been freshly renovated or is still showing its last big update from the 1970s, these older properties require a different type of inspection.

A quality home inspector doesn’t need to be a structural engineer — but they do need to understand how older Toronto homes were built, how they age, and what past renovations can hide.

Here’s what matters most.

1. Renovated Century Homes (The “Modern Outside, Unknown Inside” Scenario)

Some century homes have been beautifully remodeled — open concept, new finishes, updated systems. Others have been “updated” only on the surface.

What I look for in recently renovated older homes:

• Whether old electrical (including knob-and-tube) was actually replaced, not just covered

• Evidence of proper support where walls were removed

• Whether insulation and ventilation were improved, not just drywalled over

• Basement moisture clues hidden behind new finishes

• Upgrades to plumbing, HVAC and drainage — or whether only cosmetic work was done
  
  

A new kitchen doesn’t always mean a new home. A good inspection helps clients understand the difference.

2. Homes Showing Their Last Reno From the 1970s

These are very common in Toronto — homes with “updates” from 40–50 years ago that are now outdated and near end-of-life.

Typical findings include:

• Aluminum wiring or outdated panels

• Galvanized plumbing that’s corroding internally

• Cast iron waste pipes nearing the end of their service life

• Poor insulation and drafty building envelopes

• Older windows, roofing, and HVAC systems

• Layers of DIY fixes over the decades
  
  

These issues don’t mean the home is a bad purchase — just that buyers need clear expectations and sellers need to price accordingly.

3. Why Realtors Value a Strong Century-Home Inspection

Older Toronto homes can look perfect and still hide expensive surprises. Realtors often tell me they rely on my inspections because:

• I explain issues clearly and calmly, without alarmis

• I outline which items are safety-related, which are maintenance, and which are future upgrades

• I help clients understand the home’s renovation timeline

• My reports give buyers and sellers confidence, not confusion
  
  

The inspection isn’t about finding problems — it's about giving everyone a clear picture of what they’re buying or selling.

4. What Buyers & Sellers Should Expect From a Quality Century-Home Inspection

A thorough inspection will review:

• Electrical system type and condition

• Plumbing materials and expected lifespan

• Moisture patterns and basement concerns

• Attic ventilation and insulation

• Roofing and exterior condition

• Visible structure and foundation surfaces

• Heating and cooling systems

• Thermal imaging to detect hidden issues
  
  

No two century homes are alike, but the inspection should always provide clear guidance on what’s normal for the age, what’s important to address, and what can wait.

Final Thought

Century homes are some of Toronto’s most desirable properties — but they need a trained eye and a practical approach. Whether the house is newly updated or still holding onto its 1970s makeover, a quality inspection helps Realtors, buyers, and sellers move forward with confidence.

If you’re listing or buying an older Toronto home and want straightforward, professional insight, I’m happy to help.

#TrustedHomeInspectionPros  #TRUSTED  🏡 🔍 👍