What you need to know
This program was created in response to a recommendation from Ontario’s Auditor General and replaces the previous Targeted Inspection Program. For an overview of the program, including FAQ's, please visit our Risk-Based Inspection page linked below. You can also refer to Registrar Bulletin 9 on our Registrar Bulletins & Advisories page for specific details.
What is the Risk-Based Inspection Program?
The Risk-Based Inspection Program consists of onsite inspections conducted by Tarion at key stages during new home construction. The purpose of these inspections is two-fold:
- To identify construction practices and technical issues that may represent future warranty claims; and,
- To provide a coaching opportunity between Tarion and a builder with a view to longterm improvement through best practices.
While the Risk-Based Inspection Program applies to all builders, it does not apply to all projects. Condominium projects that are required to meet the reporting requirements outlined in Registrar Bulletin 19 (typically Type C & D condominiums) are currently excluded from the program.
For more detailed information, visit our FAQ page:
Types of Risk-Based Inspections
There are two types of inspections conducted under the Risk-Based Inspection Program, as outlined below. It is important to note that these inspections do not replace inspections required under the Ontario Building Code.
Site and Practices Inspections
Site and Practices Inspections are routine inspections on a representative sample of units under construction. These inspections are intended to facilitate builder education and to identify emerging trends and construction methods used by a builder that may lead to future warranty claims. Although Site and Practices Inspections are applicable to all builders, priority will be given to new builders, builders with an unsatisfactory compliance record, and builders who demonstrate one or more of Tarion's risk factors.
Targeted Construction Inspections
Targeted Construction Inspections are more focused inspections that may be used in the following situations:
- A serious issue (e.g., structural or health & safety concern) is identified during the Site and Practice Inspection;
- A potential issue is reported to Tarion;
- A builder agrees to mitigate an identified risk; and/ or,
- It is deemed appropriate by Tarion.
A Targeted Construction Inspection is conducted at the specific building or unit in question. A senior representative from the builder must be in attendance. If required, Tarion’s representative may be accompanied by a third-party professional.
Builder Responsibilities & Contact Information
Builders selected for risk-based inspections are expected to comply with Tarion by scheduling a mutually acceptable time for the inspection and ensuring that the appropriate representatives are present. If Tarion identifies any potential risks during the inspection, Tarion will provide the builder with a written summary of its findings. Builders are expected to respond to Tarion’s findings in writing within 10 business days. The builder’s response must include an outline of the method that will be used to address an identified risk as well as a timeline for resolving the situation.
Builders who wish to dispute Tarion’s position must likewise provide their reasons in writing to Tarion within 10 business days.
To contact the Risk Based Inspection Group, please send an email to RBI.Program@tarion.com