DOING BETTER FOR
First Nations Inspection Authority (FNIA) is committed to eliminating disparity in home and housing code compliance on First Nations by providing quality services, building strong relationships with all our partners, and advocating for meaningful policy change that improves safety in all the communities we serve.
Working for First Nations
First Nations Inspection Authority is a 100% Indigenous-owned inspection agency founded by Enoch Cree Nation member Nathan McDonald. One of the drivers behind the creation of FNIA was Nathan’s concern that provincial codes authorities were not providing the same oversight for on-reserve homes and buildings they were providing in non-Indigenous communities. He started FNIA to better serve his own Nation, and all First Nations communities, by improving on-reserve inspections and construction oversight.
First Nations Inspection Programs
FNIA works with community leaders to develop inspection plans and compliance oversight for all on-reserve buildings, including new developments, existing homes, and community structures. Our certified inspectors can serve as technical advisers on new builds and renovations of existing structures to ensure they meet code and identify housing deficiencies that may be relayed for support-funding. FNIA officers are also able to represent First Nations when liaising with Indigenous Services Canada and CMHC.
Home Maintenance Facilitation Programs
FNIA’s home maintenance facilitation program was developed to help First Nations Housing Directors assisting community members with home maintenance. These skills are especially important for homeowners in isolated communities where certified tradespeople are not readily available, as basic preventative maintenance and care helps safeguard homes from progressive deterioration.
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Home Inspections
A certified home inspection includes:
- Interior and exterior assessment
- Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems
- Insulation/ventilation
- Roofing, cladding, and drainage
- Structure (e.g., foundation, framing)
- Major home appliances
- Mold, asbestos, air quality testing
- Wood burning appliances (if applicable)
- Crawl spaces (if applicable)
- Areas of potential concern
- Areas that require immediate attention
- A detailed inspection report
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Building & Technical Inspections
An accredited housing inspection includes:
- Inspect to federal/provincial codes/standards
- Electrical (Group A Installations, Group B Utility)
- Plumbing
- Gas systems
- Insulation/ventilation
- Roofing and drainage
- Structural aspects, visible foundation
- Construction and/or quality control
- Site contamination
- Areas of potential concern
- Areas that need immediate attention
- A detailed inspection report