Home Inspections

Much More Than Just a Report

An inspection identifies problems and offers solutions!

What is a home inspection?

A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation.

Why do I need a home inspection?

Buying a home could be the largest single investment you will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you’ll want to learn as much as you can about the newly constructed or existing home before you buy it. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence.

If you’re already a homeowner, a home inspection can identify problems in the making and suggest preventative measures that might help you avoid costly future repairs.

If you’re planning to sell your home, a home inspection can give you an opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.

What does a home inspection include?

The standard home inspection report will cover the condition of the following:

• Heating System
• Central Air Conditioning System (Temperature Permitting)
• Interior Plumbing
• Electrical Systems
• The Structural Components: roof, attic, visible insulation, walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, foundation, and basement
• Exterior Features: sidewalks, driveway, retaining walls, porches, decks, garages, and patios

Why can’t I do it myself?

Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector. An inspector is familiar with the elements of home construction, maintenance, and home safety. All New Jersey inspectors are required to undergo rigorous classroom and hands-on training to be licensed by the state and must also attend continuing education classes each year to keep their credentials up to date. For this reason, most mortgage companies require the home inspection to be performed by a state licensed professional home inspector.

Can a house fail an inspection?

No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of a house. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value. It is not a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate which components and systems may need major repair or replacement.

Do I need to be there?

While it’s not required that you be present for the inspection, it is highly recommended. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions as you learn about the condition of the home and how to maintain it.

What if a report reveals problems?

No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn’t mean you should or shouldn’t buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. If your budget is tight, or if you don’t want to become involved in future repair work, this information will be important to you. If major problems are found, the seller may agree to make repairs or offer to lower the purchase price.

Every inspection includes an evaluation of the visible and accessible major components of the house including:

• Central Heating and Cooling Systems
• Interior Electrical and Plumbing Systems
• Roofing and Flashing
• Walls, Ceilings, Floors
• Windows and Doors
• Basement, Crawl Space, and Slab Structures
• Foundation and Framing
• Subsurface Water Penetration
• Insulation and Ventilation
• Exterior Siding
• Plus many other items

Whether you are a first-time or an experienced home buyer, we recommend that you accompany the inspector so that your questions can be addressed personally. It is an excellent way for you to acquire important information about the house, obtain maintenance suggestions, and become more familiar with the major systems of your new home. You may want to ask the homeowner to assist you by making available all pertinent information about the house, such as fuel bills, repair information, etc.