Home Inspections

A home inspection is typically performed as part of a real estate transaction.  The purpose of the home inspection is to identify defects, determine the significance of the defects, provide recommendations regarding the need to repair, replace or monitor a system or component of a system or to obtain further examination and analysis of a system by a professional in a specific trade.  The home inspection also identifies items that should be addressed by the buyer to ensure the home is maintained.  This allows the buyer to request repairs or to determine the potential cost of repairs so they can make a reasonable decision whether to purchase the home.

A home inspection is also recommended when the seller needs to know the condition of their home prior to placing it up for sale.  In today real estate environment, it is very important for a seller to be aware of potential defects so they can properly price their home.

All home inspections are performed to provide our clients with an objective opinion.  It is not our responsibility to ensure the transaction proceeds; we must give a reasonable assessment as to the condition of the property.

In the State of New Jersey all home inspections must follow the criteria that is established in the New Jersey Administrative Code 13:40-15.  The Administrative Code also requires that the client sign a Pre-Inspection Agreement prior to the inspection. 

Our inspection is divided into three sections: Exterior, Interior, and Major Systems.

In the Exterior Section of the home inspection the first section addresses the grounds which include such items as; drainage, the condition of the driveway, walks, porch, patio, landscaping, and storage sheds.  The second section addresses the exterior siding, windows, doors, soffits, fascia boards, and the chimney.  The third section addresses the roof, gutters, and downspouts.  It is very important that water is properly led away from the perimeter of the house.

In the Interior Section of the home inspection the first section addresses items such as; accessible attics, whether there is sufficient insulation and venting, are there any water leaks and the structure of the roof.  Each room is individually described. The home inspection starts on the highest floor. Each room is examined including the walls, floors, closets, windows, electrical receptacles, light switches, and ventilation In the bathrooms the shower and tub, toilet, and sinks are tested.  In the kitchen and laundry room, any

appliances that are staying are tested to ensure they are operational.  The functionality of each appliance is beyond the scope of the inspection.  In the basement and/or crawlspace the inspector checks the foundation and visible framing.  These areas are where water can produce the most serious defects.  Whether there is standing water on the floor or water being retained in the foundation walls both are causes for concern.   Foundation walls that retain water can crack, contribute to high humidity and mold growth, and can create an environment for wood boring insects.

In the Major System Section of the home inspection, the structural, electrical, heating and cooling, plumbing, and environmental hazards are addressed. The structural section addresses defects in the foundation walls; such as bowing and cracks and gives the recommended repair.  Since the home inspector is a Licensed Engineer, this service is provided at no additional charge. In the electrical section, the main service line, electric breaker or fuses boxes and wiring, exterior lights, and electrical receptacles are addressed.  In the heating and air condition section the furnace, air conditioning and humidifier are addressed.  In the plumbing section the hot water heater, sprinkler system and sump pump are addressed.  In the environmental hazards section the presence of visible asbestos insulation, in-ground storage tanks, and visible mold are addressed.  Since we do perform mold testing, the inspector specifies what tests are needed.

During the home inspectoion the inspector records a detailed description of the inspection on a tape recorder.  Once the inspection is complete, the inspector discussions his findings with the client.  He then returns to the office and the staff transcribes the report.  The inspector reviews the draft report and prepares a list of recommendation, which becomes the Fourth and Final Section of the Report.  This section is subdivided into Major Repairs, Minor Repairs, Maintenance and Cosmetic Items.

Within 48 hours a copy of the report is then email to the client, and only upon the client approval to their realtor and/or attorney.  A hard copy of the report is also mailed to the client.

The inspector encourages our clients to walk with him throughout the inspection, listen to what is said, and ask questions.