Frequently Asked Questions
Facts you should know about Home Inspection Services
What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a non-invasive visual inspection of a home’s many working parts and systems. A thorough, but not exhaustive evaluation of each part of the home’s systems and functionality.
What is a home inspection NOT?
A home inspection is NOT a pass or fail determination, appraisal, legal advice, warranty, or an opinion on whether or not you should buy a home. The inspection and written inspection report are educational tools to attain a clearer picture on a home and its components.
What does "visual, non-invasive" mean?
If I can see it, I will inspect it. Home inspectors are not allowed to cut walls, damaged finished surfaces, enter dangerous areas, or move a home owner’s property. This means that pipes hidden behind walls, or sections of a basement hidden behind storage will not be inspected.
Will a home inspection warranty my home?
Unfortunately, not. Let’s say you are buying a used car. You would want to get it checked out by a certified mechanic first. However, that wouldn’t guarantee 2,500 miles later that the transmission won’t fail. A house, like anything, needs regular maintenance and upkeep. Sometimes that upkeep can be expensive.
Do I really need a home inspection?
It’s definitely a good idea. A home inspection can provide you with the peace of mind of knowing the condition of a house before you make the largest purchase of your life. A house is made up of many complex systems and components, each of which contribute to the overall comfort and value of your investment. A licensed home inspector will provide you with an unbiased opinion of these systems, providing you with necessary information to make an educated decision.
When will I get the inspection report?
If you attend the inspection we’ll go over all the details of the home right there and then. The written report itself will be delivered within 24 hours. That will give me enough time to work through the details of the home and provide a polished and organized report for future reference.
Exactly which components get inspected?
Inspection components include: Structural components, exterior components, roofing system, plumbing system, electrical system, heating system, cooling system, interior components, insulation components and ventilation system, fireplaces and solid fuel burning appliances, outhouses, pools, and spas. For a more detailed list see NJ ADS 13:40-15.2(4)
How long does an inspection take?
There are no set times. I will spend as much time with you and the house as needed, but generally speaking, an inspection takes between two and four hours – depending on the size and age of the home.
Should I be there for the inspection?
Definitely! Every client will receive a complete inspection report with descriptions and pictures of the home’s components, but nothing beats an in-person walk through. Not only will you be able to ask questions and see the home in-depth for yourself, but as a new homeowner, you’ll be able to pick up valuable information such as where the main disconnects are, how to care for certain systems, and more.
What if you find a problem?
All homes have problems to some extent. Any issues or defects we find should not automatically deter you from buying a home whatsoever. Each part of the house has a life expectancy whether it is in 10 days, 10 years, or 10 years ago. The bottom line is that home ownership is expensive. With a home inspection you can discover some present issues and make an educated decision on your purchase.
How much does a home inspection cost?
The fee for a complete home inspection varies by a house’s size, age, & components. See our Inspection Costs page for more inforation
Schedule a pre-listing inspection in the Long Branch, Asbury Park, or Oakhurst, NJ area by calling 732-207-9178 today.
