The real estate home inspection

Karen B. Lawrence NJHOMETEAM

The Home Inspection - What To Expect

The home inspection is designed to protect the buyer from unknown conditions which may be unsafe or significantly costly to repair or correct.

Remember that pre-owned homes have both strong and weak points. It is unrealistic to expect everything to be in tip top condition unless you pay the price for it.

Q: When do I have a home inspection conducted?
A: Within 10 days of the completion of attorney review.

Q: What is inspected?
A: Major structural components (foundation, sill plate, supporting walls, ceilings, roofing) electrical and plumbing systems, termite presence/damage and radon are part of the inspection.

Q: Who performs the inspections?
A: Licensed inspectors. Referrals from previous home buyers are available upon request from your agent.

Q: What defects are considered necessary to seek repairs or corrections?
A: One inspection company defines major as anything that costs $500 or more to repair or replace, or which constitutes a significant safety risk. Your home inspector and your attorney will alert you to those conditions.

Q: What about cosmetic issues?
A: Not a part of a home inspection. The home’s sale price generally reflects the market, the condition and or appeal, not the cosmetics since they are subjective and a matter of individual taste.

Q: Can I ask for credit if my roof has reached its life expectancy?
A: Unless there is evidence to support present failure, it is not considered a negotiable item, however most homes are priced accordingly with the condition of the roof taken into account.

Q: What do I do with the inspection report once I receive it?
A: A copy of the inspection report will automatically be sent to your attorney for review. She or he will make recommendations that, in the attorney’s opinion, are in your best interest. You must, however, indicate what things you are willing to accept if the seller refuses to cooperate.

Here is a link to a list of all New Jersey licensed home inspectors.

NOTE: This information is experiential only. It is no way intended to substitute for the advice of licensed professionals.

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