What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a visual examination of the physical structure and all the systems of a home, completed by a certified third-party home inspection company. The purpose is to determine whether the home to be purchased suffers from any problems that require further evaluation or repairs.
How much does it cost and who pays for it?
Mortgage companies require the home inspection, which is paid for by the home buyer. Occasionally, home sellers order an inspection to identify issues in advance of their sale. A home inspection for a one-family house with garage and four bedrooms in Bergen County costs between $400 and $700, a small price to pay for peace of mind and in-depth information about your new home.
What does a home inspection report include?
A standard home inspection report evaluates the condition of the home’s essential systems such as the heating system, central air conditioning system, interior plumbing and electrical systems; as well as parts of the physical structure such as the roof, attic, and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement/crawl space, basement seepage and any visible and/or accessible structural elements.
How is the inspection graded?
There is no pass or fail for a home inspection. The report describes the condition of the home as witnessed by the certified inspector. If problems are found, the buyer can decide whether they are still willing to buy the home. In most cases, the buyer will complete the purchase, but use the results of the inspection to plan for repairs and maintenance. Or, the seller may pay for repairs in order to complete their sale. The two parties must negotiate.
When should I contact a home inspector?
Contact a certified home inspector immediately after you sign the contract or purchase agreement for your new home. Make sure before you sign that there is an inspection clause noting that your purchase depends upon the outcome of the home inspection. Arrange for the home inspection to happen at a time when you can also attend to ask questions and observe the new home and its conditions.
Where can I find a home inspector?
Orly Chen is happy to recommend trusted home inspection professionals. Check the Business Partners section for more information. Whichever home inspector you choose, make sure he or she is licensed by the state of New Jersey, and is a member of the American Society of Home Inspectors, the professional organization for the industry.