What is a Home Inspection?

What is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is an objective examination of a house, including structure, mechanical systems, and appliances. The purpose of the inspection is to determine that the house is in the condition you believe it to be and there is nothing that will interfere with your use and enjoyment of it. The inspection report does not indicate whether or not the house is a good value. It is simply an objective report of its condition.

In addition to the general inspection, the home buyer may want or be required to arrange for a termite inspection, an examination of the septic system, swimming pool or oil tank, or tests for water potability radon or lead paint in an older home. There are often additional charges for these specialized tests.

Home Inspectors are governed by the rules in the NJ Administrative Code contained at N.J.A.C. 13:40-15. The New Jersey Home Inspector Advisory Committee, which is under the State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors, licenses home inspectors and regulates the home inspection profession.

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Property Condition Disclosure Is Not The Same

Most homes marketed by Coldwell Banker offer a property disclosure provided by the homeowner. This report details the owner's experience with the house and what they know about it condition since they have owned it. This is a very valuable service to help evaluate a house that is being considered, but it does not take the place of an objective home inspection.

Go With The Inspector

A home inspector will examine the house from the roof to the foundation, looking for structural abnormalities or deterioration. The inspector will turn on all the mechanical systems, and appliances to see they are working properly. The walls and basement will be checked for any signs of water damage. After the house has been inspected from top to bottom, the inspector should provide a written report of the inspection's findings.

It is a good idea for the homebuyer to go with the inspector when the examination is conducted. It helps to keep the inspection report in perspective if the homebuyer asks questions about the results of the inspection. It's also a good time to learn about the workings of the new house. The inspector can show important

For more information on home inspections and the Home Protection Plan contact our Concierge department at 800-353-9949 or e-mail at nj.concierge@nrtinc.com.

To receive a complimentary comparative home value analysis, click here.  For more information about Bergen County NJ real estate, please visit www.BobWolf-Realtor or call me at 551-206-1163.