Services
Home Inspection:
What is a Home Inspection?
What is inspected?
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation. On average, a single-family home inspection usually takes 2-4 hours to complete, though this is heavily dependent on the of the size and condition of the home. After the inspection process, the inspector will send the client an inspection report (often within 24-48 hours) that covers their findings, complete with pictures, analysis and recommendations.
The standard home inspector’s report will cover the condition of the home’s heating system; central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing system; electrical system; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; and the foundation, basement and structural components. INTERNACHI publishes a Standard of Practice and Code of Ethics that outlines what to expect to be covered in the home inspection report.
It is important to note that there may be some exceptions. If certain areas are inaccessible (locked door, tenant’s belongings in the way) or unsafe conditions (severely steep roofs, poor structural integrity) the inspector will explain the situation and note that they were not able to assess that specific area or system.
Sewer Scope Inspection:
What is a sewer scope inspection?
A sewer scope inspection is when an inspector uses a specialized camera system, sometimes called a borescope, to inspect the interior of your lateral sewer line. The camera allows the inspector to get a glimpse of what’s going on inside pipes lying deep below the surface. This helps home buyers avoid expensive repairs, the camera allows them to pinpoint the problem without destroying their property. Slow drains, sewer back ups, strong smells in and around the home are just a few of the problems that can arise with damaged sewer lines. Just like a normal home inspection, you will receive a report with their findings, complete with pictures, analysis and recommendations for repairs if needed. If your home is a brand new build, should you have a sewer inspection done? The answer is yes, we have found crushed pipes in new and old homes. Have you or a family member ever run a load of laundry and find the sink over-flowing or water backing up? Sewer line repairs can be a costly, so it is best to have it inspected before you purchase your home. Repair estimates can be just a few hundred dollars to upwards of thousands. The sewer inspection can be done separately or scheduled with your home inspection.
Radon Testing:
What is Radon Gas? Is it dangerous?
Breathing radon over time increases your risk of lung cancer. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. Nationally, the EPA estimates that about 21,000 people die each year from radon-related lung cancer. Only smoking causes more lung cancer deaths.
You can take steps to reduce and control the amount of radon in your home. Testing is the only way to determine radon levels. Have your home tested, if radon levels are high, contact a certified radon service professional to install a radon mitigation system in your home. EPA guidance suggests mitigating if levels are at or above 148 Bq/m3 (4 pCi/L). Usually, radon problems are fixed using an underground ventilation system or by increasing the rate of air changes in the building.
Questions and Answers:
Q: Are you licensed?
A: Yes we are by the state of New Jersey and we are also INTER-nachi certified.
Q: What reporting software do you use?
A: Our establishment uses Spectora. We find it easier to navigate than most others, not only for ourselves but for our clients.
Q: How long is a typical home inspection?
A: Anywhere from 2 to 3 hours. Size of the property, defects found and difficulty conducting the inspection all play a part in the length of time we dedicate to your project.
Q: How quickly from start to finish will all this take?
A: You can typically expect your report to be in your inbox the next business day, acts of nature not withstanding.
Q: How much do home inspections cost?
A: Home Inspection costs vary by need of services by clients as well as sq. ft of property. Radon testing or any other type of inspections such as sewer scopes or oil tank sweeps on the property will also change the price as these are additional services. Discounts are available for scheduling multiple services at one time. Contact Us for more information!
Q: I’m worried I won’t remember to ask the right questions at the time of inspection, what can I do?
A: Buying a home is a huge investment on your part. Do not hesitate to call or send us an email with any questions you may have. We’ll be happy to help. Also you can expect a short recap with your inspector who will be reviewing his/her findings with you.
Q: Should we accompany you around the property during the inspection?
A: You absolutely can and should. The only places you can not follow is on the roof, crawl spaces and/or Attics. Those places aren’t always safe and can sometimes be very difficult to traverse.
Q: Is there anything I should bring to the inspection?
A: You may find a note pad useful to write down questions or observations you may not have seen on your initial walk through.
Q: How are you addressing covid-19?
A: Masks will be worn by all inspectors while inside a home. Outside, depending on space and weather, masks are optional. All inspectors are also required to bring shoe coverings or a change of shoes for inspecting the interior.
Q: Do you test for radon?
A: We definitely do offer Radon Services.