Learn What Inspections Are, What They Aren’t And How You Should Prepare

Buying a home is exciting but it is also a large investment that requires careful thought. One of the essential steps in the process of home buying is a Home Inspection. A Home Inspection provides valuable insights into the condition of the property which help you make informed decisions. Rooney Home Inspections is a professional Home Inspector based in Maplewood Essex County NJ and serving the Essex County community as well as most of northern central New Jersey. We offer our thoughts on what a Home Inspection is, what it isn’t, and what to expect when hiring a home inspector. This is based on considerable experience and continued education in the field of Home Inspection.  We offer a NJ homeowners guide to Home Inspections.

What Is A Home Inspection?

A Home Inspection is a visual, non-invasive examination of the accessible areas of a property conducted by a professional home inspector. The purpose of a Home Inspection is to identify any major issues regarding the systems and components of the home. Look at it like a health check-up for a house. An inspector looks at various aspects of the property to determine over all condition and to locate any potential problems that may affect the home’s safety, usability, or value.

Some of the areas that are typically inspected include:

Structural Components: This is comprised of the foundation, floors, walls, ceilings and roof. The inspector will look for damage or wear that could indicate structural problems.

Exteriors: This is comprised of the outside of the home including siding, doors, windows, decks, and drainage systems.

Roofing: The condition of the roof, including shingles, flashing and drainage are evaluated to uncover any leaks or damage.

Plumbing System: The home’s plumbing, including pipes, fixtures, water heaters, and drainage are checked for leaks, blockages, and overall functionality.

Electrical System: This includes inspecting the electrical panels, wiring, outlets, and light fixtures to ensure their safety and whether they are working properly.

Heating and Cooling Systems: An inspector will test the operation of the heating and air conditioning systems to ensure proper working efficiency.

Interiors: The walls, ceilings, floors, and other interior features are inspected for signs of damage, mold, or other issues.

Insulation and Ventilation: Proper insulation and ventilation in the attic and crawl space are looked at the ensure they are working correctly and contributing to energy efficiency.

Fireplaces and Chimneys: The condition and safety of fireplaces and chimneys are assessed.

What A Home Inspection Is Not

It is important to understand what a Home Inspection is not in order to have realistic expectations. A Home Inspection is not an appraisal and it does not determine the market value of the property. It is to assess the condition of the home’s systems and components. A Home Inspection is not a Code Compliance check and does not guarantee that the house complies with current building codes in a given area. Inspectors focus on safety and functionality, not strict code compliance.

A Home Inspection is not a Warranty or Guarantee, it is only a snapshot of a home’s condition at the time of the inspection. It does not serve as a warranty for the future. Things that are functioning today may fail tomorrow. A Home Inspection is not an exhaustive examination – inspectors are not required to move furniture, appliances, or stored items to inspect. A Home Inspection does not include checking for environmental hazards such as radon, asbestos, lead paint, mold, or pests unless specifically requested and licensed to do so. Home inspectors cannot predict future conditions that may lead to failure.  We are offering a NJ homeowners guide to Home Inspections.

What To Expect During A Home Inspection

Typically a Home Inspection takes about 2 to 4 hours, larger or older homes may take longer. Before the inspection begins you will be asked to sign an agreement outlining the scope of the inspection and the inspector’s responsibilities. This ensures that both parties are aware of what is inspected and what is not. It’s always a good idea to be present during a Home Inspection. This allows you to see any problems first hand and also ask questions to gain a better understanding. After the inspection you will receive a detailed report listing what was inspected, outlining any specific issues, and providing recommendations for repairs or replacements.

To prepare for a Home Inspection make sure there is clear access to important areas to be inspected like the attic, basement, electrical panels, HVAC units. Be sure all utilities are turned on so the inspector can test the systems. If you have any records of repairs or maintenance on the home, provide these. This helps the inspector understand the home’s history and current condition. And again, ask questions!

A Home Inspection Is A Valuable Tool

A Home Inspection has value for a home owner as well as a home buyer, providing a comprehensive picture of the property’s condition. A Home Inspection will allow you to set realistic expectations and make smart choices. Rooney Home Inspections offers professional evaluations of homes conducted by a knowledgeable and experienced inspector. Being proactive and involved in the process of a Home Inspection such as by asking questions, you will understand a home’s overall condition and know what to expect moving forward. Our goal is to make the journey pleasurable and stress free. For complete Home Inspections in the northern central New Jersey area, call Rooney Home Inspections at 973-996-8257.