Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why do I need a home inspection?
A. A home inspection summarizes the conditions of the property, pointing out facts that may materially impact the value of the home, such as major foundation problems while highlighting the need areas in need of maintenance. Furthermore, at Inspections, Plus we will educate you on the features of your home and how to properly maintain the home.
Q. What is a home inspection and what does it include?
A. Home Inspection is an objective, neutral, unbiased visual examination of the structure and systems of a home. Inspections, Plus includes some exterior items, appliances, and finishes most inspectors do not comment on. See the "Standards of Practice" page for details.
Q. What is your lead time for inspection?
A. Contacting a home inspector as soon as you have signed your agreement sale will ensure the date and time that best suits your needs. Typically, there is a window of time in your agreement sale that will tell you how long you have to get your inspections done. Waiting until the last couple days of that time period may cause certain inspections that you would like done to violate the terms of the agreement of sale.
Q. Do you recommend a pre-listing inspection?
A. Pre-listing inspections are valuable for many reasons. As a home inspector, our buying clients always feel comfortable when in their opinion the seller has been forthcoming in the disclosure statement. Adding a home inspection enhances the comfort level even more.
The most difficult time to find major defects with a home is at a home inspection conducted on behalf of a buyer! At that time, time frames are an issue as well as the cost of any major defects found. Repairs done hastily to comply with an agreement sale often results in higher costs and at times poor workmanship. A pre-listing inspection will allow you to disclose the defects or have them repaired cost-effectively and without the pressure of trying to meet a settlement date.
Q. Are you insured and what does that insurance cover?
A. Inspections, Plus carries a $1,000,000 general liability policy for accidents that may occur during the inspection. The State of New Jersey requires all home inspectors to carry a minimum of $500,000 of errors and omission insurance per occurrence for any mistake or omission made in the inspection of the home. Inspections, Plus carries $1,000,000 per occurrence.
Q. With your construction background, will you be able to help me with any repairs needed to my home?
A. Generating income in another field as a result of a home inspection is an obvious conflict of interest. The State of New Jersey as well as all home inspection organizations strictly prohibits this practice.
Q. Should a home inspector be an engineer?
A. Not really but it can be helpful! Engineers are trained in most disciplines but typically specialize in one such as civil, structure, or electrical for example and may have little or no field experience with residential construction. In New Jersey, home inspectors have gone through a rigorous training program geared specifically for the home inspection industry. Although a structural engineer may have more knowledge about certain structural defects in the home, the purpose of the home inspection is to identify the defects for further evaluation and not perform a technical analysis on sight.
Q. How long does it take for me to obtain my report?
A. In most cases the report is e-mailed/faxed the following day but no later than 48 hours. Modified on sight reports when needed are available.
Q. I am purchasing a home "as is”. Do I still need still need to get it inspected?
A. Homes sold “as is” are often sold “as is” because of numerous problems typically from lack of maintenance. An inspection will identify any major issues that may negatively impact the value of the home regardless of the type of sale.
Q. I am purchasing a home from a relative. Do you recommend that I get it inspected?
A. EVERY home should be inspected regardless of who the seller is. An informed purchase is a smart purchase. Knowing the condition of the home will allow you to budget for future needs.
Q. The home I am purchasing is only two years old. Why do I need to get it inspected?
A. Often there are defects present from the original construction that are unknown to the seller.
Q. I am buying a home through HUD that is in poor condition and I have had a general contractor look at it for me. Do you still recommend a home inspection?
A. Of course you should get the home inspected! General contractors are often not familiar with the identification of environmental issues such as asbestos/mold, industry recalls, the danger of some materials such as knob and tube wiring, and finding buried oil tanks.
Q. How do I know the work that I requested to be completed as a result of my home inspection is going to be done properly?
A. It is always appropriate to ask for licensed and qualified contractors to perform the work and to ask for any receipts, warranties for that work, and proof of building permits/municipal inspections if required. This would exclude handyman type of such as cleaning gutters, small painting projects, and adjusting doors for example.
Q. Would you return to inspect the repairs done to my home?
A. Yes, inspectors are often asked to return to the home to inspect the corrections. However, there are limitations to these inspections. For example, corrective concealed work cannot be seen. |