Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
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About the Home Inspection
- What is a Home Inspection?
- Why can't I, someone in my family, or a friend take a look at the house for me?
- Can I attend the Inspection?
- Why should I get an Inspection when I'm going to need an Appraisal anyway?
- How much will the Inspection cost?
- How soon can I schedule an Inspection?
- What is inspected during the Home Inspection?
- What if the house is unoccupied?
- How long will the Inspection take?
- Does my home comply with all of the current building codes and laws?
- What if the home fails the Inspection?
- What if I have questions after the Inspection?
About the Inspector
- Are you a Certified Inspector?
- Are you licensed by the State of New Jersey?
- Are you part of a national chain or franchise for home inspectors?
- Do you work for a real estate office?
About the Home Inspection Report
- When will I receive my Inspection Report?
- Who will get a copy of the Inspection Report?
- Does the Report conform to national standards?
- What if my home inspection report indicates problems and areas of concern?
- When do I pay for my Inspection?
- What payment methods do you accept?
What is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is an inspection of the visible and accessible components of a home from the roof to the foundation at the time of the inspection. The inspector is someone who has the knowledge of many trades and can provide you with a general assessment of the condition of the home at the time of the inspection.
Why can't I, someone in my family, or a friend take a look at the house for me?
You, your family member, or friend, may be very handy or may even be a contractor and they may be a good candidate to also invite to your home inspection. However, a professional home inspector is trained and experienced in looking for unsuspected items and problems and is familiar with how a home’s systems and component work, how they work together, and what symptoms and signs are visible to indicate deterioration or failure of a component or system. In addition, when you are close to the home buying/selling transaction it is hard to remain objective and unemotional about the house.
Can I attend the Inspection?
Yes it is recommended that you attend your inspection. Attending the inspection, gives you a chance to ask any questions you may have and lets the inspector discuss safety and maintenance issues with you.
Why should I get an Inspection when I'm going to need an Appraisal anyway?
An inspection is different than an appraisal. An inspection, performed on your behalf, describes the physical condition of the home at the time of the inspection so that you (the customer) can have an accurate opinion of its condition. An appraiser estimates the value of the home based on recent sales in the neighborhood and the home’s characteristics and is usually contracted by your mortgage company.
How much will the Inspection cost?
Please visit our Pricing page for a list of prices. Remember to inquire about great savings when using our Package Discounts.
How soon can I schedule an Inspection?
An Inspection can usually be scheduled within 1 to 2 days. However, immediate inspections are sometimes available – Call for details.
What is inspected during the Home Inspection?
A full Inspection includes the exterior, structural components, foundation, roof, attic, insulation, plumbing, electrical, heating/AC, garage, kitchen, bathrooms, and other interior rooms. Please refer to my Standards of Practice.
What if the house is unoccupied?
If the house is not occupied, then the utilities may be off. You can check with your real estate agent to find out if that's the case. In order for me to provide you with a comprehensive inspection, all utilities need to be on and all appliances with pilot lights need to be lit. In many cases the seller or seller's agent can arrange for utilities to be available for Inspection. Be sure to read about the Day of the Inspection.
How long will the Inspection take?
An average Inspection takes 2 ˝ to 3 ˝ hours, depending on the size and condition of the property.
Does my home comply with all of the current building codes and laws?
Since building codes and laws are different in each community and have evolved over time, a home inspection is not intended to determine whether or not the house complies with the local codes. As such, I do not comment on or discuss code issues or violations.
What if the home fails the Inspection?
A house can not pass or fail a Home Inspection. A professional home inspection is a general assessment of the condition of the systems and components that comprise your home at the time of the inspection. The home inspector will be able to indicate what may need repair or replacement to give you a general idea of the condition of the house.
What if I have questions after the Inspection?
When I leave the inspection, the inspection is done, but I am still your home inspector. I am available for free phone consultations concerning your home. Please feel free to call me at any time. I strive to keep my clients well-informed.
Are you a Certified Inspector?
Yes, I am certified by the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors. The National Association of Certified Home Inspectors is the world’s largest and most elite inspection association requiring each inspector to undergo annual testing and participate in continuing professional education classes.
Are you licensed by the State of New Jersey?
Yes, I am licensed by the State of New Jersey Board of Professional Engineers as a Home Inspector. Andrew Rook: Home Inspector license number--24GI00063600.
Are you part of a national chain or franchise for home inspectors?
No, I am a locally-owned one-person small business. This allows me to give my clients individualized attention when I perform their home inspection. When you hire me, I will be the one performing the inspection.
Do you work for a real estate office?
No, I am an independent home inspector. I work for you, the client, and my Report is not influenced by others who may have an interest in your real estate transaction. Real estate agents often make referrals to home inspectors as a courtesy to you, the client. But I do not work for the real estate agent or company, I work for you.
When will I receive my Inspection Report?
Your Inspection Report will be provided to you within 24 hours of your home inspection via email, fax, and/or mail however you want it.
Who will get a copy of the Inspection Report?
Only you, my client, will receive your inspection Report unless you tell me to provide it to someone else.
Does the Report conform to national standards?
Yes, the Report conforms to the NJ Standards of Practice.
What if my home inspection report indicates problems and areas of concern?
No house is perfect. By pointing out the problems and areas in need of repair, the inspector is letting you know of what to expect in advance. Once the areas of concern are noted, you can obtain quotes from qualified professionals to repair or replace the defect. It is recommended to obtain several quotes from at least three qualified professionals before starting any repair work. That way you can choose the most qualified professional with the best service, reputation, and price.
When do I pay for my Inspection?
Payment for inspection services is due at the time of the on-site Inspection.
What payment methods do you accept?
Cash or check are welcome. Payment is due at the time of the on-site inspection. We also accept credit card payments through PayPal.
