Why should I have a home inspection?
What does a Home inspection include?
Should I attend the home inspection?
How long will the inspection take?
Why can’t a knowledgeable family member or I do it?
Shouldn’t I hire an engineer to perform the home inspection?
Can I hire you to fix the problems you find?
Are you insured?

Q. Why should I have a home inspection?
A. The home purchase is the one of the largest investments you will make. You should know as much as possible BEFORE you buy the home. My inspection report will describe the components of the home, identify and make recommendations for addressing the problems I find.

If you are selling your home, a pre-listing inspection will give you an understanding of problems that may exist. This will provide you the opportunity to address them before they slow down or prevent your sale.

Q. What does a home inspection include?
A. This Ole House inspector inspects and reports on all the major components of the home. This includes the foundation and structure, roofing, exterior, heating and cooling, insulation and ventilation, fireplace and chimney, kitchens and baths, plumbing, electrical, and interior.

Q. Should I attend the Home Inspection?
A. Absolutely! I strongly encourage you to accompany me during the inspection. This gives you the opportunity to ask questions and learn about the home. This is one of the most valuable aspects of the home inspection. This Ole House inspector will discuss issues that will appear in the report and explain the maintenance and operations of major components of your new home.

Q. How long will the inspection take?
A. There are a number of factors that dictate the length of the inspection. Most inspections take 2 - 3 hours. Larger homes, or homes with significant problems, may take longer.

Q. Why can’t a knowledgeable family member or I do it myself?
A. Even the most knowledgeable person doesn’t have the training or experience needed to check all the homes components. In addition, This Ole House inspector is an impartial observer who is not emotionally involved in the process. Even a smart lawyer hires another lawyer for legal representation.

Q. Shouldn’t I hire an engineer to perform the home inspection?
A. Not really. An engineer is a specialist in a specific area (i.e. mechanical, electrical, etc.) A home inspector is a generalist who looks throughout the home for problems or deficiencies, then recommends the appropriate specialist to correct the problems. You don’t go to a surgeon for a physical examination. Why go to an engineer for your home inspection?

Q. Can I hire you to fix the problems you find?
A. No. The code of ethics of all the respected professional organizations prohibits such a conflict of interest. Nor can I refer you to any of my colleagues. The NJ home inspection licensing law expressly prohibits any such conflicts.

Q. Are you insured?
A. Yes. This Ole House inspector carries General Liability and Errors and Omissions insurance. This means you are protected when I perform a home inspection. When you are engaging a home inspector, protect yourself - be sure he/she carries both general liability and errors and omissions insurance.