Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General Home Inspection FAQs
A home inspection is a comprehensive evaluation of a property’s condition, including its structure, systems, and components. A licensed home inspector assesses everything from the foundation to the roof to identify potential issues before buying or selling a home.
A home inspection helps buyers make informed decisions by identifying hidden defects or safety concerns. Sellers can also benefit by addressing issues in advance, making their home more marketable.
The average home inspection takes 2–4 hours, depending on the property’s size, age, and condition. Larger or older homes may take longer due to additional systems and potential issues.
A typical home inspection covers:
- Structural components (foundation, walls, roof)
- Exterior elements (siding, doors, windows)
- Roofing system (shingles, gutters, flashing)
- Plumbing system (pipes, water heater, fixtures)
- Electrical system (wiring, outlets, panels)
- HVAC system (heating, cooling, ventilation)
- Interior features (ceilings, floors, stairs)
- Insulation & ventilation (attic, crawl spaces)
While not required, attending the inspection is highly recommended. It allows you to ask questions, gain firsthand knowledge of potential issues, and better understand the home’s condition.
Home inspection costs vary based on factors like home size, location, and additional services (radon, mold, termite inspections). Contact us for a quote tailored to your needs.
No, a home inspection is not a pass-or-fail test. Instead, it provides an objective assessment of the home’s condition so buyers and sellers can make informed decisions.
Review the report carefully and discuss any concerns with your real estate agent. You may negotiate repairs with the seller or budget for future maintenance.
Service Area FAQs
We are based in Cherry Hill, NJ (08034) and proudly serve homeowners, buyers, and sellers throughout South Jersey and Central Jersey. We typically travel up to 30 miles or more, covering the following locations:
New Jersey (Primary Service Area)
- Camden County: Cherry Hill, Haddonfield, Voorhees, Collingswood, Pennsauken, Gloucester Township, Bellmawr, Audubon, Somerdale, Winslow Township
- Burlington County: Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Marlton, Cinnaminson, Medford, Lumberton, Willingboro, Bordentown
- Gloucester County: Washington Township, Deptford, Glassboro, Mullica Hill, Williamstown, Swedesboro
- Mercer County: Trenton, Hamilton, Lawrence Township, Princeton
- Atlantic County: Hammonton, Egg Harbor Township, Galloway
Radon Testing FAQs
Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that occurs naturally in soil and rock. Long-term exposure to high radon levels can increase the risk of lung cancer.
The only way to detect radon is through testing. Since radon levels vary by location, every home should be tested, even if neighbors have low readings.
We use professional-grade radon detectors to measure radon levels over a set period. The results indicate whether mitigation is necessary.
The EPA recommends action if radon levels exceed 4.0 pCi/L (picocuries per liter). Even lower levels can pose risks over time.
The EPA recommends testing for radon at least every two years since levels can fluctuate over time due to changes in weather, home renovations, or shifts in the ground. You should also test after major home modifications, such as basement finishing or HVAC updates.
If high radon levels are detected, a radon mitigation system can be installed to reduce concentrations and ensure safe indoor air quality.
Mold and Mold Testing FAQs
Mold thrives in damp, humid environments. Leaks, poor ventilation, and high indoor humidity can contribute to mold growth.
Signs of mold include:
- Musty odors
- Visible black, green, or white spots on walls, ceilings, or surfaces
- Allergy-like symptoms (sneezing, coughing, headaches)
A professional mold inspection identifies hidden mold, determines the severity of the issue, and provides recommendations for safe removal and prevention.
Not all mold is toxic, but certain types, like black mold (Stachybotrys), can produce mycotoxins that may cause health issues. Even non-toxic mold can trigger allergies and respiratory problems.
If mold is found, it’s crucial to address the moisture source and follow professional remediation guidelines to prevent future growth.
Wood-Destroying Insects (WDI/WDO) Inspection FAQs
Wood-destroying insects (WDI/WDO) include termites, carpenter ants, carpenter bees, and wood-boring beetles that can cause structural damage to homes.
A wood-destroying insect inspection identifies active infestations, previous damage, and conditions that may attract pests. Many mortgage lenders require a WDI inspection for home purchases.
Signs of a termite infestation include:
- Hollow-sounding wood
- Mud tubes along the foundation
- Discarded wings from swarmers
- Small pinholes in drywall or wood surfaces
If an active infestation is detected, a licensed pest control professional can recommend treatment options, such as chemical barriers or baiting systems.
Yes! Preventative measures include:
- Keeping firewood and wood debris away from the home
- Sealing foundation cracks and entry points
- Reducing moisture around the home’s foundation
- Scheduling regular inspections
Home Maintenance & Checkup Inspection FAQs
A home maintenance inspection is a proactive checkup of your home’s major systems and components to identify minor issues before they become costly repairs. Unlike a pre-purchase inspection, this service is designed for homeowners who want to maintain their property’s condition over time.
Regular maintenance inspections help you:
- Catch small problems early before they turn into expensive repairs
- Extend the lifespan of your home’s major systems (roof, HVAC, plumbing, electrical)
- Improve energy efficiency and reduce utility costs
- Maintain property value and prevent unexpected expenses
Experts recommend scheduling a home maintenance inspection every 1–3 years, depending on the home’s age and condition. Older homes or properties in areas with extreme weather conditions may benefit from more frequent checkups.
A typical home maintenance inspection covers:
- Roof & exterior (shingles, siding, gutters, windows, doors)
- Foundation & structure (cracks, settling, drainage issues)
- HVAC system (filter condition, airflow, signs of wear)
- Plumbing system (leaks, water pressure, water heater condition)
- Electrical system (outlets, breakers, wiring safety)
- Attic & insulation (moisture issues, ventilation)
- Basement & crawl spaces (moisture, pests, foundation integrity)
No, a home maintenance inspection is specifically for current homeowners who want to keep their property in good shape. A home inspection for buyers is a more detailed evaluation that focuses on issues that could affect a real estate transaction.
In some cases, yes! Insurance providers may offer discounts for homeowners who take proactive maintenance steps, especially for issues like roof condition, plumbing updates, and electrical safety.
Review the inspection report and prioritize repairs based on urgency. Some issues may require professional repairs, while others can be simple DIY fixes. Regular maintenance can prevent costly emergencies in the future.
Pre-Listing Inspection FAQs
A pre-listing inspection is an inspection conducted before listing your home for sale. It allows homeowners to identify potential issues upfront, enabling them to make repairs or adjustments before buyers come through.
A pre-listing inspection helps you:
- Identify and fix problems before potential buyers see them
- Increase buyer confidence by offering a clean inspection report
- Prevent surprises during the buyer’s inspection, which could delay or derail the sale
- Price your home more accurately by knowing its true condition
- Reduce negotiation stress, as buyers will be less likely to ask for concessions or repairs
Similar to a typical home inspection, a pre-listing inspection covers:
- Structural components (foundation, framing, walls)
- Roof & exterior (shingles, siding, windows)
- Plumbing system (pipes, fixtures, water heater)
- Electrical system (wiring, outlets, panel)
- HVAC system (heating, air conditioning)
- Interior features (floors, ceilings, windows)
- Appliances (oven, dishwasher, washer/dryer)
It’s best to schedule the inspection as soon as you decide to sell, giving you ample time to address any issues that may arise. A pre-listing inspection is typically conducted at least a few weeks before listing your home.
Yes! Homes that have already been inspected are often perceived as well-maintained and transparent, which can make them more attractive to buyers. Addressing minor issues in advance can help avoid delays and price reductions during negotiations.
No, not necessarily. A pre-listing inspection is designed to identify issues. You can choose to fix the items that could impact the sale or reduce the home’s value. Keep in mind that some minor issues might not need attention, and some buyers may be willing to accept them as-is.
The cost of a pre-listing inspection depends on the size and location of the home, as well as any additional services (e.g., radon, mold, or pest inspections). Contact us for a customized quote.
Book Your Home Inspection Today!
Whether you’re buying, selling, or maintaining your home, a professional inspection can give you peace of mind. Contact us today to schedule your home inspection, radon testing, mold assessment, or WDI/WDO inspection.
.png)