Welcome to Our Home Inspection Buyer, Seller and Owner Clients

Buying a house may seem like an endless series of critical, important decisions. When you find the house that is right for you, you need to find a home inspector to educate you about the condition of your new home. This is a commonplace and a wise decision, even when buying a newly constructed home; the additional peace of mind that a professional home inspection offers is invaluable.

Find an Inspector That You Trust

Choosing an ASHI inspector means choosing someone you can trust to objectively and independently provide you with a comprehensive analysis of the home’s major systems and components—apart from anyone's interests other than your own.

Trust Us When Buying a House—We Speak House

ASHI members know houses, ensuring that you can find a home inspector. They are trained to objectively communicate to you, the home inspection buyer, what the house has to say. ASHI members have demonstrated technical proficiency and report-writing skills, and they have committed to continuing education in order to achieve and maintain their member status. ASHI members also know about service, so we’ll help you find an inspector. They've reviewed feedback from homebuyer surveys conducted by ASHI asking consumers what they want from a professional home inspector. So they know ASHI wants and cares about feedback from consumers on how our members are doing.

Members are committed to conducting inspections in accordance with the ASHI Standards of Practice; committed to abiding by the ASHI Code of Ethics and are dedicated to providing superior customer service. ASHI members deliver more than a home inspection, they deliver "The ASHI Experience".

Homebuyers are not the only people who hire ASHI Inspectors. Homesellers also use ASHI inspections to gain knowledge of the condition of their home before placing it on the market. Smart homesellers know that knowledge about their home’s condition makes the selling process more palatable.

Homebuyers, homesellers, homeowners, or anyone who wants to make an informed decision about a house based on objective information deserves a professional ASHI home inspection.

Homeowners, if you have questions about your house, ask an ASHI member or use our "Find an Inspector" tool to locate an ASHI home inspector in your area.

All persons performing home inspections for residences having one through 4 families must be licensed by the State of New Jersey.   For more information, contact the NJ Home Inspection Advisory Committee at (973) 504-6460.

Frequently Asked Questions on Home Inspections

Please select one of the following topics:

What is a home inspection?
What does a home inspection include?
Why do I need a home inspection?
How much will it cost?
Why can't I do it myself?
Can a house fail inspection?
How do I find a home inspector?
What is ASHI?
Who belongs to ASHI?
When do I call a home inspector?
Do I have to be there?
What if the report reveals problems?
If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?

 

 

What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a house, from the roof to the foundation.
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What does a home inspection include?
The standard home inspector’s report will cover the condition of the home’s heating system; central air conditioning system (temperature permitting); interior plumbing and electrical systems; the roof, attic and visible insulation; walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors; the foundation, basement and structural components.

Why do I need a home inspection?
Buying a home could be the largest single investment you will ever make. To minimize unpleasant surprises and unexpected difficulties, you’ll want to learn as much as you can about the newly constructed or existing house before you buy it. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or builder oversights, as well as the need for maintenance to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will know more about the house, which will allow you to make decisions with confidence.

If you already are a homeowner, a home inspection can identify problems in the making and suggest preventive measures that might help you avoid costly future repairs.

If you are planning to sell your home, a home inspection can give you the opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.

What will it cost?
The inspection fee for a typical one-family house varies geographically, as does the cost of housing. Similarly, within a given area, the inspection fee may vary depending on a number of factors such as the size of the house, its age and possible optional services such as septic, well or radon testing.

Do not let cost be a factor in deciding whether or not to have a home inspection or in the selection of your home inspector. The sense of security and knowledge gained from an inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a bargain. Use the inspector’s qualifications, including experience, training, compliance with your state’s regulations, if any, and professional affiliations as a guide.

Why can't I do it myself?
Even the most experienced homeowner lacks the knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector. An inspector is familiar with the elements of home construction, proper installation, maintenance and home safety. He or she knows how the home’s systems and components are intended to function together, as well as why they fail.

Above all, most buyers find it difficult to remain completely objective and unemotional about the house they really want, and this may have an effect on their judgment. For accurate information, it is best to obtain an impartial, third-party opinion by a professional in the field of home inspection.

Can a house fail a home inspection?
No. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of a house. It is not an appraisal, which determines market value. It is not a municipal inspection, which verifies local code compliance. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but rather describe its physical condition and indicate what components and systems may need major repair or replacement.

What is ASHI?
Since 1976, ASHI has worked to build consumer awareness of home inspection and to enhance the professionalism of its membership. The ASHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics serves as a performance guideline for home inspectors, and is universally recognized and accepted by many professional and governmental bodies.

Who belongs to ASHI?
ASHI is an organization of independent, professional home inspectors who are required to make a commitment, from the day they join as ASHI Associates, to conduct inspections in accordance with the ASHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics, which prohibits engaging in conflict-of-interest activities that might compromise their objectivity. ASHI Associates work their way to ASHI Certified Inspector status as they meet rigorous requirements, including passing a comprehensive, written technical exam and performing a minimum of 250 professional, fee-paid home inspections conducted in accordance with the ASHI Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. Mandatory continuing education helps the membership stay current with the latest in technology, materials and professional skills.

When do I call a home inspector?
Typically, a home inspector is contacted immediately after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed. Before you sign, be sure there is an inspection clause in the sales contract, making your final purchase obligation contingent on the findings of a professional home inspection. This clause should specify the terms and conditions to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

Do I have to be there?
While it’s not required that you be present for the inspection, it is highly recommended. You will be able to observe the inspector and ask questions as you learn about the condition of the home and how to maintain it.

What if the report reveals problems?
No house is perfect. If the inspector identifies problems, it doesn’t mean you should or shouldn’t buy the house, only that you will know in advance what to expect. If your budget is tight, or if you don’t want to become involved in future repair work, this information will be important to you. If major problems are found, a seller may agree to make repairs.

If the house proves to be in good condition, did I really need an inspection?
Definitely. Now you can complete your home purchase with confidence. You’ll have learned many things about your new home from the inspector’s written report, and will have that information for future reference.