Home Inspection in New Jersey

Through a home inspection, hidden defects in New Jersey properties can be discovered, saving you from a financial nightmare. 

Currently in the Garden State housing market, the median home price is almost $500,000. Likewise, more than 80% of buyers find some defect in their potential new home through this inspection. 

Consequently, this leads them to spend more than $10,000 on repairs. However, for no more than $600, buyers can discover such defects through inspection.

Everything You Need To Know About A Home Inspection In New Jersey

To understand the home buying process in New Jersey, it is essential to understand the importance of a home inspection. 

From detecting problems when buying or selling a home with an underground oil tank to the presence of radon, this inspection can give you peace of mind. 

This is because it will reveal possible risks to your health. Additionally, it will ensure the structural safety of the home before you commit to the purchase. 

What Is A Home Inspection?

A home inspection is an evaluation of a property to assess its overall condition. This process involves the review of key components such as:

• HVAC system, 
• House structure, 
• Electricity, and 
• Plumbing system. 

Once completed, the home inspector provides a detailed report to the parties involved. 

What Do Home Inspectors Look For In New Jersey?

Home inspectors focus on 2 main aspects to evaluate the overall condition of a property:

• Structural aspects: This includes the foundation, roof, walls and floor. The inspector looks for cracks, leaks or any type of damage.
• Essential systems: Such as plumbing, electricity, heating and so on. During this part of the inspection, possible leaks or damage to the electrical wiring is checked.

It is important to note that a home inspector does not play the role of a financial advisor. 

In NJ the role of these inspectors is limited to providing information about property defects and suggestions for repair. Additionally, they are not authorized to make recommendations on whether or not you should purchase the property.

Benefits Of A Home Inspection In NJ

Among the benefits a buyer can obtain from having a home inspection include:

• Saving Money: A professional inspection can help avoid unexpected repair costs that could be very costly.
• Withdraw from the contract: If significant problems are discovered during the inspection, the buyer has the option to exit the agreement if they do not wish to take responsibility for serious problems.
• Problem Identification: The inspector is trained to detect structural defects, code compliance issues, water damage, and other concerns. This allows you to make informed decisions.
• Negotiation: An inspection gives the buyer the opportunity to request corrections from the seller or negotiate the price to offset any work that needs to be done.
• Peace of mind: When conducting a home inspection, it is advisable to seek the advice of a New Jersey real estate attorney. This gives you peace of mind and ensures a hassle-free home buying experience.

In other words, a home inspection offers the buyer the security of knowing the true condition of the property, protecting them from unforeseen costs.

How Much Does It Cost To Inspect A Home In NJ?

The average cost of a home inspection in New Jersey typically ranges between $325 and $425. However, this cost can vary depending on the size of the home and other factors. 

Below is a breakdown of average home inspection prices in New Jersey per square foot:

• Less than 1,000 sq. ft.: $240.
• From 1,001 to 1,500 ft²: $280.
• From 2,001 to 2,500 ft²: $300.
• From 4,001 to 6,000 ft²: $425.

These values ​​provide a rough guide to the cost of a home inspection based on the size of the property.

Other Cost Estimates Based On Inspection

Some estimates of the cost of home inspections by type include the following:

• Foundations: $300 to $1,000.
• Ceiling: $75 to $200.
• Septic tank: $200 to $900.
• Electricity: $150 to $200.
• Plumbing: $180 to $225.
• HVAC: $100 to $400.
• Asbestos: $229 to $791.
• Radon: $145 to $700.
• Lead-based paint: $250 to $700.
• Termites: $230 to $930.
• Mold: $200 to $1,000.
• Fireplace: $300 to $600.
• 4-point inspection: $50 to $150.
• Garage: $200 to $600.
• Exterior walls: $200 to $800.
• Kitchen: $200 to $400.
• Land: $700 to $2,000.

What Affects The Cost Of Home Inspections In New Jersey?

There are several factors that can affect the average cost of a home inspection in New Jersey. These are:

• Type of inspection: A general inspection can cost around $420, while a specialized one can cost around $800.
• Location: Prices also vary depending on the location of the property. For example, the average cost of an inspection in Newark is around $330, but in Jersey City it is around $350.
• Number of inspectors available: A greater number of inspectors in your area can lead to greater price competition.
• Age of the property: Inspections for new homes tend to be cheaper than those for older homes.
• Square Feet: The cost of the inspection increases with the size of the property in square footage.

What Is Included In A Home Inspection In NJ?

A home inspection is responsible for detecting major and minor defects in a property. 

Likewise, it seeks to identify possible security risks existing in the house. Generally, the following inspections are carried out:

• Roof: Possible problems such as water leaks, mold, structural damage and others are examined.
• HVAC: Heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems are tested to ensure proper operation.
• Plumbing: Sinks, pipes, toilets, sewer lines and other related items are checked.
• Electrical: Any faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or lack of grounding in the home’s electrical system is identified.
• Foundation: For this process, cracks, mold, floor damage, and other structural problems are examined. 

Why Should I Have A Home Inspection In New Jersey?

When you purchase a home in New Jersey, it is common for lenders to require an inspection report before granting any type of mortgage loan. 

Additionally, you have the option of including a home inspection contingency in your purchase agreement. This allows you to negotiate favorable terms. 

If the inspection report finds significant defects in the property, you have the ability to terminate the agreement. 

Of course, the contingency clause in the contract often only gives you 7 to 10 days to do so.

What Is The Difference Between A Home Inspection And A Home Appraisal?

A home inspection focuses on evaluating the structure and mechanical systems of the property. 

The inspector conducts an examination with the goal of identifying any major short- or long-term problems or deficiencies.

On the other hand, an appraisal is an evaluation of the home intended to determine its fair market value. 

This evaluation is required by the lender to guarantee that the price of the property is consistent with the value being paid and the amount loaned.

What Happens After A Home Inspection In New Jersey?

Once the home inspection is completed, certain different scenarios may arise:

• Closing of sale: You can proceed with the purchase of the property as initially agreed, without changes to the sales price.
• Seller makes necessary repairs: Sometimes when selling a property in New Jersey, sellers can fix some identified problems before closing.
• The final sales price is reduced: There is the possibility of negotiating with the seller to reduce the sales price by an amount equivalent to the cost of the necessary repairs.
• You cancel the deal: If an issue is discovered that poses a security risk, you have the option to cancel the transaction.

We recommend not focusing solely on the number of issues reported, but rather the severity of the issues. 

Either way, once you obtain the inspection report, you can request repairs or enter into negotiations to renegotiate the terms of the agreement.

Does NJ Require Home Inspectors To Be Licensed?

In New Jersey, home inspectors are required to be licensed. 

The Committee of Home Inspectors protects the public by ensuring that inspectors meet the standards to obtain and renew their licenses every 2 years. 

This ensures that inspectors are trained and follow state consumer protection regulations.

Are Home Inspections Mandatory In NJ?

Home inspections are not required in New Jersey. However, our recommendation for buyers is to do them.

Additionally, it is a good idea to have an underground tank scanned if purchasing an older property. 

Also, conduct a sewer system analysis when purchasing a home with a connection to the city sewer system.

What Modifications Are Required After A Home Inspection In NJ?

Legally, there is no mandatory remedy after a home inspection. However, inspections can reveal any type of problems in the house.

Additionally, buyers should request fixes that address the following hazards at the property:

• Trip hazards.
• Pest or wildlife infestation.
• Considerable structural hazards.
• Building code violations.
• Mold or water damage.
• Toxic or chemical risks.
• Risks of fire or electrocution.

Do you have problems with flooding or are you at risk of having a fire? On our blog we have articles focused on flood insurance and the smoke detector and fire certificate in New Jersey.

To Consider

Esthetic repairs and wear and tear are not required nor are they the responsibility of the seller. Of course, there is a difference between the repairs requested by a buyer and those required by a lender or insurance company to underwrite a mortgage. 

In some cases, you may be denied financing or insurance if the bank is not satisfied with the results of an inspection. 

If this is the case, certain solutions may be mandatory for the buyer to obtain a mortgage loan.

Tips Before Conducting A Home Inspection In NJ

At Curbelo Law we understand the importance of this stage for home buyers. Therefore, we recommend that interested parties take the following into account: 

Make All The Necessary Questions 

We know that buying a home can be overwhelming and asking questions can seem intimidating. However, there is no better time to clarify doubts about the condition of the home than during an inspection.

Don’t Skip The Inspection

Although some buyers will waive their inspection contingencies due to high inventory, it is essential to complete this stage. 

By waiving the inspection contingency, buyers only lose the right to request repairs or credits for defects the inspector may find. 

Therefore, it is more than advisable to schedule an inspection and perform at least a search for fuel tanks.

Check The Chimney

It is ideal to carry out a specialized inspection to ensure its safety and functionality, especially in regions prone to adverse weather conditions. 

Certain assessments can identify and address any chimney-related problems, such as cracks or deterioration.

Who Attends A Home Inspection In New Jersey?

Although not required, it is recommended that prospective home buyers and their real estate advisor be present during the home inspection. The sellers and their real estate agent may also participate in the inspection. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Inspections In New Jersey

How Long Does A Home Inspection Take In New Jersey?

A typical home inspection in New Jersey usually takes between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the size of the property.

Who Pays For The Home Inspection In New Jersey?

Typically, the costs of inspections are covered by buyers if they are carried out after an offer is submitted. 

However, sellers can also assume these costs if they choose to have an inspection performed before listing their property on the New Jersey MLS.

Does A Home Inspection Affect The Real Estate Appraisal In New Jersey?

A residential inspection can have an impact on the appraisal. However, this will only happen if the inspector discovers significant irregularities that impair the value of the property. 

For example, deficiencies in the foundation, such as subsidence, can devalue the home in a range of 10% to 20%.

For any questions about this or any other topic, you can contact our NJ residential real estate attorney directly .

How To Request A Home Inspection In New Jersey?

Finding a qualified inspector in New Jersey is extremely important. To find one you have a few options. For example, the following:

• American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI),
• International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), or
• New Jersey Association of Licensed Professional Home Inspectors (NJ-ALPHI).

Call us if you have difficulties on this or any other point and our bilingual team in Spanish and English will answer your questions.

New Jersey Law Firm To Ensure Your Rights And Future Home Are Protected

A home inspection can be your greatest ally or your worst nightmare. However, it is a critical step that can give you peace of mind before finalizing your purchase. 

In addition to detecting potential structural or safety issues, an inspection can reveal illegal additions or installations that could cause legal and financial problems. 

Don’t underestimate the importance of this step in your investment. Of course, before giving up an inspection, we advise consulting with our lawyer Carolina Curbelo. This will be to protect her rights and ensure her future in her new home. 

With over 10 years of experience, we are here to help you with all things real estate.