Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a pre-purchase and pre-sale inspection?
A pre-purchase inspection is performed for buyers to identify issues before they finalize a purchase, while a pre-sale inspection helps sellers uncover problems before listing. At Pro Inspect Home Inspections, both are conducted by the same licensed inspector using identical standards, but serve opposite sides of the transaction.How does a sewer line camera inspection work?
A sewer line camera inspection uses specialized video equipment inserted into underground pipes to visually detect blockages, cracks, root intrusion, or structural damage. The process provides real-time video documentation and is especially important for older South Jersey homes with original sewer lines that may have deteriorated over time.When should you schedule an 11-month warranty inspection?
You should schedule an 11-month warranty inspection shortly before your builder's one-year warranty expires. This timing allows you to identify covered defects in structure, systems, or workmanship and have them repaired at no cost before the warranty period ends.Why do new construction homes need inspections?
New construction homes can have workmanship issues, code concerns, or defects missed during municipal inspections. At Pro Inspect Home Inspections, we use professional techniques beyond basic code checks to ensure the home meets expected quality standards before you move in, even with reputable builders.What does mold and air quality testing detect?
Mold and air quality testing identifies airborne mold spores and environmental contaminants that affect indoor health. Lab-based testing provides actionable results and is particularly valuable in South Jersey's humid climate, especially when odors, moisture problems, or prior water damage are present.How does thermal imaging help during a home inspection?
Thermal imaging uses infrared technology to detect hidden moisture, insulation gaps, and energy loss without invasive methods. It reveals issues invisible to the naked eye, making it especially useful for older homes and during seasonal temperature changes common in New Jersey and Delaware.What affects the cost of a home inspection?
Home inspection costs are typically influenced by property size, age, number of systems to evaluate, and add-on services like sewer cameras or mold testing. Older homes or those with multiple outbuildings generally require more time and thorough evaluation, impacting the overall price.When is water quality testing necessary?
Water quality testing is essential for homes on private wells and recommended when water concerns arise. It's especially common in rural and semi-rural areas of Cumberland and Gloucester Counties, where well water may contain contaminants that affect health or fail to meet transaction requirements.Can a pre-sale inspection help sellers avoid surprises?
Yes, a pre-sale inspection uncovers repair issues before listing, allowing sellers to fix problems proactively or price accurately. This is especially valuable in older South Jersey communities where deferred maintenance is common and buyer negotiations can stall over unexpected defects.What's the biggest mistake buyers make with inspections?
The biggest mistake is scheduling too late or skipping the inspection entirely. At Pro Inspect Home Inspections, we encourage buyers to schedule early in the transaction, before contingencies expire, so they have time to negotiate repairs or reconsider the purchase based on findings.Do termite inspections find all wood damage?
Termite inspections identify visible signs of wood-destroying insects and damage, but cannot detect issues hidden behind walls or inaccessible areas. Licensed inspections help buyers and lenders assess risk and are often required for mortgage approval throughout South Jersey and Delaware.Why choose a dual-licensed inspector for NJ and DE?
A dual-licensed inspector can perform legally compliant inspections across state lines without third-party referrals. At Pro Inspect Home Inspections, holding both NJ and Delaware licenses ensures seamless service for buyers and sellers in border regions like South Jersey and Northern Delaware.What's the difference between a pre-purchase and pre-sale inspection?
A pre-purchase inspection helps buyers identify defects and negotiate repairs before closing, while a pre-sale inspection helps sellers uncover issues before listing to avoid surprises during negotiations. At Pro Inspect Home Inspections, LLC, both are conducted by the same licensed NJ and DE inspector using identical standards.When should you schedule an 11-month warranty inspection?
Schedule it before your builder's one-year warranty expires, ideally around month ten or eleven. This inspection identifies defects the builder must repair under warranty, helping you avoid out-of-pocket costs. It's especially valuable for newer South Jersey developments.How does a sewer line camera inspection work?
A small waterproof camera is inserted into the sewer line to capture real-time video of blockages, cracks, or root intrusion. The inspector reviews the footage and provides clear documentation of any issues. This is strongly recommended for older homes before closing.Why is mold testing important in South Jersey homes?
South Jersey's humid climate and older housing stock create conditions where mold can thrive, especially after water damage or in poorly ventilated areas. Lab-based air quality testing identifies mold spores that may affect occupant health and can support real estate negotiations.What does thermal imaging reveal during a home inspection?
Thermal imaging uses infrared technology to detect hidden moisture, insulation gaps, air leaks, and energy loss without invasive methods. It's particularly useful in older homes and during seasonal temperature swings across New Jersey and Delaware.Do I need a termite inspection to close on a home?
Many lenders and real estate transactions require a termite inspection before closing, especially in South Jersey where wood-destroying insects are common. A licensed termite inspector identifies visible damage and infestation signs to assess risk for buyers and lenders.What's the biggest mistake buyers make with home inspections?
Buyers often schedule inspections too late in the transaction, leaving little time to negotiate repairs or make informed decisions before contingencies expire. At Pro Inspect Home Inspections, LLC, we encourage scheduling as soon as the offer is accepted.Should sellers fix issues found in a pre-sale inspection?
Sellers can choose to fix defects proactively, disclose them and adjust pricing, or provide the report to buyers for transparency. Fixing major issues beforehand often reduces delays and strengthens negotiating position in competitive South Jersey markets.When is water quality testing necessary for a home?
Water quality testing is essential for homes on private wells, common in rural areas of Cumberland and Gloucester Counties. It's also recommended when water odor, discoloration, or prior contamination concerns arise, ensuring safety and meeting transaction requirements.Can a home inspector work in both New Jersey and Delaware?
Yes, if they hold active licenses in both states. Pro Inspect Home Inspections, LLC is fully licensed in New Jersey and Delaware, allowing seamless inspections for clients buying or selling across state lines without needing multiple inspectors.What should I expect in a new construction inspection report?
A new construction inspection identifies workmanship issues, code concerns, and defects missed during municipal checks. The report includes photos and clear explanations, helping buyers ensure the home meets expected standards before closing, even with reputable builders.How does deferred maintenance affect older South Jersey homes?
Deferred maintenance in older communities often leads to roofing, plumbing, electrical, and structural issues that surface during buyer inspections. A pre-sale inspection helps sellers identify and address these problems early, reducing the risk of negotiations falling apart.