The general home inspection
A licensed NJ home inspector looks at structure, roof, attic, foundation, drainage, electrical, plumbing, heating and cooling, windows and doors. Walk the house with the inspector and ask questions.
Add-ons worth considering in NJ
- Radon. New Jersey has areas with elevated radon. Testing is inexpensive, and mitigation systems are common.
- Wood-destroying insects. Often required by lenders anyway.
- Oil-tank sweep. Many older NJ homes once heated with oil, sometimes with a buried tank. A sweep looks for one.
- Sewer scope. A camera through the main line on older homes with mature trees.
- Chimney and pool inspections where relevant.
- Lead paint awareness for homes built before 1978.
Flood risk
Since 2024, NJ sellers must disclose known flood history and flood-zone status on the state’s disclosure form. Still pull the FEMA map yourself and get an insurance quote before the inspection window closes. See buying in a flood zone.
Using the report
Focus on safety, water and big-ticket systems, not cosmetic items. Your attorney can request repairs or a credit during the inspection period your contract allows.
Questions, answered
Is a radon test required in NJ?
It isn’t required for most purchases, but it’s widely recommended. If a seller has test results, they must be shared with the buyer.
How do I know if a house has a buried oil tank?
Ask the seller, check town records, and order an oil-tank sweep, which uses metal detection to look for one.
General information, not legal, tax or lending advice. Rules change; confirm with your attorney, tax professional or lender.