Home/ Building Inspection
Inspection
Some people call this a "structural" - which is old fashioned and inaccurate terminology. A structural inspection is only one component of the full inspection we perform and provide. Our residential inspection services are performed in strict accordance with the N.J.A.C 13:40-15 (New Jersey Administrative Code)
When making a large purchase, your first priority should be a thorough inspection. We view a house or building as a system with components and items interacting, interfacing, and affecting each other. The inspection and report covers all visible and readily accessible structural, mechanical, and other building systems and components. An in-depth inspection of the average single family home takes 2.5 to 4 hours, larger houses take longer. We don't rush off to the next inspection, it takes what it takes. We cover hundreds of points at every inspection. Accept nothing less.
We use sophisticated state-of-the-art instrumentation, and testing equipment where applicable. Our wealth of experience provides you with one of the best field inspections possible. Insist on nothing less.
We encourage you to accompany the inspector to get a first hand view and explanation of existing conditions. The operation and maintenance of the systems of the building and components are explained. This will increase your comfort level and eliminates you sole dependence on the written report. Questions are answered during this time (and throughout the home buying transaction). Our service does not end with the delivery of the report. We are available for free consultation after you move in.
Report
Available online with your password 1-2 days following your inspection.
Sign On now to view your inspection report (ID and Password Required)
The written report is 22-28 pages with an executive summary, styled in layman's terms and provides you with a depth of information and explanation for an understanding of the condition of the house.
The report is easy to follow and categorized into individual sections and indicates:
• Items and systems inspected
• Description of systems and components
• Items and systems not inspected and why
• Material defects - A condition, or functional aspect, of a structural component or system that is readily ascertainable during a home inspection that substantially affects the value, habitability, or safety of the dwelling, and can include:
• items or systems not performing their intended function
• Items or systems which are significantly deficient
• major cost items for repair or replacement
• Other defects and deficiencies
• Potentially damaging conditions
• Items or systems in need of repair
• Required and deferred maintenance
• Need for small repairs
• Suggestions for improvements
• Suggestions for modernization of obsolete areas or systems
• Significance of findings
• Recommendations for repair or replacement as needed
• Recommendations to obtain cost estimates as needed
• Need to obtain further inspections, if necessary
• Need for destructive testing, if necessary
An ACE report is like a custom homeowner's manual, an invaluable source of information to refer to for years to come. Just ask our past clients. Our past clients are our present and our future clients.
Wood Destroying Insects (WDI)
a.k.a. Termite Inspection
Inspection
Conducted by a NJ licensed pest Control Applicator- This interior and exterior inspection covers subterranean termites, carpenter ants, carpenter bees, powder post beetles and other applicable pests. Stand-alone WDI inspections commonly exclude or omit the attic portion of the inspection. We go up into the attic during the home inspection and check for presence of WDI. Structural damage is checked for during our inspection, as can be significant. Commonly damage was not repaired even if the house was chemically treated for pests.
Report
A two page NPMA-33 (National Pest Control Association) is provided which “clears” the property or “fails” the property as a result of our observations.
We sometimes include an addendum, which makes recommendations to reduce attractive conditions for wood destroying insects and provides you with a list of attractive and conducive conditions for WDI infestation and damage. We can provide photographs of damage, especially useful in areas inaccessible to you.
Recommendations are provided as applicable for:
• Chemical treatments
• Further and destructive testing
• Damage cost evaluation
• Other, as needed
Radon Screening
Radon is an odorless, colorless, tasteless, invisible, naturally occurring soil gas that comes form the breakdown of radioactive uranium in the soil and rocks beneath our houses.
Inspection
Conducted by a NJ licensed Radon Measurement Technician
The EPA and the US Surgeon General recommend that homes below the third floor be tested for radon. Radon can occur in new as well as old homes, drafty and tight homes, homes with basements or built on slabs.
A screening device is left in the home for 1-6 days. We use state of the art computer based equipment (www.Radalink.com).
We use EPA and NJ DEP state approved testing laboratories for canister device and other type testing (www.Radata.com).
We use tamper deterrent techniques and equipment as recommended by the DEP.
All parties are informed of the protocol and
requested to sign a testing and non-interference agreement
We pick up our own screening devices as required by state regulations. Unfortunately for unsuspecting homebuyers, common and unscrupulous industry practice are to ask the homeowner or sales agent to return the screening device to the lab, or for the inspector to knowingly agree to let the sales agent to return the screening device when they offer. These illegal practices do not serve the interest of the homebuyer.
Report
A three-page color report is sent by e-mail typically within (1) hour of computer retrieval
and data upload. A report is sent the next or following day for a canister test.
Contact us to Schedule an Inspection >
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