What makes ClearView better than all the other Home Inspectors out there?
At ClearView, we always strive to live up to our motto - “Inspections That Exceed Expectations.”  Every home is different, just as every client’s concerns are different.  Our approach is to customize our inspections beyond just what’s required, to pay special attention to specific client issues, and to write reports that encompass the special nuances of each home.  We don’t believe that the usual ‘boilerplate’ reporting you’ll get from most inspectors is valuable or even ethical.  Each report is full of high-resolution pictures to aide comprehension, and helpful maintenance tips to make living in the home easier and more rewarding.  A good home inspection isn’t just another closing expense - it’s really an investment in your future.

What is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is an objective visual examination of the physical structure and systems of a home, from the chimney top to the foundation, as of the day of the inspection.  As a buyer, having your new home inspected will inform you, in detail, of the condition of the property you are buying.  If problems and/or concerns are discovered, the inspector may recommend that further evaluation and/or repairs be undertaken by a specialist in that specific trade.

​

What areas does a home inspection include?

At a minimum, the standard home inspection report will review the condition of the home’s heating system, central air conditioning system (outdoor temperature permitting), interior plumbing and electrical systems, the roof, the attic and visible insulation, walls, floors, ceilings, windows and doors.  It also comments on the home’s foundation, basement/crawl space, as well as visible and accessible structural elements.

​

At ClearView, we go beyond that bare minimum by providing the home-buyer helpful maintenance tips and insights into their home’s inner workings, making life in the home easier and more worry-free in the future.

​

How long does a quality home inspection like this usually take?
We take our time to be thorough, and to fully answer client questions and concerns with a one-on-one walk through in the home after the inspection is complete.  In general, an inspection typically takes between 2 1/2 to 3 hours, depending on the size, complexity and condition of the property.  Larger houses can take more time, while condominium units usually take somewhat less time.  Each home is given the full care and attention needed to produce a worthwhile and valuable inspection report.

​

Do I need to be there during the inspection?

No, but we sure do recommend it!  You will be able to observe the inspection process and ask important questions directly, learning about the systems in your home and how they work, and what future maintenance will be necessary to maximize their lifespan.  At ClearView, we encourage the participation of homebuyers in the process, and offer a detailed ‘walk through’ with the buyers once the inspection is completed.  This conference will also help to make the written report easier to understand later, once it is received.

​

Why can’t I do an inspection myself?

Even if you have owned multiple homes in the past, the average homeowner generally lacks the specific knowledge and expertise of a professional home inspector who has been through a multitude of homes in his career.  That experience and training allows an inspector a deeper insight into how a home’s systems and components work individually, as well as how they function together, and most importantly, how and why they fail.  Most buyers also find it difficult to remain completely objective and emotionally unattached regarding a house they really want.  A home inspector can, and should, remain an impartial third party opinion in the process.

​

Can a home actually ‘fail’ an inspection?

NO!  A home inspection is a reporting on the current conditions found on the day of the inspection, and will indicate the necessity for repair or replacement of the home’s components, if warranted.  It is not an appraisal of the home’s value, or a verification of the home’s compliance to local building codes.  Also, a home inspection does not guarantee or warranty against any future problems the might occur after the home inspection is completed.  Conditions may change as soon as the day after the home inspection, especially if the home is occupied.

​

When should I arrange for the home inspection?

Usually right after the contract or purchase agreement has been signed.  Before you sign though, be sure that there is an inspection clause in the contract, making the purchase contingent upon the findings.  This clause should be specific as to the terms to which both the buyer and seller are obligated.

​

Can you do an inspection on weekends and evenings?
We strive to accommodate our clients in every way.  Weekend inspections can be arranged, and evenings are possible depending on the season and available light for the outside portion of the process.

How long after the inspection is finished will I receive my report?
Inspection reports are promised to clients (and their authorized representatives) within 2 business days of the completion of the inspection, delivered by email.  Delivery of hard copies by regular mail, if necessary, can take a little longer to arrive.

If you perform a Radon Test, how long will it take, and when will I receive the Radon findings report?
A Radon test canister must stay in a suitable location at the inspection site for a minimum of 48 hours up to a maximum of 6 days.  Once retrieved, the canister is mailed to our testing lab, and the results of the test are generally received by ClearView within 72 hours.  That information is then passed along to the client without further delay.

​

What if the inspection reveals problems in the home I’m buying?

Just remember that there is no such thing as a ‘perfect’ house.  Even newly constructed homes can have issues.  If a problem is found during an inspection, it certainly does not mean that you should not proceed with the purchase of the house though.  A thorough, unbiased inspection should give you peace of mind that you are made fully aware of any problems found.  Then, having considered what options and remedies are available to you,  you can enter the purchase transaction of the home with the confidence of full knowledge backing your decision.

​

Are you fully insured?
ClearView Home Inspections, LLC is fully insured, as mandated by the State of New Jersey.

​

Can you give me references?
Of course!  References from happy customers can be made available on request.