A word about home inspection reports. When you choose a home inspector please make sure that he or she supplies a narrative inspection report. I was taking a look at a checklist style report and it tells almost zero about the conditions that exist in the home. As a consumer you want the best possible reporting for your hard earned money. Ask your home inspector what kind of reporting he or she uses. If they say checklist do yourself a favor and find another home inspector. I am a strong proponent of narrative and detailed useful inspection reports. When you hire me you get a very detailed report that clearly states the conditions that exist and the ramifications if the issue is not resolved. Its cut and dry, you don’t have to look for hidden meaning because it can only be taken in one way. Along with the detailed narratives of problems I include photos so you and your attorney can see what the issue is. Vague home inspection reports don’t help you make decisions and they don’t help the home inspection profession either. Please stay away from them.

I thought it might be useful to explain what is inspected during a level II chimney inspection. A level II chimney inspection as described by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is required when there are changes in the fuel type, changes to the fireplace shape, changes in the liner, a sale of a home or transfer of a property. A level II chimney inspection is also required if a malfunction or problem has occurred. Simply put a level II inspection of the chimney is a much more detailed inspection.

Your chimney sweep will inspect the readily accessible sections of the chimney exterior, interior and accessible portions of the appliance and the chimney connection. The chimney sweep will be looking for the basic soundness of the chimney structure and flue as well as the connections. A level II chimney inspection also includes the accessible portions of the chimney exterior and interior including attics, crawl spaces and basements. It will address proper clearances from combustibles in accessible locations.

The most important aspect of the level II chimney inspection is the use of a video camera to examine the internal surfaces and joints of a

As part of the requirements for a properly performed New Jersey home inspection the electrical service panel cover is to be removed. The New Jersey home inspector is required to inspect the internal electrical connections located on the inside of the service panel. One of the defects or conditions that I find quite common while performing home inspections in New Jersey is corrosion and rust inside the service panel. The condition is actually quite common. I am often asked by clients how does the condition develop.

Most of the moisture that ends up in the service panel is from rain water. A poor seal at the top of the electric meter and/or a frayed main service cable are the majority of the culprits for the moisture problems. Water can travel down the interior of the coated electrical cable and then enters the electrical panel box. If the meter is not properly sealed where the main service wire enters it the service cable will act like a sealed pipe delivering moisture into the electrical panel box. Often times wind driven rain can enter a frayed main service wire and travel down to the electrical panel box. A bottom service entrance cable will also contrib