As a home inspector with 24 years of experience, one question I get all the time is: “Do I need to be there for the home inspection?”
Short answer? No, you don’t have to be there.
But if you can make it — even just for part of it — I always recommend it.
This article explains why your presence matters (and when it doesn’t), what to expect if you do attend, and how to make the most of your time with your New Jersey home inspector. Whether you are a first-time buyer or you have done this before, this is one of those things that can make a big difference in how confident you feel about your home purchase.
What Happens During a Home Inspection?
Before we talk about showing up or not, let’s be clear on what the inspection actually involves. A professional home inspection is a thorough, visual evaluation of the home’s major systems and components. That includes: Roof, Foundation and structure, Electrical system, Plumbing, Heating and cooling, Attic and insulation, Windows, doors, siding, drainage, Interior finishes, appliances, and more
I perform one inspection per day for a reason: So, I can take the time to do a comprehensive and detailed home inspection. You can see what’s included in my process here:
NJ home inspectors website: https://www.looksmarthomeinspections.com
Do You Have to Be There?
You do not have to be present at the home inspection. Many buyers are out of state, have work obligations, or simply prefer to wait for the home inspection report.
But here is my honest advice after 24 years in the home inspection field:
If you can be there — even just for the last hour — it’s worth your time.
Here’s why.
5 Reasons You Should Try to Attend (Even for Part of It)
- Get a Firsthand Look at Defects
Photos and descriptions in the report are helpful (and my reports are very detailed), but there’s nothing like seeing the issue with your own eyes in person. Whether it’s a foundation crack, moisture in the attic, or an aging HVAC system you will understand more when you see it in person.
- Ask Questions in Real Time
Buying a home is a major deal, and most people are not construction experts. If you’re in person, The home inspector can explain things in plain language. You will understand what is a major concern, what is common, and what just needs routine maintenance.
I don’t expect you to be a professional contractor. My job is to walk you through it and help you feel informed, not overwhelmed.
3.You Can See How the Home Works
I will show you where the main water shutoff is. How the breaker panel is set up. What kind of filters your air conditioning and heating system uses. These are things that are not always obvious in the report, and it’s nice to get a quick tutorial from someone who knows all about homes.
- Peace of Mind
Being at the inspection helps most buyers feel more confident. You get to see how thorough the inspection is, hear my thoughts in person, and ask the kind of questions that pop up only once you’re inside the house.
- No Surprises
If you have been there and seen the issues explained, the report doesn’t feel overwhelming. You will know what to expect, and if something needs negotiating or further evaluation, you will be better prepared.
What If You Can’t Be There?
It’s also ok if you can’t attend the inspection. A good inspector will give you a very detailed report, usually within 24 hours, complete with photos, explanations, and recommendations.
Here’s how I handle it for buyers who can’t attend:
- I can call you right after the inspection with a quick summary.
- You get a full home inspection report the next morning.
- We can schedule a phone call to go over the findings and answer all your questions.
Some of my buyers are moving from out of state and never even saw the home in person before closing. That is also fine, I can be your eyes — I have got your back either way.
You can also check out this breakdown of how long a home inspection should take to help you plan better.
What to Expect If You Do Attend
You are more than welcome to attend the inspection — in fact, I encourage it — but I also ask that you allow me to stay focused and do my job thoroughly. Feel free to ask questions, observe, and take notes, but keep in mind that the inspection process requires concentration.
I will be moving through the home carefully, documenting conditions, testing systems, and making observations that go into your detailed report.
Here’s what we will do at that point:
- Tour the major systems
- Point out any safety concerns
- Explain defects and what they mean
- Highlight areas that may need future maintenance or monitoring
- Answer any questions you have
Attending provides a chance for you to get the straight facts from someone who does this every day and wants you to understand exactly what you’re buying.
Don’t Worry About “Bothering” the Inspector
I hear this sometimes:
“I didn’t want to get in your way…”
You’re not.
This is your home inspection. You’re hiring me to help you understand the house. As long as we both have time to focus — and you understand that some parts of the inspection require concentration — you sre more than welcome to be there, ask questions, and learn.
A Quick Note to Buyers
I work directly for you, the buyer. That independence means I work with your best interests in mind. No sugarcoating. No pressure. Just the truth about the home you’re buying, based on what I see.
I work for buyers who want a thorough, honest, independent inspection.
Feel free to share this article with anyone who’s in the buying process.
Final Word: Show Up If You Can. If You Can’t, That’s Okay Too.
Your presence isn’t mandatory — but it’s encouraged.
A good inspector will give you a solid report, but being there in person adds clarity and context. I have found that buyers who attend their inspection feel more confident, ask better questions, and understand the home better.
That’s what I want for every client.
Want to Schedule a Thorough Inspection?
I perform one home inspection per day, so every client gets my full attention. If you’re buying a home in New Jersey and want a detailed inspection, a clear report, and a professional who takes the time to do it right, reach out here.
About the Author
John Martino is a certified New Jersey home inspector and the owner of LookSmart Home Inspections. With 24 years of experience, John is known for his attention to detail, one-inspection-per-day policy, and commitment to helping buyers understand the homes they’re purchasing.