If the house also has a heating oil tank you should have it inspected in addition to the home inspection. Home inspectors are not allowed to do this type of inspection. When selecting a co. to inspect the tank use a NJ licensed company with NJ licensed tank testing inspectors. Also if the tank passes the inspection you can use that to purchase a policy from ProGuard if the test was done by an authorized company. Even if the house has an aboveground tank it should be inspected using ultrasonic instruments that can tell if the metal of the tank is in good condition and meets the Federal criteria for aboveground tanks. The underground tank inspection is more complex. If there is an underground tank you can, after you take title; apply for NJ grant money available to pay for removal of the underground tank and installation of an aboveground tank.
Also if the property has a septic system you should have that inspected and this is another inspection that home inspectors may not do. Find a company that does the inspection and make sure the companies inspection results can be used to purchase a $25,000 septic insurance policy. Today there is only one company authorized ASI to do an inspection protocol that is acceptable to the septic insurance Company.
All of the home inspection companies mentioned in other replies are very good companies

Hello Patty,

My suggestion is to speak with your reealtor. We use quite a few in our office and can usually recommend at least 3 or 4 that have done numerous inspections.

A good website to reference is newjerseyhomeinspections.com. The site offers a listed of certified professional home inspectors. There are a few that I have worked with in the past in the area that I would recommend:

Pillar to Post Home Inspectors: 973-889-5306
C&D Home Inspectors: 732-469-0263
Augustus Smith , Home Inspector 973-376-7740

Also, as said before, check with your agent (as well as your real estate attorney) as to who they have worked with in the past.

Good luck with the rest of your home purchase!

Samantha Vezzosi, ABR, ePRO, GRI
Weichert Realotrs, Chatham Office

Hi Patty - There are many strong home inspection firms competing for your business. Here are a few tips when searching for the inspection firm for you.

Most importantly, make sure the inspector meets your state's minimum standards - many states differ. I've attached a link to the American Society of Home Inspector's web page that outlines each state's guidelines including New Jersey. While I do not practice real estate sales in New Jersey, I am aware of instances where buyers hired an inspector that did not meet their state's guidelines which may result in the seller’s refusal to accept termination of a contract based on the inspection findings.

As a real estate professional, I prefer inspection reports that are type written, include multiple photos and detailed costs estimates. I find that this type of report serves as a better negotiating aid. A picture and the defect related cost estimate is worth a thousand words. Many inspectors utilize carbon copied, preprinted reports that leave room for the inspector to write comments by hand and have a general reference guide for cost estimates. While these inspectors may be well qualified, I find these reports more difficult to evaluate and therefore more challenging to negotiate.

While there are other strong inspection firms, I find that US Inspect's reports to be very helpful in negotiations. US Inspect can be reached at 1-888-874-6773. If you are working with a REALTOR, ask him or her for suggestions. Inspection firms vary from region to region and many of the best inspectors are local businessman and women.

Lastly, I also suggest that you look into purchasing a Home Warranty at settlement. They are very affordable, usually between $400 and $600 a year and can give great piece of mind. Check out http://www.ahswarranty.com for my preferred provider. Good luck with your home purchase!!

Hi Patty, your agent can provide suggestions - I generally offer out 3 and encourage my buyers to call them all, as well as any other recommendations they have from family /friends. I provide suggestion as a courtesy to my clients and is not intended to infer a recommendation on the part of Weichert.

My suggestion is that you ask about fees, report format and timing in availability. Ask your agent for additional suggestions as well.

1. Garden State: David Haigh 1-888-775-1414. http://www.GSInspectors.com

2. Land America: Al Perette Office: 908-359-4930; Cell: 908-208-7431; Scheduling: 1-800-285-3001. http://www.Inspectech.com (The only guy I've worked with is Al, I'd ask for him specifically)

3. Roots Home Inspection: Bill Roots 908-917-0028; 908-769-0028. http://www.rootshomeinspection.com

Good luck to you!
Jeannie Feenick
"Unwavering Commitment to Service"
Search the MLS at http://www.feenick.com

Patty,

I typically recommend my buyers to:

Certified Home Inspection
Michael Rosa
92 North Rd.
Nutley NJ 07110
Phone: 973-667-3747
Toll Free: 866-667-3747
Fax: 973-667-3033
certhomeinsp@aol.com
http://www.acertifiedhomeinspections.com/

My buyers have never had a problem and have always been very satisfied with his inspection and findings.

Good luck with the purchase of your new home.

Gina Chirico, Sales Associate
Prudential NJ Properties
973-715-1158 cel
973-992-6363 ext 116
Gina.Chirico@PrudentialNewJersey.com

Patty,

Your real estate professional will be able to provied you with information and some possible choices for consideration.

Another option is the website: http://www.linkedin.com

This website is devoted to professionals for networking their skills. What's nice about this program is it also comes with recommendations from previous customers.

Good luck