Peter Bennett

check out http://www.mercola.com and get the truth about EMG and EMF. - Thu Oct 9 2008, 16:45

John, first things first.
Be careful of who's giving you advice, as they may not be qualified.

Here's an example. I am licensed NJ Home Inspector GI371 but I am not certified nor qualified to give an opinion on mold/fungus like organisms/substances that may exist. Therefore, during an inspection, I inform the client of the condition who should retain a qualified specialist, and photograph and note it in my report. The only way to truly know and verify the substance is testing.
I am a Certified Infrared Level One Thermographer No.7406 and use a FLIR BCAM SD for infrared thermal inspections ( check out images at http://activerain.com/afullhouse)

My point is that thermal imaging, as suggested here, can help by reducing the need for destructive investigation, but does not determine the extent of the rot.
Thermal imaging, by definition, is the art and science of detecting, displaying and documenting thermal patterns across a surface. Specifically, I am talking about qualitative thermograply, i.e., cold/warm/hot patters. The amorphous patterns displayed maybe indictive of moisture on the wall. Verification of moisture is conducted by using a moisture meter. High levels of moisture attract WDI (wood destroying insects, i.e., carpenter ants) The use of a borescope can help determine the presence of carpenter ants inside the walls (only a small hole at 16" intervals is required)
Call my office if you would further advice.
Good LUCK (Labor Under Correct Knowledge)
Peter W. Bennett, Owner
Residential, Commercial Inspections
Infrared Thermal Imaging Services http://www.afullhouseinspectionco.com
peter@afullhouseinspectionco.com
A Full House Inspection Co. LLC
530 Prospect Avenue Little Silver, NJ 07739
Office 732-758-9887 Fax 732-758-8993 Cell 732-245-9817
NJ Home Inspector Lic#GI371
NJ DEP Radon MET11140
Certified Infrared Level One Thermographer No.7406
Member of NJ-ALPHI (Association of Licensed Professional Home Inspectors)
Certified ASHI Member #205748 (American Society of Home Inspectors)
Member of NACHI (National Association of Certified Home Inspectors) - Thu Oct 9 2008, 16:24

I just inspected another home in Tinton Falls at the same development as Whirlaway Drive. Good quality. If you need my services, just reach out, as I am just a phone call/email away. - Fri Apr 4 2008, 19:22

From a home inspector's standpoint, Ocean Grove homes typically galvanized water supply pipes which means that the water pressure/flow is usually minimal, at best. If the home your are considering has two full baths, then be prepared to invest in a copper repipe, if you are buying. If you are renting, turn on the shower, flush the toilets in both baths at the same time. - Fri Apr 4 2008, 18:28

I can recommend an excellent attorney and accountant for you. I know them both well, and trust them.
Send me an email, and I will reply. Good Luck - Fri Apr 4 2008, 18:16