Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make — and a professional New Jersey home inspection is the best way to uncover hidden issues before you commit. At Brick & Mortar Home Inspection, we’ve seen it all in Morris County and surrounding areas like Essex, Bergen, Union, Passaic, and Sussex. While no two homes are the same, certain problems show up again and again during inspections.
Here are the 10 most common issues we find during home inspections in New Jersey — and what buyers and sellers should know about them.
1. Roofing Problems
From missing shingles to improper flashing, roof issues are one of the most common findings in NJ home inspections. Many homes in Morris and Essex Counties still have older asphalt roofs approaching the end of their lifespan. Roof repairs or replacements can be costly, so knowing the condition upfront is critical.
2. Foundation & Structural Cracks
New Jersey homes built decades ago often show foundation cracks, bowing walls, or settling. In areas like Bergen County with older masonry construction, foundation concerns are common. While some cracks are cosmetic, others can signal serious structural issues.
3. Water Intrusion & Basement Leaks
Moisture is one of the biggest threats to New Jersey homes. Our inspections regularly uncover damp basements, water stains, or mold growth, especially in Passaic and Union Counties where high groundwater and older drainage systems are common.
4. Outdated Electrical Systems
Knob-and-tube wiring, overloaded breaker panels, and lack of GFCI outlets are frequent findings in NJ home inspections. Homes in Sussex County and other rural areas often have outdated electrical that isn’t up to modern safety standards.
5. Plumbing Defects
Corroded pipes, leaks, low water pressure, and old water heaters often show up in inspection reports. In older Morris County neighborhoods, it’s common to see galvanized steel plumbing that should be updated.
6. HVAC Issues
Heating and cooling systems that are improperly maintained or past their expected lifespan are another red flag. A furnace or central AC unit over 15 years old may need replacement soon, which can be a major cost for buyers.
7. Poor Insulation & Ventilation
Inadequate attic insulation and poor ventilation often lead to high energy bills and ice dams in the winter. Essex and Bergen County homes built in the mid-20th century frequently lack modern insulation.
8. Exterior & Drainage Problems
Improper grading, clogged gutters, or damaged siding can allow water into the home. During NJ home inspections, we often recommend simple fixes like extending downspouts or repairing siding before they cause major damage.
9. Termite & Pest Evidence
Termite damage is a serious concern in New Jersey, especially in wood-framed homes. During inspections in Union and Passaic Counties, we frequently find signs of termite activity that homeowners didn’t know about.
10. Safety Hazards
From missing handrails to faulty smoke detectors, small safety issues often show up in NJ inspection reports. While they may seem minor, they’re important for buyer peace of mind and can often be resolved easily.
Why These Issues Matter for NJ Buyers & Sellers
For buyers, knowing about these common inspection findings can help you negotiate repairs, budget for maintenance, or even walk away from a home that isn’t safe. For sellers, addressing problems before listing can prevent last-minute negotiations that derail a sale.
Schedule Your New Jersey Home Inspection Today
At Brick & Mortar Home Inspection, we combine decades of hands-on construction experience with professional InterNACHI® training. Whether you’re buying in Morris County, Essex, Bergen, Union, Passaic, or Sussex, our detailed inspection reports give you the confidence to make informed decisions.
📞 Call/Text us at (973) 616-8382 or contact us here to schedule your pre-purchase home inspection in New Jersey today.
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