When purchasing a home, a professional home inspection is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your investment.
At McFaulds Inspection Consultants, we’ve performed hundreds of inspections across Ocean and Monmouth County, NJ — from Toms River to Brick Township to Forked River —
and we consistently see a handful of common issues that buyers should be aware of. Understanding these problems in advance can help you negotiate repairs,
budget for maintenance, and avoid costly surprises after closing.

1. Roofing Problems and Improper Flashing

The roof is a home’s first line of defense against the elements, yet it’s also one of the most overlooked areas.
Common roofing issues include missing shingles, deteriorated flashing around chimneys and vents, and inadequate attic ventilation.
We frequently encounter older asphalt shingles nearing the end of their life expectancy (typically 20–25 years) or signs of patchwork repairs that weren’t properly sealed.

Example finding: During a recent inspection in Brick Township, we discovered moisture stains on the roof decking and evidence of past leaks where flashing had failed around a skylight. While the roof appeared intact from the ground, our attic inspection revealed hidden damage that could have led to mold growth if not addressed.

Why it matters: Roof issues can lead to water intrusion, damaged insulation, and structural decay. A thorough home inspection helps identify these early so you can request repairs or adjust the purchase price accordingly.

2. Electrical Hazards and Outdated Panels

Electrical safety is a top priority in every inspection. We often find double-tapped breakers, aluminum branch wiring,
or older panels such as Federal Pacific Electric or Zinsco, which have known safety concerns.
Improper grounding, missing GFCI outlets in kitchens and bathrooms, and open junction boxes are also frequent issues.

Example finding: In one Toms River home, we found that multiple circuits were double-tapped on a single breaker in an outdated Federal Pacific panel — a known fire hazard. The buyer was able to negotiate a full electrical upgrade before closing.

Why it matters: Hidden electrical problems can lead to shock hazards or fire risks. Home inspections ensure these issues are identified by trained eyes before they become dangerous.

3. Foundation and Structural Movement

In New Jersey, especially in areas near the shore, foundation settlement and moisture intrusion are common.
Inspectors look for cracks in foundation walls, uneven floors, and doors or windows that don’t close properly.
Efflorescence (a white powdery residue) on foundation walls often indicates ongoing moisture problems.

Example finding: We inspected a Forked River property where the crawlspace showed signs of long-term dampness and minor settling along one perimeter wall. With proper drainage improvements and encapsulation, the foundation’s integrity could be preserved.

Why it matters: Structural movement affects safety and can lead to expensive repairs. A qualified inspector can help determine whether cracks are cosmetic or evidence of more serious shifting.

4. Plumbing Defects and Drainage Issues

Water-related problems are among the most expensive to fix. Common plumbing issues include corroded supply lines,
slow drainage, and improper slope in waste pipes — especially in crawlspaces.
We also check for leaks at shutoff valves, loose toilets, and water heaters that are past their expected service life.

Example finding: In a Bayville home, we found the main waste pipe in the crawlspace had insufficient pitch, leading to slow drainage and standing water. The homeowner was unaware until the inspection uncovered the problem.

Why it matters: Plumbing problems can cause water damage, mold, or even foundation movement if not corrected. A detailed inspection helps prevent future repair costs.

5. HVAC and Insulation Deficiencies

Many homes in New Jersey have older heating and cooling systems that run inefficiently.
Common findings include dirty filters, disconnected ducts, and furnaces or condensers nearing the end of their life cycle.
Poor insulation in crawlspaces or attics also leads to higher energy bills and uneven heating or cooling.

Example finding: In a Point Pleasant home, we found several disconnected ducts in the crawlspace, allowing conditioned air to escape.
The homeowner had noticed high energy bills but didn’t know why. Proper sealing and insulation saved hundreds per year in energy costs.

Why it matters: HVAC and insulation issues affect comfort and cost. A home inspection reveals the system’s age, condition, and whether it’s functioning safely and efficiently.

6. Moisture and Ventilation Problems in Crawlspaces

Sealed or poorly ventilated crawlspaces can trap moisture, leading to wood rot, mold growth, and pest activity.
Many homeowners don’t realize that even with a vapor barrier, improper sealing or missing wall coverage can cause ongoing humidity problems.

Example finding: We inspected a home where the crawlspace vapor barrier was laid flat but not sealed up the walls or around columns — allowing moisture to seep in. This is one of the most common oversights in crawlspace encapsulation.

Why it matters: A properly sealed and conditioned crawlspace helps maintain indoor air quality and protects the structure’s integrity. Inspectors can identify poor installations or early signs of damage.

How a Home Inspection Protects Buyers and Sellers

A professional home inspection offers peace of mind to both buyers and sellers. Buyers gain transparency about the true condition of a home,
while sellers can address issues early and improve listing confidence.
McFaulds Inspection Consultants provides thorough, unbiased inspections with clear, detailed reports — helping clients make confident decisions based on facts, not surprises.

Schedule a Professional Home Inspection

If you’re buying or selling a home in Ocean or Monmouth County, NJ — including Toms River, Brick, Point Pleasant, Forked River, and beyond —
contact McFaulds Inspection Consultants. We provide trusted, certified inspections for homes, condos, and coastal properties.
Schedule online or call today to protect your investment.