The Ultimate Home Inspection Checklist for Cherry Hill & South Jersey Home Buyers
(And How to Avoid Costly Surprises After Closing)
Buying a home is exciting—especially in Cherry Hill, Haddonfield, Marlton, Collingswood, and across South and Central New Jersey, where every neighborhood has its own personality. But whether it’s a charming mid-century split-level, a newer townhouse, or a historic property that’s seen more seasons than your favorite Eagles jersey, one thing is certain: you want to know exactly what you’re getting into before you sign on the dotted line.
That’s where a thorough home inspection comes in. It’s your chance to uncover hidden issues, plan for future maintenance, and make sure your dream home doesn’t come with a nightmare price tag down the road.
Why a Home Inspection is Especially Important in South Jersey
Our area has a mix of home ages and styles—each with its own quirks:
- Older homes (like those in Collingswood and Haddonfield) may have outdated wiring, worn roofing, or foundation settling.
- Newer builds (common in Marlton and Mount Laurel) sometimes hide rushed construction details that won’t show up until after move-in.
- Townhouses and condos often have shared walls and systems, which means different inspection considerations.
- Moisture issues in basements and crawl spaces are common throughout Camden and Burlington Counties, especially in homes without modern drainage systems.
Having inspected homes across Cherry Hill, Haddonfield, Marlton, Mount Laurel, Collingswood, Voorhees, and beyond, I’ve seen firsthand how a proper inspection can save buyers thousands—sometimes tens of thousands—of dollars.
What’s Covered in a Professional Home Inspection
A full home inspection should examine all the major systems and components, including:
- Roof – Condition, age, and any signs of leaks or damage.
- Structure – Foundation, framing, and visible support systems.
- HVAC – Heating, cooling, and ventilation performance.
- Electrical – Wiring, panels, outlets, and safety hazards.
- Plumbing – Pipes, fixtures, water heaters, and drainage.
- Attic & Insulation – Energy efficiency and signs of past or present leaks.
- Interior & Exterior – Windows, doors, siding, porches, and decks.
With Tomlinson Home Inspection, you can also add:
- Radon testing (a must for South Jersey basements)
- Mold and indoor air quality testing
- Wood-destroying insect (WDI) inspections
- Pre-listing inspections (for sellers)
- Home maintenance inspections (for current homeowners)
South Jersey Homebuyer Pro Tip:
Attend Your Inspection
There’s nothing like walking through your future home with your inspector. You’ll see things firsthand, get your questions answered on the spot, and leave with a clear picture of your home’s condition—not just a PDF report.
Common Issues I See in Local Homes
Every home is unique, but here are a few things I frequently find in South Jersey homes:
- Missing or damaged flashing around chimneys
- Old HVAC units running on borrowed time
- Termite damage in hidden areas like sill plates
- Minor plumbing leaks under sinks or in crawl spaces
- Insufficient attic insulation causing higher energy bills
Your Inspection is Your Peace of Mind
A home inspection isn’t about “passing” or “failing” a house—it’s about giving you the knowledge to make informed decisions and negotiate confidently. The small investment in a professional inspection could save you from major financial headaches later.
If you’re buying (or selling) in Cherry Hill, Haddonfield, Marlton, Collingswood, Mount Laurel, Voorhees, or anywhere in South and Central New Jersey, Tomlinson Home Inspection is here to make the process smooth, thorough, and stress-free.