We know real estate transactions can present all sorts of challenges to even the most seasoned Buyer, Seller, Realtor or others involved. It’s difficult to know the ins and outs of everything. Below are some of the most commonly asked questions for our team.
If you don’t see what you’re looking for, please call or email us, we’re happy to provide you with the information you need.
Does my general home inspection also include a 4-Point insurance inspection?
General Home Inspections do not include a 4-Point insurance inspection. We perform these inspections upon request. 4-Points are insurance inspections or a simple checklist required by the insurance company on any home over 25-30 years old. They allow the insurance company to know the condition of 4 primary items: Roof, HVAC, Plumbing and Electrical.
Do you always use infrared on inspections?
We do use infrared imaging quite a bit and especially if we feel a deficiency needs further evaluation. We consider it just another tool in the tool box.
Do you inspect all of my household appliances?
Yes, we will run any and all appliances that are on-site.
Do you look for mold on inspections?
We look for mold and anything we feel will lead to a mold issue. Mold is noted in the final inspection report. However, we are not licensed indoor air quality inspectors. We do not test air quality.
Why is there an extra charge for detached garage, apartment, crawl space?
These are not standard features on all properties. Each requires more time from the inspector. Crawlspaces do require a very trained eye and proper clothing, tools, masks, etc.
What licenses/qualifications do you have?
Each home inspector on our team is licensed by the state of Florida. Licenses are maintained and renewed every two years and inspectors are required to complete continued education to renew. Each home inspector is certified through NACHI to complete 4-Point and Wind Mitigations. This also requires continued education to renew. Bobby is Level 2 Infrared certified.
Are you general contractors?
No, we are not general contractors.
For plumbers, electricians, roofers, etc., do you have a list of partners you refer people to?
Yes! We have worked with most of these partners for many years. Please let them know you were referred by us. Scroll to the bottom of this page to download our Preferred Vendor List.
Do you do termite inspections?
No, we do not do termite inspections. We have some great partners in the industry and prefer to refer these inspections over to them since this is not our expertise. We are happy to get a WDO set up for you with one of these local companies that we know and trust.
How long does an inspection take?
We usually allow for 1 hour per 1,000 sq ft. Additional property features (pool, crawlspace, detached buildings) may add additional time to the inspection. We can provide an estimated amount of time upon scheduling the inspection appointment with us.
What if I have a question about the report?
After you receive the digital report you can call our office or the inspector directly to answer any and all of your questions.
What does an inspection report look like?
There are several types of inspection reports: condos, villas, multi-family, commercials, etc. Typically for a standard home inspection our reports include notations on over 400 items on the property. Images are included to reference several of these items throughout the report. Download a PDF version of a commercial, residential home, or insurance report on our Services page.
Do I need to be present at the home inspection?
No. However, it is our recommendation that you attend a portion, preferably the back half, of the inspection. It always greatly benefits the Buyers to spend a little time with our inspectors getting to know the property. Our inspectors are trained to answer your questions and provide details about the home.
It’s a brand new home, what could be wrong?
Honestly, some builders and contractors are better than others. Would you be able to recognize if the plumbing, ductwork or electrical wires were installed properly and up to code? Things that are behind the scenes and not visible to the naked eye may not stand out to you. Having a professional take a deeper, more thorough look and provide proper documentation about the current state of the property or home is a great way to set yourself up for long time success in the new home.
How do I pay for my inspection?
Once inspection is scheduled you will receive a confirmation email which will contain a link to pay on-line via credit card if you choose. Or you can give the home inspector cash or check on-site. Reports will not be released without payment.
Why don’t you offer warranties?
We do not offer warranties as we have not yet found one that we feel offers a good value to our Clients and protects Client contact info in the way we would prefer. We recommend that purchasing a home warrantee is the best option. Regardless of warranties, we stand behind all of our inspection work as well as carry 1 million dollars in Errors and Omissions insurance.
Are you pet friendly? How do you handle pets in the home?
If your pet is friendly, we’re pet friendly. If your pet does not play well with others, we ask that he/she be taken somewhere else during the home inspection or that the pet owner be home.
How quickly can I book an inspection?
We like to have at least 3-4 days lead time.
Do you provide a military discount?
Yes, $25.00 off your inspection!
What if the inspector finds issues with the home I intend to purchase?
Once you receive your report, please take the time to go through it completely. You are more than welcome to reach out to us with any questions. All inspection concerns that you believe need to be addressed before closing should be handled through your realtor.
Does an inspection cover asbestos or lead?
We will be looking for asbestos and will be able to tell you if on-site. We do not test for lead base paint. We can tell you by the year of the home if we suspect it’s is present in the home.
Should I have a pre-listing inspection done on my home before selling?
Many sellers do pre-listing inspections. It’s a great selling tool. Most buyers get a home inspection, so knowing and addressing concerns before the buyer’s inspector comes in will make the selling/buying process that much easier. And the property will be far more appealing to potential buyers.
Can an appraisal be used instead of an inspection?
No, these are two different things. An appraisal is protecting the mortgage company and the home inspection is protecting you.
Can I skip the home inspection?
You are not required to have a general home inspection to purchase a property.
Is it hard to pass a home inspection?
There is no pass or fail on home inspections. The report will point out deficiencies on the property. It allows you to go in eyes wide open and fully aware of any issues with the property.
How long does it take to get my report back?
Our reports are guaranteed within 24hrs of inspection.
What is the cost of a home inspection?
Pricing varies on type of property and any additional features on the property (such as apartment, crawlspace, detached garage, etc.).
Who typically attends the home inspection?
Buyer’s agent is often present at the home inspections. We recommend that the buyer attend the inspection or be present for a portion. We do inspections all the time with no one present. The report is very easy to read and our inspectors are always happy to go over any questions or concerns over the phone. In some cases the seller and the selling agent are present.
What happens if problems are found during a home inspection?
Once you receive your report take the time to go through completely. You are more than welcome to reach out to us with any questions. All inspection concerns that you believe need to be addressed before closing should be handled directly through your realtor.
When and why do I need a Wind Mitigation Inspection?
Generally, a wind mitigation inspection is needed to determine which credits apply to a home. During a wind mitigation inspection, a certified inspector looks for key features and add-ons that reduce the amount of damage your home may suffer in the event of a hurricane or strong windstorm.
How do I select a home inspector? What do I look for?
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- Look for an inspector with a broad knowledge of a home’s systems and structures, not just a specialized person such as a plumber or electrician.
- Choose an inspector who carries errors and omissions insurance.
- Do your research and ask lots of questions, include their backgrounds, the length of time they’ve been in the business, the number of inspections they’ve performed and what sort of report they’ll provide.
- Be sure your inspector is familiar with the particular type of house you’re considering. Homes of different ages, designs and materials each have special risks and offer special signs, symptoms and clues to hidden damage
Why is it important that the home inspection company has insurance?
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- When a home inspector is on the premises of the property,
Do I have to sign any paperwork or an agreement?
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- You will need to read and sign the Florida Inspection Agreement before we can release report.
What is the agreement for?
The inspection agreement lays out the scope of the inspection. Specifies… and you will receive a copy for your records.
What is the difference between a condo inspection and a single family inspection?
The main difference between the two inspections is the exterior. Most condo associations maintain the exterior of the unit. So an inspection is not needed. We do however take a look to make sure nothing glaring