Best Roof Types for Florida Homes

Best Roof Types for Florida Homes

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Best Roof Types for Florida Homes

There are five types of roofing materials that are the most common in Florida homes. These are clay, slate, concrete, metal and wood. If you are looking for a home or already own one, it is important to make sure that the roof is sturdy. 

Homes in Florida need steady roofs that can withstand a lot from the elements, especially high winds from tropical storms. Here are the best roofing materials for your Florida home: 

Clay Tiles

clay tiles for roof

Clay tiles are very durable and last a long time, making them one of the best options for homes. They also don’t rot when they get wet, which is great for homes near the coast, or even homes that are further away from the ocean because it still rains frequently. 

Clay roofs can last up to 100 years, so they don’t require much maintenance or replacements. They will also not burn in the event of a fire which means your home will be more protected. 

However, clay tiles are susceptible to cracking and loosening, so you will have to check on them regularly and replace individual tiles here and there. 

  • Because they are made out of clay, these tiles are also fairly heavy, meaning that you will need to make sure your home is structurally sound and can hold up the weight of a heavier roof. 
  • They are also on the more expensive side in comparison to classic shingles, which can be a drawback as well. 

Slate Tiles

Slate is another alternative to clay, both are very similar materials. Slate is made from rock, so it is incredibly durable against rain and winds, making it perfect for Florida homes. 

Slate similarly lasts a long time, and can go a very long time without needing to be replaced. They are also not flammable, making them a great safety option. Slate is also one of the most attractive roofing materials, because it comes in many different colors. 

Slate has some drawbacks too. 

  • Similar to clay, slate can crack easily when it is stepped on (if you need to go on the roof at all this is a risk). 
  • It comes in many different colors, so it can be tricky to replace pieces with the same shade, making repairs difficult. 
  • It is very heavy – because it is literally rocks on the roof – so your home will need to have a very strong structure. 

Concrete 

Concrete is a very durable material that can be a great option for your roof. Concrete is typically reinforced with fibers throughout it, so it is less likely to crack and will allow your home to withstand the elements. 

Concrete is also not flammable, so you don’t have to worry about your home going up in flames. In addition, concrete is strong enough to hold up during floods and will decrease the chances of water damage. 

While it is not as strong as slate or clay, it can still last up to 50 years, meaning that you will likely only need to replace your roof once. 

However, concrete can have drawbacks. 

  • Concrete can crack and separate. 
  • The materials under the concrete may need to be replaced sooner than the tiles, which means you might have to do maintenance sooner than you thought. 
  • Also a heavy material, concrete will require the structure of your home to be stronger than normal. 

Metal

Metal roofing is a popular option for homes in tropical storm areas, because they are very durable and can withstand a lot of rain and wind. They also hold up well from the salty air from the ocean. 

In addition to being super durable, metal roofs help regulate the temperature of your home by reflecting the hot sun away, rather than absorbing it. They can withstand winds up to 160 mph, which makes them a great option for coastal Florida homes. 

There are some cons to metal roofing as well. 

  • They are pretty pricey, especially for more attractive designs. 
  • They last around fifty years, which means that you’ll likely have to replace them once. 
  • Metal roofing isn’t as quiet as other types, so it doesn’t absorb the sound of rain and other elements as well. 

Wood 

Wood is very popular for coastal homes. It creates a beachy, natural aesthetic that many people love. Wood shingles also hold up very well against salt water corrosion, making them one of the most commonly used materials for ocean-front homes. 

Wooden shingles are also very breathable for homes, allowing air to flow easily. They are also one of the most eco-friendly roofing materials. They are relatively cheap compared to the other options as well. 

However, wood shingles have a couple major drawbacks. 

  • They need to be sealed regularly to prevent rotting and leaks. 
  • Maintenance can be costly and time consuming. 
  • Wood is very flammable and makes your home more susceptible to fires. 
  • They can blow off easily in winds and also fade, so replacing pieces and making repairs will be obvious – the new wood will inevitably be a different color than the older pieces.

Need a Roof Inspection?

Call Inside & Out Property Inspectors today!

How A Wind Mitigation Inspection Can Save You Money On Home Insurance

How A Wind Mitigation Inspection Can Save You Money On Home Insurance

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If you have your home inspected for wind mitigation in Florida and in other states where hurricanes and high winds regularly cause property damage, you may be able to save quite a bit of money on your home insurance premiums.

Not sure if your home has wind mitigation features, or if you can save money on your insurance with a wind mitigation inspection? Learn everything you need to know below. 

What Is A Wind Mitigation Inspection? How Does It Work?

As the name suggests, a wind mitigation inspection is done by a qualified home inspector, and it looks for features on your home that make it more resistant to wind damage. 

These wind mitigation features are intended to help your home resist and withstand high winds caused by major storms and hurricanes. Some features like water barriers, storm windows, and roof-to-foundation anchoring can help your home resist wind damage – and if these are present in your home, you may be able to save on insurance.

A wind mitigation inspection consists of a qualified inspector examining your home and verifying the wind-resistant features that are present. You may choose to do this after buying a home if it already has mitigation features in place – or to have your home inspected after you have made improvements to enhance its resistance to high winds.

After your inspection is complete, you’ll get a report that you can present to your insurance company to prove that your home has wind-resistant features.

How Can I Save On My Insurance With A Wind Mitigation Inspection?

Legally, insurance providers in some states like Florida must offer credits and discounts on home insurance premiums for homeowners who take proper steps to protect their homes from wind damage. In Florida, these are referred to as “Wind Mitigation Credits.”

The majority of the cost of your home insurance policy in Florida may actually be due to the risk of wind damage. According to the Florida Division of Emergency Management, somewhere between 15-70% of the cost of your premiums can be linked to the risk of wind damage depending on your location, insurer, and other such details.

Therefore, showing your insurance company that you have had a wind mitigation inspection and that your home has been protected against wind damage can save you a lot of money each year – more than enough to pay for the cost of an inspection. 

And don’t worry. There is no risk that your premiums will increase after a wind mitigation inspection. Your costs will never rise due to the results of your inspection, so it’s risk-free. 

What Can I Do To Increase My Home’s Resistance To Wind? 

 

Discounts on Insurance Premiums

WIND MITIGATION

Not sure how you can make your home more wind-resistant? If you have not yet taken steps to protect your home from wind, there are many improvements you can make before you have a  wind mitigation inspection! All of these improvements may help reduce your insurance costs. 

  • Water barriers below your roof – An extra layer of water-resistant material below your roofing tiles or shingles can help reduce the risk of water damage caused by the loss of shingles or tiles in high winds.
  • Roof-to-foundation anchoring – Using strong anchor bolts, the roof can be securely fastened to the walls. Then, another set of anchor bolts can be used to securely attach the walls to the foundation. The idea behind this is to create a “continuous load path.” Wind pressure on your roof will be transmitted through your entire home and into the foundation – instead of to the roof alone.
  • Roof deck attachment – The wood roof deck can be securely attached to the underlying framing with strong fasteners to prevent it from loosening or blowing away in high winds.
  • Impact-rated window/door coverings – Impact-rated doors and windows or storm shutters are important for preventing rain from entering your home, and mitigating water damage. These doors and windows must be able to withstand wind speeds of up to 140 mph. In addition, impact-rated windows and doors or storm shutters/doors help prevent windows from breaking. When windows break during strong winds, high wind pressure builds up below the roof. This high pressure, combined with the low pressure of the wind blowing over the top of the roof can result in the roof literally peeling away from the home, and being blown away.
  • Impact-resistant garage doors – Garage doors are often a primary point of failure during windstorms and hurricanes. Hurricane-rated garage doors can often withstand wind speeds of up to 200 mph or more without failure, due to the high-quality materials and strong anchoring of the doors.

You can certainly save on your insurance policy if you make just one of the above improvements to your home, and have it inspected. But for even more savings – and to ensure your home is protected from hurricane damage – we highly recommend that you consider making as many wind mitigation improvements as you can. 

In most cases, these improvements will add to the value of your home. Not only that, but the insurance savings over time will help pay for these upgrades. In addition, some of them, like impact windows and/or doors, may be financed with PACE financing, making it easier to budget for them over a long time period.

Make Wind Mitigation Improvements And Get An Inspection! 

If you’re a homeowner in Florida – particularly in a High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) like Miami/Dade or Broward Counties or Coastal Palm Beach – you can save big on your insurance if you take steps to minimize the risk of wind damage, and have your home inspected.

So don’t wait. If you’ve already made wind mitigation improvements, schedule a consultation now. And if you’re just getting started, contact a reputable contractor near you to learn more about your options for residential wind mitigation.

Does Your Home Have A Non-Insurable Electrical Panel?

Does Your Home Have A Non-Insurable Electrical Panel?

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Whether you’re a current homeowner and you’re taking a look at your electrical systems, or you’re interested in buying a home, it’s a good idea to know about non-insurable electrical panels – and what they could mean for your home. 

In this article, we’ll discuss the basics of non-insurable electrical panels, a few of the top brands that made them, and what you should do if you find one in your home. 

Why Are Some Electrical Panels Non-Insurable?

Certain types of electrical panels are non-insurable because insurance companies have experienced a large number of claims related to electrical fires in homes that have these boxes.

In most cases, this is due to faulty manufacturing. Federal Pacific panels, for example, are a well-known type of non-insurable circuit panel. Though they may function for years, they eventually start to fail, and their breakers may no longer trip properly – causing a fire hazard. The circuit could be overloaded, and the breaker would never trigger. This could lead to a serious electrical fire.

Many homeowners are unaware they have one of these panels until they have a four-point inspection – and then their insurance company demands they replace it.

Common Non-Insurable Electrical Panels

Wondering what types and brands of electrical panels are often non-insurable? Here is a quick list of some of the most common manufacturers and panels.

  • Federal Pacific – As mentioned above, Federal Pacific sold millions of breakers from the 1950s to the 1980s. It was found that 25% of all panels were defective and may not properly trip, causing a serious fire hazard. They were also prone to overheating
  • Zinsco – Zinsco panels were used up until the mid-1970s. There are not many left, but they can still be found in some older homes. They are simply not able to keep up with the high electrical demands of today’s homes – and in some cases, this may cause wires to melt, exposing homeowners to a higher fire risk.
  • Sylvania – These panels were primarily used in the 1960s and 1970s, and they were rebranded Zinsco panels. The only real change was the Sylvania logo, which was added to the panel. They have the same electrical issues as Zinsco panels
  • Challenger – Challenger panels built and installed in the 1980s and 1990s were found to have an issue where they were overheating under normal conditions at the metal “bus bar.” This led to expansion and contraction of the bus bar, and electrical arcing between the bus bar. Over time, these components could melt down, causing a shock or fire hazard. 

Get Your Home Checked For These Outdated, Dangerous Panels!

If you think you have one of these panels in your home, you should replace it right away. It’s simply not worth the risk. Not sure if your panel is dangerous? Contact a home inspector or electrician, and you can ensure that you take action if your panel is dangerous and non-insurable. 

How to Test AFCI and GFCI Panels

How to Test AFCI and GFCI Panels

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How to Test Your AFCI and GFCI Panels 

The electricity receptacles in your home are not created equal. This is especially true if your home was built sometime in the 1980s when a change in receptacles started taking off. Chances are you’ve seen the difference among receptacles but maybe aren’t familiar with how they are different. 

A Standard Receptacle vs. a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)

Electrical outlets are typically looked over during an inspection to ensure they adequately installed and correctly placed. Standard receptacles are usually found in living spaces, bedrooms, hallways, and the like. GFCI receptacles are placed in environments that share electricity and water, such as kitchens and bathrooms.

GFCI outlets (also called GFI) usually look different and have little buttons on them that say “reset” and “test.” This receptacle is designed to keep people from electrical shocks by monitoring the current at the receptacle site. On one side of this outlet, the GFI controls the “hot” wiring against the other side of the outlet considered the “neutral” side. When there is any change in hot vs. neutral current, the outlet will shut off the receptacle.

Where Should GFI Outlets be Installed?

In today’s building codes, outlets that are located near areas that are prone to moisture (kitchens and baths) should be outfitted with a GFI outlet. Here are other places that these receptacles should be installed or may be required by code. Garages, crawl spaces, unfinished basements, laundry rooms, utility closets, bars, kitchenettes, and all exterior sites.

How Should a GFI Outlet be Installed?

Anyone unfamiliar with how electrical work is done should hire a professional electrician to install the outlets. For consumers who have a decent amount of knowledge or experience with electrical work, they may feel comfortable enough to install these on their own. There are plenty of tutorials online; again, these should only be used if you are comfortable with working around electricity. This can be a dangerous project.

How To Check Your GFI Outlets

The easiest way to check your outlets to see if they are working is to plug something simple into one, like a lamp. Turn the lamp on, and press the “test” button. If the light stayed on, your GFI outlet isn’t working, and you should have it looked at by an electrician. Try also hitting the reset button. If the light comes back on, you may just have needed to reset it, and it’s likely working fine.

Faulty electrical distribution systems are the third leading cause of house fires. Your home’s arc AFCIs and GFCIs protect it from electrical fires and electrical shocks. When you hire a home inspector, these issues may be referred to as arc faults and ground faults. 

Mostly, you’ll find GFCIs placed in outlets, with AFCIs in the service panel. No matter where they are installed though, it’s critical that homeowners and realtors regularly test their AFCI and GFCI panels once a month. This can prevent dangerous electrical fires, and also prevent the panels from breaking under a home inspection or testing situation. Often, a lack of regular testing can increase the chances of breakage during a home inspection.

Make sure you have both AFCI and GFCI outlets. 

AFCI protection is required in laundry rooms and kitchens, and almost every circuit in the house. It’s no wonder since it’s prudent to try and protect the entire electrical system from arc faults. For homeowners, it’s a good idea to install dual AFCI and GFCI protection on every circuit. Homeowners can place dual protection directly in the circuit panel, which protects the structure from arc and ground faults. During testing, if the breakers do not trip, then homeowners need to contact an experienced electrician for replacement. 

How to Test AFCI Panels

AFCI panels will protect your electrical system from dangerous arc faults. An arc fault can happen when electrical wiring or electrical devices are damaged, stressed, or overheated. If you don’t test the AFCI panels, they could be broken without your knowledge. An arc fault can then go undetected within the electrical system and start a fire. Here’s what you can do to test AFCI breakers:

  • Leave the lights and other electronics on. 
  • Locate the electrical panel. 
  • Leave the breaker in the “on” position, and also leave at least one device turned on in the circuit. 
  • Press the AFCI “test” button. 
  • What should happen next is the breaker should trip and move the switch to the “off” position, or the middle “trip” position if that’s what is in the panel. 
  • If it trips after you press the “test” button, then the AFCI is working. 
  • Next, flip the breaker switch to “off” before you turn it back to the “on” position. 
  • For every AFCI breaker in the service panel, repeat the previous steps. 
  • If one of the breakers doesn’t trip, you’ll need to contact an electrician and have it fixed. 

How to Test GFCI 

GFCIs prevent electrical current leaks. If someone comes across a leak, they can be electrocuted. These interrupters will shut off the power if there is a suspected current leak. While GFCIs mainly protect against electrocution, they can also prevent fires. Here’s how to test them:

  • Hit the “reset” button. 
  • Plug in a lamp.
  • The light should go on. 
  • Press the “test” button. 
  • The light should go off. 
  • Press the “reset” button again.
  • The light should turn on again. 

If pressing the “test” button does not turn the light off, then the GFCI needs fixed or otherwise replaced by a certified electrician. Always be sure to test your AFCI and GFCI panels once a month to prevent electrical fires and breakage. 

A Final Note

You might also want to get familiar with your circuit breaker box as these breakers can also have GFIs installed on them for added extra protection. GFIs at this location will protect from overloading as well as the fixture or appliance it serves. You can always have an electrician walk you through your breaker box, so you know how it functions if you’re ever faced with a problem.

How to Get the Most from Your Carbon Monoxide Detector

How to Get the Most from Your Carbon Monoxide Detector

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Many carbon monoxide detectors that we keep in our homes aren’t keeping us as safe as they claim to be. Many manufacturing companies state that their product will protect young healthy adults from a certain amount of carbon monoxide poisoning, but that leaves quite a bit of people off the protection list.

Guidelines are not as strict as they should be, and many people are breathing in carbon monoxide under the guise of thinking their detector is keeping them safe. This can be incredibly dangerous to everyone, but especially young children, pregnant women and the elderly.

There are ways to go about making sure your exposure to carbon monoxide is minimal, and it starts with the detector. Ask questions, do some research and find one that will guarantee your protection.

Hazards of Carbon Monoxide Detectors

A huge hazard that lurks behind your everyday carbon monoxide detector, is that it probably doesn’t inform you how much carbon monoxide you’re currently breathing in, so you’re assuming that it’s none. You could be wrong.

A small, slow leak will not be picked up by your average detector. Most detectors require a certain level of leak for a certain amount of time to trigger. This means, you can breathe in small amounts of carbon dioxide for quite some time without your detector triggering.

In fact, if the leak itself varies in amount, your detector may never go off at all. Since we put quite a bit of stock in the protection that our carbon monoxide detectors are supposed to offer, that’s a scary fact.

Due to bogus regulations, our carbon monoxide detectors aren’t doing enough to protect us. When you purchase a detector, read the package in its entirety. Also, choose one that reads the amount of carbon monoxide in the air, digitally, at all times and no matter what the amount.

Carbon Monoxide Detector Maintenance

A good carbon monoxide detector will last anywhere from five to ten years, so to be safe, replace them every five. Test the alarm on it once a week, and always make sure the batteries are in working order.

Check regularly for recalls to make sure that your detector is doing everything it can to protect you and your family from CO poisoning. Keep them clean, and frequently make sure that your detectors are in good working order.

Keeping Family Safe from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

A good, reputable detector that offers the amount of CO in the air digitally, at all times, will do a wonderful job of making sure you and your family are safe. Be sure to install more than one throughout your home, and if you need more peace of mind, have the fire department do an air quality test.

While it may seem like a lurking danger, if you take the right steps, you can easily take control of your family’s safety when it comes to carbon monoxide. Since manufacturers often don’t take the correct steps, it’s important that consumers know exactly what to do to lower the risk of CO poisoning.

Summer Home Maintenance Tips

Summer Home Maintenance Tips

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Homes can slowly turn into money pits if you fail to maintain and upkeep the structure regularly. For homeowners, maintaining the home year-round will prevent costly repairs from happening in the future, and also make the house more attractive for prospective home buyers. In the warm summer months, failing to upkeep the house can lead to all sorts of expensive damage. As they often say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

If you own a home, you’ll need to keep these home maintenance tips in mind for the summer season. First, we’ll start with the interior of the house.

1. SAFETY FIRST: CHECK THE SMOKE ALARMS AND CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS

The smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are vital to your safety, but we hardly ever think about them. The first thing you should do on your summer home maintenance agenda is to check to make sure they are working correctly. Replace the batteries if needed, and run a test just to be safe.

2. SCHEDULE SERVICE FOR YOUR HVAC

Talk to any specialist in the HVAC industry, and they will tell you that it never fails, an HVAC system will fall apart on the hottest day of the year. So will every one of your neighbors HVAC units. To avoid being stuck in a holding pattern, waiting your turn sweltering in the heat, have your HVAC system checked now before the temps get too harsh. Not only will you have a good working HVAC system, but the provider will be happy that you scheduled your maintenance early.

3. CHECK THE ATTIC AND THE BASEMENT

Spring and early summer are the perfect time to do a little home inspection of the basement and the attic. Check the basement for signs of mold, leaks, and mildew. If your basement walls appear damp or mold-infested, you can clean them with white vinegar or a bleach mixture, then apply a mold-killing spray to the area. Consider running a dehumidifier in the basement to eliminate moisture and prevent mold from regrowing.

In the attic, look for signs of pests or leaks in the roof. The health of the roof will have a direct impact on the structural integrity of your house. Any signs of pests or holes in the roof need to be dealt with immediately. Contact a reputable pest control company or a roofing contractor to take care of these issues before they turn into big problems.

4. DO A THOROUGH CLEANING OF THE HOME’S INTERNAL SYSTEMS

Clean the air vents, since dust and other allergens can accumulate over the winter and irritate everyone’s sinuses. Run a damp cloth over the baseboards of the house, and clean and dust the bathroom vents. Replace the showerheads if needed, and clean the bathroom and kitchen sink drains.

If you have a chimney, now is the perfect time to clean it out. Over the winter, the outside of the chimney can form tiny cracks, holes, and crevices for water ingress. Get the chimney flashing fixed to prevent costly leaks and mold growth from forming now that summer is on its way. The chimney liner may need to be replaced as well. It’s easier and cheaper to get a chimney looked at and serviced in the spring and summer months as opposed to fall and winter.

For the outside of the house, keep these tips in mind to get the exterior of the home clean and summer ready.

5. WASH THE WINDOWS AND SCREENS

Clear, sparkly windows can brighten up the home’s exterior and the interior as well. A clean facade will also inspire confidence in potential buyers if you’re planning to put your house up for sale this year.

Did you know you can use a vacuum to get up any debris that you might find in the window tracks? This little tip will save you a season of fighting a window open, or worse, struggling to get it closed again. You might even consider taking the screen out entirely and giving them a good wash down. You can use a biodegradable solution by mixing hot water with vinegar and apply in wide sweeping sprays. Let the solution go to work and then opt to take a brush or sponge to it and wash them.

You’ll want to dry each one with a dry towel or similar and then replace them. A little tip, sometimes, even when you’re working with windows that are all the same size, some mould to their window frames. You might mark them in that situation as to where they go, so you don’t fight with them later.

6. SPRUCE UP THE DECK AND THE PORCH

First, you’ll need to clear the area of furniture, then sweep off the porch and deck. Once the deck and the porch are clear of furniture and debris, you can thoroughly inspect them for signs of impending maintenance issues. Look for rotting boards that may need replacing, and hammer down any nails that have come loose and are sticking up. It’s also a good idea to check and see if your deck or porch needs resealed.

Spray down the area with a garden hose, or pour a bucket of water on the area. If the water beads into small puddles, then the deck does not need to be resealed, so you can breathe a sigh of relief. But if the water soaks into the wood, you’ve got a problem, and you’ll need to get the deck resealed pronto. Otherwise, those boards are going to rot and cause major headaches in the near future.

Once you’ve taken care of the structural integrity of the porch and the deck, it’s time to wash it with a high-quality cleaner and scrub away any stuck on dirt and grime.

While you’re outside, take a look at your fence. If you have a metal fence, chances are you won’t have much to worry about, however, wood fences are a different story. Check them for damage and make a plan to repair, restain, repaint or rebuild any part of the fence that isn’t functioning correctly.

7. INSPECT THE OUTSIDE FAUCETS AND HOSES FOR LEAKS

Hoses with pinhole leaks can be temporarily repaired with black electrician’s tape. Wrap the tape around the hose when it is dry to stop the leak and get another summer’s worth of life out of the hose. Any leaking faucets will need tightened up or replaced, depending on the extent of the issue.

Mineral build-up can cause all kinds of annoying issues and most of which are pretty easy to handle. Faucets tend to stop working efficiently, and shower heads might start squirting you in the eye as one (or more) of the chambers decides to go rogue. Take your fixture apart and clean them with safe cleaners that will remove hard water, calcium, rust or lime. If you don’t want to take your show head apart (no one does), you can fill a plastic bag with your cleaning solution and tie that around the showerhead to soak.

As far as drains are concerned, this is not a fun job, but a good maintenance habit worth adopting. Don’t wait for there to be a backup, because you already know that is going to happen when you have guests. Be proactive and clean the drains and flush them with a bleach solution to get them flowing in tip-top shape.

8. CLEAN THE GUTTERS AND DOWNSPOUTS

After a Winter full of – who knows what, your drains and gutters might have taken a beating. Take some time to clean these spaces out because as Spring downpours arrive, the last thing you need is full gutters that backup water into your eaves doing some significant damage. If you’re uncomfortable doing this yourself, which is understandable, consider hiring someone to help you with this task. If hiring someone means you won’t have to climb ladders, the expense is worth it to get professionals.

The gutters and downspouts keep water from pooling on the roof or near the foundation. It’s critical that these parts of the house are clear of debris and in good working order. Replace any sections of the gutters or downspouts that are damaged, and clean the gutters of leaves, twigs, and other debris. This should ideally be done in the late spring, and again in late fall.

Summer only comes once a year, and the spring months leading up to the blazing hot summer are the perfect time to get your house in tiptop shape. Take the time to inspect and maintain your home this summer so you can sell it quicker and command a higher price for your well-maintained property.

 

This article originally appeared on Spectora

How Long Will It Last?

How Long Will It Last?

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The Life Expectancy of Your Home’s Components

Home buying instigates a series of questions that you never had to consider before and maybe conversations that you never thought to have. For instance, how long will this toilet last anyway? In your early years and renting days, these questions were likely never something you had to consider, but now that you have stepped into the homeownership space, you’re now cruising home improvement stores like you used to cruise the mall.

 

We are here to help, and in this article, we will explore just how long specific items in your home will last and when you can expect (or prepare) to replace them. Yes, we are going to tackle the toilets too. Let’s jump into it.

 

Your Roof

The basic estimation around a roof’s life expectancy is about 20 years, but that is a pretty rough guestimate and can be impacted by other elements. The type of roof you have, the roofing materials and the installation of that roof are what makes or breaks that 20-year estimate. Learn as much as you can about your roof and ask a qualified inspector to explain the current condition of it, so you can plan on when it might need replacing.

 

Your AC Unit

The consensus is that an AC unit will last about 10-15 years and really can depend on the type of system you have. If your AC unit spends a lot of time flipping on and off placing wear and tear on the compressor, chances are your unit will be on the shorter end of the life cycle. Regular maintenance and repairs can prolong the unit’s longevity.

 

Your Heat Pump

The main factor that contributes to an extended heat pump lifespan can be summed up in one word. Maintenance. This factor alone can turn what might last 10-15 years by merely keeping the coils free of debris or ice and cleaning the condenser unit regularly.

 

Your Hot Water Heater

Most hot water heaters last between 10 and 15 years. The discrepancy is based on how well the unit is cared for and the content of your water. Draining the unit for sediment and having someone look at how well it’s functioning every couple years (yes, even when it’s working correctly) will go a long way in getting a long lifespan from the unit.

 

Your Furnace

Your home’s furnace is a workhorse and is designed to stand the test of time. Most furnaces rate to have a 15-20 year life expectancy. As with many components we list here, maintenance is a key factor in ensuring your furnace will function correctly and for potential decades.

 

Your Range

If you have an electric range you can expect it to last about 15 years. For those who have a gas stove, you will see a lifespan closer to 15 years. The determining factor tends to be the type of range you purchase from the onset, which means you should purchase the best range your budget will allow.

 

Your Refrigerator

The fridge is a used, and sometimes abused, appliance that can take a lot over the years. In fact, the basic lifespan of a refrigerator is roughly 15 years. Simply pay attention to how it is functioning and replace things like filters if your style fridge requires that sort of care. Planning ahead and taking note of when sales happen during the year from your favorite brands might be a good replacement strategy.  

 

Your Dishwasher

The average dishwasher will get you close to a decade of use before needing to replace it, on average. Get as much use as possible from it, by regularly taking the filters and strainers apart to clear particles and mineral build up. The hoses and water delivery pieces can often have soap and detergent build up as well.

 

Your Sinks

This is one home element that tends to stand the test of time. Roughly 25-30 years actually. Chances are your sink will be replaced for aesthetic reasons before failure reasons. To keep your sink looking great over the years, clean it according to factory recommendations or, learn more about the material it’s made of and follow those care suggestions.

 

Your Shower

This element of your home is likely composed of a few different materials if it’s a custom build. If your shower is made of tile and grout, you will need to seal the tile every few years. Tile and grout are not waterproof contrary to what you might think given the environment they are used in. If you have a solid surface surround, made of plastic or PVC materials, your shower could last 50 years. To get the most out of your shower, care for it and deep clean it regularly.

 

Your Toilets

If your toilets are older than 1994, they actually are supposed to be replaced for more water efficient options. This, despite toilets can last four or five decades. Older toilets are not as ergonomic as new varieties, so as long as your toilets are working fine and newer than 1994, they should stand the test of time. The only exception would be if the wax ring wore out under it. Also, “never” use things like clog chemicals in your toilet, they can sit in the base and melt that wax ring and leave you with a gooey mess.

 

Your Windows

This will be somewhat dependent on what kind of windows you have in your home, but in general, 15 to 30 years tends to be the consensus in the industry. You can prolong that lifespan by regularly looking at the casings and checking for things like rot or broken seals.

 

Your Doors

The life expectancy of your doors will depend on the materials they are made of. Solid wood doors can last 30+ years, but if they have inserts like windows, that can take a few years off of the total lifespan. The casings, seals, hardware, and paint are more likely to wear than the actual door. Tend to those issues and make repairs as needed to add years to your interior and exterior doors.  

 

Garage Door Opener

This can vary, but the general agreement is that a garage door opener will last about 10-15 years. Be mindful of how the buttons are working and change out batteries once a year to keep it functioning as efficiently as possible. Order back up options as well so you don’t get stuck outside at some point.

 

The bottom line is, getting your home elements on a schedule should increase the longevity of most household components. Regular maintenance is the easiest way to ensure these items have a long shelf life. If you’re looking at buying a home, ask when these items were last replaced.

 

How to Improve Air Quality in Your Home

How to Improve Air Quality in Your Home

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Home Inspections – How to Improve Air Quality in Your Home

One of the most important factors within your home is the quality of air that you and your family breathe. There has been a rise in awareness about indoor air quality, and we thought it might be helpful to discuss ways to improve the air inside, rather than hope that your air purifying or ventilation system is doing the trick.

Before we jump into that, however, let’s take a look at the common causes, as this may help you address poor air quality in your home according to the Department of Labor.

  • Lack of Ventilation
  • Unmaintained Heating and Air Mechanicals
  • Moisture Damage and High Humidity
  • Construction and Remodeling
  • Contaminated Air

Five Ways to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality

  • Ventilate or Purify – The idea is you want to get air flowing throughout your home, and the easiest ways are to start opening the windows and doors. Even just a few minutes of new air circulating throughout your home can make a world of difference in chasing out unwanted contaminants. Another option is to use air purifiers, even small units, in specific rooms. These units use charcoal and HEPA filters to capture all the air contaminants that can create turmoil with your health.  
  • Regular Filter Changes – Most of us know that changing the air filter in our AC and other mechanicals is a must, but if you have poor air quality or airflow in your home, you may want to do this on an expedited schedule. Filters are not that expensive, and there are even services now that will deliver them to your door on a schedule. This is almost magical since filters are one of the more common items forgotten when we go to the home improvement store.
  • Clothes and Bedding – Your clothes, bedding, and sheets are a haven for unwanted microbes. These little guys like to hang out in the soft textiles of your home and wreak havoc on things like your sinuses. Keeping these items clean and free of moisture is key.
  • House Plants – House plants are a natural way to clean the air, and they do so by taking contaminants through carbon dioxide and purify the air when they produce oxygen through photosynthesis. The potting soil also plays a role in cleaning the air as well. The best plant-based air cleaners are Ficus, Fig, Peace Lily, Boston Fern, Bamboo, Aloe, Mums, and Spider plants.
  • Eco- Friendly Products – Finally, the last way we suggest taking care of your indoor air quality is using eco-friendly cleaning and household products. With so much overwhelming research on how chemical-based products can interfere with your health, the market has responded with competitors creating safe and effective options.  

Inside and Out professionals are property inspectors in the greater Jacksonville and St. Augustine areas. If you need assistance with a home inspection give us a call. We can also be reached online if you would like to contact or schedule with us that way.

Do I Need a Mold Inspection?

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Home Inspection – Do I Need a Mold Inspection?

As home inspectors, we are inclined to suggest that mold inspections are important, at least if you suspect something isn’t right. Mold is often an undetected health risk that you may not want to take a chance with. Inside and Out Property Inspectors has seen perfectly beautiful homes come back with mold and mildew tests that would shock you.

In this article, we are going to first talk about the signs that there might be a mold or mildew problem in your home (or a home you want to purchase) then we will briefly explain what a mold inspection is.

Signs You May Have a Mold Issue

  • The Sniff Test – Mold doesn’t always have a “smell,” but some types of mold often do, especially the common ones, so if you have a persistent musty smell lingering in the home, you may need to learn where it is coming from to see if it poses a health risk.
  • The Visual Test – Mold can visually show up in all kinds of ways, from green and grey to brown and black colors. It can even take on the color of certain textiles like wallpaper or drywall. If you can see something resembling mold, you need to have it checked out.
  • Signs of Water Damage – The aftermath of water damage typically leaves a clue that a more significant problem might be brewing. Look for bubbling paint or paper, cracking or peeling paint or other similar issues. Even if the space seems dry now, it still might have something lurking behind it.
  • Signs of Water Leaks – Current leaks should be considered a hotspot for mold or mildew, especially if there are organic materials nearby like insulation, wood or drywall. You should have those checked out immediately by a mold specialist to ensure there isn’t a bigger problem.

A Mold Home Inspection

Here are the steps of a mold home inspection whether you have discovered mold, suspect it in your home, or just want to ensure you do not have a mold problem.

  • Inspectors will visually investigate all areas where mold commonly forms and any other hard to reach spaces that you may not have noticed. Photos might also be taken to learn more about the mold if it is present.
  • If mold is present, the inspector will carefully take a sample of it so as not to disturb the spores and emit them into the air. Spores can easily get into the ventilation system of your home and which can be carried all over the house.
  • The mold will then be sent out for analysis to see what it is precisely so a mold specialist can adequately clean it up. Some mold requires multiple visits and specific treatments to ensure the area is clear.
  • After we get your results, you can start the clean up depending on what kind of mold it is specifically. We can often recommend specialists or help you find one if needed.

If you are ready to schedule a mold inspection, please give us a call right away to get that on our books. You can also schedule this online in the event it is after business hours.

 

20 Things You Should Know About Your Home Inspection

20 Things You Should Know About Your Home Inspection

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Home inspections are a vital part of the home buying and selling process but do you know what home inspectors actually do or if a house can even fail a home inspection? Luckily, we’ve put together the top twenty most frequently asked questions about home inspections and asked the professionals to answer them. Here is everything you need to know about your home inspection.

1) What is a home inspection?

Without a comprehensive home inspection, you could end up paying thousands of dollars in repairs or possibly buy a house that is unsafe.

Here’s an overview of each element of a home that must be inspected.

Foundation: the inspector will take a look at the foundation to examine it for cracking and shifting, and to ensure that water is draining away properly from the foundation and basement

Lot: the lot will be examined for proper grading and drainage and the quality of walkways and the driveway will also be assessed.

Roof: the roof will be examined for faulty shingles, damaged flashing, signs of water damage, and overall integrity

Exterior: the exterior siding, windows, doors will be examined to assess their overall wear and condition

Attic: the attic will be inspected to ensure that it is properly ventilated and insulated

Interior: the interior of the home will be examined, including wall outlets, lighting fixtures, walls, doors, and all other such surfaces and areas

Basement: the basement is inspected to ensure that it is free from leaks and water damage. Issues like mold and water leaks are also quite common in basements

Electrical: your home inspector will make sure that all electrical outlets, switches, and lighting fixtures work

Plumbing: the functionality of the plumbing systems will be checked, including water pressure, hot and cold water, as well as functionality of all sinks, bathtubs, showers, and other systems

Appliances: major appliances will be tested and verified for proper functionality

HVAC: the furnace will be examined for integrity, and problems like cracks or wear and tear. Air ducts and air conditioning systems will also be examined and tested

Randy Lambert
Lambert Home Inspections – Bristow, VA

2) Why do I need a home inspection?

If you are planning to buy or sell a home, it is recommended that you hire a certified home inspector to conduct the inspection. This is one way to learn the condition of the home and potentially gain more negotiating power during the sale/purchase of the home.

When touring a home, pay attention to anything that seems strange as it might be a red flag. Take note of any visible damage as well, as it might not be a problem now but it could turn into an expensive fix later.

These issues don’t have to be a deal breaker. They can, however, help you get a lower price for the home if you’re the buyer. Most home buyers agree that it’s worth spending a few hundred dollars on a home inspection to save a few thousand down the road.

Kevin Anderson
Elk Valley Home Inspections – Kingston, TN

3) How much is a home inspection?

Based on more than 80,000 home inspections conducted during the last year, our data shows that the average home inspection costs $358.

Variables that will affect the cost include:

  • Location/region/travel time
  • Size of the home
  • Age of the home
  • How hot or cold the local real estate market is
  • How many inspectors are in the area and how busy they are
  • Additional services such as mold inspections or radon testing

The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) gives a typical price range of $300-$500, and cautions that “cost does not necessarily reflect quality.”

We recommend that you do your research. Take a look at the website and the reviews of the inspector that your agent recommended. Get a quote from them and a couple of others, and don’t shop on the cost or price alone.

Regardless, decent home inspectors are well worth the investment. Whether it gives you leverage to ask the seller to cover more fixes or sets your expectations for what to budget for, getting a home inspection is one of the smartest investments you can make in your new home.

Kevin Wagstaff
Spectora

4) Why can’t I do a home inspection myself?

When you’re purchasing a home there are many things to consider. From negotiating the price to understanding the resale value, the tasks can become overwhelming.

People often turn to their mechanics when purchasing a used car so why wouldn’t you turn to a home inspector when shelling out hundreds of thousands more for a house?

A professional home inspection can turn up issues that otherwise would have went unseen, such as the wrong gauge wire being used in the breaker box inlet, or an incorrectly hung cabinet that could become a hazard.

A home inspector’s job isn’t to spread doom and gloom, they’re your advocate. While we’re sure your realtor has done a great job showing you the house’s features and educating you on the school district, they typically aren’t able to teach you about the house structure or utilities.

Your home inspector will be able to shine a light on vital information that you likely wouldn’t have caught until after you had purchased the house.

Ron Fast
First-In Home Inspection – North Canton, OH

5) What does a home inspection include?

As a home is the largest purchase most folks will ever make, a home inspection is always recommended before buying a home. While some little quirks are nothing to worry about, there may be more serious issues that only a professional home inspector can assess.

Without a comprehensive home inspection, you could end up paying thousands of dollars in repairs or buying a house that is unsafe due to issues like water damage, foundation issues, or even asbestos or lead. A certified home inspection should cover the foundation, lot, roof, exterior, attic, interior, basement, electrical, plumbing, appliances, and the heating/cooling system. The primary purpose of these examinations is to identify structural and major system flaws, especially anything safety related.

Grant Waller
PacWest Home Inspections – Beaverton, OR

6) Can a house fail a home inspection?

Contrary to what many people believe, there is no grading or pass/fail system for a home inspection. The home inspector simply evaluates the condition and quality of the home objectively, and then informs both the buyer and seller of their findings.

However, if a glaring issue is found, the seller may be held responsible to fix it before the home can be legally sold. For instance, if asbestos or mold is found in the home or if there is a code violation or other serious safety issue, the seller would have to remedy the situation before they could sell their home.

Additionally, buyers may be allowed to invoke their home inspection contingency and walk away from the transaction if a major issue is found.

Curious what the most common culprits are in a home inspection? Here’s a quick list.

  • Roof and gutter issues (leaks, damaged/clogged gutters, etc.)
  • Faulty wiring/electrical problems
  • Poor grading or drainage around the home
  • Dampness or mold/mildew in basements
  • Cosmetic wear and tear (peeling wallpaper, dirty/damaged carpets, cracked driveways/walkways, etc)
  • Plumbing issues such as leaks, clogged drains, poor flow
  • Inadequate ventilation or insulation
  • HVAC problems

Whether you’re a buyer or a seller, most home inspection findings are not deal breakers and will simply require you to negotiate a proper rate for the home based on what the inspector finds.

Ben Hoffman
Hoffman Home Inspections – Wichita, Kansas

7) When do I call a home inspector?

It is recommended to get a home inspection before you make an offer on a home. At the very least you want to get the inspection completed before you close on a home. This means you still have a chance to pull out of buying the home if the inspection turns up massive problems that you are not willing or cannot afford to fix.

Having a home inspection done before making an offer is the best time to do it. However, even if you make an offer, be sure to have the home inspection done before the closing date or you will be responsible for any problems that may exist with the home.

Rick Vecchio
GCA Home Inspections – Brick, NJ

8) Do I have to be there when the home inspection is happening?

If you’re selling your home and having a pre-listing inspection, it’s a good idea to stick around for the inspection to give you some insight on what you should fix before listing your home. However, if the buyer hired the inspector, there’s no reason for you to be present.

If you’re buying a home, it’s not required that you’re present for the home inspection but it’s a good idea to be there anyway. Attending the home inspection on a property you’re considering buying gives you a great opportunity to get a better understanding of the condition of the home, and any potential issues that may be present. You may be thinking that you’ll just be able to see these in the report, which is true, however, walking through the home with the inspector will make these items easier to understand because they can explain it to you during the process.

Furthermore, being present for the home inspection gives you the opportunity to ask the inspector questions about the home. It’s a good idea to ask about the parts of a home that are most expensive to repair/replace, such as:

  • Roof: replacing a roof can cost thousands
  • Insulation: insulation has a huge effect on power bills
  • Electrical system: rewiring a home can be an expensive task
  • Plumbing: plumbing problems can be very costly to fix
  • HVAC System: these systems usually must be replaced every 10-15 years
  • Structure: if there is any kind of structural damage at all, you shouldn’t buy the home
  • Grading/Drainage: improper grading and drainage can cause foundation damage

Matthew Miller
Bless this Nest – Fort Lauderdale, FL

9) What if the home inspection report reveals problems?

If you find serious issues, you can back out of the sale due to a home inspection contingency clause or you can ask the seller to fix the issues before moving forward with the purchase of the home.

The seller is not required to make any repairs, except those which address structural defects, serious safety issues, or building code violations. Examples include:

  • Issues that violate federal or state code
  • Structural or mechanical problems
  • Defects that cause safety issues
  • Mold
  • High radon levels
  • Infestation

Cosmetic defects do not have to be repaired before the seller can sell their house, as they are not a hazard. You can ask them to make these repairs but they can refuse.

Typically the seller will offer you a repair credit and knock the price of the home down, based on the expected cost of the repairs. This is usually the best option when negotiating because some home repairs, like fixing a roof, can take weeks and become very inconvenient for both the buyer and the seller.

Drew White
AmPro Inspections – Colorado Springs, CO

10) How long does an inspection usually take?

While there are no set standards when it comes to the length of time it takes to inspect a home, the process usually takes about two to three hours. For larger homes or homes with additional features, this process will take longer, while for small homes and condos an inspection may only take an hour or two.

Here are some additional factors that impact the amount of time it takes to conduct a home inspection:

  • Size of the home
  • Age of the property
  • Total systems to be inspected (HVAC, electrical, water heaters, pools, multiple kitchens, etc.)
  • Accessibility to areas that need to be inspected
  • Weather conditions
  • State requirements
  • Time spent answering clients’ questions during the inspection
  • One or more inspectors on site
  • Additional services (radon test, mold test, water test, etc)

A home inspection isn’t something you want to rush through. This is an important step in the home buying process and affirms the value of your investment.

James Saunders
Certified Inspectors of North Carolina – Rock Fish, NC

11) What’s included in the home inspection report?

A home inspection report is a valuable tool that can give you an array of information on your new home, expose potential problems, and address hazards that aren’t easily seen by an untrained eye. So, what’s included?

The home inspector will visually inspect the roof for damage, including shingles, gutters, downspouts, skylights, chimneys, ridge caps and evaluate for any potential roof penetrations. You’ll also get an overall grade on the general condition of the roof.

To ensure your home is breathing well and is maintaining a good level of efficiency, the home inspector will evaluate the condition and operation of the insulation and ventilation in crawl spaces, attics, and foundation areas as well as any exhaust systems.

A full walk around the exterior of the property and an up-close inspection of the following:

  • Siding
  • Windows
  • Exterior doors and locks
  • Flashing and trim
  • Walkways
  • Driveways
  • Stairs
  • Patios
  • Decks
  • Drainage systems
  • Basement and foundation

The home inspector will go over the HVAC systems with a fine-toothed comb, checking for leaks, proper operation, thermostat locations, and evidence of proper maintenance.

Busted pipes and leaky valves can create thousands of dollars in repairs. Your home inspector will ensure the proper state of the home’s plumbing, which includes checking for leaks, venting systems, hot water heater operation, etc.

Lastly, home inspectors will spend a large portion of their time inspecting necessary but potentially dangerous parts of your home.

Steve Bennett
Redbud Property Inspections – Oklahoma City, OK

12) How do I know if a home inspector is qualified?

Here are some things to consider while searching for a qualified home inspector:

Credentials
Most home inspectors are licensed by the state in which they inspect. If an inspector is state-regulated, see if there are any reports of complaints against the inspector.
You should also check to see what other credentials the inspector has, such as:

  • The International Association Of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI)
  • The American Association Of Home Inspectors (ASHI)
  • The National Academy of Building Inspection Engineers (NABIE)
  • The All American Association of Home Inspectors (AAAHI)
  • The North American Association of Home Inspectors (NAAHI)

Reviews
In some states, there are no requirements for home inspector licensing or certification. If you’re looking for a home inspector in one of those states, it’s a good idea to check their reviews. Yelp and Google are great resources, as opposed to the inspector’s website where they can remove negative reviews.

Find Out What They Inspect
Home inspections should be thorough, so you’ll need to find an inspector who will leave no stone unturned. If an inspector is able to inspect everything from the plumbing system and foundation, to the attic and electrical system, they will be your best bet. You should also ask for a sample report so you know what you’ll be getting.

Stephen Whittington
Whitt Inspections – Tampa, FL

13) Does the inspector need to be specialized in residential structures?

General home inspectors specialize in residential structures, whereas some obtain additional training and certifications to inspect commercial properties as well. While inspectors tend to specialize in one or the other, some do both.

You don’t necessarily need to hire a property inspector that specializes in residential inspections. Just because an inspector specializes in one particular area doesn’t mean they are better than their competition who might offer a variety of other services.

Do a quick online search to find a list of home inspectors in your area and then dig deeper to find one you trust based on their reviews and credentials.

Call a few inspectors to get more information before making your decision. Schedule a phone interview to ask any questions you may have, such as:

  • How much will my inspection cost?
  • When can you examine my home?
  • How long have you been working in the industry?
  • Do you have insurance coverage?
  • What happens if you miss something?
  • How long after the inspection will I get the inspection report?

Ask for a copy of their standard home inspection checklist or a sample inspection report. This will give you a better idea of what parts of the home will be inspected if you hire that inspector— and what’s not included. For example, some home inspections won’t include things like pools, chimney, irrigation systems, sewer scope, asbestos, lead, radon, mold, or termite inspections so you may need to hire other professionals or pay additional fees to have these systems checked.

John Reim
Bee Sure Home Inspection Services – Grayslake, IL

14) What is the difference between a home inspector and an appraiser?

When you’re getting ready to buy or sell a home, having a home inspection and appraisal is part of the process. Because it’s such a huge investment, your home needs to be evaluated. Some people think that appraisals and inspections are the same thing but they are, in fact, very different.

An appraisal is a concept of pricing a home based on specific factors, such as:

  • Location of the home
  • Proximity to desirable schools and other public facilities
  • Size of the lot
  • Size and condition of the home itself
  • Recent sales prices of comparable properties

The appraiser’s primary goal is to protect the lender against owning overpriced property. That’s why an appraisal is required before you can get a mortgage on your home. Appraisers do not conduct in-depth inspections of the home but they may take note of visible signs of neglect. This includes cracked walls, chipped paint, broken windows, damaged flooring, etc.

An inspection is a much more thorough overview of your home. Whereas an appraisal is required in order to get a mortgage, an inspection is not mandatory but it’s still a good idea to get one. A home inspector examines every aspect of the home, looking for issues that could negatively affect the buyer’s investment. While the appraiser is obligated to protect the lender, the home inspector is most often there to protect the buyer from making a poor purchase.

James Taylor
4 Corner Inspections – Batavia, OH

15) What is the process of a home inspector?

Home inspections are an important part of buying a home. Without a comprehensive home inspection, you could end up paying thousands of dollars in repairs or buying a house that is unsafe due to water damage or foundation issues.

During the inspection, buyers are encouraged to tag along with the inspector and ask questions about the home. Upon completion, the inspector usually gives the client a verbal overview of their findings. Most home inspectors provide a comprehensive inspection report in a web-based or PDF format within a day or two of the inspection. Home inspectors are usually happy to answer any questions you have about the report.

Josh Crepps
Crepps Home Inspection – Coxs Creek, KY

16) Do I need a home inspection for a new construction?

Your newly built home is likely to have all of the latest energy-saving features and comforts that you could ever want. But it’s always a good idea to get a home inspection, even on a newly constructed home.

There may be undisclosed issues or shoddy workmanship. Just because a home is brand-new doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s been built with the highest workmanship standards in mind. The plumbing could have serious issues, the roof may be installed incorrectly, there may be issues with the chimney, and so forth.

Just like a regular home inspection, you won’t know about these problems unless the home is inspected. Even a single careless contractor or a tiny mistake made when building the home can cause serious damage. It’s possible the home may only be up to minimum standards.

Building inspectors only have to sign off on the construction of a new home and make sure that it’s up to code. These inspectors don’t work for you, they work for the county. They are only there to determine if the house doesn’t violate any building codes. So if the house just barely meets standards, they’ll likely sign off on it.

For a truly deep look at your home’s systems, you need to hire a home inspector. If you don’t, you’re taking an unnecessary risk.

BJ Johnson
Inside and Out Property Inspectors – St. Augustine, FL

17) Can a home be inspected if it’s covered in snow?

Snow can pose a challenge for home inspectors, as a large amount of snow limits what can be inspected properly. Those areas include the AC unit, roof, and checking for proper drainage.

All other areas of the home can still be properly inspected during the winter, however, and it may even bring more issues to light that may have been missed were it to be inspected in the warmer months. Extreme weather conditions cause damage and stress to a home that is only visible to a trained professional. If that damage goes unnoticed it can quickly snowball into an emergency situation when the season changes.

Homes with pipes that have frozen and cracked underneath the house cause slow leaks and water intrusion. During the winter months, those failures aren’t always recognized due to freezing temperatures. Pipes and sprinkler systems that may not have been properly winterized could be an expensive surprise in the spring.

While you can’t have some systems accurately tested in the winter, you can account for it in your home purchase contract. As a buyer, you can request a seller “reserve for repairs of uninspected areas” that can be negotiated and agreed upon.

Josh Berry
New Day Home Inspections – Portland, OR

18) Do home inspectors inspect pools, fences, or other outside structures?

Typically, basic home inspections don’t include comprehensive overviews of areas like pools, fences, and outside structures. When buying a house with a pool or other unique feature, it’s vital that each part of the purchase receive the same attention. That means you need to call a professional who knows these features and their potential pitfalls. Your home inspector may be able to provide inspection services for these areas at an additional fee or refer you to someone who can.

According to ASHI‘s Standards of Practice, section 4.2, E, “the inspector is not required to inspect out-buildings other than garages and carports.” Some home inspectors offer outbuilding inspections as an add-on service and some include it in the home inspection even though it’s not required. That’s entirely up to the inspector and local regulations. If local regulations require an inspection of every building on the property, then the inspector needs to follow those rules and include in the home inspection.

Jerry Campbell
Cal-Spec Home Inspections – Coachella, CA

19) Do home inspectors tell me if I should buy the house?

While a home inspector cannot necessarily tell you whether or not to buy a house, they will give you an unbiased opinion of the current condition of the property and let you make your own decision. A home inspector will be honest and tell you if an expensive repair is needed but because everyone’s situation is different, that may not necessarily be a deal breaker for you. Some buyers might be looking for a good deal on a fixer-upper.

Some common home inspection deal breakers are:

  • Foundation issues: Issues with the home’s foundation are one of the costliest repairs, running tens of thousands of dollars – maybe even more for large homes with major problems
  • Outdated wiring: Old wiring can pose serious safety issues and fire hazards
  • Termite infestation: Although you can get rid of termites and then protect against them returning, you need to consider the structural damage they’ve already done to the home
  • Mold: Most molds aren’t toxic and can be easily removed with some special spray, however, other molds are very serious, potentially deadly health hazards

 Brian Hickory
Hickory Property Services – Steamboat Springs, CO

20) I’m selling my home, should I get a home inspection before putting it on the market?

A seller’s home inspection is less common than a buyer’s home inspection but home sellers are realizing more and more that there are benefits to having their homes inspected before they even list their homes to sell.

The biggest benefit of a seller’s home inspection is to know all the potential issues before they are brought up in the buyer’s inspection report. This allows the seller to make sure any repairs get done ahead of time and most likely at a better price than the buyer would ask for as a concession during negotiations.

Home sellers can also be more realistic in their asking price, depending on any problems you want to leave “as-is.” Sellers can also include the inspection report with the disclosure statement, reducing their liability for any new findings.

Getting a home inspection prior to selling a house can sometimes even find safety hazards before agents and visitors tour the home, as these hazards could turn into a very expensive liability. The last thing a seller wants is for someone to fall down a flight of steps and get injured due to the lack of a safety railing that they didn’t even know they needed.

David Bates
TruScope Home Inspections – Edmonton, AB

 

This article originally appeared on Redfin

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