What Are The Signs And Symptoms of Having Mold In Your House?

What Are The Signs And Symptoms of Having Mold In Your House?

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What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Having Mold In Your House?

Whether you’re selling a home, preparing to buy one for the first time, or just performing regular maintenance, the issue of mold may worry you – particularly if your home is in a damp environment.

In most cases, a typical home inspection won’t include mold inspections and testing. You will need to hire a professional mold inspector to check your home for issues like black mold.

So, to help you understand whether or not you may need a home inspection for mold, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide that will help you understand the signs and symptoms of mold, know what next steps to take if you think you have mold issues, and provide you with other helpful information and tips that will help you deal with a potential mold problem.

What Is Mold?


Mold is, simply, a kind of simple microorganism. It is a fungus, which grows in filaments and usually has a “fuzzy” appearance. There are thousands of types of mold – and most of them are completely harmless to humans. Mold spores are common, and present in the air we breathe.

However, when mold spores find an ideal environment – a damp, dark place where they can reproduce and feed – they can take root, and become what we know as “mold.”

Mold feeds on organic matter, such as starch, cellulose and lignin – which is why they can become present on things like drywall and wood. The mold uses these materials as a food source.

In most cases, mold is not harmful unless it’s ingested. However, there are some types of mold – “black mold” being the most well-known – which may have harmful effects on humans and animals. We will discuss that in-depth later in this guide.

To sum up, a mold is a type of fungus which tends to grow in large colonies, in areas where moisture and a food source are present. They also tend to avoid light.

Why Does Mold Form In Homes?


Mold forms in homes because, in many cases, a home is the ideal place for mold to grow – particularly in basements and other areas which may be dark and moist, and have a similar temperature all-year-round, due to furnaces and water heaters.

Essentially, there are mold spores in the air at all times – and once they find a place that’s hospitable to them, they’ll start reproducing, causing a visible mold problem.

Common Types Of House Mold


Wondering what types of mold are the most common in houses – and which ones you should be concerned about? Let’s discuss a few of the most common types of household mold now.

  • Cladosporium – Cladosporium is one of the most common household molds. It usually grows in a greenish-brown colony, but can also be nearly black in color. It is rarely harmful unless you have a mold allergy, but may cause minor issues like toenail or fingernail infections.
  • Penicillium – Penicillium is sometimes called “green mold”, as it is usually dark green in color. It tends to grow in large, consistent “patches” on the walls. As the name suggests, penicillin is derived from some kinds of this mold. However, some kinds of penicillium mold may be toxic to humans and animals.
  • Aspergillus – This type of mold is usually greenish-white in color, and may be more “raised” with a more cloudy appearance than other types of mold. It is not harmful, unless you have a weakened immune system, in which case it could infect the lungs or sinuses.
  • Alternaria – Alternaria mold is usually greenish-white, but can also appear in black patches, so it’s sometimes confused with “black mold.” Alternaria can be a factor in exacerbating asthma, particularly for those who may have mold allergies.
  • Stachybotrys chartarum/Stachybotrys atra (Black Mold) – Black mold is one of the most dangerous types of mold. Typically, this is the only type of mold you should be seriously concerned about. It produces harmful mycotoxins that can compromise indoor air quality, and cause stachybotryotoxicosis, a serious infection caused by spore inhalation.It is a deep black in color, and usually appears in circular “patches”, which can range widely in diameter. It is common on gypsum drywall, particularly in water-damaged homes.

Tips For Mold Prevention


Wondering how you can prevent mold from affecting your home? Here are a few tips that may help you prevent mold from forming altogether.

  1. Keep things clean – Dirty surfaces can provide mold with the organic food materials they need to take hold, and start growing throughout your home. Be particularly careful in areas which may be damp, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and attics.
  1. Address dampness – Dampness may be an issue if you live in an area which receives a lot of rain, or your basement floods. Make sure to ventilate your home as much as possible in humid climates, and soak up any visible moisture as soon as possible.
  1. Keep the air dry – Air conditioners and dehumidifiers can help reduce the moisture content of the air. Keep your air at 40-50% relative humidity for the best comfort, and to prevent the growth of mold.
  1. Heat damp areas to dry them out – You may consider using space heaters or even a hair dryer to heat damp areas of your home where mold may form. This is a short-term fix, though. It’s best to address the source of the dampness, not the dampness itself.
  1. Keep the air circulating – Proper ventilation from attics, bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, basements and any other place where moisture is common is essential. Make sure that your home is properly insulated and ventilated, so that air can circulate properly

How To Tell If You Have Mold In Your House


It can be hard to tell if you have mold in your house. Obviously, if you see mold somewhere, you’ve got a mold problem in your house, but mold can hide in walls, ventilation ducts, crawl spaces, and in other hard-to-see areas.

A common way to check for mold is to smell for it. A “musty” smell in an area of your home is often an indicator that there is some kind of mold present. Symptoms like a persistent runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing and throat irritation could also be indicative of mold.


In addition, anywhere that has been exposed to a significant amount of moisture – such as water damage from flooding – is a potential area where mold may be growing. Look for water where it shouldn’t be, and check areas which may have flooded in the past.

Using A Mold Exposure Test


A mold exposure test is often the best way for you to check for mold on your own. You can pick one up at any home improvement or home supply store.

Simply follow the instructions on the box. Usually, you’ll just brush the surface where you think mold may be present, and send the test strip or brush in for a laboratory analysis. If mold is present, you’ll be notified.

How To Detect Mold In Walls


If there is an area of your home where you think mold may be present in the walls – due to smell, a strange appearance of the wall, or any other factor – there are a few ways you can test this.

The simplest way is to probe the area with a screwdriver. If the area is soft or the screwdriver easily pierces the drywall, mold likely has “rotted” the surface away, and you’ll be able to see it once a hole has been opened up in the surface. Be careful when doing this – and do not do it near any wiring or electrical outlets.

You could also use a fiber optic camera to look around inside after opening a hole in the wall, but at this point, you may as well hire a professional inspector. A professional inspector has the tools required to examine the wall thoroughly, and ensure that it’s mold free – or detect any potential issues.

Can You Get Sick From Mold In Your House?


Yes. Those will allergies, compromised immune systems, asthma, or other such issues are at a higher risk – as even minor, non-toxic molds could cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms. Mold in your house is rarely life-threatening. However, prolonged exposure is far from ideal – for a number of reasons.

Mold Poisoning Symptoms In Humans


Mold poisoning can cause a number of different symptoms, depending on the age of the affected individual, the strength of their immune system, and whether or not they have a pre-existing mold allergy. Here are a few of the most common signs and symptoms of mold poisoning in humans.

  • A stuffy or runny nose
  • Sinus issues or infections
  • Worsening or development of asthma
  • Wheezing or difficulty breathing
  • Red, itchy eyes
  • Skin itchiness, redness, or discomfort
  • Fever and shortness of breath (in severe cases only)
  • Rashes
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Persistent headaches or migraines

Most of these symptoms will only be present in homes with extremely significant levels of a harmful mold, such as black mold, or in individuals who have a compromised immune system, or other systemic health problems.

Can I Stay In My House With Black Mold?


We don’t recommend it. If you have found a small, isolated patch of black mold – and you are quite certain that there is no other mold in your house – you may be able to stay, and simply remove the mold yourself.

However, in most cases, one patch of black mold is just the “tip of the iceberg” so to speak. If black mold is present in your home, chances are that it has spread throughout many different parts of your home – and simply removing the visible mold may not be enough.

If you are young, healthy, have a strong immune system and no health difficulties, or do not have children or pets, you may consider staying in your house. Still, it’s better to be safe than sorry – so if a mold inspection reveals high levels of black mold, we do not recommend staying, until it has been treated.

How To Get Rid Of Mold In Your House


If you only have a minor, isolated mold problem, and the mold is not a dangerous type of black mold, you may be able to get rid of it yourself. By simply using a bleach/water solution, you can kill the mold on the surface of the wall or other area, and wipe it away.

If you have a small patch of mold, and you are relatively certain that there is no more mold in your home, this may be a viable option for you. However, mold removal can be quite difficult.

In addition, removing mold alone does not mean you’ll be free of the issue in the future. You’ll need to address the cause of the mold – such as water damage, excessive condensation, poor ventilation, and so on.

The best way to make sure you get rid of mold in your house is to hire a professional mold inspector. They will conduct a thorough examination of your home, and assess the molds that are present. Then, they will be able to recommend a mold remediation specialist who can help you get rid of the mold – and its root cause – in your home.

Know How To Recognize Mold In Your Home!


With this guide, you should be able to recognize common types of mold in your home, the severity of your mold infestation, and be able to take the proper next steps to get help.

If you have noticed a mold problem – or believe that there is mold hidden somewhere in your home – we recommend that you contact Inside & Out Property Inspectors right away and request an inspection. We can help you identify and isolate your mold issue, and get the mold remediation services you need to restore your home.

Should I Buy a House With a Damaged Roof?

Should I Buy a House With a Damaged Roof?

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Should I Buy A House With A Damaged Roof?

Most home buyers are likely to run for the hills as soon as they find out that a home that they’re interested in buying has a damaged roof. However, buying a house with a damaged roof is not always a bad idea, as long as you do your homework and understand the required repairs. Wondering if you should buy a house with a damaged roof? Here are some things to consider.

Understand The Extent Of Damage

A home with minor shingle damage due to a recent hurricane or windstorm is one thing – a home that has had a leaky roof for multiple years due to improper maintenance is another thing altogether.

You need to make sure that you understand the extent of the damage. A few faulty shingles are usually a pretty simple repair, and won’t cost you too much. But if there is extensive water damage that continues throughout the rest of the home, you’re likely going to be on the hook for a big repair bill. We recommend consulting with an experienced home inspector to determine the overall condition of the roof and the underlying structures.

Consider The Age Of The Roof

An asphalt roof with minor damage that’s 15 or 20 years old is, in most cases, near the end of its lifespan anyway. That means that it may not be a bad idea to buy the home anyway, and simply replace the entire roof. Again, though, we recommend consulting with an expert before you decide to do this.

Get An Informed Quote For Repairs

Beyond simply getting a home inspection, you should also get in touch with some roofing contractors, to get an informed quote based on the damage found by your inspector. They should be able to give you a reasonable quote over the phone, based on the findings of your home inspector. This will help you understand if investing in this home is actually worth it.

Work With Your Lender And Insurer, And The Buyer

Some loans, like FHA loans, will require the house to be in “livable” and “insurable” condition. And, in that same vein, many insurance companies won’t insure a home with serious roof damage. This means that you may need to work with the buyer to negotiate repairs before you buy the home, or you may simply have to walk away, and buy a home with an intact roof.

Is Buying A Home With A Damaged Roof A Good Idea?

Without examining the home in question, it’s impossible to answer this question. In some cases, a damaged roof is not a major problem, and will allow you to negotiate a great rate on the purchase of a piece of property. But in others, it can cause extensive damage that could cost thousands of dollars to repair.

What’s the best way to get an answer to this question? Hire Inside & Out Property Inspectors! We can examine the roof and other structures of a home that you’re interested in buying, and help you determine if it’s a good investment. Contact us now for more information, or schedule your appointment today.

What Are The Symptoms of “Chinese Drywall”?

What Are The Symptoms of “Chinese Drywall”?

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“Chinese Drywall” is a type of drywall imported into the United States from Chinese suppliers between 2004-2007, during the housing boom. This type of drywall has very high levels of sulfur, which can cause a variety of issues. It may have been used in the construction of more than 100,000 homes, with cases occurring in southern states like Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama comprising 86% of all reports.

It can cause issues like asthma, corrosion of home components, and more. Read on, and learn if you may have “Chinese Drywall” in your own home.

What Should I Look For?

There are two primary things you should be looking for, if your drywall was installed between 2001 and 2009.

  1. Blackening of copper components in home – Copper electrical wiring and air conditioning evaporator coils can be affected by high hydrogen sulfide, caused by drywall off-gassing.
  2. Corroborating evidence – If you notice blackening in major copper components, you should look for other corroborating evidence, including Chinese text on the drywall. Lab testing may also be done to test for elemental sulfur, or for copper sulfide deposits on copper components of your home.

Other symptoms of Chinese Drywall include a pervasive “rotten egg” smell caused by sulfur, and potential respiratory problems like asthma, coughing, and difficulty breathing, as well as sinus problems and chronic headaches.

What Precautions Do I Need To Take?

If you think that you may have Chinese Drywall in your house, you may want to take precautions such as using portable air filters, and checking your plumbing and electrical systems for corrosion, to make sure that they have not been damaged by sulfur, and do not represent a danger to you and your family.

Beyond this, dust masks and filtration masks can be worn to help mitigate the effects of sulfur on the respiratory system. We recommend that you leave your home as soon as you can, to prepare for repairs.

What Should I Do If I Think My Home Has “Chinese Drywall?”

We recommend contacting an expert in the field of Chinese Drywall, so that you can have a comprehensive laboratory inspection conducted – and you can choose the proper path forward for restoring your home and removing the problem drywall.

If your home does have Chinese drywall, it’s usually recommended that you replace all of the affected drywall. You may also need to replace corroded copper fixtures, including pipes and wiring, in some cases.

Contact Us For An Inspection Today

If you believe that your home may be affected by Chinese drywall, we recommend that you get in touch with Inside & Out Property Inspectors right away. We’re experts at diagnosing Chinese Drywall in Florida, and we’re always here to help. You can schedule an appointment now, or visit our website to learn more about our services.

Are you Living with Bats?

Are you Living with Bats?

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Are you Living with Bats?

Everyone loves Batman. He fights crime, saves the girl, defeats the evil doers. He’s awesome.

Not everyone loves bats as much. These creatures can wreak havoc in a residential dwelling, spreading diseases and destroying attic and crawl spaces.

The worst part is, most people in Florida don’t even know they’re living in their house. They attribute some noises here and there to the house settling or a sound coming from the outside. By the time they figure out what’s going on, it’s become a massive infestation.

Inside and Out Property Inspectors would rather you not have to find out the hard way that these winged animals of the night are taking up residence in your storage space. So, here’s how to know the Joker’s arch rival is hanging out.

Exterior Signs

Bats come and go through the same entry and exit points for the most part. Check the exterior of your home for stains around holes in the siding or roof or cracks and crevices near the roof line.

Also check for milky white stains from urine on windows and exterior walls.

Mouse like droppings that are found under eaves and overhangs can also be a good indicator.

Guano

Bats, like every other living creature, poop. A lot of bats poop a lot. Large accumulations of guano, which resembles other small critter feces, is a sure sign that you’ve got a problem.

Guano usually piles up under the exit of the roost, and has a shiny, speckled appearance. Please remember to never handle animal feces, especially the bat variety, with unprotected hands and without respiratory protection.

Don’t Write Off That Noise

Keep an ear out around dusk and dawn. Scratching, squeaking, crawling and chewing sounds heard during these times are evidence of an infestation.

Wait until after dark, when most bats are out of the roost to visually inspect the attic area.

More Than a Nuisance

Besides being an unwelcome guest in your home, bats can cause serious medical conditions in humans if they are not removed quickly.

Rabies is the obvious danger, with bats being one of the primary carriers of the disease. Being scratched or bitten by one could lead to devastating health effects.

Along with that danger, long term exposure to the fungal spores found in bat guano can cause a respiratory disease known as Histoplasmosis. Causing flu like symptoms in healthy people, its generally not deadly. But, for those with immune deficiencies, this disease can kill.

You Found Them, Now What?

For those living in Florida, bats are a common source of headache and mischief. Many professionals exist for the sole purpose of removing them. However, if you decide to take this on yourself, here’ a few things you can do.

  • Identify all potential entry and exit points. They will have stains around them from the bats’ oily skin and droppings beneath them.
  • At night, while most of the roost is gone, seal all of these points of entry and exit. Doing so will prevent the bats from being able to get back in at the end of the evening.
  • Install one way “check” valves over an hole that cannot be filled with caulk or some other filling material.
  • Bat removal in summertime should not be attempted. At this time, baby bats are in the roost and cannot fly. They will remain in the house and either die and decompose, causing problems, or find a food source and grow to adulthood, recreating the problem.

Inside and Out Property Inspectors are committed to keeping you and your family safe here in Florida, and that includes from the presence of bats.

If you’re unsure if you have a problem, and want a professional opinion, contact us now or schedule an appointment today.

How NOT to Install a Kitchen Cabinet

How NOT to Install a Kitchen Cabinet

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Each and every day, we innocuously open and close our kitchen cabinets without thinking twice. However, property inspectors around the country routinely find major flaws and critical dangers in improperly installed cabinets.

These lackluster installations create major safety hazards for adults, children and pets. A cabinet that unexpectedly falls, especially one from a high position, could easily injure or kill anyone standing in its way.

At Inside and out Property Inspectors, we care about your safety, that’s our job. So, here’s how NOT to install a kitchen cabinet.

Don’t Trust an Anchor

wall anchor

Many people make the mistake of using anchors instead of locating wall studs. While an anchor can hold a heavy picture, or a speaker, they’re not suited for the weight of a wall cabinet.

Use a stud finder and locate the wall framing. Cabinets should always be secured into the 2×4, or 2×6 framing to ensure it will hold.

Splurge on the Screws

drywall screws

Drywall screws are commonly available and relatively cheap. However, they are not recommended for cabinet installation. These screws were designed to hang light pieces on drywall, along with 30 of their friends.

Wall Cabinets have limited real estate for screws, so use the strongest ones you can find that penetrate at least 1.5 inches into the wall framing.

Remove the Shelves

When you’re installing kitchen cabinets, it can become a lengthy process. Many make the careless mistake of not removing shelves to get to hard to reach areas.

This oftentimes results in not enough screws being used to secure the cabinet. Screws should be placed at least every six inches running vertically. The extra time you take to access the entire cabinet could save a life one day.

Washers

Depending on the style of the cabinet, you may not have a frame rail to drive the securing screws through. While you should be using a washer on the screws regardless, if you have to use the back material of the cabinet to secure it to the wall, this is imperative.

A large, thick, heavy duty washer will prevent the screw head from being pulled through the back of the cabinet, something than can result is a devastating fall.

Cabinet Height

If you have high ceilings in your kitchen, it can be tempting to raise the wall cabinets higher than you normally would to expose more backsplash area. Simply, don’t.

Cabinets that are mounted too high often require some type of step stool to access the upper shelves. Not only is this inconvenient, it also drastically increases the chances of you falling from a high point while trying to get into them.

Children are also notorious for climbing on countertops when a parent isn’t looking, to grab a quick snack. Placing cabinets even higher just encourages them to do so.

Find Out How Safe You Really Are

Home inspections aren’t just for new home buyers. Even if you’ve been living in your home for years, a home inspection by Inside and Out can educate you on any potential dangers you’ve never known about.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and visit our main page for more information on keeping your home and your family safe!

Do I Need To Get A Home Inspection on a New Construction Home?

Do I Need To Get A Home Inspection on a New Construction Home?

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Your newly built home is likely to have all of the latest energy-saving features and comforts that you could ever want. It’s brand new so why would you need to get it inspected? Is a home inspection really necessary for a newly-built home?

It’s ALWAYS a good idea to get a home inspection, even on a newly constructed home.

You may be wondering why this is the case for a newly constructed home. A new home should be in perfect shape, right? Not always. Here are two major reasons you should always get a new home inspected.
1. 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. You’re not going to be able to recognize them on your own, and chances are that the homebuilders and realtors aren’t going to point them out.

If you buy a new home without an inspection, you could be on the hook for expensive repairs if something goes wrong.

Even a single careless contractor or a tiny mistake made when building the home can snowball – and cause serious damage. Home inspectors can recognize these issues.

2. It’s possible the home may only be up to minimum standards

County building inspectors have to sign off on the construction of a new home, and make sure that it’s up to code. But the fact is that they only check to make sure that it adheres to the bare minimum building standards.

These inspectors don’t work for you – they work for the county. So if the house is in okay shape and doesn’t violate any building codes, they’ll sign off on it. They’re not going to check whether the drywall is installed properly, take a deep look at the attic ventilation systems, or check the crawl spaces for leaks.

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.

For these two reasons, you should always get a new home inspected.

What About My Home Warranty?

Most newly-built homes have warranty protection built-in for the first year of home ownership. During the first year, the home builder will typically fix just about any and every problem that you come across. HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems are usually covered by up to 2 years, and “Major Structural Components” are also usually covered for up to 10 years.

So, you may think you can just skip a home inspection, and your home warranty will cover you if you have any issues. Don’t make this mistake. Your home warranty is useful, but filing a warranty claim can be time-consuming and costly, and it may be rejected if it’s for a non-covered item, or you’re out of your warranty. Your warranty will likely cover most major issues with your home – but it’s best to get these out of the way first, before you close on the purchase of a new home. You don’t want to purchase a home with major structural flaws.

That’s why it’s so important to have a pre-purchase home inspection, and to have a home inspection contingency built into your contract, to allow you to back out of the purchase process if the home is revealed to have major structural flaws. If you’ve recently purchased a new construction home, it’s a good idea to get an 11-month inspection to catch any issues before the warranty is up.

Think of it this way. Your home inspection is your first line of defense, to eliminate obvious problems. Your warranty is your last line of defense. You should only need to use it if a problem occurs that was not revealed by the initial inspection.

Make Sure Your New Home Is Inspected – And Safeguard Your Purchase

New homes are not always in tip-top shape. Shoddy construction is often a concern – and the sheer number of contractors and subcontractors involved in building a home can mean it has some problems, even if the developers dotted their “i’s” and crossed their “t’s” during construction. So never neglect a pre-purchase home inspection, even for a brand new home.

4 Point Inspection

4 Point Inspection

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4 Point Inspection

Understanding 4-Point Inspections In Florida – What You Need To Know

If you live in Florida, and you’ve recently purchased a home, you may be wondering what “4-point inspection” is, and why you need it. In this article, we’ll discuss the basics about 4-point inspections – what they are, what is included, and what you need to do if any issues are found with your home. Let’s get started now.

What Is A 4-Point Inspection?

A 4-point inspection is a type of home inspection that is required in Florida, either to obtain or maintain insurance coverage. This inspection was designed by home insurance companies to help them get a more comprehensive understanding of the buildings that they are insuring.

This is especially important if you have an older home. Older homes are more likely to be in disrepair, or to have had multiple repairs and additions that may not be up to modern standards. The insurance company must be aware of these things, to ensure that the home is eligible for coverage under their existing underwriting coverage.

For example, older homes often use fuse boxes with screw-in fuses – which was normal (and standard) in homes built in the 1950s. However, some insurance carriers have rules that prevent them from knowingly insuring any home with these kinds of outdated circuit breakers panels.

Most insurance companies will only request a 4-point inspection after the home reaches a certain age. Some others will require any newly-purchased home to have a 4-point inspection performed. This varies, based on your insurance company and their underwriting rules.

What Is Included In A 4-Point Inspection?

The 4-point inspection includes a visual-only examination of the following four systems, as the name suggests.

● HVAC systems
● The roof and related systems
● Plumbing
● Electrical systems

These four “points” are responsible for the vast majority of insurance issues and risks, which is why they are chosen for this inspection.

Do I Need A 4-Point Inspection?

This depends on the age of your home, and your insurer. Most insurers in Florida require a 4-point inspection in homes older than 40 years, or rentals older than 30 years. Make sure to ask your insurer about their policy, to understand if you need an inspection.

What If I Fail A 4-Point Inspection?

There are many things that can cause your home to fail a 4-point inspection, such as shingle roofs that are over 19 years old, roof damage, knob-and-tube electrical wiring, a hot water heater over 18 years old, and other such problems.

Some insurance companies will not insure you at all if you do not fix the problem. Others will insure you – but add an exclusion for the faulty system. For example, if your home has knob-and-tube wiring, it may be insured – but any electrical issues will not be covered.

In most cases, the best thing to do is to replace the faulty system. This may be expensive – but it’s better than risking home damage that is excluded from your insurance policy.

Get A 4-Point Inspection Now In Florida!

If your insurance company is asking for a 4-point inspection, don’t wait. Use our website’s online scheduler to make an appointment now, and ensure that your home is in good shape, and will be covered by your insurance company.

 

Call 904-395-1900

Ten Important Questions to Ask Your Florida Home Inspector

Ten Important Questions to Ask Your Florida Home Inspector

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When you purchase a home in the Sunshine State, it helps to do your homework. First, you shouldn’t buy any property without exploring its potential problems. Obtaining a certified home inspection from a professional who is licensed to practice in Florida will help prospective buyers to better understand any work that a home might require in the near future.

Understanding these anticipated costs may, in rare cases, change their purchasing decision. Such projected expenses may be a negotiating point that buyers can use as leverage. Buyers may wish to negotiate a lower selling price or get the sellers to pay for some closing costs.

Ultimately, knowing a property’s condition protects buyers by making sure you understand the investment you’re about to make.

1. What kind of inspection do you need in Florida?

Many prospective buyers seek an inspector who performs a “Four Point Inspection,” which includes a review of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, the electrical panels and wiring, the plumbing fixtures and connections, and the roof. Expect a report that only covers these four areas, while not addressing other aspects of the property. This is not recommended in place of a full home inspection. These inspections generally are for insurance purposes when the home is 25 years or older.

2. Do you need more than a 4-point inspection?

If you will make a large investment in a home and plan to occupy it within the foreseeable future, you need something more. However, there could be many potential issues in a home to be discovered inside and outside of the structure. This inspection type is recommended for insurance only.

3. Do you need information on Wind Mitigation in the inspector’s report?

Some property inspectors specialize in Wind Mitigation Reports. They help consumers understand how a structure’s roof might perform (in its present state) during hurricane-force winds. Some buyers obtain two home inspections, one from a 4-point inspector and one from a wind mitigation expert. This the only inspection that can reduce your home owners insurance. Generally a good idea when a newer roof has been installed.

4. How long will the inspection process take?

A typical inspection lasts 2 to 3 hours. While you’re encouraged to be at the inspection and ask questions, you also want to give the inspector an opportunity to focus on the home and their findings!

5. When will you get the report?

Some home inspectors use modern reporting technology and deliver the report within 24 hours and in some cases shortly after the inspection. A good inspector will also walk through a summary of the findings with you after the inspection.

Digital reports with lots of photos are a plus!

6. What is Errors and Omissions Insurance?

Inspectors use this kind of professional liability coverage to insure professional mistakes they might make on the job. They don’t want to be sued for omitting important facts from their report. Buyers and sellers could bring false claims against them or assert that they should have discovered a property’s specific issue. Most home inspectors do not carry this due to the cost. Inside & Out Property Inspectors carries 1 million in coverage.

7. Should you get more than one inspection?

If you only need a certificate to give your property insurance company, then a 4-point inspection might suffice. If you want to live in the home without making too many repairs after taking residence, you will want to understand the structure’s integrity. You will want to locate common problems like termites, mold, and Chinese drywall.

8. Should you let the same inspector fix the home’s problems?

In Florida, it is illegal (and a huge conflict of interest) for home inspectors to call out issues on your home and also remedy them. The only exception is WDO (Wood Destroying Organisms) Inspections & Remediation. Some inspectors also have Pest Control businesses. Beware of home inspectors that say they can do repairs.

9. Can you take the property inspector’s word for it?

The inspector has no emotional investment in the inspection process. He or she will give you the straight facts about the home’s condition. You decide how much action (or reaction) to take in response to the expert’s report. Your inspector should have the communication skills to talk you through various findings.

10. What if there are lots of recommendations or defects?

It’s a home inspectors job to point out maintenance items, regular defects and safety hazards. Every home has common issues, so just because a home has a lot of items on the home inspection report doesn’t mean it’s a money pit!

Work with your agent to determine what are priority items that would impact your quality of life. The reality is most homes are safe and ok to live in. Each one will have varying levels of TLC that need to be put in it. Remember, buying a house includes routine maintenance that comes with the responsibility of being a home owner!

10 Common Issues Found on Home Inspections and What To Do

10 Common Issues Found on Home Inspections and What To Do

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When you’ve been in the home inspection business as long as we have, you become familiar with common problems. While we’re used to seeing these typical inspection issues, if you’re in the process of buying or selling a home, it can be a shock. Most issues that turn up on home inspections aren’t deal-breakers though.

Here are 10 of the most common issues, and what you can do about them.

Cracked Grout in the Showers

It’s not just unattractive; cracked grout can lead to loose tiles. Even worse, water can seep in through the cracks and cause damage to the wall behind it. Here’s a video to walk you through the steps of fixing cracked grout.

Hairline Stucco Cracks

Although it’s a very durable finish, it’s not unusual for there to be fine cracks in stucco. If they’re not fixed they can lead to bigger problems down the road, as they allow water in. Here is a tutorial on how to fix hairline cracks.

Stucco Needs Painting

Whether you need to cover the patches in your stucco, or you just need to freshen the color, you may need paint stucco. It’s not that hard, but it is different from painting you may be used to. Here’s some information on how to do it.

GFCI Receptacles Won’t Trip

The outlet could be faulty, or it could be wired incorrectly. This isn’t something you want to ignore, because GFCI receptacles protect you from a fatal shock in case there’s an accident. It’s an easy fix for an electrician.

Garage Door Safety Reverse Doesn’t Work

This is a safety issue because it protects people and pets from getting trapped under the garage door. The good news is that as long as the garage door opener isn’t so old that it doesn’t have this feature, it can probably be fixed by a simple adjustment.

Poor Grading

If the soil around your house isn’t sloped properly, it can allow water to collect around your foundation. This can cause damage to the foundation or even flooding in the basement. It’s definitely worth your time to take care of the drainage around your house. This video shows you how.

Outdated Plumbing

If the plumbing is old, it can cause all kinds of problems. If the pipes are deteriorating or substandard, replacing them will get expensive. However, for more simple problems, you can take care many of these issues on your own. Here’s a great roundup of plumbing tasks that you can learn to do.

Problems With the Air Conditioning

Heating and air conditioning are a huge part of your energy bill. If your air conditioner isn’t working as well as it could, here are some minor repairs you can perform to make it more efficient.

Faulty Wiring

A good inspection will let you know if you have serious electrical issues, such as aluminum wiring. Some electrical problems can be a fire hazard, so you’ll want to take care of it right away. A qualified electrician can make your home safe from wiring hazards.

Poor Ventilation

Modern homes are much more energy efficient, keeping heated or cooled air from escaping. This a great thing for your energy use, but can have negative effects on the air in your home. Without the leaky windows and walls of older homes, moisture in the air can build up inside, leading to mold and mildew. Add in unhealthy fumes from things like cigarette smoke or chemical off-gassing from new carpet or furniture, and the air you breathe can get pretty dirty. Here are some options for improving your home’s ventilation, so you can breathe easier.

A thorough home inspection is vital to let you know what problems a house has, and how extensive they are. Before you know if an issue is something you can tackle yourself, or if it will require an extensive and expensive repair, you need to know exactly what the problem is. At Inside & Out Property Inspectors, our skilled home inspectors are dedicated to getting you the information you need. For a home inspection you can feel confident about, contact us.

Homeowner Resources for New Jacksonville, FL Residents

Homeowner Resources for New Jacksonville, FL Residents

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Moving to Jacksonville, Florida will bring some sunshine to your life. With Jacksonville being one of the top 100 sunniest cities in the United States, you are sure to soak up some joy living there.

Real Estate Overview

Jacksonville is the largest city in Florida and has a population of approximately 907,529, which makes it the most populous as well. The real estate market in this sunny city is warm and healthy. That’s a good sign for everyone involved. The average listing price for a home in this area is $196k, which is just $10k up from March of last year, while the median closing price is $178k. Homes tend to sit on the market for approximately 68 days which is down from 84 days on the market at the beginning of 2017.

Zillow predicts home values will rise by 4.5 % within the next year. Some demographics for Jacksonville, Florida are as follows:

  • Median income for Jacksonville Beach is $62,470
  • Owner-occupied residents make up 64% of the homes
  • 63 % of the population is married
  • The coastal area has more senior citizen population, while the places inland are inhabited by more middle-aged people.
  • The median age was 35.5 years.
  •  “For every 100 females, there were 94.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 91.3 males” (Source: Trulia)

Jacksonville Homeowner Resources

Here are several resources to help make your transition to the area flow more smoothly.

Utilities

1. Heat

Whether you have propane, natural gas, or electric heat, Florida Public Utilities handles all these services. You can contact them here to set up service. Bill payment is convenient by phone, online, or through the mail.

2. Water Department

You can contact JEA to start new service for your water utility. You will need to fill out this form if you have never had service with them before. You can enroll in their autopay program if you don’t want to have the hassle of dealing with your bill every month.

If you prefer you can pay online manually or mail to: JEA P.O. Box 45047 Jacksonville, FL 32232-5047. If you’d like to look at their rate comparison chart, you may do so by clicking on this link. They say their rates are lower than they were six years ago if you adjust for inflation.

3. Waste Management

For residents of Jacksonville, Florida, waste disposal is not costly like it is in rural areas where residents must pay a monthly fee for pick up. You will need to check here to see what day and time your particular waste management provider will be by to collect your items.

The website notes that there is a pickup for garbage, yard waste, and recycling, so that should cover all of your waste management needs.

 

A Few Things To Do in Jacksonville

With such a large city, there’s plenty of things to see and do. Here are just a few of them:

1. Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary located at 1860 Starratt Rd is an exciting time for the whole family, especially if you love big cats. Watch the night feeding while 600 pounds of meat is fed to the “cats” or tour during the day. This sanctuary is a place where these cats are loved and protected.

2. Big Talbot Island State Park is perfect for those who want to enjoy hiking, boating, bird watching, or just enjoying the beauty of nature. Located at 12157 Heckscher Dr, this beautiful park awaits.

3. The Kingsley Plantation will take you back in time. This location is owned by the National Park Administration and contains several historical sites. You will find it at 11676 Palmetto Avenue.

4. Here is a link to the top beaches in the Jacksonville area.

When you’re ready to find the perfect house in Jacksonville, Florida contact us for the best home inspection.

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Jacksonville 7945 Pine Lake Rd, Jacksonville, Florida 32256  |  St. Augustine 52 Tuscan Way, St. Augustine, Florida 32092