1. What is a home inspection?
2. Why should I get a home inspection?
3. What is the best time for a home inspection?
4. How do I know my inspector is qualified?
5. What does a home inspection include?
6. What if the report reveals problems?
7. If the report is great, did I really need an inspection?
8. Can a house fail an inspection?
9. Is a termite inspection included in a home inspection?
10. Can I perform a home inspection myself?
11. Can I be present during the inspection?
12. How much does an inspection cost?
13. How long will the on-site inspection take?
14. Will you repair the things you find wrong during the inspection?
15. What is FABI?
16. What is NACHI?
17. What is ICC?

What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a visual examination of the physical structure, mechanical systems and functional components of a home.

Why should I get a home inspection?
An inspection will determine the components of a home that are not performing properly, as well as items that are beyond their useful life or are unsafe.  The purchase of a home is probably the largest single investment you will ever make. The entire home buying process can be very stressful. After a thorough home inspection by a qualified, impartial, professional inspector, you should have a clearer understanding of the property you are about to purchase, and you will be able to make your decision confidently.

What is the best time for a home inspection?
Most Real Estate contracts specify a period of time for inspections to be performed.  The best time to determine which inspector you will use is prior to your offer.  The inspection should be scheduled as soon a possible after the contract is accepted and within the inspection contingency period.

How do I know my inspector is qualified?
Most purchasers are unaware that home inspection is an unregulated field in the state of Florida. It is important that your inspector has the necessary qualifications and experience.  Don’t be afraid to ask.

What does a home inspection include?
A complete home inspection includes a visual examination of the house from top to bottom. The inspector examines the heating system, the central air conditioning system (when temperature permits), the interior plumbing and electrical systems, the roof and visible insulation, walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors, the foundation, and visible structure.  Please click on the Items Inspected section on our home page for a complete listing.

What if the report reveals problems?
There are almost no perfect homes.  Even newly constructed homes will have defects noted on an inspection report.  This is why we recommend an inspection even for new construction. Your inspector will be able to identify problems that are costly to repair or pose hazards to safety.  Minor defects are to be expected.  The findings of the inspection report may be used for further negotiation or release of financial obligations.

If the report is great, did I really need an inspection?
When you go to the Doctor for a physical and get a clean bill of heath do you feel as if you didn’t need to go?  The only way to be certain that the home is all it appears to be is to have a professional inspector go through it.  Based upon his findings you can proceed with the transaction with peace of mind.

Can a house fail an inspection?
No. A professional home inspection is simply an examination into the current condition of your prospective home. It is not an appraisal or a Municipal Code Inspection. A home inspector, therefore, will not pass or fail a house, but will simply describe its condition and indicate which items, if any, will be in need of immediate or future major repair or replacement.

Is a termite inspection included in a home inspection?
Some home inspection companies include the termite inspection and others do not.  We can set up a termite inspection for you with an independent, state certified licensed company.  Florida state regulations regarding pest control companies prohibit licensing of outside employees for termite inspection work.

Can I perform a home inspection myself?
Most homeowners have the ability to see obvious areas of concern. Our inspector is a professional who has performed thousands of home inspections. His background, experience, and knowledge allow him to see defects that the average person may overlook. His ability to remain completely objective will give you a clear picture of the home you are purchasing.

Should You Attend The Inspection?
If at all possible, you should definitely attend the inspection.  Your attendance will be beneficial to your understanding of the inspection process, and may allow you to view deficiencies noted in the report.  Your presence also allows you to view the property at length, and ask any questions you may have regarding the property.

How much does an inspection cost?
The fee for a home inspection varies depending on the size of a house, particular features, age, special structures etc. However, cost should not be a factor in the decision whether or not to have a home inspection. The cost is negligible compared to the knowledge and peace of mind gained by the inspection.  Our fee schedule is listed on our web site.

How long will the on-site inspection take?
The time an inspection will take varies based on the particulars of each residence. Age, size and condition all affect the amount of time it takes to conduct a thorough inspection.  A newer home, under 2000 sq. ft., in relatively good condition should take a minimum of two man hours.

Will you repair the things you find wrong during the inspection?
Although our inspector’s background gives him the ability and knowledge to make most repairs, we do not conduct repairs on properties we inspect.

What is FABI?
The Florida Association of Building Inspectors, Inc., formed as a non-profit voluntary professional society, has adopted formal inspection guidelines, a professional code of ethics, and gives consumers an assurance of professionalism. Members of FABI are independent professionals who operate their own inspection services.  Inspectors that are FABI certified have passed a rigorous test, and must meet continuing education standards each year.  FABI inspectors must also meet the recognized Standards of Practice set forth by the organization and prove experience. Click on the link on our home page for more information about FABI.

What is NACHI?
The National Association of Certified Home Inspectors is the largest inspection association in North America.  NACHI is the industry's largest provider of continuing education and host to hundreds of inspection events each year.  NACHI believes that just as continuing education is vital, so is continual testing.  Inspectors who have passed the initial NACHI test must continue to be tested yearly and are required to view and respond to the NACHI internet message board monthly.  Click on the link on our home page for more information about NACHI.

What is ICC?
The International Code Council established in 1994 as a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to developing a single set of comprehensive and coordinated national model construction codes. The founders of the ICC are Building Officials and Code Administrators International, Inc. (BOCA), International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO), and Southern Building Code Congress International, Inc. (SBCCI). Since the early part of the last century, these nonprofit organizations developed the three separate sets of model codes used throughout the United States. Although regional code development has been effective and responsive to our country’s needs, the time came for a single set of codes. The nation’s three model code groups responded by creating the International Code Council and by developing codes without regional limitations, the International Codes.  The current Florida Code as adopted is, with few exceptions, the ICC Code.  Click on the link on our home page for more information about ICC.