hiring a home inspector inspector with yellow hard hat scaled

What You Need to Know Before Hiring a Home Inspector

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hiring a home inspectorBuying a home is an enormous investment, and as a homebuyer, you have the right to know exactly what you are purchasing. A thorough home inspection report can give you the information and understanding you deserve. 

But all inspection services are not made equal. Before hiring a home inspector, you need to do a little homework, ask questions, and get to know their clientele. 

Let’s dive right in and discover exactly what you need to know!

Level of Experience and Knowledge

Before you decide on a home inspection company, you should find out how much experience and knowledge they have. An inspection team with the proper training, credentials, and insurance protects you and your best interests.

Ask questions like:

  • How long have you been inspecting homes?
  • What are your certifications?
  • Are you bonded and insured?
  • What are your standards of practice?
  • How do you stay up-to-date on information? 

Of course, if someone has 50 years of experience, that may seem impressive, but then the question begs, how current is their knowledge? You want your home inspector to have a balance between experience and education. 

Answering Your Questions

Divinity Inspection Service has served customers in the Tampa Bay Area since 1979. We are bonded, insured, and certified. Our standards of practice are outlined by the InterNACHI which is an international standard set to provide you with a thorough analysis of your home from top to bottom.

Every inspector on the Divinity Inspection Service team has a minimum of five years of experience inspecting homes, and they are continually trained in new inspection technology and tools. 

Many of our inspectors are or have been construction contractors. Their understanding of the way a home should be built is superior to standard home inspectors because they could build your house themselves!

Referrals or References

Word of mouth is golden. If someone you know had a home inspection and loved the service they received, that is where you should start. 

But not everyone has a friend or family member who had a good experience hiring a home inspector. After all, a quality home inspector should provide customers with a meticulous and accurate report that helps them to make an educated decision about the residential property they plan to buy or sell. 

So how can you find the best home inspector in Tampa Bay without referrals? Ask the company for references! If a business is unable to provide you with a list of references, continue your search elsewhere.

Another way to check out what other people think is through reviews and social media. Since these platforms are public, it’s very easy to find out exactly what customers like you think of the company. 

Visit us on Facebook or browse our reviews on Yelp and Google.

Transparency

A home inspector is your ally. You should be able to trust them to inform you of everything they find. When they are transparent, they explain things to you and let you walk along with them during their inspection.

If an inspector doesn’t want to speak with you openly about the company, their practices, or the inspections, it’s a huge red flag. When hiring a home inspector, you deserve transparency. If they aren’t willing to give you that, they may be hiding something like inexperience. 

Sample Reports

Inspection services should always have a sample report available. This gives customers a preview of what to expect during and after an inspection. 

After all, you should know what you are paying for. 

Every inspection service business is different. Some send your report by digital file, others use a printed checklist that includes every aspect they will inspect. The form that your sample report comes in doesn’t give it any more or less worth. What you need to look for is detail.

The more thorough your inspector is, the longer the sample report will be. If you are feeling a little overwhelmed, that’s okay. Your inspector should be happy to answer your questions.

What you don’t want to see is too much simplicity. Collect sample reports from multiple companies so that you can compare them. Hiring a home inspector is a careful process that takes time and patience. 

Hiring a Home Inspector in Tampa Bay

The joy of purchasing a new property might distract you from the hidden flaws that threaten your finances. But they will remain a burden far after the excitement wears off. Always opt to receive a home inspection before signing! 

Divinity Inspection Service is available 7 days a week to inspect your house in Tampa Bay and provide the most thorough reports available. If you are looking for a home inspector that you can trust, get in touch with us.

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What is an Infrared Thermal Imaging Inspection?

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Thermal image of house

How do you know if the home you want to buy has faulty wiring, a leaky HVAC system, or moisture intrusion? After all, nobody has x-ray vision!

Well, a home inspector comes very close to obtaining that superpower with thermal imaging. By using handy thermal imaging cameras, the inspector can see behind walls, ceilings, and floors without disturbing the house. 

But the infrared imaging camera doesn’t depict a true picture of what is behind the surface, instead it displays the temperature differences by detecting long-wave infrared radiation. This process of thermal energy observation is called infrared thermography. 

If you remember the movie The Predator, you’ll recall that the creature could only see Arnold Schwarzenegger as a red figure while everything else was blue. That was because the predator could see Arnold’s body heat, which was warmer than his cool surroundings. These infra-red waves are light from the electromagnetic spectrum that cannot be detected by the human eye. 

What the predator saw was infrared light. And thermal imaging cameras act in much the same way. They display a visual representation of infra-red radiation waves in a grayscale picture called a thermogram. Then the device colors that image for easier identification. 

Some people freak out when they hear the word “radiation,” but everything emits infrared radiation; It’s created by the vibration of atoms and molecules. Higher temperatures make them shake more violently, emitting more energy.

Why Do I Need an Infrared Thermal Imaging Inspection? 

Eliminating guesswork can save hundreds if not thousands of dollars. When water damage is found or electrical malfunction is suspected, time is of the essence. You need to find the source fast and repair it.

When you receive an infrared thermal imaging inspection, the special infrared thermographic camera allows an inspector to easily find hot spots or cold spots that can pinpoint the exact place that needs attention.

The list of critical flaws an infrared thermal imaging inspection can detect can go on forever, but 8 of the most common problems we find are:

  • Roof leaks
  • Plumbing leaks
  • Water intrusion
  • Missing insulation
  • Damaged insulation
  • Electrical fire hazards
  • Heat loss
  • Air infiltration

An infrared camera helps us to accurately identify damaged areas that can lead to energy loss, mold growth, or wood rot. These areas include the:

  • Foundation
  • Windows
  • Doors
  • Roof
  • In-Floor Heating
  • Electrical system
  • Plumbing system

How Do I Get an Infrared Thermal Imaging Inspection in Tampa, Florida?

Every homeowner and homebuyer should do their research and decide whether an infrared thermal imaging inspection is right for them. There are some instances where thermal imaging will not work. Consult your home inspector to find out if you will benefit from this inspection based on your property and the concerns you have.

This inspection is not a part of a home inspection. It can stand alone or follow up a home inspection to better “see into” the problems of a house. When signs of water damage, pipe issues, or electrical failure is evident, further investigation is necessary to find exactly where the problem is located. 

Infrared Thermal Imaging Inspection Near Me

If you live in the Tampa Bay area in Florida and need an infrared thermal imaging inspection, don’t wait. Your worries and fears are valid. An expert from Divinity Inspection Services will provide you with a thorough inspection and report. 

Thermal imaging is a godsend to homeowners and home buyers. Without it, a contractor would break through drywall and plaster to physically examine the suspected location and find the problem. Now, we can use a handy tool to get in there and look around without making a mess.

Contact Divinity Inspection Services today to schedule your appointment.

 

Why You Need a Termite Inspection Performed

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termite inspection to prevent termite damage like this

termite inspection to prevent termite damage like thistermite inspection to prevent termite damage like thistermite inspection to prevent termite damage like thisThe state of Florida has a big termite population. It is heavily infested by these insects because the climate is perfect for them totermite inspection to prevent termite damage like this thrive, and the chances of them finding their way to your property is high. 

According to the FDACS, a department that regulates and licenses the pest control industry in Florida, termites harm property in Florida more than fires, flooding, and hurricanes combined!

Protecting your home from the damage of these pests is crucial. You always need a Home Inspection, followed by a Termite Inspection when buying a home. When you choose Divinity Inspection Services to perform your Home Inspection Service, we will report any evidence of termites that we may find during our thorough analysis of your home.

But you should always follow up with a Termite and Other Wood Destroying Organism Report (WDO Report) performed by a certified inspector. These professionals must have an ID card provided by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services in order to perform an official termite inspection on the property.

What is the Purpose of a Termite Inspection?

A WDO Report not only identifies every area on the property that shows signs of infestation or past termite damage, but also the severity of that damage. In addition, your termites will be officially identified.

Not all termites are alike, in fact, there are four different species that could be digging around in and around your home:

  • Dampwood
  • Drywood
  • Subterranean
  • Conehead

Each species of termite requires a specific pest control method to get rid of them fast. So not only do you need to determine if you have them, but which ones are invading your home.

Finding Termites Isn’t Easy

Termites aren’t always easy to spot. They tend to pick areas that are hidden that you wouldn’t ordinarily investigate. In fact, if you find thousands of termites in a structure, the infestation has been going on for a very long time. 

Inspectors who specialize in termite damage detection have advanced methods that allow them to accurately identify termite infestation without taking apart the walls and floorboards. However, most termite signs are in plain sight. 

You need an expert who knows these signs so you can exterminate these pests before they wreak havoc on your wood. Some of the indicators of termite mounds or nests are strange and unusual like a pile of discarded wings, mud tubes, hollow wood, and insect droppings.

Termite Inspections Help Prevent Severe Damage

The key to saving money over termite damage is prevention. Although pretreatments exist, you can’t completely stop these destructive insects from finding a way into your home. Therefore the best form of prevention is detection. 

You should have your house inspected for termites at least once a year. If evidence of an infestation is found, you can aggressively treat the problem before it can cause serious damage to the structure of your house.

Time is of the essence because these insects can cause incredible devastation at an alarming rate. Homeowners may be oblivious to 2 million termites munching away at the wood on their property for years. 

Instead, property owners only notice that their floors sag, drywall is discolored, or tiles are loose. As soon as renovation begins, the pests are discovered along with thousands of dollars in more repairs!

Termite Damage is Expensive to Fix

Thousands of dollars is not an overstatement! Pest control treatment and repairing the property damage of these tiny menaces will cost homeowners $3,000 to $9,000 on average. 

What is worse is that most standard home insurances will not cover the damages, forcing you to pay out of pocket.

But my property is a new construction, does it still need a termite inspection?

Even new constructions can be infested with termites! While it’s true that termites are strongly attracted to rotting wood, these insects aren’t picky. 

Even if your property is brand new, they will find a way to survive there. Since the population of these pests is enormous in Florida, they take every opportunity they can and will move into your new home before you do.

Divinity Inspection Services Serving Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Brooksville

Divinity Inspection Services will meticulously inspect your home from top to bottom and report any signs that may indicate you have a pest problem. Schedule your next home inspection here. 

Once the information is in your hands, it’s up to you to decide what to do with it.

Termites cost property owners in the United States approximately 5 billion dollars every year, according to the National Pest Management Association of America. You must be proactive in pest control to prevent yourself from being a part of that statistic.

Have your home checked annually for termite infestation. Then you can stop them before they can seriously harm your house, garage, shed, fences, or landscaping.

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What is a Home Warranty Inspection?

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house protection - Home Warranty InspectionYou bought a newly constructed home and decided that the home warranty was worth it. But after 11 months, your one-year warranty period is almost up. 

Some home warranties can last two to five years so it’s crucial to remain aware of how long your protection lasts. Mark your calendar to keep track!

Schedule a reminder 1 month before its expiration date. This will give you the time you need to plan a home warranty inspection with Divinity Inspection Service.

 

Why Do I Need a Home Warranty Inspection?

Let’s face it, although sellers are supposed to be transparent about problems, many of them hide property flaws on purpose. No matter how meticulous a home inspector is, even the best cannot catch every issue, especially if they were intentionally covered up.

Some home sellers paint over water-damaged walls, repair foundation cracks, and otherwise disguise telltale signs to keep us off the trail when we perform our intial home inspection during the home buying process. But after a few months, that leaky roof or faulty plumbing has had time to reveal itself again. You may not notice it, but an inspector will.

Even small problems can have huge consequences. So even if you think a defect is insignificant, it’s within your best interests to get as much out of your warranty as possible. If issues aren’t corrected, they can lead to more expensive renovations or restorations in the future. 

Are you prepared to handle the cost of those repairs out of pocket? 

No, and you don’t have to!

You should not pay for repairs that were the fault of the builder or OEM manufacturer. This is exactly why home warranties exist.

How Do I File a Home Warranty Repair Claim?

The easiest and most successful way to file a home warranty repair claim is to have an experienced and trustworthy property inspector identify any and all concerns in a thorough report. Then, you can present the report to the builder or warranty company. A Divinity home inspector will help provide you with adequate proof and offer friendly guidance and support to make the process go smoothly. 

Once your request is processed, the builder will correct their mistakes or the home warranty company will send a technician to your door.

Does My Home Warranty Need to Almost Expire Before I Receive a Home Warranty Inspection?

No! You can schedule a home warranty inspection at any point while your home warranty is active. If you feel that your home is not up to standards and want to file a claim, it’s best to have it documented by your trusted home inspection service right away.

What Does a Home Warranty Inspection Entail?

Divinity Inspection Service abides by InterNACHI standards of practice to inspect your home. Our home warranty inspection is performed similarly to a new construction inspection. 

Our home warranty inspection checklist includes the:

We analyze form and functionality as well as damage and water intrusion. Our inspectors are or were contractors and understand how your home should be constructed. This offers them an insider’s perspective that allows them to pinpoint construction defects quickly and effectively.

Are You Looking for a Home Warranty Inspection in Tampa Florida?

When Divinity Inspection Service performs a home warranty inspection, we can catch construction mistakes before your protection ends. By having a thorough inspection performed on your home, you can feel secure knowing that your warranty will be put to good use. 

Benefit from your warranty by saving money on necessary repairs! Hire a certified home inspector today and put your worries at ease.

Contact us to request a comprehensive property inspection.

 

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Why Water Drainage is Important

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Water damage is one of the most common high-cost repairs that homeowners face. And there are so many ways that it can happen. 

You may know about the risks of gaps and holes in and around the exterior of the house. A leaky roof or a window with improper insulation can allow water to get inside, causing wood rot and mold growth.

People are always concerned about their water, sewer, and septic systems too. If pipes burst or toilets overflow, the cost to dry out and replace ruined materials can be astronomical.

But there is another culprit to water damage that isn’t discussed as much as it should be – water drainage! When water flow doesn’t go where it should, the results will always be bad news for your property.

So what do you need to look out for? 

There are multiple areas of a home where drainage problems can lead to a watery disaster. These include the:

  • Utility Room
  • Roof and Gutters
  • Ground Surface

Let’s explore each of these home inspection focuses in more detail.Why Water Drainage is Important

Utility Room Drainage

If your hot water heater, HVAC system, or washing machine malfunctions, there is a really good chance that water will be everywhere. That’s why utility rooms and laundry rooms need excellent drainage. A part of the home inspector’s job is to check where a wave of liquid would travel within these locations of your home. 

If it were to collect around your walls, it would cause serious water damage. But if the floors are sloped properly and that decline leads to a drain, you’re in luck! Your appliance repair will be an isolated financial cost. That’s the ideal situation every homeowner should aim for.

An inspector doesn’t need to pour water on your floor to know if your utility room has sufficient drainage. It’s easy to test if the floor slopes with a leveling staff.

Roof and Gutter Drainage

If water pools on the top of your house, it has a high chance of seeping inside. Most housing materials are water-resistant, not waterproof. They are designed to keep moisture away in most circumstances.

But if the moisture persists in one place, the water will likely get inside. A well-built home in good condition will direct water off of and away from the sides of the building.

A roof should be sloped enough to allow water to runoff from it with ease. If pooling takes place, the water has a high chance of seeping inside. 

A professional roofing contractor will install your flashing in a way that hangs slightly over doors and windows to guide rainwater away from these joints. If the flashing is too short, the frames will be exposed to moisture regularly and need to be replaced more often.

The eaves and gutters of a home are there to also lead rain away from the sides of the property, especially the foundation. While the eaves keep water far away from the exterior walls, the gutters take further action by offering a pathway for the rain to drain far away from the foundation. 

A home inspector will check the eaves for signs of leaks and inspect the gutters’ integrity. They will also measure how far away from the home the gutters drain. Should they find an issue, water damage may be present within the walls or at the foundation level.

Ground Surface Drainage

Water should never get close to the foundation of your residence. Just like the floor of your utility room, the ground around your home should direct water away from your walls to prevent moisture penetration.

As recommended by the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), a home’s ground surface should be slanted at an angle so that the ground 10 feet away from the property is six inches lower than the ground immediately next to the home’s foundation.

The amount is so small that it’s difficult to see with the naked eye. Once again, a handy leveling staff can help. 

Home Inspection Water Drainage Concerns in Tampa

If you are concerned about the structural integrity of a house, hire an expert who has the skills and understanding to detect drainage problems before they cause thousands of dollars in damages. We’ll do a complete inspection of the house from top to bottom and present you with a detailed report. 

Divinity Inspection Services employs inspectors that are well qualified and have previous contracting experience. They are not only knowledgeable about how to evaluate a home but also about how to construct one effectively.

Schedule our visit today!