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The 7 Most Common Home Inspection Issues in Florida

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Identifying and addressing common home inspection issues is crucial for maintaining the value and safety of a property. That’s why, when it comes to buying a new home in Tampa, Florida, one of the most important steps in the process is the home inspection.

When you understand the most common problems in a residential property, it allows you to negotiate fair prices and request necessary repairs. In this article, we will explore the most common home inspection issues in Florida and provide valuable insights to help you navigate the inspection process with confidence.

Concept art with magnifying glass investigating common home inspection issues

 

1. Roofing Problems


With its intense heat, heavy rainfall, and occasional hurricanes, Tampa, Florida’s climate puts significant stress on roofs. So it should not be a surprise that roof problems are the most common issue found during home inspections.


Because of this, Florida inspectors often find things like

  • Missing shingle(s)
  • Damaged shingle(s)
  • Improper installation
  • Leaks
  • Inadequate ventilation


Unfortunately, these problems can lead to water damage, mold growth, and compromised structural integrity if not addressed promptly.

2. Electrical System Deficiencies


Did you know that an outdated or faulty electrical system can pose serious safety hazards? During a home inspection, inspectors look closely at the electrical panels, wiring, outlets, and switches to make sure you are safe.


Some common electrical problems are

  • Outdated wiring
  • Insufficient grounding
  • Overloaded circuits
  • Improper installations

These problems not only make electrical fires more likely, but they can also cause electrical shocks and damage to appliances and electronics. 

3. Plumbing Leaks and Drainage Problems

Because Tampa, Florida has a high water table and gets a lot of rain, plumbing problems are common. So it makes sense that inspectors would want to check plumbing systems carefully for leaks, water damage, clogged drains, and not enough drainage.

Some of the most common plumbing issues in Florida homes are:

  • Corroded pipes
  • Faulty water heaters
  • Inadequate water pressure
  • Insufficient drainage systems


If you take care of these problems quickly, you can stop water damage, mold growth, and possible health problems.

4. HVAC System Malfunctions


Because of the hot and muggy climate in Tampa, Florida, it is essential to have a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system that is in good working order. It’s important for both comfort and the quality of the air inside the building. 

That is why they check the following when performing an HVAC inspection:

  • AC units
  • Furnaces
  • Ductwork
  • Insulation

Some of the most typical problems involving the HVAC system are:

  • Inadequate cooling or heating
  • Dirty filters
  • Malfunctioning thermostats
  • Wrong unit size
  • Duct leaks
  • Improper installation

Do not let the fact that these issues were found on your home inspection dampen your spirits. Keeping up with routine maintenance and repairs is the key to maximizing comfort and minimizing utility costs.

5. Structural Problems


Florida’s unique geographical features, such as high water tables and sinkhole-prone areas, can lead to structural problems in homes.


This is why inspectors look for signs of foundation issues, such as:

  • Cracks in walls or floors
  • Uneven settling
  • Damaged supports
  • Deteriorating supports


It is critical to address these structural problems promptly to prevent further damage and ensure the safety and stability of the home

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6. Pest Infestations


Florida’s warm and humid climate also creates an ideal breeding ground for
various pests.

Examples of common intruders are

  • Termites
  • Ants
  • Roaches
  • Rodents

Because of this, inspectors thoroughly examine the property for signs of pest infestations, such
as:

  • Termite damage
  • Droppings
  • Nests
  • Gnaw marks

If left untreated, pest infestations can cause extensive damage to the structure and compromise the overall integrity of the home.

7. Mold and Mildew Growth

Tampa, Florida’s high humidity levels make homes susceptible to mold and mildew growth, especially in areas with poor ventilation or water intrusion.


Home inspectors inspect areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and the attic, for signs of

  • Mold
  • Mildew
  • Water damage

Mold can cause health issues and lead to costly remediation if not addressed promptly.

A Closer Look at Common Home Inspection Issues

Buying or selling a home in Florida is an exciting venture, but it also comes with some serious obligations. Understanding and fixing common home inspection issues that affect property value and safety is crucial to this process.

As a buyer, knowing these pitfalls gives you confidence in negotiations. Armed with insights into roofing problems, electrical system deficiencies, plumbing leaks, HVAC malfunctions, structural concerns, pest infestations, and mold growth, you’ll be well-prepared to make informed decisions. By taking appropriate measures early on, you can save yourself from the stress of dealing with costly repairs down the road and ensure your new home remains a safe haven.

For sellers, knowledge of these inspection issues is equally important. Fixing issues before listing your home can boost its value and attract more discerning buyers. Demonstrating a proactive approach to maintenance and repairs shows that you care about your property’s condition and instills trust in potential buyers.

Remember, a comprehensive home inspection is not just a checkbox on your to-do list. It’s an investment in your future—a safeguard for your peace of mind and the long-term value of your property.

At Divinity Inspection Services, we understand the significance of this journey, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. With our experienced inspectors and meticulous approach, we leave no stone unturned in identifying and explaining potential issues. 

We believe in empowering our clients with knowledge, giving them the confidence to make the right decisions.

So don’t let uncertainties hold you back! Reach out to us today for your free quote. 

Let us join you on this adventure, unlocking the secrets of home inspection and helping you embark on a path of confidence and security.

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The Holiday Cleaning Checklist

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If you are the one hosting a holiday party, then you might already be thinking about your holiday cleaning checklist. Keeping a home organized, much less clean, during the Christmas season can be very challenging. Especially if you have young ones running around and contributing to the mess. Some may even attempt to de-clutter their home before the end of the year to start off on the right foot. Either way, this checklist should get you moving in the right direction. This holiday cleaning checklist can help you get and stay organized, create a sparkling clean home in time for gatherings, or de-clutter your house before the year is up.

One Up and Two Down

Some holiday gifts can replace something you already own. Unfortunately, many times we forget to get rid of the item replaced. You end up with two coffee makers or five sets of pajamas. This year, when you get one item try getting rid of two. This will not only make sure you replace an item, it also helps you to de-clutter. If your child received new socks, find the old or outgrown ones and throw them out.

Not Everything has to go Up

Even an attic full of decorations doesn’t mean the house has to be full of decorations too. This year, especially if you are showing your home for sale, keep the decorations to a minimum. Keep some decorations put away and just use the minimal on both the inside and the outside.

Oosoujii

Oosoujii is a Japanese holiday dedicated to de-cluttering and cleaning the home. The last week of the year is spent focusing on the home. In Oosoujii, each year is seen as separate and distinct, the final week of the old year is devoted to cleaning, decluttering and organizing.

We hope these little tips get you moving in the right direction. There are many tasks you can add to your holiday cleaning checklist and these are only a few to get you started. We do home inspections all throughout the holiday season and you can make an appointment with us directly on our website.

Sources:

8 Ways to Keep Your Home Clean Through the Holidays

https://organizedhome.com/seasonal-spin/cut-clutter-after-christmas

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How to Show your home during the Holiday Season

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If you are showing your home during the holiday season it can be a little tricky. Between holiday decorations, parties, and deterring home theft, the holidays can make it all that much harder. Have no fear, we are here to help! Follow some of these tips to show your home during the holiday season and also have peace of mind.

Keep decorations to a minimum

If you love to saturate your home in decorations during the holidays, you will want to hold off on it. A lot of decorations can be overwhelming and distracting for any person interested in viewing your home. Decorating also means leaving out some of your potentially valuable stuff for grabs. Avoid all of this by decorating very little. You can even wait until a week before Christmas to stop showing the home, decorate, and enjoy the season. You still have control and what you do should be what works best for you.

Curb Appeal vs. Curb Safety

You may never have thought about it, but decorations can also be a hazard. This wire lines, extension chords, and decorations across your walk-way can actually be a tripping hazard. The last thing you want is someone who is viewing your home to trip over things as they walk in.

Selling during the Holiday Season

Many sites claim selling your home through the holiday is great timing! But this also means you need to have excellent pictures and videos of your home. As home-buyers start their process doing online searches, you will want your home’s pictures to stand out! Don’t skimp on this area. Make sure your home is immaculate before taking any pictures.

Comfy and Cozy

Have you ever stepped into a home that just feels cozy? The house makes you want to wrap up in a blanket and sit in front of the fireplace? This is the feeling you want to evoke, especially during the winter and holiday season. Light the fireplace, light some candles, bake some cookies, and decorate a Christmas tree. Create that comfy cozy feeling people will enjoy!

We hope this little tips help as you work your way through the holiday season. Don’t forget Divinity Inspections is still working too so give us a call when you are ready to schedule your pre-listing home inspection or your pre-purchasing home inspection!

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What happens if your Home Inspector misses something?

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Finally you are in the last stage of purchasing your home and you are jumping through the last hoop: a home inspection. Many home-buyers find the home inspection process very stressful. The idea of finding something wrong with your new home that could potentially hinder the buying process is not fun. Even worse, what happens if your home inspector misses something?

Start with the right home inspector

Getting through the process calmly has a lot to do with trusting your home inspector. Remember he’s on your side! Not only is Divinity home inspectors going to find and explain any issues in detail, we’re going to do everything we can to offer you advice or guidance in how to fix your home issues. Either way, make sure you choose a home inspector that has a lot of good recommendations and a good reputation.

Attend your home inspection

Attending your home inspection is really important. Not only might it calm your nerves, but attending will also allow your inspector to point out anything they come across that is concerning. If you notice an inspector hesitate at the idea of your presence during the inspection, that is a big red flag! Any inspector should be very comfortable with the home buyer or home owner present during their inspection. Remember, it’s your job to make the most our of your home inspection.

What if your home inspector misses something?

Most home inspectors are not going to miss any major issues with your home, however it could happen. Sellers are required to disclose any major issues with the home before they sell it. If they don’t, proving they did would be more costly than it’s worth. You can bring the issue up to the home inspector. As long as you used one with decent liability insurance that covers more than just the cost of the inspection, odds are decent you’ll be compensated for any damages. Again, you’ll have to prove it. For example, if the inspector said the roof was in good condition, but there was a leak months later during a big storm, you would have to prove that nothing happened in the intervening time that damaged the roof.

Divinity Inspection service not only are fully licensed, but our inspectors are trained not to miss anything. We encourage you to attend your home inspection and we take the time to walk you through everything we do. You can schedule your inspection right here on our site!

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The Face Value of a Home Inspection

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What is the face value of a home inspection? Instinctively you might say the answer depends on who you ask. What you may not realize is the real face value of a home inspection depends on your home and you! Not only that, but your home inspector plays a huge role in the value of your home inspection.

What if I asked you how much your car was worth, retail? Now if I asked you how much you would sell it for, that answer will probably be different. What you are willing to sell for vs. what you know your car is worth are two different numbers. This is the case for most things in life, and a home inspection is no exception. So, what is the real face value of a home inspection?

For any home buyer, the purchase of the home is highly dependent on the home inspection report. A good home inspection can save you from having to replace the roof, replace the water heater or another appliance. It can also help you avoid purchasing a home with potentially disastrous issues, like replacing all of the electrical or plumbing. We are talking tens of thousands of dollars in repairs! You may pay $500 (or less, or more depending on the size of the home) and it could save you thousands and thousands of dollars. Now that is a return on your investment.

Home buyers want the home inspection to report no major issues. Because the goal is to make sure no major issues exist in the home, this somehow has become a reason to expect home inspections to cost less. You get what you pay for and that goes for your inspection. Why would you pay less for a home inspection when the risk is so big? So we come back around to the important question – what is the face value of a home inspection? Now that you have all of this information you may find that your answer has changed.