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FAQ's
What is a 'Certified Professional Inspector'?
The requirements to earn your International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI®) Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)® credentials are very rigorous and stringent. Property Inspectors are designated as a "Certified Professional Inspector" or "CPI" after passing many tests consisting of virtually every aspect of home and business property inspections. All InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspectors are required to pass a vigorous Inspector Exam for each and every subject regarding building inspections, follow comprehensive Standards of Practice, abide by a strict Code of Ethics, and take accredited Continuing Education courses each year in order to maintain their membership, CPI certification and state inspector license in good standing. The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI®) is a national and state recognized and fully accredited association that certifies CPI's, accredited by the US Department of Education and all states within the US. Please note that becoming an InterNACHI® CPI does not mean that an inspector is state-certified. Each state has their own requirements to become a licensed home, professional or code inspector and these often differ from the InterNACHI® CPI requirements. Many states require that inspectors obtain a professional license in order to conduct business. There are varying regulations and requirements for the licensing programs that vary by state. Our professional inspectors at Florida Property Inspector Services are licensed Florida home inspectors and nationally Certified Professional Inspectors.
What is a Certified Professional Inspectors Scope of Work?
The purpose of a home inspection is not to guarantee the safety or operation of the components of a home, or to certify the home as 'code compliant', but to provide the homebuyer with a non-invasive visual only examination of the structure and the systems contained therein in order to enable the buyer to make a more informed purchasing decision. A general home or commercial property inspection is a non-invasive, visual only examination of the accessible areas of a residential or commercial property which is designed to help identify defects within specific systems and components, defined by standards that are both observed and deemed material by the inspector. It does not identify all defects within specific systems and components. Home inspections performed to nationally recognized Standards of Practice are intended to provide the client with information regarding the overall basic condition of installed systems and components of the home based on observation of the visible and apparent condition of the structure and components at the time of the home inspection and to report on those systems and components inspected that, in the professional opinion of the inspector, are significantly deficient or at the end of their service life. A home inspection does not include the prediction of future conditions, only those visual conditions and observations present at the time of the inspection based on a visual only observation. The inspectors scope of work may be agreed to by the Client and Inspector prior to the inspection process. The inspection is performed for a fee.
A general home or commercial property inspection report should identify, in written format, defects within specific systems and components defined by standards that are both observed and deemed material by the inspector. Inspection reports may include additional comments and recommendations by the inspector and shall always accompany an agreement or contract, scope of work and limitation of liability clause(s).
What Are The Limitations, Exceptions and Exclusions of a Property Inspection?
Again, the purpose of a home inspection is not to guarantee the safety or operation of the components of a home but to provide the homebuyer with a non-invasive visual only examination of the structure and the systems contained therein in order to enable the buyer to make a more informed purchasing decision.
Limitations:
I. The inspector is not required to determine:
A home inspection is not a safety inspection, but rather a service provided to help facilitate a real estate transaction. These inspections are visual and are in no way remotely similar to a building code inspection. A home inspection does not place the home under the control of the home inspector and thus subject to issues at a future time. Existing problems with a home or problems at the time of a home inspections are not a direct result of a breach of the home inspector’s duty to inspect and report on the condition of the home. An inspection agreement does not equate the home inspector-homebuyer relationship to a special relationship deserving of special protection. There are exceptions to the above standards of inspection which require specific certifications and contractual agreements in writing in order to perform the inspection. The inspector must adhere to specific Standards of Practice requirements regarding inspections based on the current Standards of Practice (SOP) of the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (“InterNACHI®”) which can be found at www.nachi.org/sop.htm and those delineated by applicable state laws, statutes, ordinances and administrative codes.
Why Hire a Licensed and InterNACHI Certified Professional Inspector?
InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspectors are trained and certified by the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, the world’s largest association of residential and commercial property inspectors, which provides its members with nationally accredited training and education. We make every effort to serve our clients with the highest quality inspections for their largest investments, and we fully abide by comprehensive Standards of Practice to ensure that you receive an accurate and thorough property inspection. InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspectors also must abide by a strict Code of Ethics, which puts our clients first and protects their rights as consumers. We use state-of-the-art inspection tools and reporting software in order for our clients can make fully informed decisions about the properties they want to buy or sell. Our job isn’t complete until you understand everything in your report and you are fully satisfied. We are also licensed by the State of Florida to perform inspections. As an InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspector®: required to stay up to date with the industry’s most rigorous Continuing Education through online, video and live training courses, which have been awarded more than 1,400 approvals and accreditations by governmental and other agencies;
For the Home Buyer
Typically the buyer of the home will pay for the home inspection. It is important to understand the overall condition of your investment, especially since a home is probably the largest purchase you may ever make. We provide a non-invasive examination of the home’s accessible structure, systems and components. A home inspection cannot reveal every issue or defect that exists since an inspection is not a prediction of future conditions, but only the current conditions on the day of the inspection. It will, however, significantly reduce your concerns regarding a home purchase by providing you with the knowledge to make an informed home-buying decision. A professional home inspection informs the homebuyer of the property’s current condition. We can identify most issues and determine if they are merely cosmetic, or might possibly be visual evidence of a more important issue or major defect that requires immediate repair. A stain on the ceiling may simply be the result of an old, resolved leak, or it could indicate ongoing chronic roof leakage and water damage which can be costly to repair. We use Infrared Camera inspections to determine and verify these types of issues. The report you receive from a home inspector will give you the information you need to decide whether or not to buy a property, as well as how much money to offer based on any required repairs. Under Florida law, a buyer can sue the homeowner for damages, and even rescind a contract or a transaction when a seller or real estate agent does not reveal a material defect with the home prior to purchase. If you purchase a home in Florida and you learn after closing about a material defect with the property, you may have a legal claim against the seller or real estate agent. In Florida, an “as is” contract means that the seller will not be paying for any repairs. It does not relieve the seller from any legal duty to fully disclose material defects with the home. The party who knows about a defect of a home they represent or sell, breached their statutory duty to you, the buyer, by not disclosing the material defect. The person who does this may be found to be financially responsible for remedying the defect with the home in a court of competent jurisdiction. The Supreme Court has said "The doctrine of caveat emptor does not exempt a seller from responsibility for the statements and representations which he makes to induce the buyer to act, when under the circumstances these amount to fraud..." Almost always, this claim will be against the seller. However, you may also have a legal claim against others involved in the transaction, which may include the seller’s real estate agent; the seller’s real estate broker; and the property appraiser or survey professional. They may all be jointly liable to you for financial damages resulting from their failure to tell you about the defect or issue(s) with the property before your purchase. This is why it is so vitally important to obtain a home inspection from us prior to purchasing a home, whether new or old.
For the Home Seller
Are you selling your home? Let us inspect it before you even list it. A 'Move-In Certified' Seller Inspection will alert you to any defects or problems with your home and as such, you can address these issues before any prospective buyers discover them breaking the deal, and provide the buyer with a comprehensive inspection report. Subsequently, you can take the time you need to obtain reasonable repair estimates in addition to showing prospective buyers that you are dealing with them in good faith. Avoid 11th-hour negotiations and delays, and justify your full asking price by having your home pre-inspected now. Sometimes the homeowner, or seller, may choose to have a pre-listing home inspection performed to find out if there are any issues that need to be addressed or repaired before putting the home on the market. The seller typically pays for a pre-listing home inspection.
For the Real Estate Professional
As a real estate agent professional himself, John Sims knows that your reputation as a Realtor is your most valuable asset, and as a Realtor, your clients fully rely on you to guide them through a complicated, lengthy and stressful home or business purchasing process. We only work with agents who are really concerned about their clients, so they want them to have the best service and get the right house for them. Don't jeopardize your real estate deal over insignificant inspection items or voluminous inspection reports that cover items that really don't matter in the larger scheme of things. In fact, some inspectors tend to go above and beyond their expertise and legal requirements which can be a liability to the Realtor, the seller and the inspector. We continue to see quite a few inspection reports throughout the industry that are completely outside of the scope of the inspectors work, hundreds of pages, their expertise and certifications notwithstanding, allowable inspection items as a matter of law, and lacking applicable defects that are required to be reported which have been deal killers. These types of voluminous inspection reports, sometimes hundreds of pages long, not only jeopardize your client and your relationship, but also jeopardize the inspector in regards to exceeding their expertise, responsibilities, truthfulness, integrity, and authority. We have even heard reports of inspectors and inspection companies being sued for overstepping their qualifications and exceeding the statutory and legal reporting requirements. You should request a streamlined, clear and concise inspection report, and not one that nit-picks on every little minor item that is not within the statutory or the contractual scope of a home inspection. Under Florida law, a buyer can sue for damages, and even rescind a transaction, where a seller or real estate agent doesn’t reveal a material (major defect) problem with the home prior to purchase. If you refer your clients to me, I will demonstrate to them that their trust in you is fully justified. Our experience, training and professionalism will deliver the information that your clients fully expect as a licensed InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspector. As you know, the best advertising is a happy client!
Can a Home or Business Property Fail an Inspection?
Simply stated, the answer is no, you cannot 'pass' or 'fail' a property inspection. Property inspectors do not 'pass' or 'fail' an inspection, but rather provide a detailed report to the buyer or seller on the property's overall condition, and notify you of any systems or components that may need attention, maintenance, repair or replacement. A home or business property inspection gives you better insight into your current or future property's condition at the time of the report, which allows you to make important property maintenance and repair decisions with confidence.
Is a Certified Professional Inspector Licensed and Certified?
Yes! Your home inspector is an InterNACHI® Certified Professional Home Inspector. Inspector John Sims, and other inspectors that he hires, is/are also licensed by the State of Florida. We also take part in the InterNACHI® $25,000 Honor guarantee (See below). We are highly trained, experienced, and we hold numerous additional professional licenses and certifications in regards to real property and real estate. We are professional licensed inspectors in the industry with many years of hands-on experience. Contact us for more information.
How Long Should an Inspection Take?
Generally speaking, there is no set time frame for an inspection. We take as much time as it takes to provide a thorough, complete and concise inspection. Time is not a factor for us when it comes to your peace of mind when buying or selling a property. However, a property inspection may take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours to complete for an approximately 1,500 to 2,500 square foot home, or up to 8 hours or more for a large commercial or business property. This time frame can be shorter or longer depending on the size, type, age, condition of the building or home, and the inspection services actually contracted for. The time frame for a commercial property inspection can usually take quite a bit longer based on the size of the building and the complexity or contracted services of the inspection. We take whatever time is necessary to provide a complete, thorough and quality inspection! We are not time bound like the large inspection companies who charge very low prices and believe that the more inspections, the better. This business method results in the lack of a quality inspection. We are not your average inspector; our typical whole home inspection can take 2-4 hours and contain upwards of 100 to 500 pictures. We include videos, drone and thermal images in our inspections, if required. We perform property inspections that will teach you about the components of your home or business property. We educate, not humiliate, and we are not alarmists. We simply provide the facts. We will answer all of your questions and go over your inspection report with you in detail. We are also willing to allow you to accompany us during the inspection in order for you to fully understand the issues with your property, our inspection methods, and to answer all of your immediate questions.
How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost?
There is no set cost or fee for a home or commercial property inspection. The costs or fees will vary based on the inspector, their expertise, the local market, the geographic region(s), the scope of the inspection(s) to be performed, the contractual obligation(s), and so much more... With that said, we are not the least expensive, or the most expensive inspection company in the industry. However, the old adage holds true; when price shopping, you get what you pay for. Ask yourself this question regarding inexpensive inspections: "Was it lack of training, or was it rushing to get through his $125 inspection to get to the next inspection?" We base our fees on our vast knowledge and expertise, the property type, size, area, etc., in addition to our integrity and assistance with all aspects of property inspections even after the inspection. Before the inspection, we will inform you of exactly what will be included in the inspection and what will not be included, and detail these inclusions and exclusions in writing. Those details will also be outlined in any inspection agreement that you will sign prior to the inspection. A property inspection fee is is also based on the size of the property, its age, and if there are detached garages or additional structures or out parcels located on the property. Additional fees are charged for inspections that are outside of the normal scope of work for an inspection (i.e., specific inspection categories such as wind mitigation, Radon or Mold, specialty inspections, etc.) or inspections performed on weekends and holidays or at the fringe of the inspectors geographic area. An average single family home with an attached garage that is between 1,500 and 2,500+ square feet will typically cost approximately $400 to $500, sometimes more or sometimes less, depending on the type or scope of inspection, and the experience of the inspector. Additional fees may be added for older homes and properties, or properties located at the outer edges of the inspectors service area. Commercial or business property inspection costs are also determined by the size of the property, location and scope of the inspection contracted for, among many other factors. The knowledge and peace of mind gained from our licensed and certified home and commercial property inspector is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a good bargain. Usually quite the opposite! The old adage that you get what you pay for certainly holds true in the property inspection industry. We offer FREE, no obligation home, insurance and commercial property inspection quotes.
What Items Are Not Included In The Inspection Report?
Home inspectors are not required as a matter of state law to include the following in their inspection report based on the Standards of Practice and legal/statutory limitations, however our job isn’t finished until you understand everything in your report: The life expectancy of any component or system; The reason(s) for the need for a repair; The methods, materials, and costs of defect corrections; The suitability of the property for any specialized use; Compliance or non-compliance with local, state or national codes, ordinances, statutes, regulatory requirements or restrictions; The market value of the property or its marketability; The advisability or inadvisability of the purchase of a property; Any component or system that was not observed or inspected; The presence or absence of pests such as wood damaging organisms, rodents, or insects unless contracted for; any cosmetic or aesthetic items, items that are underground, or items that are not permanently installed. Home inspectors are not required to: Offer any warranties or guarantees of any kind; Calculate the strength, adequacy, or efficiency of any system or component; Enter any area or perform any procedure that may damage the property or its components, or that may be dangerous or hazardous to the home inspector or other persons; Operate any system or component that is shut down or otherwise inoperable; Operate any system or component that does not respond to normal operating controls; Disturb insulation, move personal items, panels, furniture, equipment, plant life, soil, snow, ice, or debris that obstructs access or visibility; Determine the presence or absence of any suspected adverse environmental condition or hazardous substance, including but not limited to mold, toxins, carcinogens, noise, contaminants in the building or in soil, water, and air; Determine the effectiveness of any system installed to control or remove suspected hazardous substances; Predict future conditions, including but not limited to failure of components. Since inspection reports are provided for the specific benefit of the customer, any other users of an inspection report that rely on the information therein must hire a licensed inspector or subject matter expert to perform a secondary inspection in order to meet their specific needs regarding the report and to obtain current, up-to-date information concerning a specific property.
What Happens If You Find Issues During Your Inspection That Were Not Disclosed?
Most sellers are honest and are often surprised to learn about the defects that are uncovered during a property inspection. You have to realize that sellers are under no obligation to repair anything or everything mentioned in the inspection report. No home or property is completely free of defects, even new one's, so try to keep things in perspective. You should not jeopardize a real estate purchase or sale deal over insignificant issues that don't matter in the larger scheme of things. Issues that matter and are most important regarding a property inspection are: 1) Major defects, 2) Issues that lead to major defects, 3) Issues that hinder your ability to finance, occupy a property or insure a property, 4) Safety hazards. Insurance company/Underwriter inspections such as Wind Mitigation, and 4-Point inspections are also important for keeping future costs of owning a property as low as possible. Also, it is inappropriate to demand that a seller address deferred maintenance items, conditions already listed on the seller's disclosure or small, insignificant cosmetic items. In 99+% of cases inspected, the seller is not being deceptive and nearly all sellers are honest and candid even when listing the property 'as is'. The reason that they may not disclose problems, defects or issues found by the property inspector are that the owner is simply are not aware of the defects. Many issues and defects discovered during a property inspection will only be apparent to a professional, licensed and certified property inspector. The average property owner has little knowledge of how complex the various systems found in homes and commercial buildings actually function, and know very little regarding their actual physical condition. Also, real estate agents are bound by very strict disclosure and ethics laws, and will not jeopardize their real estate license and business by non-disclosure or deception toward their clients.
What Happens If the Inspection Reveals Any Issues or Defects?
Licensed, Certified Professional Inspectors do not inspect for looks, or report on aesthetic or cosmetic issues. If your home inspection reveals any minor or cosmetic defects or issues, it is important to understand the severity of the reported defect. For example; a warped or missing shingle, a broken window screen, a minor non-structural stucco crack, algae on the sidewalk or pool deck, rotted wood on a fascia board that is not severe, dirty floors or walls, poor housekeeping, or a dirty air conditioner filter can be easily resolved at a low cost and is not considered a valid 'material defect' when it comes to an inspection. However, if the defect is more severe such as a major foundation crack or a structural, or retaining wall crack, a major leak, if severe wood-destroying organism infestation is discovered, or if evidence of severe mold or damage is found, you should find out how these material defects can be resolved and whether or not you can negotiate the repair or closing costs with the seller. Defects that are considered 'material defects' will generally fall into one of four categories as previously stated: 1) major defects, such as a structural problem with the foundation; 2) issues that can lead to major defects, such as a leak in the roof flashing; 3) issues that may hinder your ability to finance, legally occupy, or insure the home; or 4) safety hazards. These items are usually classified as severe, such as an exposed, live buss bar at the electrical panel, exposed electrical wiring, major trip hazards, incorrect electrical wiring, trip hazards, structural issues, etc. Any defects found in these four categories are considered material defects and should be immediately addressed and resolved prior to purchase. Often, a serious defect can be corrected promptly and inexpensively to protect both life and property, especially those that fall into categories 2 and 4. If it is determined after you move in to a home that your home has a severe defect and was not reported by your InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspector®, you should check to see if they participate in InterNACHI's "We'll Buy Your Home Back" Guarantee. We do!
Will InterNACHI® Really Buy My House If The Inspector Misses Something?
Absolutely they will! InterNACHI® will buy your home for whatever price you paid, and that promise is guaranteed! We are an InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspector® who participates in the InterNACHI® 'Buy-Back Guarantee'. InterNACHI® will buy your home back if the InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspector® misses something major on your inspection. The offer is valid for home inspections performed for home buyers and home sellers only by participating InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspectors®. The home must be listed for sale with a state licensed real estate agent. The Guarantee excludes homes with material defects that are not present at the time of the inspection, or not required to be inspected per InterNACHI's Residential Standards of Practice. The Guarantee is honored for ninety days after the closing. InterNACHI® will pay you whatever price you paid for the home. This guarantee is only offered only by licensed, InterNACHI® Certified Property Inspectors. You can view numerous true, success stories regarding the "We'll Buy Your Home Back" program HERE.
Do You Use A Drone To Inspect The Roof?
We currently use professional quality drones to inspect roofs if necessary as inspectors are not required to walk on roofs, especially if there is a hazard or danger to the roof or to the inspector, or if the roof can be damaged by walking on it. Safety of the property, its contents, its occupants, and the inspector is our number one priority at all times. We believe that we can obtain the most thorough information regarding the condition of a roof by walking upon it and using our eyes and hands to examine its individual components however, this is not always possible due to many factors such as rain, mold, deterioration, etc. We always wear soft soled shoes and we are very careful to avoid areas of the roof that can be damaged by walking on them. When a roof appears unsafe to walk upon, or if we believe that the roof could be damaged by foot traffic (i.e., tile roofs, wood shingles, slate roofs, ceramic tile, deterioration, damaged roofs, solar panels, etc.), we firmly believe that we can obtain a thorough inspection and accurate information by observing the roof from the top of a ladder at each vantage point, and/or by using a high definition camera with 2500mm zoom, or a unmanned aircraft system (drone) with a high definition camera. All of our drones have a 4K minimum high definition camera as standard equipment. We are fully drone certified by InterNACHI®, and fully licensed as a pilot by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) with an Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) rating and as a commercial Part 107 pilot.
Do You Use An Infrared Camera To Inspect The Building?
We use infrared cameras to inspect for moisture, electrical issues and every other imaginable issue at every inspection! We see things with our top quality infrared cameras that other inspectors can't see with the naked eye. We only use the highest professional quality infrared cameras manufactured by FLIR systems to inspect all areas of a home or building. We can see a many more issues from an enhanced infrared camera inspection than we can with the naked eye. An infrared camera inspection allows us to obtain a vast amount of detailed information about your home or building. An infrared camera inspection can reveal a vast number of hidden issues that would not be normally visible to the human eye. An infrared inspection can be used to detect issues from hidden water or moisture, moisture that you cannot see such as on the surface of drywall, missing or failing insulation, areas of energy, heat or cold loss, electrical problems, electrical wiring issues, hot fuses, faulty circuit breakers, faulty electrical sockets and wiring, heat/cold loss through doors and windows, and much, much more. We utilize a Thermal Imaging Camera for our inspections because we can detect non-visible water leaks, hidden moisture and/or air conditioning leaks you may have throughout your home or building. It helps us to identify water damage in walls, floors and ceilings, water leaks from A/C systems, plumbing fixtures, roofs and windows which often go undetected by the naked eye until major damage has occurred in addition to missing insulation. Thermal camera imaging is an advanced, non-invasive inspection method that allows us to discover issues within your home or business property that would not be readily visible with the naked eye or from a conventional inspection. In addition to detecting moisture issues, Thermal Imaging is also great at identifying areas where the insulation is insufficient or is lacking in quality or quantity in order to adequately insulate the areas of concern. We use our thermal imaging camera to scan all areas of your home, its interior and other areas such as the attic and crawlspaces to determine if there is an active leak or air leakage due to missing insulation, leaking ductwork, or escape areas from your windows and doors. An infrared camera inspection can help identify energy loss and unexpected electrical circuit and breaker hot spots. Call Florida Property Inspections for your detailed and through inspection at (954) 445-6997. Our professional infrared camera inspection services will provide you with the information that you need to make educated decisions about the hidden conditions of your home or building and its various systems which will cost you money in the future after your purchase. Whether you are concerned with high energy costs, air leaks, water leaks, the integrity of your building 'envelope', or electrical issues, an infrared camera inspection can help you make the right decisions regarding repairs or even purchasing a home or business property. Infrared camera inspections can help you save thousands of dollars annually by detecting invisible moisture, air leaks, missing or insufficient insulation, electrical issues, water intrusion, and much more before they pose a bigger risk and unanticipated costs to your home or business property.
Why should I Hire You as an Inspector?
"I will treat your home and property as if it were my own. I would be honored to inspect your property and if you permit me to do so, I guarantee you that I will give you my best effort, no matter the time or cost. This, I can promise you!" - John Sims, Chief Inspector.
We are a boutique inspection company focused only on a quality inspection! We are certified, we are licensed, we are insured, we are very experienced, we pay attention to details, we bring peace of mind, we provide detailed inspection reports, we make informed decisions, we are trusted, and we are the best! We are a licensed and insured InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspector with vast experience in the property, management and construction trades, and we have extensive hands-on training. We have over twenty-five years of hands on experience in the construction trade and property management business, and hold multiple professional state licenses and certifications applicable to the real estate, construction and property management industries. We also have many years of vast, hands-on experience managing and inspecting properties of all sizes and types in the greater South Florida area and in other areas of the United Sates. Our direct, hands-on experience and knowledge of almost all local building codes, building maintenance requirements and repairs in addition to our keen, working knowledge of state and local laws and ordinances regarding every jurisdiction, provide you with a great, great advantage over other inspectors in our geographic area. We value your trust, our honesty and our integrity (See our 'Honor Guarantee' below), and we fully adhere to a strict InterNACHI® Certified Property Inspector Code of Ethics in addition to State of Florida ethics requirements which can be reviewed at www.nachi.org/code_of_ethics.htm.
How Soon Can I Obtain a Home Inspection?
As full time property inspectors, we are always ready to serve our current and potential clients in a prompt, honest, ethical, transparent and efficient manner, with class and with the most detailed information and services. Typically, a property inspection is requested before a purchase, 2 to 3 days after a sales contract on a home or business property is executed, and inspection reports are published anywhere from 24 to 72 hours after an inspection is completed, depending on the complexity and details offered in the inspection agreement. Commercial property inspection time frames may vary based on contractual negotiations and other reasons, however they can also be based on the size of the property, the scope of work and the details required in the inspection report.
Join our many satisfied customers. Call for a free consultation and quote today.
To schedule your home inspection today, call us or text us at:
954-445-6997
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[email protected]
We appreciate your trust, your confidence in us, and your business!
The requirements to earn your International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI®) Certified Professional Inspector (CPI)® credentials are very rigorous and stringent. Property Inspectors are designated as a "Certified Professional Inspector" or "CPI" after passing many tests consisting of virtually every aspect of home and business property inspections. All InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspectors are required to pass a vigorous Inspector Exam for each and every subject regarding building inspections, follow comprehensive Standards of Practice, abide by a strict Code of Ethics, and take accredited Continuing Education courses each year in order to maintain their membership, CPI certification and state inspector license in good standing. The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI®) is a national and state recognized and fully accredited association that certifies CPI's, accredited by the US Department of Education and all states within the US. Please note that becoming an InterNACHI® CPI does not mean that an inspector is state-certified. Each state has their own requirements to become a licensed home, professional or code inspector and these often differ from the InterNACHI® CPI requirements. Many states require that inspectors obtain a professional license in order to conduct business. There are varying regulations and requirements for the licensing programs that vary by state. Our professional inspectors at Florida Property Inspector Services are licensed Florida home inspectors and nationally Certified Professional Inspectors.
What is a Certified Professional Inspectors Scope of Work?
The purpose of a home inspection is not to guarantee the safety or operation of the components of a home, or to certify the home as 'code compliant', but to provide the homebuyer with a non-invasive visual only examination of the structure and the systems contained therein in order to enable the buyer to make a more informed purchasing decision. A general home or commercial property inspection is a non-invasive, visual only examination of the accessible areas of a residential or commercial property which is designed to help identify defects within specific systems and components, defined by standards that are both observed and deemed material by the inspector. It does not identify all defects within specific systems and components. Home inspections performed to nationally recognized Standards of Practice are intended to provide the client with information regarding the overall basic condition of installed systems and components of the home based on observation of the visible and apparent condition of the structure and components at the time of the home inspection and to report on those systems and components inspected that, in the professional opinion of the inspector, are significantly deficient or at the end of their service life. A home inspection does not include the prediction of future conditions, only those visual conditions and observations present at the time of the inspection based on a visual only observation. The inspectors scope of work may be agreed to by the Client and Inspector prior to the inspection process. The inspection is performed for a fee.
- The general home or commercial property inspection is based on the observations made on the date of the inspection, and not a prediction of future conditions.
- The general home or commercial property inspection will not reveal every issue that exists or ever could exist, but only those material defects visually observed on the date of the inspection.
A general home or commercial property inspection report should identify, in written format, defects within specific systems and components defined by standards that are both observed and deemed material by the inspector. Inspection reports may include additional comments and recommendations by the inspector and shall always accompany an agreement or contract, scope of work and limitation of liability clause(s).
What Are The Limitations, Exceptions and Exclusions of a Property Inspection?
Again, the purpose of a home inspection is not to guarantee the safety or operation of the components of a home but to provide the homebuyer with a non-invasive visual only examination of the structure and the systems contained therein in order to enable the buyer to make a more informed purchasing decision.
Limitations:
- An inspection is not technically exhaustive.
- An inspection will not identify concealed or latent defects.
- An inspection will not deal with aesthetic concerns or what could be deemed matters of taste, cosmetic defects, etc.
- An inspection will not determine the suitability of the property for any use.
- An inspection does not determine the market value of the property or its marketability.
- An inspection does not determine the insurability of the property.
- An inspection does not determine the advisability or inadvisability of the purchase of the inspected property.
- An inspection does not determine the life expectancy of the property or any components or systems therein.
- An inspection does not include items not permanently installed, i.e., furniture, etc.
- These Standards of Practice apply only to properties with four or fewer residential units. Commercial properties have different limitations.
I. The inspector is not required to determine:
- property boundary lines or encroachments.
- the condition of any component or system that is not readily accessible.
- the service life expectancy of any component or system.
- the size, capacity, BTU, performance or efficiency of any component or system.
- the cause or reason of any condition.
- the cause for the need of correction, repair or replacement of any system or component.
- future conditions.
- compliance with codes or regulations.
- the presence of evidence of rodents, birds, animals, insects, or other pests.
- the presence of mold, mildew or fungus.
- the presence of airborne hazards, including radon.
- the air quality.
- the existence of environmental hazards, including lead paint, asbestos or toxic drywall.
- the existence of electromagnetic fields.
- any hazardous waste conditions.
- any manufacturers' recalls or conformance with manufacturer installation, or any information included for consumer protection purposes.
- acoustical properties.
- correction, replacement or repair cost estimates.
- estimates of the cost to operate any given system.
- compliance with any or all local, county, state, or national building codes.
- any system that is shut down.
- any system that does not function properly.
- or evaluate low-voltage electrical systems such as, but not limited to:
1. phone lines;
2. cable lines;
3. satellite dishes;
4. antennae;
5. lights; or
6. remote controls. - any system that does not turn on with the use of normal operating controls.
- any shut-off valves or manual stop valves.
- any electrical disconnect or over-current protection devices.
- any alarm systems.
- moisture meters, gas detectors or similar equipment.
- move any personal items or other obstructions, such as, but not limited to: throw rugs, carpeting, wall coverings, furniture, ceiling tiles, window coverings, equipment, plants, ice, debris, snow, water, dirt, pets, or anything else that might restrict the visual inspection.
- dismantle, open or uncover any system or component.
- enter or access any area that may, in the opinion of the inspector, be unsafe.
- enter crawlspaces or other areas that may be unsafe or not readily accessible.
- inspect underground items, such as, but not limited to: lawn-irrigation systems, underground storage tanks or other indications of their presence, whether abandoned or actively used.
- do anything which may, in the inspector's opinion, be unsafe or dangerous to the inspector or others, or damage property, such as, but not limited to: walking on roof surfaces, climbing ladders, entering attic spaces, or negotiating with pets.
- inspect decorative items.
- inspect common elements or areas in multi-unit housing.
- inspect intercoms, speaker systems or security systems.
- offer guarantees or warranties.
- offer or perform any engineering services.
- offer or perform any trade or professional service other than general home inspection.
- research the history of the property, or report on its potential for alteration, modification, extendibility or suitability for a specific or proposed use for occupancy.
- determine the age of construction or installation of any system, structure or component of a building, or differentiate between original construction and subsequent additions, improvements, renovations or replacements.
- determine the insurability of a property.
- perform or offer Phase 1 or environmental audits.
- inspect any system or component that is not included in these Standards.
- determine compliance with any or all local, county, state, or national building codes.
A home inspection is not a safety inspection, but rather a service provided to help facilitate a real estate transaction. These inspections are visual and are in no way remotely similar to a building code inspection. A home inspection does not place the home under the control of the home inspector and thus subject to issues at a future time. Existing problems with a home or problems at the time of a home inspections are not a direct result of a breach of the home inspector’s duty to inspect and report on the condition of the home. An inspection agreement does not equate the home inspector-homebuyer relationship to a special relationship deserving of special protection. There are exceptions to the above standards of inspection which require specific certifications and contractual agreements in writing in order to perform the inspection. The inspector must adhere to specific Standards of Practice requirements regarding inspections based on the current Standards of Practice (SOP) of the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (“InterNACHI®”) which can be found at www.nachi.org/sop.htm and those delineated by applicable state laws, statutes, ordinances and administrative codes.
Why Hire a Licensed and InterNACHI Certified Professional Inspector?
InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspectors are trained and certified by the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, the world’s largest association of residential and commercial property inspectors, which provides its members with nationally accredited training and education. We make every effort to serve our clients with the highest quality inspections for their largest investments, and we fully abide by comprehensive Standards of Practice to ensure that you receive an accurate and thorough property inspection. InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspectors also must abide by a strict Code of Ethics, which puts our clients first and protects their rights as consumers. We use state-of-the-art inspection tools and reporting software in order for our clients can make fully informed decisions about the properties they want to buy or sell. Our job isn’t complete until you understand everything in your report and you are fully satisfied. We are also licensed by the State of Florida to perform inspections. As an InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspector®: required to stay up to date with the industry’s most rigorous Continuing Education through online, video and live training courses, which have been awarded more than 1,400 approvals and accreditations by governmental and other agencies;
- Florida Property Inspections is required to stay up to date with the industry’s most rigorous Continuing Education through online, video and live training courses, which have been awarded more than 1,400 approvals and accreditations by governmental and other agencies;
- Florida Property Inspections adheres to a comprehensive Standards of Practice to ensure that you receive a detailed and accurate home inspection;
- Florida Property Inspections abides by a strict Code of Ethics, which puts my clients first and protects their rights as consumers; and
- Florida Property Inspections uses state-of-the-art inspection tools and reporting software so that his clients can make fully informed decisions about the homes they want to buy or sell.
For the Home Buyer
Typically the buyer of the home will pay for the home inspection. It is important to understand the overall condition of your investment, especially since a home is probably the largest purchase you may ever make. We provide a non-invasive examination of the home’s accessible structure, systems and components. A home inspection cannot reveal every issue or defect that exists since an inspection is not a prediction of future conditions, but only the current conditions on the day of the inspection. It will, however, significantly reduce your concerns regarding a home purchase by providing you with the knowledge to make an informed home-buying decision. A professional home inspection informs the homebuyer of the property’s current condition. We can identify most issues and determine if they are merely cosmetic, or might possibly be visual evidence of a more important issue or major defect that requires immediate repair. A stain on the ceiling may simply be the result of an old, resolved leak, or it could indicate ongoing chronic roof leakage and water damage which can be costly to repair. We use Infrared Camera inspections to determine and verify these types of issues. The report you receive from a home inspector will give you the information you need to decide whether or not to buy a property, as well as how much money to offer based on any required repairs. Under Florida law, a buyer can sue the homeowner for damages, and even rescind a contract or a transaction when a seller or real estate agent does not reveal a material defect with the home prior to purchase. If you purchase a home in Florida and you learn after closing about a material defect with the property, you may have a legal claim against the seller or real estate agent. In Florida, an “as is” contract means that the seller will not be paying for any repairs. It does not relieve the seller from any legal duty to fully disclose material defects with the home. The party who knows about a defect of a home they represent or sell, breached their statutory duty to you, the buyer, by not disclosing the material defect. The person who does this may be found to be financially responsible for remedying the defect with the home in a court of competent jurisdiction. The Supreme Court has said "The doctrine of caveat emptor does not exempt a seller from responsibility for the statements and representations which he makes to induce the buyer to act, when under the circumstances these amount to fraud..." Almost always, this claim will be against the seller. However, you may also have a legal claim against others involved in the transaction, which may include the seller’s real estate agent; the seller’s real estate broker; and the property appraiser or survey professional. They may all be jointly liable to you for financial damages resulting from their failure to tell you about the defect or issue(s) with the property before your purchase. This is why it is so vitally important to obtain a home inspection from us prior to purchasing a home, whether new or old.
For the Home Seller
Are you selling your home? Let us inspect it before you even list it. A 'Move-In Certified' Seller Inspection will alert you to any defects or problems with your home and as such, you can address these issues before any prospective buyers discover them breaking the deal, and provide the buyer with a comprehensive inspection report. Subsequently, you can take the time you need to obtain reasonable repair estimates in addition to showing prospective buyers that you are dealing with them in good faith. Avoid 11th-hour negotiations and delays, and justify your full asking price by having your home pre-inspected now. Sometimes the homeowner, or seller, may choose to have a pre-listing home inspection performed to find out if there are any issues that need to be addressed or repaired before putting the home on the market. The seller typically pays for a pre-listing home inspection.
For the Real Estate Professional
As a real estate agent professional himself, John Sims knows that your reputation as a Realtor is your most valuable asset, and as a Realtor, your clients fully rely on you to guide them through a complicated, lengthy and stressful home or business purchasing process. We only work with agents who are really concerned about their clients, so they want them to have the best service and get the right house for them. Don't jeopardize your real estate deal over insignificant inspection items or voluminous inspection reports that cover items that really don't matter in the larger scheme of things. In fact, some inspectors tend to go above and beyond their expertise and legal requirements which can be a liability to the Realtor, the seller and the inspector. We continue to see quite a few inspection reports throughout the industry that are completely outside of the scope of the inspectors work, hundreds of pages, their expertise and certifications notwithstanding, allowable inspection items as a matter of law, and lacking applicable defects that are required to be reported which have been deal killers. These types of voluminous inspection reports, sometimes hundreds of pages long, not only jeopardize your client and your relationship, but also jeopardize the inspector in regards to exceeding their expertise, responsibilities, truthfulness, integrity, and authority. We have even heard reports of inspectors and inspection companies being sued for overstepping their qualifications and exceeding the statutory and legal reporting requirements. You should request a streamlined, clear and concise inspection report, and not one that nit-picks on every little minor item that is not within the statutory or the contractual scope of a home inspection. Under Florida law, a buyer can sue for damages, and even rescind a transaction, where a seller or real estate agent doesn’t reveal a material (major defect) problem with the home prior to purchase. If you refer your clients to me, I will demonstrate to them that their trust in you is fully justified. Our experience, training and professionalism will deliver the information that your clients fully expect as a licensed InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspector. As you know, the best advertising is a happy client!
Can a Home or Business Property Fail an Inspection?
Simply stated, the answer is no, you cannot 'pass' or 'fail' a property inspection. Property inspectors do not 'pass' or 'fail' an inspection, but rather provide a detailed report to the buyer or seller on the property's overall condition, and notify you of any systems or components that may need attention, maintenance, repair or replacement. A home or business property inspection gives you better insight into your current or future property's condition at the time of the report, which allows you to make important property maintenance and repair decisions with confidence.
Is a Certified Professional Inspector Licensed and Certified?
Yes! Your home inspector is an InterNACHI® Certified Professional Home Inspector. Inspector John Sims, and other inspectors that he hires, is/are also licensed by the State of Florida. We also take part in the InterNACHI® $25,000 Honor guarantee (See below). We are highly trained, experienced, and we hold numerous additional professional licenses and certifications in regards to real property and real estate. We are professional licensed inspectors in the industry with many years of hands-on experience. Contact us for more information.
How Long Should an Inspection Take?
Generally speaking, there is no set time frame for an inspection. We take as much time as it takes to provide a thorough, complete and concise inspection. Time is not a factor for us when it comes to your peace of mind when buying or selling a property. However, a property inspection may take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours to complete for an approximately 1,500 to 2,500 square foot home, or up to 8 hours or more for a large commercial or business property. This time frame can be shorter or longer depending on the size, type, age, condition of the building or home, and the inspection services actually contracted for. The time frame for a commercial property inspection can usually take quite a bit longer based on the size of the building and the complexity or contracted services of the inspection. We take whatever time is necessary to provide a complete, thorough and quality inspection! We are not time bound like the large inspection companies who charge very low prices and believe that the more inspections, the better. This business method results in the lack of a quality inspection. We are not your average inspector; our typical whole home inspection can take 2-4 hours and contain upwards of 100 to 500 pictures. We include videos, drone and thermal images in our inspections, if required. We perform property inspections that will teach you about the components of your home or business property. We educate, not humiliate, and we are not alarmists. We simply provide the facts. We will answer all of your questions and go over your inspection report with you in detail. We are also willing to allow you to accompany us during the inspection in order for you to fully understand the issues with your property, our inspection methods, and to answer all of your immediate questions.
How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost?
There is no set cost or fee for a home or commercial property inspection. The costs or fees will vary based on the inspector, their expertise, the local market, the geographic region(s), the scope of the inspection(s) to be performed, the contractual obligation(s), and so much more... With that said, we are not the least expensive, or the most expensive inspection company in the industry. However, the old adage holds true; when price shopping, you get what you pay for. Ask yourself this question regarding inexpensive inspections: "Was it lack of training, or was it rushing to get through his $125 inspection to get to the next inspection?" We base our fees on our vast knowledge and expertise, the property type, size, area, etc., in addition to our integrity and assistance with all aspects of property inspections even after the inspection. Before the inspection, we will inform you of exactly what will be included in the inspection and what will not be included, and detail these inclusions and exclusions in writing. Those details will also be outlined in any inspection agreement that you will sign prior to the inspection. A property inspection fee is is also based on the size of the property, its age, and if there are detached garages or additional structures or out parcels located on the property. Additional fees are charged for inspections that are outside of the normal scope of work for an inspection (i.e., specific inspection categories such as wind mitigation, Radon or Mold, specialty inspections, etc.) or inspections performed on weekends and holidays or at the fringe of the inspectors geographic area. An average single family home with an attached garage that is between 1,500 and 2,500+ square feet will typically cost approximately $400 to $500, sometimes more or sometimes less, depending on the type or scope of inspection, and the experience of the inspector. Additional fees may be added for older homes and properties, or properties located at the outer edges of the inspectors service area. Commercial or business property inspection costs are also determined by the size of the property, location and scope of the inspection contracted for, among many other factors. The knowledge and peace of mind gained from our licensed and certified home and commercial property inspector is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a good bargain. Usually quite the opposite! The old adage that you get what you pay for certainly holds true in the property inspection industry. We offer FREE, no obligation home, insurance and commercial property inspection quotes.
What Items Are Not Included In The Inspection Report?
Home inspectors are not required as a matter of state law to include the following in their inspection report based on the Standards of Practice and legal/statutory limitations, however our job isn’t finished until you understand everything in your report: The life expectancy of any component or system; The reason(s) for the need for a repair; The methods, materials, and costs of defect corrections; The suitability of the property for any specialized use; Compliance or non-compliance with local, state or national codes, ordinances, statutes, regulatory requirements or restrictions; The market value of the property or its marketability; The advisability or inadvisability of the purchase of a property; Any component or system that was not observed or inspected; The presence or absence of pests such as wood damaging organisms, rodents, or insects unless contracted for; any cosmetic or aesthetic items, items that are underground, or items that are not permanently installed. Home inspectors are not required to: Offer any warranties or guarantees of any kind; Calculate the strength, adequacy, or efficiency of any system or component; Enter any area or perform any procedure that may damage the property or its components, or that may be dangerous or hazardous to the home inspector or other persons; Operate any system or component that is shut down or otherwise inoperable; Operate any system or component that does not respond to normal operating controls; Disturb insulation, move personal items, panels, furniture, equipment, plant life, soil, snow, ice, or debris that obstructs access or visibility; Determine the presence or absence of any suspected adverse environmental condition or hazardous substance, including but not limited to mold, toxins, carcinogens, noise, contaminants in the building or in soil, water, and air; Determine the effectiveness of any system installed to control or remove suspected hazardous substances; Predict future conditions, including but not limited to failure of components. Since inspection reports are provided for the specific benefit of the customer, any other users of an inspection report that rely on the information therein must hire a licensed inspector or subject matter expert to perform a secondary inspection in order to meet their specific needs regarding the report and to obtain current, up-to-date information concerning a specific property.
What Happens If You Find Issues During Your Inspection That Were Not Disclosed?
Most sellers are honest and are often surprised to learn about the defects that are uncovered during a property inspection. You have to realize that sellers are under no obligation to repair anything or everything mentioned in the inspection report. No home or property is completely free of defects, even new one's, so try to keep things in perspective. You should not jeopardize a real estate purchase or sale deal over insignificant issues that don't matter in the larger scheme of things. Issues that matter and are most important regarding a property inspection are: 1) Major defects, 2) Issues that lead to major defects, 3) Issues that hinder your ability to finance, occupy a property or insure a property, 4) Safety hazards. Insurance company/Underwriter inspections such as Wind Mitigation, and 4-Point inspections are also important for keeping future costs of owning a property as low as possible. Also, it is inappropriate to demand that a seller address deferred maintenance items, conditions already listed on the seller's disclosure or small, insignificant cosmetic items. In 99+% of cases inspected, the seller is not being deceptive and nearly all sellers are honest and candid even when listing the property 'as is'. The reason that they may not disclose problems, defects or issues found by the property inspector are that the owner is simply are not aware of the defects. Many issues and defects discovered during a property inspection will only be apparent to a professional, licensed and certified property inspector. The average property owner has little knowledge of how complex the various systems found in homes and commercial buildings actually function, and know very little regarding their actual physical condition. Also, real estate agents are bound by very strict disclosure and ethics laws, and will not jeopardize their real estate license and business by non-disclosure or deception toward their clients.
What Happens If the Inspection Reveals Any Issues or Defects?
Licensed, Certified Professional Inspectors do not inspect for looks, or report on aesthetic or cosmetic issues. If your home inspection reveals any minor or cosmetic defects or issues, it is important to understand the severity of the reported defect. For example; a warped or missing shingle, a broken window screen, a minor non-structural stucco crack, algae on the sidewalk or pool deck, rotted wood on a fascia board that is not severe, dirty floors or walls, poor housekeeping, or a dirty air conditioner filter can be easily resolved at a low cost and is not considered a valid 'material defect' when it comes to an inspection. However, if the defect is more severe such as a major foundation crack or a structural, or retaining wall crack, a major leak, if severe wood-destroying organism infestation is discovered, or if evidence of severe mold or damage is found, you should find out how these material defects can be resolved and whether or not you can negotiate the repair or closing costs with the seller. Defects that are considered 'material defects' will generally fall into one of four categories as previously stated: 1) major defects, such as a structural problem with the foundation; 2) issues that can lead to major defects, such as a leak in the roof flashing; 3) issues that may hinder your ability to finance, legally occupy, or insure the home; or 4) safety hazards. These items are usually classified as severe, such as an exposed, live buss bar at the electrical panel, exposed electrical wiring, major trip hazards, incorrect electrical wiring, trip hazards, structural issues, etc. Any defects found in these four categories are considered material defects and should be immediately addressed and resolved prior to purchase. Often, a serious defect can be corrected promptly and inexpensively to protect both life and property, especially those that fall into categories 2 and 4. If it is determined after you move in to a home that your home has a severe defect and was not reported by your InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspector®, you should check to see if they participate in InterNACHI's "We'll Buy Your Home Back" Guarantee. We do!
Will InterNACHI® Really Buy My House If The Inspector Misses Something?
Absolutely they will! InterNACHI® will buy your home for whatever price you paid, and that promise is guaranteed! We are an InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspector® who participates in the InterNACHI® 'Buy-Back Guarantee'. InterNACHI® will buy your home back if the InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspector® misses something major on your inspection. The offer is valid for home inspections performed for home buyers and home sellers only by participating InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspectors®. The home must be listed for sale with a state licensed real estate agent. The Guarantee excludes homes with material defects that are not present at the time of the inspection, or not required to be inspected per InterNACHI's Residential Standards of Practice. The Guarantee is honored for ninety days after the closing. InterNACHI® will pay you whatever price you paid for the home. This guarantee is only offered only by licensed, InterNACHI® Certified Property Inspectors. You can view numerous true, success stories regarding the "We'll Buy Your Home Back" program HERE.
Do You Use A Drone To Inspect The Roof?
We currently use professional quality drones to inspect roofs if necessary as inspectors are not required to walk on roofs, especially if there is a hazard or danger to the roof or to the inspector, or if the roof can be damaged by walking on it. Safety of the property, its contents, its occupants, and the inspector is our number one priority at all times. We believe that we can obtain the most thorough information regarding the condition of a roof by walking upon it and using our eyes and hands to examine its individual components however, this is not always possible due to many factors such as rain, mold, deterioration, etc. We always wear soft soled shoes and we are very careful to avoid areas of the roof that can be damaged by walking on them. When a roof appears unsafe to walk upon, or if we believe that the roof could be damaged by foot traffic (i.e., tile roofs, wood shingles, slate roofs, ceramic tile, deterioration, damaged roofs, solar panels, etc.), we firmly believe that we can obtain a thorough inspection and accurate information by observing the roof from the top of a ladder at each vantage point, and/or by using a high definition camera with 2500mm zoom, or a unmanned aircraft system (drone) with a high definition camera. All of our drones have a 4K minimum high definition camera as standard equipment. We are fully drone certified by InterNACHI®, and fully licensed as a pilot by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) with an Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) rating and as a commercial Part 107 pilot.
Do You Use An Infrared Camera To Inspect The Building?
We use infrared cameras to inspect for moisture, electrical issues and every other imaginable issue at every inspection! We see things with our top quality infrared cameras that other inspectors can't see with the naked eye. We only use the highest professional quality infrared cameras manufactured by FLIR systems to inspect all areas of a home or building. We can see a many more issues from an enhanced infrared camera inspection than we can with the naked eye. An infrared camera inspection allows us to obtain a vast amount of detailed information about your home or building. An infrared camera inspection can reveal a vast number of hidden issues that would not be normally visible to the human eye. An infrared inspection can be used to detect issues from hidden water or moisture, moisture that you cannot see such as on the surface of drywall, missing or failing insulation, areas of energy, heat or cold loss, electrical problems, electrical wiring issues, hot fuses, faulty circuit breakers, faulty electrical sockets and wiring, heat/cold loss through doors and windows, and much, much more. We utilize a Thermal Imaging Camera for our inspections because we can detect non-visible water leaks, hidden moisture and/or air conditioning leaks you may have throughout your home or building. It helps us to identify water damage in walls, floors and ceilings, water leaks from A/C systems, plumbing fixtures, roofs and windows which often go undetected by the naked eye until major damage has occurred in addition to missing insulation. Thermal camera imaging is an advanced, non-invasive inspection method that allows us to discover issues within your home or business property that would not be readily visible with the naked eye or from a conventional inspection. In addition to detecting moisture issues, Thermal Imaging is also great at identifying areas where the insulation is insufficient or is lacking in quality or quantity in order to adequately insulate the areas of concern. We use our thermal imaging camera to scan all areas of your home, its interior and other areas such as the attic and crawlspaces to determine if there is an active leak or air leakage due to missing insulation, leaking ductwork, or escape areas from your windows and doors. An infrared camera inspection can help identify energy loss and unexpected electrical circuit and breaker hot spots. Call Florida Property Inspections for your detailed and through inspection at (954) 445-6997. Our professional infrared camera inspection services will provide you with the information that you need to make educated decisions about the hidden conditions of your home or building and its various systems which will cost you money in the future after your purchase. Whether you are concerned with high energy costs, air leaks, water leaks, the integrity of your building 'envelope', or electrical issues, an infrared camera inspection can help you make the right decisions regarding repairs or even purchasing a home or business property. Infrared camera inspections can help you save thousands of dollars annually by detecting invisible moisture, air leaks, missing or insufficient insulation, electrical issues, water intrusion, and much more before they pose a bigger risk and unanticipated costs to your home or business property.
Why should I Hire You as an Inspector?
"I will treat your home and property as if it were my own. I would be honored to inspect your property and if you permit me to do so, I guarantee you that I will give you my best effort, no matter the time or cost. This, I can promise you!" - John Sims, Chief Inspector.
We are a boutique inspection company focused only on a quality inspection! We are certified, we are licensed, we are insured, we are very experienced, we pay attention to details, we bring peace of mind, we provide detailed inspection reports, we make informed decisions, we are trusted, and we are the best! We are a licensed and insured InterNACHI® Certified Professional Inspector with vast experience in the property, management and construction trades, and we have extensive hands-on training. We have over twenty-five years of hands on experience in the construction trade and property management business, and hold multiple professional state licenses and certifications applicable to the real estate, construction and property management industries. We also have many years of vast, hands-on experience managing and inspecting properties of all sizes and types in the greater South Florida area and in other areas of the United Sates. Our direct, hands-on experience and knowledge of almost all local building codes, building maintenance requirements and repairs in addition to our keen, working knowledge of state and local laws and ordinances regarding every jurisdiction, provide you with a great, great advantage over other inspectors in our geographic area. We value your trust, our honesty and our integrity (See our 'Honor Guarantee' below), and we fully adhere to a strict InterNACHI® Certified Property Inspector Code of Ethics in addition to State of Florida ethics requirements which can be reviewed at www.nachi.org/code_of_ethics.htm.
How Soon Can I Obtain a Home Inspection?
As full time property inspectors, we are always ready to serve our current and potential clients in a prompt, honest, ethical, transparent and efficient manner, with class and with the most detailed information and services. Typically, a property inspection is requested before a purchase, 2 to 3 days after a sales contract on a home or business property is executed, and inspection reports are published anywhere from 24 to 72 hours after an inspection is completed, depending on the complexity and details offered in the inspection agreement. Commercial property inspection time frames may vary based on contractual negotiations and other reasons, however they can also be based on the size of the property, the scope of work and the details required in the inspection report.
Join our many satisfied customers. Call for a free consultation and quote today.
To schedule your home inspection today, call us or text us at:
954-445-6997
or send us an email at
[email protected]
We appreciate your trust, your confidence in us, and your business!
InterNACHI®, which we are valid members of, is so certain of the integrity of their members, us, that they back us up with their $25,000 Honor Guarantee! InterNACHI® will pay up to $25,000 (USD; maximum collective aggregate) for the cost of replacement of personal property lost (and not recovered, restituted or insured) during an inspection and stolen by an InterNACHI®-certified member who was convicted of or pleaded guilty (or no contest) to any criminal charge resulting from the member's taking of the client's personal property.
What an amazing guarantee that most other property inspection company's do not offer! Florida Property Inspections does offer this guarantee and MORE!
What an amazing guarantee that most other property inspection company's do not offer! Florida Property Inspections does offer this guarantee and MORE!
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