11-Month Warranty Inspections

hounddoghomstg on September 1, 2022

Purchasing your new home is an exciting adventure. There are open houses, scheduled viewings, and homes to peruse before you make an offer. However, these homes will not always be free of issues. That’s why 11-month warranty inspections conducted by a third party are vital during the new construction process.

Why Are 11-Month Warranty Inspections So Important?

An 11-month warranty inspection is there to protect you. This inspection is performed just prior to the builder’s warranties expiring. The inspector searches for defects in your new home that have occurred while the property was changing hands or those that went undetected in prior inspections. Builder’s warranties will commonly last for one year; however, there are some cases where the warranty can be extended up to 2 years.

Common Defects

Water intrusion due to improperly installed flashing can be discovered during 11-month warranty inspections. Inspectors may also find loose toilets and even missing insulation. While there are too many to list, some common defect findings include:

Leaking plumbing
Cracked shingles
Improper vent installation
Damaged cabinets
Damaged appliances

The list goes on. Your home inspector will be able to identify these issues and send their professional report to the builder. That way, your home will receive the repairs needed from your home warranty.

Your Warranty Inspection Checklist

There are many things to check when you are inspecting your home. The first area to look at is the exterior of your home. This is followed by the garage, outbuildings, interior, rooms, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, attic, foundation, and roof.

Exterior

When inspecting the exterior of your home, an inspector will examine your windows and doors to ensure they are properly painted and caulked and that the weep holes have been covered. In addition, they will check the paint application, inspect for window installation, and ensure there is no window damage. The inspector will also ensure that the soffits are undamaged and have left no gaps for pest intrusion.

Your home inspector will also check the exterior of your home for plumbing fixtures and any accessible electrical outlets. Finally, they will inspect stucco and siding for cracks and damages.

Garage

The first thing that will be checked in the garage is the functionality of the door and sensors. Next, your home inspector will check for water stains and damage to your walls and ceilings. Finally, they will also check any appliances that have been installed in your garage for proper installation and damages.

Interior

The walls, outlets, ceilings, floors, and windows in the interior of your home will be inspected for functionality and damage as well. This will include cabinets, appliances, light switches, and fans. Your home inspector will ensure that electricity is getting to each outlet, that all light switches function, and that all fans are secured and working correctly.

Bathrooms and Kitchen Areas

The bathrooms and kitchen areas of your home require extra care. First, your inspector will check the sinks and tub for proper drainage. Then access the hot water at each of your sinks. Following this, they will check for leaks underneath the sinks and ensure that the toilets don’t run continuously and are not loose. Next, they will check fans and vents for functionality. Last, your inspector will check the tile and grout for damages.

Heating and Air Conditioning

Your heating and air conditioning systems must work properly. Your inspector will ensure that all registers are blowing cold air with the A/C and hot air with the heater. They will then check the system for damage, including your A/C unit and furnace. The HVAC system in your house is vital to keeping your family safe in extreme weather conditions, and ensuring that it is in proper working order prior to moving in will keep your family safe and comfortable.

Electrical

Home Inspectors will remove the panel covers off your fuse box and ensure everything is in order during 11-month warranty inspections. Then, they will exercise your breakers, ground fault circuit interrupters, and arc fault circuit interrupters. We use a lot of electricity in our daily lives and having an inspection is a simple way of ensuring that your family is safe while they use it and that the breakers will trip if they are overloaded.

Plumbing

Moving into your home only to find out that the toilets don’t work is a nightmare. The 11-month warranty inspection ensures you have the correct water pressure at your sinks and faucets. Your inspector will ensure that you have hot and cold water available and that no leaks are visible with any plumbing. Additionally, your inspector will check for correct installation so that the hot is left turn and the cold is right to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Roof and Attic

Inspectors know how to traverse your attic safely to inspect for damaged trusses, onsite alterations, proper insulation, and roof leaks. The inspector will also check the roof’s exterior for loose and damaged shingles. Then they will inspect all vents for correct flashing and installation. Finally, they will check all visible flashing and inspect your home’s drip edge for damage.

Foundation

With new homes, many will not be highly concerned about the foundation, as it was just poured. However, your inspector will check all visible areas of the foundation for cracks and damages regardless. Additionally, they will ensure that the grading is sloped away from your new home. They will then check for signs of flooding and ensure that all vegetation is at least six inches away from the structure. Last, your inspector will check your driveway.

Professional vs Self Inspection

When looking at checklists for 11-month warranty inspections, it might be tempting to wander around and inspect the home yourself. Surely we can all look at the walls and ensure that there are no cracks and damages. So why is it so essential to hire a third party to inspect your home before the warranty expires?

Self Inspection

If you conduct a self-inspection, then you will notice many of the visible issues that could be present. You will also quickly identify whether the hot and cold water have been installed correctly. However, many other items on the list can be tricky to inspect without the proper training, such as the flashing. Other items can be dangerous to examine, like the electrical box.

In the end, while you may have saved a small amount of money by not hiring an inspector now, you may end up paying much more down the road if you miss something. Remember, your home’s warranty does have a time limit.

Professional Inspection

Just because your home is new doesn’t mean it isn’t going to have any problems. Many problems that inspectors will find are not detectable without the specialized equipment they are trained to use. Your 11-month warranty inspection can uncover leaks behind walls and much more that can cost thousands of dollars down the line.

In addition to the money you could save down the road, a trained professional can inspect your home safely. They will be able to inspect the roof, attic, and electrical in a safe manner. Having a professional inspect your home can save you from accidentally crashing through your ceiling, slipping off the roof, or receiving a nasty electrical shock.

Why the Last Minute Inspection?

It always seems like everything is perfect until just after your warranty ends. This is true with everything from cars and cellphones to your new home. An 11-month inspection occurs just before the warranty ends so that you can catch any last-minute problems before the warranty is up and you are on your home.

A licensed and trained home inspector will check your home while you are still under warranty. This way, you can fix the issues without being stuck with a huge bill for expensive repairs that you will have to pay out-of-pocket. Instead, you wait till the last month to ensure you get the most out of your home warranty.

A Third Party

You should hire a third party for 11-month warranty inspections for three reasons. The first is experience. They have the training and experience to get the job done and to get it done right. The second is an outside perspective. They will be objective and fair. The third reason is time. An inspector can get the job done quickly, saving you time and money. Overall, a third-party inspector can remove stress from your shoulders.

Purchasing your dream home is an exhilarating feeling. First, however, you must ensure that the home you buy is a good investment and is safe for your family. That’s why professional home inspections are so necessary. Contact us at Hound Dog Home Inspections and ask us about our services, including our full home inspections, water intrusion inspections, and pre-listing inspections today.

4-Point Home Insurance Inspection Florida

hounddoghomstg on August 26, 2022

The 4-point home inspection is a type of home inspection that looks at four main systems: Roofing, Plumbing, HVAC, and Electrical. This type of inspection ensures that all these systems are working correctly and won’t need a replacement for the next five years. It’s quite a short process and won’t take more than 30 minutes if you hire a certified home inspector in Florida.

If you are buying a home in Florida, you will likely have to apply for insurance coverage before closing the deal. The insurance company will require you to take care of the property with a 4 point inspection.

Your insurance plan will save you in case something unfavorable happens. Insurance companies have a liability, and they want to minimize their loss. In addition, they want to ensure that your home is a good fit for a good life.

While these inspections are more comprehensive than a general home inspection, they’re not as comprehensive as the full home inspection. Here’s what you need to know about 4-point home inspections in Florida:

Why do I need a 4-point inspection?

A 4-point home inspection helps ensure that your new home isn’t a money pit. Unfortunately, many homeowners neglect these crucial areas because they don’t think they’re necessary or will cost too much money. However, it’s better to know about these issues before purchasing your house so that you can decide whether or not it’s worth making repairs right away or waiting until later on.

At Hound Dog, we offer you a comprehensive 4-point home inspection in Florida. Click here to see how it works.

What happens during an inspection?

Your inspector will check all four systems mentioned above: roofing, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical (including the wiring). He or she will also look for signs of damage from weather conditions and age. Your insurance company wants to ensure that these parts have a manufacturer warranty. The owner should update these systems if the home is older.

A home inspector will check out the interior and exterior of your house and any attached structures like garages, decks, or sheds. They’ll look at heating, electrical, plumbing, roofing materials, and more.

They may also check out things like your home’s foundation (if needed), the exterior walls for cracks, and other issues that could lead to water damage or insect infestation over time. They’ll check signs of pests such as termites or rodents that might have made their way into your house while you weren’t looking!

Here’s a rundown of what a typical inspection entails: Roofs are inspected for leaks and missing shingles/tiles/shingles. Also examined are attic access points, which should not be blocked by insulation or other items when not in use. Electrical System – Inspect the wires, and check what type of supply & drain lines are found in the house. Review whether there are any signs of leakage and water problem.

Will it cost me anything?

A 4-point inspection isn’t exactly cheap, but it should cost $50-$100. However, if you need multiple inspections done at once or have specific requirements for your inspector, then expect to pay more than that. Some inspectors can give you a discount when you buy more services.

Failed Home Inspection in Florida

If any of these four points do not meet the standard, then the inspection is considered a failed inspection. The inspector will usually list all the items identified as non-compliant with the Standard of Practice (SOP). The question is, what happens next.

The good thing is you become aware of the problem. You can now negotiate the situation. As a buyer, you can receive a discount and hire someone to make repairs after the purchase. Or the seller will update those sections and provide you with the warranty so you can close the deal peacefully. Your home inspector can give you an idea of the cost, but it’s best to contact local contractors to determine the actual cost of replacement/repair.

While it’s good to get the inspection when requested by your insurance company…it’s even better to get your home inspected before it’s required. That can clear up the hurdles standing in the way of a smooth closing.

My Home Didn’t Pass the Inspection: Now What?

Inspection results are not like a school exam. If your insurance company doesn’t approve results, they have different requirements. However, some insurance companies might still work with you. The insurance company wants to determine the risk, and that’s a reason for this 4-point inspection.

Furthermore, some insurance companies have their forms and your inspector must send the report in the requested format. 4-point home inspection in Florida requires a visual evidence as well.

Pre-closing:

The 4-Point Home Inspection Florida is designed to ensure that you will have a safe and comfortable living environment. The inspector will thoroughly examine these areas and ensure that the house does not have any safety issues or structural defects, such as leaking pipes or mold growth on the walls or ceilings. He will also check if there are any damages to the roof, foundation, walls, ceilings, windows, doors, and insulation.

For example, the growth of mold or the presence of asbestos can cause severe damage to your health. When the HVAC system is inspected, you can clear out these issues. In addition, you can ensure the air quality is safe for sensitive and older adults.

That’s what we do at Hound Dog Inspection—improving life one property at a time. So join us for a free consultation, and let’s review how we can help with your home inspection in Florida.

Join Hound Dog Inspections

The criteria used by our 4-point inspection experts to judge the components include:

Current operating conditions – This includes the current state of the part, including physical damage and corrosion.

Scheduled maintenance requirements include whether the component is scheduled for regular replacement based on its expected service life or the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Expected service life includes how long the component is likely to last before it needs replacement.

Cost – This includes both how much it costs to replace or repair at this time and how much it would cost in future repairs if not fixed now. Our team is here to help you out with your specific needs. Contact us now at (321) 626-8959.

What Should Be Included in a Home Inspection Checklist?

hounddoghomstg on August 1, 2022

If you’re looking to buy or sell a home, you’ll need to make sure the property is up to scratch by getting a home inspection. Experts will visit the property to determine that a home is in livable condition before someone new settles in. Curious about what the process looks like? Here’s what’s included in a typical home inspection checklist.

12 Things to Include in a Home Inspection Checklist

1. Home Structure

First thing’s first: start your home with an inspection of its basic structure. Your home has nothing to stand on if the foundation is not solid. Any home inspection should begin by looking at its foundation. Are there cracks in any of the walls or ceilings of the home? Other structure elements are the beams and posts that hold your home up.

If you’re looking to renovate a home after buying it, you’ll want to learn which beams are necessary for bearing weight and cannot be removed, and which may be removed if you add support elsewhere. Within the home, take a look at the staircases and handrails. These should be solid to prevent any accidents.

2. Household Appliances

Most of your home’s major appliances will be in the kitchen: the microwave, refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, and oven. If your home includes any of these items, make sure to take a look at them in your inspection to see that they’re all working as they’re supposed to. You don’t want to be stuck spending thousands on new appliances after you close the sale.

While you’re in your kitchen, you’ll also want to look at your garbage disposal and make sure it’s getting rid of food properly. Other appliances to look at are the washing and drying machine. Check that the washing machine hookups are in the right place and that the drying machine can drain properly.

3. Plumbing System

The plumbing part of your inspection will ensure that anywhere with running water is running properly. This includes checking both the inside, underneath, and outside of your home. Inspectors will look at all of the valves in your kitchen and bathrooms. They’ll also take a look at water filtration systems so that you don’t drink any contaminated water. All exposed plumbing will be looked at, as well as the storage water tank.

Plumbers run all of your sinks to look for leaks and potential causes of water damage. They’ll also flush all of your home’s toilets and turn on all of the showers for the same purpose. In your inspection, you’ll learn if certain fixtures are rusting and need to be replaced or if there are leaks you need to address before moving in.

4. Heating & Cooling System

Part of your home inspection will include looking at your home’s heating and cooling systems in death. A technician will look at the HVAC system’s age and looks at the parts of the system to see that each is in good condition. First, the inspection will begin by looking at the thermostat and furnace components. It will also include an inspection of the home’s air conditioning system.

HVAC inspections will also examine the airflow in a home to make sure that warm or cool air is moving as it should. Poor airflow can raise electricity bills because your systems have to work harder to deliver your desired temperature. Problems that a technician may find in your HVAC inspection as gas line leaks, a furnace that leaks water, poor ductwork that causes a loss of airflow, and clogged filters.

5. Windows & Doors

Your windows and doors may only be small details compared to the rest of your home, but costs add up when you have to repair them. In your home inspection, first check that all doors open and close properly. Examine the condition of the doors: are they creaky, rotting, or damaged in any way?

Don’t expose your property to any preventable risk. Deter unwanted visits to your home by making sure that all doors and windows have working latches and locks. Damaged or missing screens should be replaced as well as any broken glass in window or door panels.

6. Roof

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, so you should make sure not to exclude it in your home inspection checklist. First, you’ll want to find out when the roof was last replaced. If it’s been close to 20 years, you may be looking at a replacement. Look at the roof material and the condition of the roof to get a better idea of when you will need a new one.

Keep an eye out for missing shingles on your roof, and make sure to inspect your chimney. Gutters and downspouts should be attached firmly, so your property has no problems with drainage.

7. Home Exterior

Aside from the roof, the house’s exterior should also be included in your inspection, even if details are only cosmetic. Check out the exterior paint. Is it chipping? The siding of a home gives protection from the elements while adding curb appeal. Take a look at its condition to see if it needs any repairs. Your house may have asbestos siding and roofing. In good condition, you have nothing to worry about. Otherwise, you will need an expert to make repairs.

8. Basement

If your home has a basement, don’t forget to include an inspection of this space in your home inspection checklist. Even if it’s unfinished and you never plan to use it, you’ll want to know if there are any potential problems before you move into the home. Have your home inspector take a close look for mold and moisture. Any musty or mildewy smell is often an indication that there’s water trapped there.

Check your basement’s sump pump if it has one and verify that it’s working smoothly. Basements are often a space for pests to hide out. Your home inspection should look for any signs of activity from unwanted visitors. Rats and mice love an unoccupied and uninsulated basement because it gives them ample space to hide behind the walls. Small holes in your basement’s walls and floors are evidence that small bugs or other pests have been living there.

9. Electrical System

Electricity is dangerous if it is not installed and regulated properly. Inspectors will test all of the electrical elements of a home, from light fixtures to your smoke detectors. The home inspector will turn on all of the light switches and check that a current is running properly, examine the outlets to see that they’re functioning safely and check all of the circuits.

Inspectors look beyond flipping switches, though. They also look into the mechanisms of the home’s circuits, which include the wires that transfer the electricity. Homes should also have grounded circuit breakers that protect both you and the circuit from feeling a high amount of electric shock if there is a sudden overload.

10. Living Spaces & Bedrooms

The living spaces and bedrooms won’t have as much that you need to inspect as a bathroom or kitchen, but they should still get a once-over to identify any potential problems. Look at the ceilings, windows, walls, floors, and doors, like you would anywhere else on the property. Make sure electrical outlets are working and are safe.

11. Garage & Garage Door

Next, go into your garage. The walls, ceiling, and floor should all be in good condition with no cracks or holes. Look at the material and condition of your garage door and determine if a replacement is due soon. You may want to choose a different garage door material or style based on the weather conditions of the area.

Depending on how you want to use your garage, the inspection can also reveal some other helpful information. If you plan to use part of your garage as a workspace, you’ll want to see if the garage door is insulated. Otherwise, it will get cold in the winter months. Your inspection will also identify outlets you can use for projects.

12. Outdoor Grounds

Lastly, you’ll want to check on the exterior grounds of your property to make sure that it’s safe. Take a look at the driveway and any trees or plants that are in your front yard. Are there any cracks or loose roots you should look out for? In your front and backyard, keep an eye out for rot on your porch and deck, any sharp edges on fencing or gates, or uneven walkways.

We know this list sounds like a lot, but it’s important to take all of the proper precautions when it comes to the safety of your home. Instead of spending hours of your day trying to identify problems in your property, leave it to the experts. If you are buying a home in Florida, you will likely have to apply for insurance coverage which will require you to take care of the property with a 4 point inspection. Our inspection team won’t let any detail go unnoticed. Contact us at Hound Doghi to set up a time for us to look at the house! We also offer advanced pool inspections, wind mitigations, and commercial inspections.

Who Can Do Home Inspections?

hounddoghomstg on July 1, 2022

Anyone who would like to sell or buy a home, has a problem with their property, or is looking to move into a brand-new house should get an inspection. But how can you find a competent professional, who will provide you with an accurate and easy-to-read report? In Florida, there are many rules and regulations that determine who can conduct home inspections.

Candidates must complete the required training and licensing, and they should also get insurance. To find a great home inspector, you can search for businesses online, and you can look at reviews on popular sites such as Google. Once you’ve found a suitable professional, you can ask them what kind of inspection they suggest. Often, a four-point inspection is enough, but a general inspection is better for those buying a new home.

Who Can Perform Home Inspections?

If you’ve been living in Florida for a long time, you might already know that not everyone can claim to be a home inspector. Instead, aspiring professionals have to go through a licensing process, which includes getting a home inspection certification and purchasing the correct type of insurance. Individuals who fail their state licensing exam or who don’t comply with the regulations are not allowed to inspect your home, and you should never hire them to do so.

The Licensing Process

In the US, not every state has a licensing requirement, so some inspectors might not be fully qualified. However, people living in Florida can rest assured that their inspectors are specialists because the job is regulated by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. To be able to inspect homes in our state, a professional has to complete at least 120 hours of training with an approved provider.

This helps the aspiring inspector to learn about the various components of a home and allows them to gain experience writing clear and helpful reports. It also prepares them for the necessary exams. There are several exam boards, called the NHIE, FABI, InterNACHI, or CI-HPI. Once an inspector has completed their exam, they have to get professional liability insurance before they can seek employment or start their own business.

The Home Inspection Certification

Currently, there are 30 approved providers of home inspection education in Florida, and all of them offer various courses and modules. An aspiring inspector has to complete these classes and pass the assessment at the end of them in order to become certified. Some of the courses are offered online, while others require in-person attendance. After the training is complete, the inspector can sit the state licensing exam.

This assessment is known to be challenging, so most people have to study hard for it. Once an inspector has passed it, they are still not fully certified. Instead, they also have to pass a background check, and they get fingerprinted. This is important because inspectors visit people’s homes, so they must be trustworthy and reliable individuals.

Professional Liability Insurance

Anyone hoping to work as a home inspector in Florida must have a professional liability insurance policy in place. This protects them and their business in case someone gets hurt or a part of the home gets destroyed during an inspection. For example, if an inspector hits a wall in the wrong way and it gets damaged, the insurance will pay for the necessary repairs.

Similarly, the insurance provider will cover the costs of the compensation and the legal fees if a professional accidentally hurts someone while conducting their inspection. Before you hire an inspector, you should ask them about the kind of insurance they hold. If they say they have no policy, it’s unlikely that they are qualified and complying with the Florida inspection regulations.

How Can I Find the Best Home Inspector?

Although all home inspectors in Florida have spent a lot of time and effort completing the certification process, there are differences in quality. The best inspectors provide a prompt, competitively priced, and accurate service. So, how can you find someone who will do an excellent job? The easiest way to select a great inspector is to do some research online and compare various inspectors’ websites.

You should choose a firm that has well-qualified employees and offers a lot of helpful information for free. From the website, it should be clear what kinds of services the inspector offers, since this will help you decide whether they are a good fit for you.

Getting in Touch

Once you’ve found a firm you like, you can call or message them to get your quote. During this initial contact phase, the company’s response should be prompt and friendly. If so, it’s likely that you will have a good experience with them.

However, if they are slow to reply or you don’t feel comfortable talking to them, you should look for someone else. Remember, the inspector will walk through and examine your home, so it’s important that you feel at ease around them.

What Kind of Service Should I Get?

When you look at home inspectors’ websites, you’ll find that there isn’t just one type of inspection. Instead, you can choose from several options. For example, the four-point home inspection is ideal for people who need to know more about the property’s most important systems.

On the other hand, a general inspection is more comprehensive, so it’s appropriate for people who are looking to buy a home. Here at Hound Dog Home Inspections, we offer both options as well as wind mitigation inspections, pool inspections, new construction inspections, and commercial inspections.

The Four-Point Home Inspection

The four-point inspection is one of the most popular choices because it gives you a good idea about a property’s condition, but it doesn’t take very long or cost very much. Most four-point inspections can be completed within two to three hours, although the exact duration depends on the home’s size and features.

The four points covered are the electrical system, the plumbing, the HVAC system, and the roof. Your inspector will have a look at all of them to determine whether they are in good condition or whether any modifications are necessary.

The General Inspection

A general inspection is similar to a four-point inspection, but it is more comprehensive because it also includes the building’s foundation. This option is best if you’re hoping to buy a new property because it can uncover important issues and prevent you from making a purchase you will regret later on. However, such a comprehensive inspection might not be necessary if you’re selling a home or simply hoping to find out more about your building’s current condition.

The Wind Mitigation

When you add features to your home that can reduce windstorm damage, you can get credits, and you might not have to pay so much for insurance anymore. In some cases, insurance premiums can be reduced by up to 70% if a home is altered to include wind mitigation measures. But to prove that you meet the requirements for this deduction, you need to have an inspector double check your home’s features.

During a wind mitigation inspection, the professional walks around your home and examines the water barriers, such as the seal on your roof deck, the roof-to-foundation anchoring, and the window and door coverings, which could include storm shutters and shatterproof windows. Your report will either state that your home is protected from high wind speeds or that you have to add further modifications to meet the requirements.

The Pool Inspection

People who build a new pool in their garden have to have it inspected to make sure it’s safe to use. Similarly, you have to have existing pools examined every year because a faulty mechanism is extremely dangerous and could cause serious injury or even death. When you book a pool inspection, the professional will look at the structure itself but also the plumbing, pumps, heaters, filters, and electrical components.

Because this type of inspection is so technical and specific, you should hire experts and not general inspectors. Always choose a company that states that they are able to do advanced pool inspections on their website. That way, you don’t risk getting a subpar inspection from someone who doesn’t have a lot of experience with pools.

The New Construction Inspection

If you’re looking to move into a newly built home, you should get a new construction inspection first. Although it’s likely that the developers worked with inspectors throughout the project, almost every building contains small faults or weak points.

Knowing the potential issues upfront can help you determine what kinds of repairs might be necessary in the next few years and whether the home is a good fit. You can then make a more informed decision about your purchase.

In Florida, there are very strict regulations that dictate who can conduct a home inspection. The professional has to have completed a certain amount of training, and they should also have the correct kind of insurance. These rules are in place to protect homeowners and control the quality of inspections. Get in touch with us at Hound Dog Home Inspections to find out more about our employees’ qualifications and to get your quote.

What Are the Most Important Home Inspection Services?

hounddoghomstg on June 1, 2022

Both new and old homes have to be inspected periodically so sellers, owners, or prospective buyers can find out what kind of work needs to be completed. A great provider will offer various home inspection services such as general inspections, four-point inspections, new construction inspections, pool inspections, and wind mitigation inspections.

The time your inspection takes depends on the type you have chosen. For instance, a general inspection is much more thorough than a four-point one, so it will take longer and cost you more money. When you reach out, your inspector can explain the different services to you and help you decide which one could be right for your property.

What Are the Most Important Home Inspection Services?

People get home inspections for a number of reasons, so a good inspector will offer a wide variety of services that suit different customers. People who are looking to sell their home might need to have it examined to find out whether they need to complete any repairs that could upgrade its value. However, those looking to buy a home should have an even more thorough inspection done because this can prevent nasty surprises down the line.

Even if the house you’re hoping to purchase is new, it’s worth asking an inspector to have a look because not all buildings are constructed to a high standard. Properties that contain a pool require frequent inspections because the pool needs to be kept safe. Additionally, properties that have recently been fitted with windstorm mitigation features should be inspected, so the relevant credits can be applied.

General Home Inspections

A general home inspection is very comprehensive and covers all aspects of the home, from the basement to the ceiling. Your inspector will have a look at the property’s foundations, the inside and outside structures, and all the systems such as electrical, plumbing, and heating. Reports are often many pages long and contain great detail about the current condition of the property.

General inspections are very useful for people who would like to buy a new home because the in-depth examination is likely to identify any big problems. For example, you can find out if there is a structural issue with the home that could require extensive repairs in the future. By getting a general inspection, you can safeguard your money and avoid bad investments that cost you more in the long term.

Four-Point Home Inspections

As the name suggests, a four-point home inspection is focused on four points only and is therefore a lot less extensive than a general home inspection. When you choose this option, your inspector will only have a look at the roofing, the plumbing, the electrical systems, and the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units. A 4 point inspection is a great option for anyone who is thinking of selling their home because it gives them a better idea of the property’s condition.

It is also often required by insurance companies when a home is more than 30-40 years old. If you want to get homeowners’ insurance, you might have to have a four-point inspection done. It is much cheaper and faster than regular inspections, so it doesn’t disrupt the running of the household to the same extent. In most cases, your inspector will be done within a few minutes or hours.

New Construction Inspections

A new construction inspection focuses on the issues that are often encountered in newly built homes. In some cases, developers begin working with the inspectors even before the property’s foundations are laid. That way, the developers can avoid making costly mistakes that could reduce the value of the property. For instance, they can choose the best orientation, make sure the foundations are solid, and prevent warranty issues.

As the building is constructed, the inspector can return periodically to check that the work is being completed to a high standard. A new construction inspection can also be suitable for home buyers looking to move into a newly built property. In that case, the process will take several hours, and the inspector will look for small issues that can reduce the functionality of the property.

Pool Inspections

Pools have to function well because they can pose a threat to the health and safety of residents if they are faulty or contain dangerous elements. Therefore, you should always get your pool inspected when you move into a new property. Established homeowners should also have an inspector over every few years. Not all home inspectors specialize in pool inspections, so you need to make sure you find someone who is qualified and experienced.

At Hound Dog Home Inspections, we can conduct a thorough examination of your pool and let you know whether any repairs are outstanding. We will begin by walking around the area and looking for any obvious defects. Then, we will check the safety features, make sure the fencing is secure, and check for damage such as leaks and cracks. In addition to the pool itself, we will also examine all the equipment that belongs to it.

Wind Mitigation Inspections

If you equip your home with good windstorm mitigation features, you can get significant credits, and you might no longer have to pay so much for home insurance. Additionally, you are protecting yourself and your family from storms and other natural disasters. During a big storm, wind mitigation features like barriers, anchoring, and window and door coverings can save lives and keep your property standing.

To determine which credits you are eligible for, you will need to have a wind mitigation inspection after you install the above-named safety devices. Your inspector will have a look at the features and let you know whether they are optimized. If not, you will have to upgrade or add new ones to supplement what you already have.

What Happens During a General Home Inspection?

Now you know what types of home inspection services your local professionals offer, you might wonder what happens during the inspection. Although we can give you an estimate of the time your inspection will take, it all depends on the size and complexity of the property and the type of inspection chosen. Most general inspections take two to four hours, but a four-point inspection might only take 30-60 minutes.

Inspecting the Foundation

If you’ve opted for a general inspection, your professional will have a close look at the foundations of your home because this helps them figure out its structural integrity. Some of the things an inspector might look out for are uneven surfaces, decaying materials, or other signs that indicate a faulty foundation. The inspector will also walk through your basement and make sure that it is in good condition.

Inspecting the Outside

A full inspection includes a walk around both the inside and the outside of the property. Your inspector will have a look at various features, including the roof, the rain gutters, the outside walls, and the outside of the windows and doors. Although this can seem daunting if you haven’t renovated your home recently, you shouldn’t worry. An experienced professional can quickly tell whether your home is simply weathered or whether there are real, structural problems.

Inspecting the Inside

After the inspector has looked at the outside of the property, they will walk through every room and make a note of the building’s condition. Issues such as cracks in the walls or ceiling could indicate structural problems, so the inspector will have a closer look. They will also examine your attic, floors, windows, and doors.

Inspecting the Home’s Systems

The general and the four-point inspection both include a look at the home’s most important systems. The inspector will test your electrical components, your plumbing, your heating, your ventilation, and your air conditioning system. This helps them to determine whether any major repairs, such as a boiler replacement, are necessary in the next few years.

Do I Need a Home Inspection?

There are many reasons why you might need a home inspection. Getting your property examined is mandatory for many people who would like to get homeowners’ insurance for an older house. However, it can also be a good idea to have a property looked at if you’re hoping to sell or buy it.

The best way to find out whether an inspection is right for you is to contact professionals and ask them about their services. When you speak to us on the phone, we can find out more about your home and then suggest the most suitable type of inspection.

Call the Experts and Get Peace of Mind

Almost every developer or homeowner needs home inspection services at some point. If you’re currently looking to sell or buy a home, getting the property inspected could be a good first step and give you more information about its current condition and future repair needs. Although having older homes examined is especially important, you should get an inspection done even if your property is brand-new.

Homeowners who have a pool or those who have recently installed windstorm mitigation features can also benefit from the services of a home inspector. Get in touch with us now at Hound Dog Home Inspections to speak to one of our experts.

How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?

hounddoghomstg on May 1, 2022

If you’re ready to seal the deal on buying a new home, then it’s probably time to schedule a home inspection. A home inspection is an essential step before you finalize a property purchase so that any potential material or construction defects can be identified and fixed before you move in. But how long does a home inspection take?

How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?

A home inspection will usually take about two to four hours to complete. This is the average time it will take to complete a full home inspection, including inspecting areas such as the roof, exterior, basement, foundation, fireplace, attic, driveways, garages, and patios. Full home inspections will also look at heating, cooling, plumbing, electricity, drainage, and built-in appliances.

Other types of home inspections may be completed more quickly. For example, a four-point home inspection will usually take twenty to thirty minutes to complete since this type of inspection will focus on elements of HVAC, electricity, plumbing, and structure. This type of inspection is also quicker because it is a visual inspection only.

Factors That May Influence How Long an Inspection Will Take

To unpack a question like “How long does a home inspection take?”, it’s important to understand that all homes and properties are unique. Several factors may influence how long it will take to complete a home inspection, such as:

Property Size

The size of the property is one of the biggest influencing factors for how long a home inspection will take. For example, homes that are between 1,500 and 2,000 square feet will usually take two to four hours to complete a full home inspection. For every additional 500 feet on the home, an additional 30 minutes will be added to how long it will take a home inspector to finish looking at all home systems.

This means that if a single home inspector is looking at a 4,000 square foot home, it may take up to five hours to complete the inspection. This is why inspections for larger homes may be completed by a team of home inspectors.

Property Conditions

The condition of the property can influence how fast a home inspection can be completed. For example, new homes or homes that have been newly renovated and are in good condition will usually have faster home inspections because there are fewer issues to document. Homes that are not in good condition, on the other hand, will have more safety issues that need to be documented, so these inspections will take more time.

Property Age

As a rule, because property permits and safety regulations change over time, inspecting an older home will usually take longer than inspecting a newer home. In addition to older homes being more vulnerable to structural defects, an older home may have unique challenges that require more time to identify. For older homes, it’s common to add an hour to the home inspection.

Property Systems

The number of systems in the house can also influence how long a home inspection will take. For example, if there are multiple HVAC systems, cooling and heating systems, or water heaters, it will take more time to inspect all of these systems to identify potential problems. This is why a home that does not have an AC hookup will take less time to inspect than a home that has both heating and cooling systems.

Property Foundation

The type of foundation a property has is also important. If the property has a cement foundation, then the inspection for the home will take less time than if the home has a basement or crawl space. Inspecting a basement, even a finished basement, will take additional time because of potential water damage, mold, and other issues.

Other Factors

There may be other factors that can influence how long a home inspection will take. For example, if weather conditions are bad at the time of the home inspection, this may influence the access a home inspector has to certain areas of the home, such as the crawl space.

If a home inspector has to field questions from a real estate agent or homeowner, this can also add time to the home inspection. Although there is nothing wrong with tagging along on your home inspection, be aware that asking questions instead of waiting for the finalized report means that the inspection will take longer. If you’re on a time crunch, it may be best to wait to ask questions until after the home inspection is complete.

Common Types of Home Inspections

How long does a home inspection take? Sometimes, it depends on the type of inspection. There are multiple types of home inspections that are available for property owners. Depending on the goal of your home inspection, you may not need a full inspection or a four-point inspection. Some other common types of inspections include:

Wind Mitigation Inspection

A wind mitigation inspection will examine the wind-resistance features on a property, which can be used to reduce property insurance premiums. A wind mitigation inspection is often necessary for homes that are vulnerable to high winds, especially if you live in areas of Florida where hurricanes are likely to fall.

Water Intrusion Inspection

Water can cause untold damage to a home and often goes undetected for too long. A water intrusion inspection may be necessary if you have seen any signs of water damage or leaks in a home. A home inspector will be able to identify water damage, find leaks, and test the home to document water damage for your home insurance company.

Signs that may indicate there is water damage in your home can include wet carpets, musty odors, cracks in drywall, water spots on the ceiling or walls, and much more. Even if you do not see visible leaking, or you can’t hear leaking pipes in the walls, your home could still be suffering from water damage. The only way to make sure is for a home inspector to use thermal imaging.

New Construction Inspection

New construction doesn’t always mean the property is without any problems. If you’re interested in buying a newly constructed property, it’s important to have multiple new home inspections to ensure all construction permits and safety regulations are correct. This can help you prevent repairs in the future and also reduce home insurance policies.

Some common construction issues that are found in new homes can include structural defects, drainage issues, leaks in windows, electrical problems, HVAC issues, and plumbing problems. A home inspection can also identify incomplete projects, such as missing hardware pieces or insufficient insulation in the walls.

Pre-Listing Inspection

If you are selling a property, then it’s likely a good idea to schedule a pre-listing inspection. This will circumvent any issues that may be found by the buyer’s property inspection when your home is being sold. A pre-listing inspection will allow you to fix problems before you sell your home and help you accurately price your home. Having a pre-listing inspection can also put the potential buyer at ease.

11th-Month Warranty Inspection

The majority of home warranties will last for one year after purchasing the home, which is why it’s a savvy plan to schedule an 11th-month warranty inspection of your home. By scheduling a warranty inspection, you will be able to identify and fix any issues while your property is still under warranty. This can help you avoid expensive repairs and out-of-pocket costs.

General Concern Inspection

If you have any concerns about your home, such as water damage, leaks, cracks in walls or flooring, or water pooling near the foundation, it can be a good idea to schedule a general concern inspection. Scheduling a general concern inspection is often a better option than calling a repair service, since a home inspector will likely be more honest about the issues that need to be fixed.

Do You Need a Home Inspection Report?

Another factor in determining “how long does a home inspection take” is generating the home inspection report. While the main portion of a home inspection will be completed when a home inspector does a walkthrough of the property to identify and document issues, the most important aspect of a home inspection is the report.

A home inspection report is an essential document that lists the conditions of all the major systems in the home, identifies any safety code violations, and can even make recommendations on how to correct violations. This report is important for homeowners to have, especially for those who are interested in buying a previously-owned property. Home inspection reports may also be important for your home insurance company to document.

How long does a home inspection take? For a full home inspection, you can expect the process to take two to four hours. The type of inspection, the condition of the home, the size of the home, and other factors can influence how long a home inspection will take. To learn more about your home inspection options, please contact Hound Dog Home Inspections in Brevard County, FL today.