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En Español
Frequently Asked Questions on Home Inspections
What is a Home Inspection?
A Home Inspection is both a visual and physical examination on the structure and systems of the home. It includes operational checks on all major appliances and describes which items may need replacement now or in the near future.
Why do I need an Inspection?
For most people, their home is their largest investment. An impartial Home Inspection by an experienced company will reveal the true condition of the home before the sale is finalized.
How does it protect me?
By ordering a comprehensive Home Inspection you will know the true condition of the home before you purchase it. Many times the seller will be responsible for some or all of the repairs before you purchase the home. Check with your agent or representative to verify.
Buying a home can be stressful enough, knowing the true condition of the home will lessen the stress involved and lead to a smoother closing.
What factors should I consider when hiring a Home Inspector?
1.) First make sure they are licensed and insured. The company should be licensed to do Home or Building Inspections. Their license number should be posted or available upon request. Also the company you hire should carry both Errors and Omissions (EOM) insurance and a General Liability policy and have proof of coverage. The EOM insurance protects the client if the Inspector makes a mistake or misses something. General Liability protects you if the Inspector breaks or damages something on the property. The cost of insurance is sometimes so high that some companies skip this important step. It is important to remember that if you hire a company without insurance, you may be held liable by the seller for any problems.
2.) You need to know what is covered in the Inspection. The standards that each company works under can vary greatly. For instance FABI, ASHI, and NACHI have distinctly different standards. Some companies do not put estimates for repairs. This can slow the closing while estimates are obtained. Some companies do not inspect the appliances and there are even companies that do not check electrical panels. This can result in a major expense to the buyer after the closing.
3.) What are the qualifications of the Inspector? Right now Florida has not set any standards for Home Inspector and almost anyone can call himself an Inspector. Find out his or her background: Do they have any training as an Inspector?; How long have they been in business?; Do they have any Professional Affiliations? Make an informed decision.
What is a 4 Point Inspection?
A 4 Point Inspection is not the same as a Comprehensive Home Inspection. It is a specific Inspection that includes:
A Roof Inspection
An Electrical Inspection
A HVAC Inspection (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning)
Plumbing
This type of Inspection requires a licensed Roofing Contractor, a licensed Electrician and a Home Inspector. Many insurance companies require this type of Inspection before insuring the property or upon refinancing the property. They want to know if the systems in the 4 points have been updated to current standards and if they are in good condition. Many times the client orders a Home Inspection and finds out later that their Insurance Company requires a 4 Point Inspection. This is not the fault of the Inspection Company and is the client's responsibility to verify in advance. The 4 Point Inspection is not intended to take the place of a Comprehensive Home Inspection, it is geared toward specific information required by Insurance Companies.
Why should I choose JP Enterprises to do my Home Inspection?
At JP Enterprises Home Inspection Services, we know that choosing the right Inspector is as important as choosing the right home. Our customers will receive prompt customer service and an impartial Inspection that includes:Structural Components
Exterior
Roof
Termite
Electrical
Plumbing
Central Air
Interior
Insulation/Ventilation
Sprinkler
Major Appliances
Doors/Windows
We are licensed to perform building inspections. (#329-0028-609)
We carry both Errors and Ommissions Insurance and General Liability Insurance. We have been in business since 1999 and have performed over 2,200 Inspections. Our Inspections are recognized as one of the most thorough in our industry. They are printed on site from one of our mobile offices and include color digital pictures of problem areas. We know your time is valuable, so you do not have to wait for your report. You will receive it at the conclusion of the Inspection or if you are not present, we can email it to you or your agent.
Our Inspectors have extensive training in the Home Inspection field. We perform all Inspections under the current standards of the National Association of Home Inspectors, (NACHI). We are affiliate members of The Greater Fort Lauderdale Area Board of Realtors and all Inspectors carry a supra for your convenience.
If you have a question not answered by our faq's, please click on the link below.
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Ask the Home Inspector
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