Residential Home Inspections

We are looking for excessive or unusual cracks or indications of movement and settlement in the exterior walls, interior floors and ceilings. Our inspectors can determine if it is settlement or just normal shrinkage of building materials. 

In most cases the foundation is buried but the typical slab on grade has an exposed edge.  In older homes with crawl spaces the masonry or wood piers are typically installed on top of the finish grade without a foundation. That’s why older homes have the so called quaintness when the floors roll up and down throughout.  On the contrary this could be a problem and huge expense. 

The roof structure could be damaged by past or active roof leaks and termites. It is common to find defects in the installation of the trusses, plywood sheathing or hurricane uplift straps and connectors.  There are thousands of homes in Florida with roof sheathing stapled to the trusses not nailed, an item which will be in our report.

One of the biggest problems in new construction is the fact that steel reinforcement is no longer required is concrete slabs. Fiber mesh is used in 3000 psi concrete instead of wire mesh. Consequently, we find brand new concrete slabs with a 1/8′ or ¼”wide crack and deflection.

SI.com determines the current age and the roof life expectancy (most agents hate this).  A roof can only be properly inspected by walking on it.  The only time we do not walk the roof is if the slope is too steep or if conditions exist that are unsafe, (the tiles or shingles are wet with fungus and algae growth) the roof is too slick. 

Potential defects include missing shingles, deterioration due to age, deferred maintenance, granular loss, cracking or broken tiles, loose or shifting tiles or just poor workmanship. 

The soffit and fascia are examined for water stains, wood rot and overall condition. 

SI.com also checks the roof from the underside in the attic to confirm the nail patterns are correct.  Cost estimates are given.

The condenser and air handler are examined determining their make, age and capacity (are they properly size for the square footage of the dwelling), current condition and life expectancy is provided.  The suction and condensate lines are assessed.

The ductwork is examined for proper support, leaks, loose connections, holes and punctures.  The current condition and life expectancy are given. 

Efficiency and design are taken into consideration during our inspection.  If we find evidence the system is poorly designed it will be stated in our report.

The type of water supply and waste lines (pipe) are provided along with the age, current condition, life expectancy and clean-out locations. 

Exposed water and waste lines are visually inspected.  Water stains are noted and determined to be active or a past water event. All plumbing fixtures; faucets, sinks, tubs and showers are inspected for current condition and leaks. 

In older homes Cast Iron pipe was typically used, as it ages it deteriorates from the inside.  The only way to know it actual condition is to have a plumber run a camera through the system. 

The water heater is examined, providing the make, age, size, water temperature and current condition. If you have a well for water we highly recommend the well and pump be checked by a licensed well contractor. 

The main service entrance cable, mast and meter box are examined. 

The electrical service cabinet (electrical panel) is examined for defects, under and oversized breakers and improper installations.  All readily accessible switches, outlets and light fixtures are tested.

The age, current condition, function and life expectancy are provided.  The range, oven, refrigerator and dryer are tested with a laser temperature thermometer. 

The readily accessible windows are inspected for obvious defects such as cracked or broken glass, damaged frames or missing screens.  The exterior is inspected for a good consistent caulking bead.  The frames inspected for damage and function.  The walls and floors below windows are inspected for water stains indicating a possible leak.

The system timer and zones are tested for function manually.  The heads are tested and confirmed to be functioning. The type of water supply is noted.  If a well exists we verify function only and exposed pipes for leaks.   

If you have a well we highly recommend the well and pump be checked by a licensed well contractor.

A comprehensive report, thoroughly detailing the defects with easy to understand text, supported by photos that clearly convey the message.  All defects will have a cost to cure.