A home inspection is non-invasive, visual inspection of the essential components of a residential property to assist in the overall evaluation it's condition. The information educates you, the customer, about the functionality of the home and any material defects which may have adverse impact on the value of the property or personal safety.

Most lenders and insurance agencies want to see a home inspection report for any residential home purchase. More importantly, a quality home inspection will provide YOU with a detailed summary of the condition of the property, allowing you to make informed decisions. Of course, safety issues are number one; structural problems, fall hazards, and electrical issues that could lead to personal shock or fire must be identified and corrected. Additionally, defects which clearly impact the value of the home or would cause unforeseen maintenance costs are essential to be understood.  Purchasing a home without having taken a experienced  look at essential systems could result in over paying for a home, unforeseen maintenance costs and potential safety issues.

As with any professional service, do a little research. Typically, your real estate agent will give you a list of 3 or 4 home inspectors they have had good experience with. In addition, go to the leading associations for home inspectors (InterNACHI, ASHI) and look for certified inspectors in your area. Take a look at websites, call the companies and make sure all your questions are answered. The best inspectors offer information openly and seek to educate, not just report. Ask to view a sample report to see exactly what you can expect in the formal report. Finally, have a conversation with your potential inspector as this is very much a communication service. You will get the most from an inspector who takes the time to answer your questions, encourages you to come to the inspection and provides you helpful information about your home in addition to simply pointing out defects.

While our fees are certainly competitive, a home inspection should not be judged by price alone. The value you receive very much depends on the ability of the home inspector to make the extra effort,  communicate his observations,  and answer any questions you may have. A poor inspection would be one where an inspector shows up to your home, is unapproachable or non-talkative, and simply places checkmarks on a generic form.  At Beachside Home Inspection, education, experience, and the ability to communicate is what we are known for. You are paying a significant amount of money to receive essential information that affects the value of your home, operating costs, and safety of your family. That is why the Beachside motto is "We Are Looking Out For You"

1. Major defects.  An example of this would be a structural failure.
2. Things that lead to major defects.  A small roof-flashing leak, for example.
3. Things that may hinder your ability to finance, legally occupy or insure the home.
4. Safety hazards, such as an exposed, live buss bar at the electric panel.

Our goal is to clearly explain our services and exceed your expectations. The Pre-Inspection agreement details the scope of the inspection, the responsibilities of the inspector and important limitations. The Beachside Home Inspection agreement is based on the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors recommendation which is an industry standard. You should read this agreement in detail prior to the contracting the inspection. You will be required to sign the agreement prior to the inspection being performed and receiving the report. Understand that a home inspection will not reveal every concern that exists or ever could exist, but only the material defects observed on the day of inspection (excerpt from Standards of Practice). Review the Inspection Agreement

1. Make sure you have signed the pre-inspection agreement (on-line or on-site)
2. Have a personal check or money order made out to Beachside Home Inspection
3. Coordinate the inspection time with your real estate agent or home seller
4. Obtain a copy of the sellers disclosure
5. Ask that all power and utilities be on (incl water heaters)
6. Ask that there be clear access to the main (electrical) service panel
7. If possible, plan on being there for the inspection or at least part of it.
8. Don't be shy about asking questions, this is your inspection!

Our clients are encouraged to attend all or at least part of the inspection. In addition, for home purchases, buyer / seller real estate agent typically attend. The homeowner may also want to be present, which is not required, but is often helpful. This is not, however, the best time however to bring your kids, other family members or friends along. Any distractions may take away from the important focus of the event. In addition, walking around unfamiliar properties can be potentially hazardous. During the inspection, non owners should be with thier real estate agent or inspector at all times. Never follow your inspector into crawlspaces, attics, up ladders or on roofs. Photos will be taken to communicate any issues found in these potentially dangerous areas. Remember, safety first!

MoveInCertified homes have been pre-inspected by InterNACHI certified inspectors and the sellers confirm that there are no major systems in need of immediate repair or replacement and no known safety hazards.

This is a 'win-win" approach to selling a home.

• Sellers have an inspection performed as part of the listing process, allowing them to know the condition of their home and if any significant safety or maintenance items (material defects) exist.  The can then fix or clearly disclose these items in advance.
• Buyers can feel comfortable that they know the condition of the home and the 'good faith' of the sellers. Next to financing, the home inspection is the main reasons deals are delayed or cancelled. Already understanding the home condition up front increases the likelihood of a smooth closing.

More information can be found at  http://www.moveincertified.com/home

Wind mitigation is the implementation of certain building features in order to limit damage caused by intense wind. A Wind Mitigation Inspection checks for compliance with the updated 1994 South Florida Building Code or 2001 Florida Building Code. In 2006 the My Safe Florida Home program was created to help Floridians identify and make improvements to strengthen their homes against hurricanes through free wind inspections and grant funds. However, due to budget constraints, the program expired on June 30, 2009".  (source: mysafefloridahome.com) 

Insurance companies provided millions of dollars in premium reductions, and after the program was terminated, realized many of the wind mitigation forms we're being filled out improperly. As a result, documentation requirements for new insurance reduction claims have become much more strict, including the need for copies of building permits / materials documentation / photos for roofing and opening protection (windows, doors, garage doors, shutters). In addition, many homes which received discounts in the past may receive a notice for re-inspection, resulting in a premium increase should the features not be verifiable according to the new guidelines and documentation requirements.

For more information, visit the Citizens Insurance website. Also, it may help to take a look at the new Uniform Wind Mitigation Verification form to obtain an understanding of what features are verified (Form OIR-B1-1802). 
 

For homeowners who have the wind-resistive features in place, along with the supporting documentation, a Wind Mitigation Verification may be beneficial.

Read this Florida Today Article about what is happening with Wind Mitigations in Florida.

Call for more info.

Yes, finally. Senate Bill 2234, enacted June 27, 2007 as Florida Statute Chapter 468, Part XV provides for licensure and regulation of home inspectors effective July 1, 2010.  All Florida home inspectors will be required to meet licensing requirements, by July 2011. It is also highly recommended that home inspectors belong to a leading state and industry recognized organization like the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) which provide standards of practice and codes of ethics governing home inspectors. InterNACHI membership requirements are very strict, requiring the passing of a comprehensive practical home inspection exam, customized training in electrical, plumbing, structures and HVAC, panel review of sample inspection reports and continuing education requirements.

Only you can decide if you want to test your home for Mold. Fungi and specifically mold is naturally occuring both outside and inside our homes, especially in Florida. Potential mold problems exist however, when the concentration of mold spores are high inside of a home and an environment conducive to mold growth exists. Moisture (humidity), food, and warm temperatures are all necessary ingredients for mold growth. Often the presence of mold can be presumed by the unmistakable mold smell or visual evidence of growth. Health risks of mold are well documented but your risk can only be determined in consultation with your family doctor.

Mold testing consists of collecting and comparing indoor / outdoor samples, inspecting the home for conditions condusive to mold growth, and swab sampling of suspected mold growths. Samples are sent to a lab for evaluation and a formal report is issued.

For more info on mold, check out the EPA site:  http://www.epa.gov/mold/index.html

Absolutely not. We serve all of East Central Florida. We specialize in beachside properties beachside properties because a greater amount of knowledge is needed for coastal properties due to the risks associated with the harsher environmental conditions (storm force winds, wind driven rain, salt corrosion). This expertise benefits all customers throughout the Brevard and Indian River Counties.

While certainly recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency, only you can decide if you should have a special test for the presence of radon gas. Radon is a radioactive gas.  It comes from the natural decay of uranium that is found in nearly all soils. It typically moves up through the ground to the air above and into your home through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Your home traps radon inside, where it can build up.

Geographically, some states have a higher potential for radon gas than others. You can perform yourself with a 'self test' kit, or by having a certified professional perform the sampling. Good information can be found at the EPA site: http://www.epa.gov/radon/pubs/hmbyguid.html#9.

Suspected contaminated drywall was imported from China starting approximately in 2002 through 2006. Investigations into homeowner complaints about a foul 'rotten egg' smell in their homes, as well as unusual health ailments and atypical corrosion of metal components revealed Chinese drywall as the potential source for as many as 100,000 reported cases in 12 states, including Florida. The drywall was discovered to be releasing volatile sulfur particles which is the source of the familiar odor and a known corrosive. The drywall was manufactured in mostly 1/2" 4'x12' sheets by a company called Knauf Tianji, which is typically stamped on the back.

During a home inspection, observations of conditions consistent with the affects of Chinese Drywall may be noted, though the presence or lack of Chinese wall cannot be conclusively confirmed without positively identifying the manufacturer of the all the drywall in the home (which is mostly inaccessible) or by having invasive tests performed. Click here for more info on Chinese Drywall.

If you are concerned about Chinese drywall or suspect you have it in your home, BEACHSIDE Home Inspection can perform upon request, a targeted visual inspection of your home in accordance with Florida Dept of Health self assessment guide for drywall associated corrosion. This is the best first step.

Your home is a huge investment, directly impacted by harsh environmental conditions, routine living, and component wear and failure. As a service to existing Beachside Home Inspection clients, a periodic (annual recommended) inspection is offered to check the current condition of your home.

When you live in a house every day, many defects and maintenance issues go unnoticed, until they become catastrophic both in cost and risk. Your original Beachside Home Inspection report serves as the baseline, allowing you to track and maintain your home systems. You maintain and inspect your car...why not your home; t is certainly more complex and your family spends the majority of their time in it!

The Beachside Home Inspection mascot is a Portuguese Water Dog named Rajada (which is Portuguese for 'gust' or storm). She often travels on site visits in the cooler months.