1. What is a home inspection?
A home inspection is a visual, non-invasive evaluation of a home’s major systems and components, including the roof, structure, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and interior/exterior components, performed at the time of the inspection.
2. How long does a home inspection take?
Most inspections take 2–4 hours, depending on the size, age, and condition of the home. Larger or older homes may take longer.
3. Should I attend the home inspection?
Yes. Attending allows you to see issues firsthand, ask questions, and better understand the home’s condition. A summary is usually provided at the end.
4. What does a home inspection NOT cover?
Home inspections are not technically exhaustive and do not include invasive testing, code compliance, cosmetic issues, or concealed conditions. Items like mold testing, sewer scopes, pools, and seawalls are typically separate services.
5. Is a home inspection the same as an appraisal?
No. An appraisal determines market value, while a home inspection evaluates the condition of the home. Inspectors do not assign value or determine whether a home will pass or fail.
6. Can a home fail a home inspection?
No. There is no pass or fail. The inspection provides information so buyers or homeowners can make informed decisions, negotiate repairs, or plan maintenance.
7. How old do major systems need to be before they’re a concern?
Age alone doesn’t mean failure, but older systems, such as roofs, HVAC units, and water heaters, may be closer to the end of their typical service life and should be evaluated carefully.
8. Should a newer or newly built home be inspected?
Yes. Even new construction can have defects or incomplete installations. A home inspection helps identify issues before they become costly problems.
9. Does a home inspection predict future problems?
No. Inspections reflect the condition on the day of inspection. While inspectors may note items nearing the end of their service life, future performance cannot be guaranteed.
10. What should I do after I receive the inspection report?
Review the report carefully, ask questions, and consult qualified contractors for estimates if needed. Buyers may use the report to negotiate repairs, while homeowners can use it to prioritize maintenance and improvements.
11. Why can’t inspectors move furniture, stored items, or personal belongings?
Home inspections are visual and non-invasive. Moving personal items can create liability issues and safety concerns. Anything blocked or concealed is documented as not visible or not inspected.
12. Why do inspectors recommend further evaluation by a licensed contractor?
Inspectors identify conditions of concern, not exact repair methods or costs. A licensed contractor can determine the cause, scope, and proper repair of an issue.
13. What does “end of useful life” mean in an inspection report?
It means a component is functioning at the time of inspection but is near the end of its typical service life. Replacement should be budgeted for, even if no failure is currently present.
14. Are home inspections code inspections?
No. Home inspections are not code compliance inspections. Codes change over time, and older homes are not required to meet current standards unless renovations are performed.
15. Why do inspectors call out safety issues that seem minor?
Even small issues like missing GFCI protection or loose handrails can present real safety risks. Inspectors are required to report observed conditions that may pose hazards.
16. Can an inspection detect mold, termites, or hidden water damage?
Inspectors report visible signs of these issues, but do not perform invasive testing unless specifically contracted. Specialized inspections or testing may be recommended.
17. Why is moisture intrusion such a concern in Florida homes?
Florida’s high humidity, heavy rainfall, and hurricane exposure increase the risk of moisture-related problems like rot, mold growth, and structural deterioration.
18. What’s the difference between maintenance items and defects?
Maintenance items are normal upkeep tasks (like sealing grout or replacing filters). Defects involve damage, improper installation, or unsafe conditions requiring repair or correction.
19. Why are roofs a major focus of Florida home inspections?
Roofs in Florida are subject to UV exposure, wind uplift, and storm damage. Roof condition directly affects insurance eligibility and premiums, making it a critical inspection area.
20. How accurate are inspectors when estimating the remaining life of systems?
Any remaining life estimate is an educated opinion based on typical service life, observed condition, and operation at the time of inspection, not a guarantee of future performance.