Pinellas & Pasco
727-381-4663
Hillsborough
813-229-0011
Residential Inspections
Single-Family Residential Home Inspection
The scope of a Residential Home Inspection is to perform a visual analysis of the premises for the purpose of identifying major, readily observable deficiencies and to disclose to the client the general condition of the residence and its systems. The inspection includes, but may not be limited to, the exterior of the residence, where the roof will be examined, checking for any apparent defects, proper installation and estimating the age and useful remaining life; the exterior walls and foundation will be examined for excessive settlement in masonry structures, rot and decay in wood structures and overall condition; the grounds around the residence will be examined for proper drainage and possible hazards; if there is a crawl space and / or pool / spa, these will be inspected but additional fees may be incurred. As a large part of the inspection, the major systems of the home will be inspected; the electrical system will be thoroughly examined, looking at the source of entry and its condition, proper grounding, the condition of the electrical panel and the wiring inside and the proper grounding and condition of the branch circuits; the plumbing system will be inspected for the use of proper materials, readily visible leaks in the supply and waste lines, proper operation of the fixtures, the condition and operation of the water heater, including its age and anticipated useful life; the air conditioning and heating systems will be inspected for proper capacity and overall condition, the age and useful life of its components, the proper temperature differentials and the condition of the distribution system. The interior of the home will be inspected room by room, looking at all of the various components, including the walls, ceiling, floor, doors, windows, outlets, as well as plumbing and appliances, as they relate to each particular room.
Condominium Inspection
The scope of a Condominium Inspection is very similar to the Single Family Inspection, however, the exterior components are not inspected, as these are generally under the jurisdiction of the Condominium Association and are not the responsibility of the Owner. There are two exceptions to the inspection of the exterior components, the first is the exterior portion of the A/C system, which will be inspected, the second exception is in a Townhouse or PUD Inspection. These are treated the same as a Single Family Residential Inspection because where the exterior may not be the responsibility of the homeowner, the condition of the exterior components greatly affect the condition of the interior components and any potential defects need to be noted.
The Inspection Report
While being comprehensive in the scope reviewed our reports are also fully photo documented so that it is easier for our clients to share with those who were not present at the time of inspection and for those clients who are not able to attend the inspection as we have many out of state clients. Our report also includes a summary section that reiterates all those items found deficient in the main report, providing and easy to understand list for those who are doing the repairs. We have provided a Sample Report so you can see the general report Suncoast will provide.
What is not included in a Home Inspection
In accordance with Florida Statutes, TITLE XXXII, SECTION 468 REGULATION OF PROFESSIONS AND OCCUPATIONS, Part XV HOME INSPECTORS (ss. 468.83-468.8325) and the FABI and ASHI Standards of Practice (viewable at www.leg.state.fl.us, www.fabi.org and www.ashi.org respectively), Suncoast does not evaluate or endorse any concealed areas or components, such as subterranean ducts, pipes, or conduits within walls, floors, or ceilings, obstructed switches and outlets, the slab beneath carpets, the interior of heat exchangers, air-conditioning coils and supply ducts, significant portions of chimney flues, and the waterproof membrane beneath roofs, balconies or shower pans. Also, we do not evaluate or endorse the following specific components: computerized systems, radio or remotely controlled components, central vacuum systems, alarm, telephone, cable, or intercom systems, water softeners, water circulating devices, water filtration or purification devices, the hermetic seal of dual glazed windows or skylights, solar systems, fire-sprinkler systems, shut-off valves that are not in daily use, elevators, saunas, steam showers, humidifiers, electronic air cleaners, in-line duct motors or dampers, washers, dryers, and their valves or drain pipes, condensate pumps, thermostats, timers, clocks, rotisseries, refrigerators, portable or free standing appliances, retaining walls, landscaping or landscape items, including decorative and low-voltage lighting, portable spas, fountains and ponds, barbecues, fire-pits, pool sweep assemblies, in-line chlorinators, or similar devices dispensing bromine or ozone, and the coatings on pools, spas, countertops, fixtures, appliances, decks and walkways. Suncoast does not evaluate or endorse private sewage systems or private water supply systems unless specifically contracted for in advance to the inspection.
Pinellas & Pasco
727-381-4663
Hillsborough
813-229-0011