Inspections are highly recommended, especially when it comes to an existing home. You are making a major investment and can save thousand of dollars. Look up ratings on all companies or if you know any home inspector that has a reputable and highly rated business. These individual's should be licensed by the State and Insured. A bonus is that member belongs to the chamber of commerce, BBB and NationalAssociation of Certified Inspectors. All inspections should be performed in the manner with the Standards of Practice of American Society of Home Inspectors known as (ASHI). Referrals always works the best. This takes an experienced person or buyer to know if the house needs this service. Depending on the year of home, one, two or three story home the price varies. Typically Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) and inspection is required provided you are borrowing money from a lender. A four point inspection truly save the maximum money on home insurance. These prices demographically and in Florida along coastlines are looked at very closely. This consist of roof, plumbing, electrical and HVAC. Wind Mitigation is an additional charge. This is usually required on an older home that is not built with current wind code.
From my experience, I visually look for these series of items, run water in every sink to see if any leaks underneath, look at exterior of home for spider cracks. Floors, look for tile cracks and garage floor cracks. This is caused from ground settling after several months or years. Small cracks are usually from Look for water stains in ceiling throughout entire home, shower heads and sinks leaking. Flush all toilets and turn on all water faucet's to ensure hot water temperature is comfortable. Check fans at all speeds. Water heater is commonly set at 120 degrees. Look at exterior doors the outside bottom door sweeper and door jam that no air is entering by seeing light. Also any rotted wood at bottom of doors and frames that can be holding moisture. If you can poke a nail through it, it needs to be replaced depending on how sever damage is. This is where termites can start. If home is in Florida, please secure home owners insurance prior hurricane season. If not you are taking a risk on insurance companies not writing any policies. Once inspection is finished, you will receive a detailed report that you will learn about the home. There are usually findings even if minor. Most inspector are professional and will answer any questions you may have and feel free to contact me today at 407 479-8583 and I have a pocket full of quality home inspectors.
Lock in policy prior hurricane season, Shop around and compare what you get based on deductible.