Home Inspection Facts Naples and Bonita Springs Florida

A home inspection is a professional, complete visual examination of the all the systems and physical structural elements of a home. Our emphasis is on identifying existing or potential problems that would affect a purchasers buying decision.

Why do I need a Home Inspection?

A home is the largest purchase most people will ever make. It only makes sense to find out as much as you can about the house you are interested in before you buy. That way you can avoid costly surprise repairs and problems with your new home. Our report will also advise you of what maintenance is required to keep your home in top condition. A professional inspection will give you a clear picture of the many systems and structural elements that make up the property. If you are selling your home, a listing inspection will point out any potential problems that might be uncovered later by the buyers inspector. Finding them early will allow you to address them before listing your home, making for a faster and smoother sale.

What does a Home Inspection include?

Our standard inspection report covers all the major systems and structural elements of the house. This includes the condition of the homes heating and air conditioning systems, plumbing and electrical systems, appliances, roof, foundation, attic and visible insulation, walls, doors, windows and all visible structures.

Do I need to be there during the Inspection?

No, you aren’t required to be there for the inspection. But we highly recommend that you be present. Its a valuable learning experience for most people and will help you get the most benefit from the inspection. By following the inspector you can ask questions directly and the inspector can explain maintenance tips for specific areas. We feel you’ll be able to best understand the finished report and get the most benefit from it by having been there during the inspection.

How long will the Inspection take?

The time will vary depending on both the size and condition of the home. For most homes, 2-3 hours is pretty typical. But for larger homes, or homes in poor condition, it may take longer.

Does a newly constructed home need an Inspection?

Absolutely. A professional inspection of a new home is important. We can spot potential problems early, while they are still easy to correct. Its especially valuable to arrange an inspection before the interior walls are finished. As building professionals, we may find problem areas where the builder has taken shortcuts or not done good work.

A general home inspection, after the Certificate of Occupancy (C.O.) is issued, and with time remaining prior to closing, is recommended in order to uncover any defects and allow time for the builder to remedy them prior to closing. Major defects do not belong on a “punch-list” to be fixed after you own the home. “Punch-lists” should be used for minor and/or cosmetic items only.

Why cant I do the Inspection myself?

Chances are that even if you are very familiar with home construction, you still don’t have the knowledge, training and experience of a professional Home Inspector. We’ve inspected thousands of homes. We are not only familiar with all the systems of a home, and how they work and need to be maintained, but we also know what to look for to tell us that they are getting ready to fail. But beyond the technical expertise and experience a professional inspector brings, it is important to remember that the inspector remains an impartial third party. If you are involved in buying or selling a house, its impossible for you to remain completely unemotional about the house, and this may cloud your judgment. The professional inspector will provide an objective outside reporting of the facts.

What if the Inspection uncovers problems?

Our report will tell you the condition of the house, including needed repairs and suggested improvements. No house is going to be perfect. It is up to you to decide how any problems the inspection uncovers might affect your decision to purchase. If major problems are discovered, you may want to try negotiating with the seller to have them repaired before closing the deal. Or perhaps the seller will lower the price, or offer more favorable contract terms. In the end, the decision rests with you, but knowing about potential problems, before you buy, gives you the power to negotiate and make the best decisions.

Will you fix the problems you find during the Inspection?

No. The code of ethics of The National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI) prohibits its members from doing repair work on properties they inspect. This assures that there will never be any conflict of interest by the inspector. Our purpose is to provide an unbiased, objective third party report on the condition of the home

How much can I save?

You can save up to 88% of the wind portion of your policy premium. If you have full coverage, and, depending on the coverage that you have, you may be entitled to save a minimum of 20% off your premium, every year!

Calculate your savings!

This seems too good to be true. How is this possible?

As a Florida homeowner, you are entitled to certain premium reductions that have been mandated by state law. SAR is here to educate homeowners about these reductions and how they can benefit. We are so confident in our service we guarantee that you will save money on your windstorm policy, or we will refund the inspection costs. Many of our customers save thousands of dollars off of their annual premium. You have nothing to lose, and everything to gain!

Why should I use SAR Inspection Services?

SAR Inspection Services has experience in all aspects of construction details. Being a general contractor, we have built buildings in Florida for 24 years – we know what construction features to look for. We are a preferred windstorm inspection company by many local homeowners and professionals including Realtors and insurance companies. Don’t be fooled by imitators that offer a bargain-inspections at a reduced price! If a less-experienced inspection company neglects to spot just one beneficial construction feature of your home, it could cost you hundreds of dollars per year!

What details of construction qualify for discounts?

1. Roof Coverings that meet building codes

2. Roof Deck Attachments

3. Roof to Wall Attachments – metal straps, anchor bolts

4. Roof Shape – Hip Roof

5. Gable End Roof with End Bracing

6. Exterior Wall Type – Reinforced Masonry

7. Opening Protection – Impact Resistant Doors & Windows, Shutters

8. Reinforced Garage Doors

9. Secondary Water Resistant Roof Underlayments

What is my first step to start saving?

Contact SAR Inspection Services by calling us at (239) 825-4165 or you can fill in the “contact us” form on this website. When you call or fill in the form, have your current windstorm policy information available, including your insurance company, their phone number, agent and policy number.

Which insurance companies give discounts?

All of them! Florida Statute 626.0629 requires insurance companies to offer Florida homeowners “discounts, credits, or other rate differentials” for construction techniques that reduce damage and loss in windstorms.