When to Order Which Inspections

Have there been any additions, renovations, or major system updates?
If so, you may want a Permit Search Inspection.

Was the home built prior to 2002?
You may receive significant premium discounts with a Wind Mitigation Inspection.
Usually homes built in compliance with the 2002 Florida Building Code (with a permit application date after 3/1/2002) automatically qualify for Wind Mitigation credits without an inspection. Most insurance companies will not assume that the home’s protection from strong winds has down-graded from its original construction. However, some insurance underwriters have made the argument that the previous occupants could have sold hurricane panels for scrap metal, or somehow vandalized the house, and therefore they do require an inspection. So, you’ll want to check with your insurance agent.

Was the home built prior to 1994?
If so, your insurance company may require a 4 Point Insurance Inspection.
Usually Insurance companies will require a 4 Point Inspection for homes over 20 years old. While some companies may allow a home to be 30 or even 50 years old, others may require a 4 Point Inspection on a home that’s only a few years old, especially if it was a bank foreclosure &/or if it has been vacant for a while. So, you’ll want to check with your insurance agent.

Was the home built prior to 1980?
If so, you may want a Lead-Based Paint Inspection.

Is Mold, mildew, &/or Fungi a concern?
Do you have sensitive allergies or respiratory problems?
If so, you may want an Air Quality Inspection.

Does the home have well water?
If so, the FL Health Dept. recommends a Water Quality Inspection.
Often required by FHA / VA

Does the home have a septic tank?
If so, the FL Health Dept. recommends a Septic Inspection.
Often required by FHA / VA
I recommend you schedule the Septic Inspection for a day or 2 after the home inspection, to be sure there are no “deal breakers.” To properly inspect the septic system, we have to pump it out, which is a significant expense – Last thing your clients want to do is pump out someone else’s septic system if they’re not moving forward with the sale.