Frequently Asked Questions:
 
What is a Home inspection?
A Home inspection is a professional, complete visual examination of all of the systems of a home. A Home inspection is a visual "snap-shot" of the house that day. My inspections identify potential problems that may affect a purchasers buying decision.

Why Do I need a Home Inspection?
A home is the largest purchase that 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 the property. By having the home inspected, you can avoid costly surprises and repairs as well as have advice on what maintenance is required to keep your new home in great condition.
If you are selling your house, a pre-listing inspection is recommended to uncover any potential problems before the buyers inspector finds them resulting in out of pocket expense or lower dollars for you house.
 
What is a Pre-listing Inspection?
A pre-listing inspection is an inspection of a property prior to listing the property to be sold. The pre listing inspection will identify issues that can be corrected in advance of a potential buyers own inspection. A house in great move in condition commands a higher price. The pre listing inspection saves time and money in the long run because you can make any necessary repairs on your own schedule and without being pressured by a real estate contract's time frame.
Listing inspections don't cost, they pay.
 
What is a one year warranty inspection?
A one year warranty inspection is an inspection of a newer property that is still covered by the home builders warranty. Typically, the warranties are for 12 months and the builder will correct any defects or deficiencies within that time frame, if discovered and brought to their attention. Many people are emotionally attached to their homes and believe that because their home was just built that there can't be anything wrong with it. Not true. The benefit to the 1 year warranty inspection is to correct any defects within the time frame of the warranty and avoiding any future out of pocket expense to the home owner. The builders warranty will typically provide service for anything that may require repair or replacement. Many home owners do not take advantage of their 1 year warranty only to wish later on that they had a professional home inspection on the property prior to the end of the warranty. The 1 year warranty inspection could potentially save you thousands later.

What does a Home Inspection include?
A standard report covers all of the major systems of the house.
Pool and spa Inspections are always FREE at AVAIL-A-PRO Home Inspection Services, Inc.

Do I need to be there during the inspection?
No, but we recommend that you be present. A home inspection is a valuable learning experience for most people and many people benefit from the inspection. By following the inspector you can see first hand specific areas that may need maintenance or repair. Also, feel free to ask us any questions during the inspection about the home.

How long will the inspection take?
The time will vary due to the size and condition of the house. Be prepared for a 3-4 hour inspection, but larger and older homes may require more time.

Does a newly constructed home need an Inspection?
Absolutely. A professional inspection of a new home is important. We can spot problems early while they are still easy to correct. Also, even experienced home builders make mistakes.

Why can't I do the inspection myself?
Chances are that even if you are familiar with home construction, you don't have the broad knowledge, training, and experience of a professional home inspector. We are not only familiar with all of the systems in a house and how they work, but we also know what to look for before systems fail. But beyond technical expertise that a professional inspector brings, it is important to remember that the inspector remains an impartial third party. The professional inspector will provide an opinion based on visual facts.

What if the inspection uncovers problems?
No house is going to be perfect. Our report will tell you the condition of the house including needed repairs. It is up to you to decide how the inspection is going to affect you with your decision making. In the end, the decision rests with you but you will have the knowledge of potential problems before you buy which gives you power to better negotiate your contract or make better decisions.

Will you fix any of the problems you find during the inspection?
No. The code of ethics of the American Society Of Home Inspectors (ASHI) prevents members from doing repair work on properties they inspect. This assures you that there will be no conflict of interest by the inspector. Our goal is to provide an unbiased, objective third party report on the condition of the home.

Who is responsible for any defects found during the inspection?
Generally, after the inspection is complete, it is up to the buyer and seller to negotiate any repairs and to further negotiate the sales price of the house depending on how much major work is needed. It is very common for the seller to repair or replace any defective part of the house prior to closing. Usually, there is a dollar amount for such repairs in the purchase contract.

What about the report?
Your report will be an easy to read and understand format with all explanations and details in the body of the report. An average report is aprox. 25-30 pages in length including photo and a summary sections. Report formats are PDF and sent via E-mail. Please take a look at my sample report using the online report button in the left hand column to see what you should expect. Hard-copy reports are available upon request.

When do I receive my report?
You will receive your report within 24 hours after the conclusion of the inspection, and in most cases the same day as the inspection. You may also visit us online to download or view your report.

What if I have a question?
Give me a call. I am here to serve your needs and answer all of your questions. It's that simple. You may also e-mail me with questions. jaastl@hotmail.com

4 Point Inspection Frequently Asked Questions:

What is Four Point Inspection?
After Hurricane Andrew, Insurance companies in Florida have been trying to encourage home owners to make their homes safer and reduce claims. Many insurance companies and JUA (Joint Underwriting Association) now request 4 point inspections, which often include, but not limited to:

What are they looking for in these reports?
They are generally looking for most systems in the 4 points to have been updated to current standards and are in good condition. Basically, the insurance company wants to know what it is that they are insuring.

Forms. Are there special forms ?
Some insurance companies like Citizens and others have forms that may be used for at least one of the four points (Electrical). In this particular form they have asked about the age, type and certain elements of the electrical system, which may have high claim ratios.

Who can perform this type of inspection ? Can I Fill out the paper work myself?
No.
Usually a Licensed Roofing Contractor, Electrical Contractor, Inspector, Engineer inspection and signature is required to certify homes of a certain age when required by most insurance companies. As of November 2005 ASHI members in good standing are permitted to conduct 4-point insurance inspections for Citizens Insurance WITHOUT the previous license requirements, using the ASHI/Citizens required forms.

I am buying a home. Can I use a 4-point inspection as a less expensive pre purchase inspection?
No. This type of inspection is not intended for use as a pre sale or pre purchase comprehensive inspection. As it is geared for your insurance needs, It will not contain the type of information you may need to make an informed decision for purchase.

Call for An Estimate or to Schedule Your Inspection Today!
813-972-5206
Inspections performed 7 days a week.