Closer Look Inspections, Inc.

Adding anything onto your mobile home can come with some unique challenges. Whether you’re considering a carport, deck, or additional room, it’s important to ensure these modifications meet the necessary engineering standards. Passing an engineering inspection is essential for most insurance companies in Florida. Here are some things mobile home owners need to consider when planning additions to their homes. Structural Integrity and Load Bearing Foundation Strength : The existing foundation must be capable of supporting the additional load from any new structures. Consult with a structural engineer to assess the foundation's capacity and determine if any reinforcements are needed. Load Distribution : Ensure that the load from the new addition is evenly distributed to avoid stress points that could compromise the integrity of the entire structure. This is particularly important for large additions like rooms or extensive decking. Anchoring Systems : Proper anchoring is essential to ...

We understand the unique challenges that come with inspecting mobile homes, especially in Florida. One of the most critical aspects of ensuring the safety and insurability of mobile homes is obtaining a thorough engineering report. In the article below, we explore why insurance companies in Florida require these reports, how carports and other add-ons impact them, and offer some practical advice for you to stay ahead of potential issues. Why Insurance Companies Require Engineering Reports for Mobile Homes in Florida Climate and Environmental Risks : Florida's environment poses significant risks to mobile homes, including hurricanes, heavy rains, and high winds. Engineering reports assess the home’s ability to withstand these conditions, ensuring it is safe and structurally sound. Regulatory Compliance : Engineering reports verify that the mobile home complies with local and state building codes. This compliance is crucial for safety and legal reasons, ensuring that the home meets a...

  In the world of mobile home ownership and insurance, understanding the necessity of an engineering report is pivotal. We’ve seen first hand how these reports serve as a key component in ensuring the safety, stability, and insurability of mobile homes. Today we look at why engineering reports are essential and why insurance companies often require them for mobile homes. What is an Engineering Report? An engineering report for a mobile home is a comprehensive document prepared by a licensed professional engineer often in conjunction with a licensed home inspector. It evaluates the structural integrity and foundation of the home, ensuring that it meets specific safety standards and regulations. These reports are particularly crucial for mobile homes, given their unique construction and foundation systems. Why Insurance Companies Require Engineering Reports Assessing Structural Integrity : Mobile homes must adhere to different standards than traditional homes, especially regarding th...

We often get questions from homeowners and potential buyers about the differences between manufactured homes and mobile homes. The distinctions between these two types of homes are not only technical but also involve regulatory, construction, and classification differences that can affect homeownership in various ways. Today we will help clarify these differences, helping you make informed decisions whether you’re buying, selling, or insuring your home and how an inspection can give you a good idea of where things are with the maintenance and upkeep of these types of homes. Historical Context And Understanding Terminology Mobile Homes : The term “mobile home” refers to factory-built homes that were constructed before June 15, 1976. Before this date, there were no federal building standards in place for mobile homes, and they were primarily designed for temporary or seasonal accommodation, with mobility being a key feature. Manufactured Homes : Post-June 15, 1076, the U.S. Department of...