Closer Look Inspections, Inc.

As a home inspection company serving Florida, we often stress the importance of a pre-drywall inspection. One of the most overlooked yet essential aspects of this phase of construction is ensuring proper installation of nailer plates, a small but critical feature that protects your home’s infrastructure. What Are Nailer Plates? Nailer plates, also known as safety plates or plumbing protection plates, are thin metal plates installed on framing members such as studs or joists. Their purpose is simple but vital: to protect plumbing, electrical wires, and other utility lines that run through or near wooden framing. When a nailer plate is installed, it acts as a shield, preventing errant screws, nails, or drill bits from puncturing these lines during drywall installation or future renovations. Why Are Nailer Plates Important? Without nailer plates, the utility lines in your walls are at risk. Here’s why they matter so much: Preventing Plumbing Leaks A punctured water pipe can lead to leaks,...

We understand the challenges and beauty of living in our wonderful state. Among the important features of many Florida homes are the stunning tile roofs that not only enhance aesthetic appeal, but also offer durability against our often harsh weather conditions. However, there is a critical component beneath those tiles that plays an indispensable role in protecting your home: the waterproof membrane. This week we will go into why a tile roof without a waterproof barrier can be a deal-breaker for insurance companies and how you can ensure your home remains both insurable and protected. The Role of Water Membranes Underneath the beautiful array of tiles on your roof lies this crucial layer of defense against water intrusion. It is designed to: Prevent Water Damage: It acts as a secondary line of defense against rain, especially during our heavy summer downpours and hurricane season. Enhance Durability: By preventing water from reaching the roof structure, it helps avoid rot and struct...

In the intricate world of real estate, understanding the nuances that influence home insurance premiums is paramount. Today, we're zoning in on a specific factor that significantly impacts insurance costs: termite risk in different types of home construction. The spotlight is on comparing single-story block homes with two-story homes that feature block on the first story and a wood frame on the second. Single Story Block Homes: A Bastion Against Termites Single-story homes constructed entirely with block (concrete, cinder, or similar materials) are virtually impervious to termites. Termites primarily feed on cellulose material, which is found in abundance in wood but not in block construction. This innate resistance to termites makes single-story block homes less of a risk from an insurance perspective. Insurers often view these homes as lower-risk properties since the likelihood of termite-related damage, and thus termite-related claims, is significantly reduced. Consequently, the...

When it comes to insuring homes, realtors and homeowners alike may wonder how the structure and materials of a home can affect insurance premiums. Today, we're diving into an important distinction: the difference in insurance costs between a single-story block home and a two-story home with block on the first story and wood frame on the second story. Single Story Block Homes: A Fortress of Security Single-story homes built entirely with block (concrete masonry units) are often lauded for their strength and durability. Block construction is highly resistant to fire, termites, and extreme weather conditions, such as hurricanes or tornadoes. These characteristics make block homes less risky to insure. Insurers may offer lower premiums for these homes due to the reduced likelihood of structural damage and the subsequent claims that may arise from such damage. Additionally, single-story homes generally have a simpler design, which can further reduce the risk of issues like roof damage o...

Today, we're zeroing in on a topic of paramount importance for Florida homeowners: roofing underlayments. Here, in the Sunshine State, where the weather can be as unpredictable as it is beautiful, understanding and choosing the right roofing underlayment is not just advisable; it's essential. Why Roofing Underlayments Matter in Florida Roofing underlayments play a crucial role in safeguarding your home from the elements. Positioned between the roof deck and the outer roofing material, underlayments serve as a critical barrier against water intrusion, wind, and sometimes even solar heat. But why is this especially important in Florida? Let's take a look. Intense Weather Conditions : We are no stranger to harsh weather, from torrential rainstorms and hurricanes to blistering heat and high humidity. These conditions can test the limits of any roofing system. A high-quality underlayment can provide that much-needed extra layer of protection against leaks and water damage. Hurri...

Building a new home in Florida, as in many places, is an intricate process that involves multiple phases, each with its own set of activities, inspections, and approvals. The timeline for each phase can vary widely depending on factors such as the complexity of the project, the builder’s efficiency, weather conditions, and local permitting processes. Here’s an overview of the typical phases of a new build home in Florida,  the expected timeline for each, and the approximate timing for your 3rd Party Inspection Company to complete their inspection for you. Make sure that you have written into your contract that you have access to at least a PreFoundation , PreDrywall , and Final Inspection for you new home. Call your 3rd Party Inspection Company so that they can send their credentials to your Builder for approval. PreConstruction Phase Approximate Amount of Time: 1-2 Months Activities During This Phase: This phase includes selecting and purchasing your lot, finalizing your home’s d...