Closer Look Inspections, Inc.

  We’ve seen our fair share of surprises in attics — from uninsulated ductwork to makeshift dryer vents blowing warm, moist air right under the roof. It might seem harmless to let a little conditioned air or exhaust vent into the attic, but the reality is far different. Venting your air conditioning, heating, or dryer into the attic can lead to costly damage, hidden safety hazards, and long-term issues that affect both the comfort and structural integrity of your home. In this article, we’ll explain why venting into the attic is a bad idea, what problems it can cause, what can be done to fix or prevent it, and why understanding this issue is so important — especially for homebuyers in Florida. Understanding the Role of the Attic Before we dive into the risks, it’s important to understand what your attic’s role is in your home’s overall structure. In Florida, attics are designed primarily as thermal buffers — spaces that separate the hot outdoor roof surface from the cooled, conditi...

Buying a home in Florida is an exciting milestone, whether it’s your first house or your next investment. Between the sunshine, sea breezes, and lush surroundings, it’s easy to focus on curb appeal and neighborhood charm. But behind the walls of every home lies something less visible yet just as critical—the electrical system. One issue that our home inspectors frequently encounter during electrical evaluations is the “double-tapped breaker.” It’s one of those terms that sounds technical and minor, but it can have real safety and financial implications for homeowners. In this article, we’ll explain what a double-tapped breaker is, why it matters, how it can affect you as a homebuyer, and what can be done to correct it. By understanding this common electrical concern, you’ll be better prepared to make informed decisions and protect your investment in our dynamic housing market. What Is a Double-Tapped Circuit Breaker? A double-tapped circuit breaker occurs when two wires (also called co...

When most people think about buying a home in Florida, they picture sunny beaches, tropical breezes, and neighborhoods filled with palm trees. But for those considering older homes—especially those built before the 1980s—there’s another factor to keep in mind: asbestos. While asbestos is not always visible during an inspection and often requires specialized testing, knowing where it may be found, why it was used, and the potential consequences of living with it can be a major advantage for homebuyers. In this article, we’ll explain what asbestos is, how it was used in Florida homes, the risks it poses, what to look for when shopping for an older property, and why this knowledge is critical for Florida buyers making one of the biggest investments of their lives. What Is Asbestos? Asbestos is a naturally occurring group of minerals made up of fine, durable fibers that are resistant to heat, fire, and many chemicals. For decades, asbestos was considered a “miracle material” due to its ins...