Closer Look Inspections, Inc.

When buying a home, you’re not just purchasing a property; you’re investing in your family’s safety and comfort. While the charm of an older home can be undeniable, it’s essential to ensure that it doesn’t come with hidden fire hazards. We’ve identified common fire risks that you should be aware of when evaluating a potential purchase and have included them below. We hope you find these informative and useful for items to put on your checklist of things to consider. Outdated Electrical Systems Older homes may have electrical systems that were not designed to handle the power demands of modern living. Look out for: Knob-and-tube wiring: Common in homes built before the 1950s, this outdated system lacks grounding, increasing fire risks. Overloaded circuits: Older electrical panels may not support today’s appliances and can overheat. Aluminum wiring: Found in homes from the 1960s and 1970s, aluminum wiring is more prone to overheating compared to copper. Improperly Maintained Fireplace...

Buying a home that has been flipped can be exciting. These properties often boast modern finishes, updated layouts, and the promise of a move-in-ready experience. However, we’ve seen many cases where beneath the shiny surface, flipped homes may conceal issues that can turn into costly surprises for buyers. If you’re considering purchasing a flipped home, here are the key problems to watch out for and why a thorough inspection is essential. Cosmetic Fixes Covering Underlying Issues Flippers often focus on cosmetic upgrades to make the home more appealing. Fresh paint, new flooring, and updated fixtures can mask significant underlying problems such as: Structural Issues: Cracks in the foundation, uneven floors, or poorly executed renovations. Moisture Damage: Mold, water stains, or rotting wood that has been painted over or hidden. Old Electrical or Plumbing Systems: Outdated or faulty systems left untouched beneath new walls or finishes. Poor-Quality Workmanship Some flippers priorit...

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential devices that protect your family and property from fire and gas-related hazards. As a home inspection company in Florida, we often find that many homeowners are unaware of the regulations and maintenance practices necessary to keep these life-saving devices in optimal condition. Here’s what every Florida homeowner needs to know about smoke detectors, carbon monoxide (CO) detectors, and combination CO/smoke detectors. Florida’s Requirements for Smoke and CO Detectors Florida law has specific requirements for the installation and maintenance of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in residential properties. These regulations are designed to enhance safety and compliance with national building codes. Smoke Detector Requirements: Location: Smoke detectors must be installed inside every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home, including basements. Interconnection: In newly constructed homes, smoke detectors must be...