Closer Look Inspections, Inc.

As a home inspection company in Florida, we’ve seen a significant increase in homeowners installing solar panels to offset energy costs, reduce their carbon footprint, and take advantage of state and federal incentives. If you’re a prospective homebuyer considering a property with solar panels, you’ll want to understand how they work, the different types available, how they interact with the roof, what proper maintenance looks like, and how this information can impact your purchase decision. Below are some things we think  you should  know from an inspector’s perspective 1. Why Solar Panels Matter in Florida Florida is known as the Sunshine State for a reason — we get an average of 230+ days of sunshine per year. This makes solar energy a particularly attractive option for reducing reliance on traditional utility companies. For homeowners, solar panels can mean: Lower electricity bills Increased property value Reduced carbon footprint Energy independence in emergencies Regardl...

Solar panels are a popular feature on many Florida homes thanks to the state’s abundant sunshine and increasing energy costs. For homebuyers, a house with solar panels can be a big plus—but only if those panels are in good condition and properly installed. We often find issues during inspections that homebuyers aren’t aware of. If you’re considering purchasing a home here in Florida with solar panels, it’s important to have them inspected as part of your overall evaluation as it can have an immense affect on your roof. Common Solar Panel Problems in Florida Homes While solar energy systems offer great benefits, they can also present hidden problems, especially in older homes or installations that haven’t been well maintained. Some of the most common issues we encounter include: Roof Penetration Issues – Improper installation can lead to roof leaks. Mounting hardware that isn’t sealed correctly can allow water intrusion, especially during Florida’s heavy rains and storms. Wiring and Ele...

As a home inspection company in the heart of Florida, we have encountered a variety of solar panel-related issues during routine home inspections. Solar energy is a fantastic resource for homeowners in the Sunshine State, offering both environmental and financial benefits. However, like any technology, it’s not without its potential pitfalls. We wanted to touch base with you in this blog on some common problems our inspectors have found with solar panels: Improper Installation One of the most frequent issues we encounter is improper installation. This can include panels that are not securely attached to the roof, incorrect wiring, panels installed in locations that don’t receive optimal sunlight, or storm damaged panels. Improper installation can lead to reduced efficiency, potential roof damage, and even safety hazards.  Roof Damage Solar panels must be installed with care to avoid damage to your roof. Unfortunately, we've seen cases where the installation process has led to crack...

We have seen the rise in many homeowners looking to possibly install solar panels on their home or purchase a home that already has solar panels. Florida’s abundant sunshine makes it an ideal location for solar energy, but as with any investment, there are both advantages and disadvantages. Advantages of Solar Energy in Florida Abundant Sunshine : Florida is famously known as the Sunshine State and offers an ideal climate for solar energy production. With an average of 237 sunny days per year, homeowners have a fantastic opportunity to generate substantial solar power. Energy Independence : Installing solar panels on your property can significantly reduce dependence on the grid, leading to increased energy independence. You can even store excess energy in batteries for use during outages or sell it back to the grid in some cases. Environmental Benefits: Solar energy is a clean, renewable resource that reduces carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions. By choosing solar, you’re con...