Closer Look Inspections, Inc.

Your comfort! Your home working at its best! Your money in your pocket! Your Ounce Of Prevention: Now is the time to take a look at your home, especially bathrooms, and kitchens, for mold and mildew due to our high humidity. Examine your fencing, sheds, and other outdoor structures for stability and signs of wear or damage. Review your electrical systems for any safety concerns or maintenance needs, paying particular attention to outdoor outlets and lighting. Assess your driveways and walkways for cracks or damage and repair as necessary. Check your sprinkler system for proper coverage and adjust heads as necessary to prevent over-spray on the home’s walls or windows. Have a fantastic and safe rest of your week everyone! Closer Look Inspections Team *Image from Shutterstock

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...

  Your comfort! Your home working at its best! Your money in your pocket! Your Ounce Of Prevention: April is often the start of termite swarming season here in Florida, so inspect for signs of termites and other pests. Inspect your pipes and water heater for leaks and rust. Drain/ Flush the water heater to remove sediment. Ensure pools are clean and properly balanced. Inspect pool equipment for proper functioning. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries as needed. Inspect fire extinguishers to ensure they are operational and well-placed. Confirm that your attic insulation is sufficient and in good condition. Check attics for signs of pests, leaks, or mold and resolve any issues you may find. Have a fantastic and safe rest of your week everyone! Closer Look Inspections Team *Image from Shutterstock

  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...

  Your comfort! Your home working at its best! Your money in your pocket! Your Ounce Of Prevention: Confirm that air conditioning units are operating effectively, clean or replace filters, and schedule professional maintenance if needed. Look at your irrigation systems for leaks or malfunctions. Take a look at your lawn and garden areas for signs of pests or diseases and begin regular fertilization and pest control routines. Continue to inspect your roof for damage and repair any that may be found. Clean gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water flow away from the home. Inspect exterior walls, paint, and siding for damage and wear. Fix or replace items as you need to. Check for any foundation issues or cracks. Ensure the seals around your doors and windows are intact in order to maintain energy efficiency as temperatures rise. Have a fantastic and safe rest of your week everyone! Closer Look Inspections Team *Image from Shutterstock