Closer Look Inspections, Inc.

When it comes to purchasing a home, prospective buyers often focus on visible aspects like the layout, aesthetics, and immediate structural conditions. However, some of the most critical issues may lie hidden beneath the surface, invisible to the naked eye. This is where thermal imaging, a cutting-edge technology used in home inspections, becomes invaluable. In this blog post, we’ll delve into what thermal imaging is and why homebuyers should consider it when evaluating a potential new home. What is Thermal Imaging? Thermal imaging, also known as infrared thermography, is a non-invasive method that uses infrared cameras to capture and visualize the heat emitted by objects. These cameras detect temperature variations and translate them into images, where different colors represent different temperatures. This technology allows inspectors to see beyond what is visible to the human eye, revealing hidden problems within a home’s structure and systems. How Thermal Imaging Works Infrared cam...

  Your comfort! Your home working at its best! Your money in your pocket! Your Ounce Of Prevention: Inspect your siding, paint, and exterior walls for damage, cracks, or mold Check the foundation for any signs of cracking or movement Test smoke alarms and replace batteries if needed Look at your fire extinguishers to ensure that they are in good working condition and easily accessible Look at electrical outlets, wiring, and breaker boxes for potential issues and address any identified problems immediately. Consider installing surge protectors to protect appliances and electronics from power surges during storms. Inspect windows and door seals for air leaks and apply weather stripping or caulking where needed. Ensure window locks and door locks are functioning properly for security. Have a fantastic and safe rest of your week everyone! Your Closer Look Inspections Team *Image from Shutterstock

When homeowners think about well water testing, they often focus on ensuring their water is safe to drink. While this is undeniably crucial, well water testing can also reveal a wealth of information about the condition of your well, the integrity of your home, and even the environmental health of the area where your home is built. In this blog, we will explore how well water testing can highlight various issues beyond just water quality, providing valuable insights for homeowners. Identifying Problems with the Well Well Construction and Integrity : Regular well water testing can reveal issues with the construction and integrity of your well. For instance, high levels of sediment in your water could indicate problems with the well casing or screen, suggesting that repairs or upgrades may be necessary. Contamination Sources : If your water tests positive for contaminants such as bacteria, nitrates, or chemicals, it might point to specific issues with your well. Surface water infiltratio...

When it comes to ensuring the safety and quality of your drinking water, well water testing is an essential step that should not be overlooked. For homeowners relying on private wells, regular testing is crucial to maintain a healthy living environment. In this blog post, we'll explore what well water testing entails, why it's important, and the benefits it offers. What is Well Water Testing? Well water testing involves analyzing a sample of water from your private well to identify any contaminants or potential issues that may affect its safety and quality. This testing process is typically conducted by certified laboratories that follow strict guidelines to ensure accurate and reliable results. The primary focus of well water testing is to detect harmful substances such as bacteria, nitrates, heavy metals, and other contaminants that could pose health risks. Key Components of Well Water Testing Bacterial Testing : This test identifies the presence of harmful bacteria, such as ...

  Your comfort! Your home working at its best! Your money in your pocket! Your Ounce Of Prevention: Maintain lawn and garden areas, ensuring they are properly irrigated during the hot weather. Trim overgrown trees and bushes, focusing on branches that could damage the house or power lines in a storm. Inspect property for signs of termites, ants, and other pests. Clear any standing water around the property to prevent mosquito breeding. Inspect your pipes and plumbing fixtures for leaks or damage. Ensure that the irrigation system is functioning properly, with no leaks or blockages. Regularly check the chemical balance of pool water and inspect pool equipment for proper operation. Ensure all pool safety equipment, including fences and gates, are in good condition. Have a fantastic and safe rest of your week everyone! Your Closer Look Inspections Team *Image from Shutterstock

In Florida, homebuyers often encounter a requirement from insurance companies to complete a four-point inspection before they can secure a homeowner's insurance policy. This specific type of inspection focuses on four critical areas of the home: the roof, electrical system, plumbing, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning). Understanding why insurance companies mandate this inspection can help you appreciate its importance and prepare accordingly. Today we thought we might give you some information to help you see the other side of that coin. Mitigating Risk 1. Reducing the Likelihood of Claims Insurance companies operate on the principle of risk management. Homes with outdated or poorly maintained systems are more likely to experience failures that could lead to significant damage and, consequently, expensive claims. By requiring a four-point inspection, insurance companies can assess the condition of these key systems and identify potential risks before issuing a po...

  What is a Four-Point Inspection? A four-point inspection is a specialized evaluation that focuses on four primary systems of a home: the roof, electrical system, plumbing, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning). This type of inspection is often required by insurance companies, particularly for homes that are 10+ years old or older, before they will issue or renew a homeowner's insurance policy. The goal of a four-point inspection is to assess the current condition and remaining lifespan of these critical systems, rather than providing a comprehensive assessment of the entire home. What Does a Four-Point Inspection Cover? 1. Roof The roof is one of the most critical components of a home, protecting it from the elements and maintaining its structural integrity. During a four-point inspection, the inspector will evaluate the following aspects of the roof: Age and Type : The inspector will determine the age and type of roofing material used, such as shingles, tiles, or...