Closer Look Inspections, Inc.

Your comfort! Your home working at its best! Your money in your pocket! Your Ounce Of Prevention:  Replace your HVAC Filter Check holiday lights for any damaged wires or plugs and ensure that they are secured to avoid tripping hazards Keep decorations away from heat sources, and do not overload electrical outlets If not already done, ensure that your heating system is working efficiently. Change filters and consider a professional HVAC inspection to ensure optimal functioning and efficiency Prepare plants and lawns for cooler temperatures by mulching and fertilizing as necessary Protect sensitive plants from frost with proper coverings Clean the kitchen exhaust hood and air filter Make sure that the caulking around your bathroom fixtures is adequate to prevent water from seeping into the sub-flooring. Have a fantastic and safe rest of your week everyone! Your Closer Look Inspections Team

In our competitive real estate market, buyers often feel pressure to move quickly, sometimes skipping important steps to secure their dream home. However, we’ve seen firsthand the risks of skipping a Four-Point Inspection, particularly on older homes. In this article, we’ll share real stories about homebuyers who faced costly and stressful consequences because they chose not to get a Four-Point Inspection before finalizing their purchase. These examples highlight why a Four-Point Inspection is not just an insurance requirement—it’s an essential safeguard for your investment. Costly Roof Surprise The Scenario: A young couple found their perfect starter home in Orlando, Florida. Built in the early 1980s, the home had an appealing price and seemed to be in good shape. To speed up the buying process, they decided to skip the Four-Point Inspection, thinking that the general home inspection was enough. What Went Wrong: After closing on the house, the couple applied for homeowners’ insurance.

In our unique climate, having a safe, functional home is critical—not only for your comfort but also to secure necessary insurance coverage. If you own or are buying an older home in Florida, chances are you’ve heard about the Four-Point Inspection. But what exactly is it? Why do you need one, and how can you prepare? Let’s answer all these questions… What is a Four-Point Inspection? A Four-Point Inspection is a focused evaluation of the four primary systems of a home: Roof Electrical Plumbing HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) Unlike a full home inspection that covers every aspect of the property, a Four-Point Inspection zeroes in on these critical areas to assess their condition, age, and functionality. The report is usually short and concise, providing a snapshot of the home’s key systems. It’s often required for homes that are 10 years or older when applying for homeowners' insurance. We have even seen it required for brand new homes. It will depend on your insur

  Your comfort! Your home working at its best! Your money in your pocket! Your Ounce Of Prevention:  Check for signs of leaks in your attic. Look for mold, pests, or insulation issues Ensure they are turned off and drained to prevent potential freezing and bursting Plant seasonal flowers or produce suitable for our climate With the onset of cooler weather, consider an energy audit to identify areas where your home could be losing energy and address those concerns Have a fantastic and safe rest of your week everyone! Your Closer Look Inspections Team *Image from Shutterstock

As a trusted home inspection company operating in Florida, we often encounter questions from homeowners about how various aspects of their property impact insurance costs. One area that can significantly influence premiums is the type of front door installed. Given Florida's unique climate challenges, including hurricanes, humidity, and high temperatures, insurance companies closely evaluate home security and resilience features, including front doors. In this article, we will discuss how different types of front doors can affect insurance costs for Florida residents. The Role of Front Doors in Home Insurance Insurance companies assess risk when determining premiums. A strong, secure front door can enhance a home’s safety and reduce the likelihood of theft or storm damage, ultimately lowering insurance costs. Here’s how the type of front door you choose can impact your insurance premiums: 1. Hurricane Impact Doors Overview: Hurricane impact doors are specifically designed to withst