Posts

Maintenance (Fifth Week of September)

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  Your comfort! Your home working at its best! Your money in your pocket! Your Ounce Of Prevention:  Replace the filter in your HVAC System Continue to monitor weather reports and have emergency plans and supplies ready as the hurricane season draws to a close Secure loose outdoor items to prevent them from becoming projectiles during storms Test heating systems to ensure they are functioning correctly before the cooler weather arrives Schedule any heating system servicing if necessary Continue regular maintenance and begin preparing the system for the offseason, including cleaning and covering external units Inspect the roof for any damage or leaks and clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent water damage Remove any accumulated leaves or debris from the roof Have a fantastic and safe rest of your week everyone! Your Closer Look Inspections Team *Image from Shutterstock

Staying Grounded: Checking To See If A Home Is Properly Grounded May Affect The Safety Of Those Living In It

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One of the most critical  aspects we evaluate in a property is its electrical grounding system. Proper grounding is the backbone of electrical safety in any home, acting as the invisible safeguard that protects both people and property from electrical hazards. When grounding is absent, faulty, or outdated, the risks to the home and its occupants increase significantly. For homebuyers in Florida, where storms, humidity, and older housing stock combine to create unique challenges, understanding grounding is more than just a technical detail—it’s a necessity. In this article, we’ll explain what proper grounding of a home is, why it’s essential, the potential dangers when grounding is missing or inadequate, and what to look for when shopping for a home in Florida. We’ll also explain how knowing this information can empower buyers to make safe, confident decisions in one of the biggest investments of their lives. What Is Proper Grounding in a Home? At its core, grounding is the process ...

Cracks in Stucco: Knowing Might Mean The Difference Between Purchasing This Home Or Waiting Until You Find Another

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When you picture a Florida home, chances are you imagine a bright stucco exterior reflecting the sun under clear blue skies. Stucco is one of the most common siding materials used in Florida, not just for its aesthetics but also for its durability against the state’s hot, humid, and storm-prone environment. But while stucco is tough, it’s not invincible. One of the most common issues encountered during home inspections is cracks in stucco. For prospective homebuyers in Florida, understanding what stucco cracks are, how they form, what they mean for the condition of the home, and how water intrusion can make matters worse is critical. From our perspective, identifying these cracks and explaining their potential consequences helps buyers make informed, confident decisions before moving forward with a purchase. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about stucco cracks, from their causes and locations to the role of water intrusion and the value this knowledge brings to ...