Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
“When can I expect to receive my report?”
- All reports may be expected within 24 hrs, but usually are delivered same day upon reception of payment.
“How do I pay my bill and what forms of payment do you accept?”
- We accept cash, check, or credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover). Payments may be received in person, over the phone, or on-line at our website. Clients will receive a confirmation receipt after payment is accepted.
“What are common years for defective Chinese drywall in SWFL?”
- Typically from 2002 - 2007. However, during the housing boom between 2004 and 2007 there was a shortage of drywall and the most affected homes in SWFL were constructed during this time.
“What is Chinese drywall and how do I know if I have it?”
- These toxic gypsum boards were previously used during construction and cause a myriad of health problems. In short, the drywall contains a high level of pyrite, which oxidizes and releases sulfur compounds into the air. The fly ash in the drywall degrades over time, especially in places with high humidity, like SWFL. The toxic gases then latch onto metallic surfaces within the home. Interior components will often appear covered with a black ash-like residue that can be wiped off with your finger. A licensed inspector will check for visual evidence on-site and recommend further action be performed based upon their findings. Symptoms for homeowners living with suspected Chinese drywall may include chronic headaches, chronic coughing, chest pain, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, asthma attacks, and sinus infections. Although most homes have since been remediated, if there is any doubt as to whether it exists, always refer to a licensed inspector for further evaluation.
“What is Polybutylene plumbing/ piping and is it bad?”
- Polybutylene supply piping was widely used in construction from the mid- 80s to mid 90s and has a history of recall. It is readily identifiable by its grayish color. Although the system may be original to the home and have no reported leaks, it is deemed unreliable. Generally speaking, if it has been installed within the home, the system should be evaluated further by a licensed contractor.
“What is a roof certification report (RCF)?”
- A roof certification report is an insurance inspection performed to determine the approximate remaining lifespan of a roof covering.
“Is Pex plumbing/ piping bad?”
- Pex piping is generally fine and is still widely used on new construction. If the system is original and prior to 2007, it should be evaluated further by a licensed contractor. There have been lawsuits in the past for failure of the pipe and fitting. Dezincification of the brass fittings and pipe leaching are leading causes. Since then, the pipe has been upgraded and the fittings have been replaced. It’s typically used for its inexpensive cost and easy means of installation.
“What is a hurricane strap or clip?”
- A hurricane strap or clip is referring to how the roof is being held down to the structure. A metal clip is what comes out of the bond beam or framing to a wall, and is secured to a truss or rafter. In order to receive a metal clip credit on a wind mitigation report, the clip must be properly installed and secured with a minimum of 3 nails. A strap is when the metal clip wraps over the truss or rafter, and is secured with a minimum of 2 nails on one side and 1 nail on the opposing side. There are also double straps consisting of the same requirements, but are less common.
"Are Federal Pacific electrical panels bad?"
-Federal Pacific panels and products do have a history of recall and are no longer used. These panels were installed between 1950 - 1980 and thousands of house fires have been reported due to circuit breaker failure. The system is deemed to be extremely unreliable. Additional hazardous panels and products may include Zinsco, Challenger, Sylvania, split-bus panels and fuse boxes. All these systems should be further reviewed by a qualified inspector or licensed contractor.
"I have a concrete block house; do I need a termite inspection?"
-We recommend a Pest/ WDO (Wood Destroying Organisms) inspection on every home or structure we inspect, regardless if construction is wood frame, block, manufactured, pre-existing, or new. The fact is that termites love hot and humid climates, and they are active 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, year-round. They cause more damage than hurricanes, floods, and fires...combined! The 3 main types of termites found in Florida are subterranean, dampwood, and drywood.