Home Maintenance Tips for Spring

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Maintaining your home is the best thing you can do to avoid costly surprises and spring is the perfect time to get your home in shape. Take advantage of the spring weather to complete your to-do list before summer arrives and unleashes the heat. Below are 6 spring home maintenance tips from Bold City Home Inspections.

 

1. Change HVAC Air Filters

Ideally, filters should be checked monthly and changed as needed throughout the year. If you’ve forgotten to check the filter lately, or have been putting it off, now is the time to check and replace the HVAC filter if needed. Maintaining a clean air filter can help extend the life of your HVAC system, reduce energy costs, and maintain healthy air quality for you and your family.

dirty air filter from home inspection findings in jacksonville fl

2. Inspect Gutters and Downspouts

Now that winter has come and gone, many trees have shed their leaves and ended up in your gutters and downspouts. This can cause gutters to overflow and allow water to accumulate at the building foundation. Keeping gutters free and clear of debris will allow water to drain properly. You should also inspect gutters and downspouts for any damage that may have occurred and repair or replace any sections as necessary.

debris in gutters from home inspection findings in jacksonville fl

3. Trim Vegetation

Trim any vegetation, such as shrubs or trees, that have grown close-to, or come in-contat with your home. Vegetation can serve as a pathway for wood-destroying insects and can retain moisture against the exterior after it rains. It is recommended to maintain at least 6 inches of space (preferably 18 inches) between vegetation and the building exterior.

vegetation close to home home inspection findings in jacksonville fl

4. Inspect Exterior Caulking

Inspect the caulking at exterior siding/trim, windows and doors. Replace or refresh any areas that have deteriorated to help prevent moisture intrusion and damage to surrounding materials.

missing caulk from home inspection findings in jacksonville fl

5. Check Your Irrigation

Now that the weather is warming up, you’ll probably be using your irrigation system more often. Run each zone and inspect the sprinkler heads to make sure they are still functioning and aimed properly (not spraying the home). Check for any damage that may have occurred and verify the settings at the system control panel.

running irrigation from home inspection findings in jacksonville fl

6. Flush Your Water Heater

Flushing your water heater can remove sediment build-up from the tank and extend the life of the unit. Refer to your manufacturer’s instructions on how to properly flush the unit. If you’re not comfortable doing this on your own, you may want to hire a professional. The benefits to your water heater typically outweigh the relatively inexpensive cost.

water heater from home inspection findings in jacksonville fl

Call or Email Us Today!

 

 

Buying or selling a home in the Jacksonville FL area? Our detailed home inspection consists of a thorough examination of all systems and components of the home. See one of our sample home inspection reports and read our 5-star home inspection Jacksonville FL reviews. We’re always here to answer any questions, whether it’s weeks, months or years after your home inspection. Let our local, Jacksonville FL home inspectors help you make an informed decision.

Bold City Home Inspections provides home inspection services to all of Duval, St. Johns, Clay and Nassau counties. Click the button below for a FREE, no-obligation home inspection quote:

 

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Common Home Inspection Findings in February 2019

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What Can I Do Before a Home Inspection?

Each month we list our common home inspection findings from the homes we inspected in and around Jacksonville, FL. Most of the items are simple, inexpensive fixes that can be corrected before the home inspection. Fixing these items ahead of time can reduce the last minute back-and-forth negotiations between buyers and sellers.

 

1. Kickout Flashing

We sometimes come across missing or insufficient kickout flashing where the wall extends beyond the roof edge. Kick out flashing should direct rainwater away from exterior walls and into gutters so that rainwater is less likely to run down the front surfaces of siding or flow behind siding.

insufficient kickout flashing from home inspection findings in jacksonville fl

2. Sealant Missing at Wall Penetrations

Missing sealant at wall penetrations was found multiple times during our home inspections this month. These areas should be properly sealed to help prevent moisture intrusion. Typically a homeowner or handyman can make this quick fix.

missing sealant from home inspection findings in jacksonville fl

3. Smoke Detectors Older Than 10 Years

We inspected multiple older homes this month and found that most of them had smoke detectors that were older than 10 years. It is recommend that any smoke detector that is older than 10 years of age and/or if age is unknown, be replaced with a new smoke detector for occupant safety.

old smoke detector from home inspection findings in jacksonville fl

4. Double-Tapped Neutral Wires

These are neutral wires that are doubled or bundled together under the same lug on the neutral bus bar in the electric panel. For one neutral to be disconnected, other neutrals from energized circuits sharing the same lug will be loosened. Power surges may result on the energized circuits. Multiple wires under the same lug may also not be completely secured.

neutral wire double tap from home inspection findings in jacksonville fl

5. Loose Roofing Shingles

Shingles that are not properly secured can be damaged by wind. Leaks can occur as a result. Shingle strips may not be sealed because the sealant has failed, or because the sealant never activated and cured after the original installation.

loose roofing shingles from home inspection findings in jacksonville fl

Can I Fail a Home Inspection?

Simply put, no. A home inspection is a visual examination of the current condition of the home. It is not an appraisal, and it is not a code-compliance inspection. Home inspectors do not pass or fail a home, but instead report on the home’s overall condition and point out any systems or components that may need repair or replacement.

Call or Email Us Today!

 

 

Buying or selling a home in the Jacksonville FL area? Our detailed home inspection consists of a thorough examination of all systems and components of the home. See one of our sample home inspection reports and read our 5-star home inspection Jacksonville FL reviews. We’re always here to answer any questions, whether it’s weeks, months or years after your home inspection. Let our local, Jacksonville FL home inspectors help you make an informed decision.

Bold City Home Inspections provides home inspection services to all of Duval, St. Johns, Clay and Nassau counties. Click the button below for a FREE, no-obligation home inspection quote:

 

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What is Included in a General Home Inspection?

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What do Home Inspectors Look For?

A home is the biggest purchase most people will ever make. Buyers should learn as much as possible about the home they’re considering by having it inspected by a certified, professional home inspector. After the home inspection, you will have a deeper understanding of the condition of the home. This will allow you to make more informed decisions on the purchase. Without a home inspection, you could end up with costly repairs to major systems of the home, or purchase a home that is unsafe due to foundation issues, water damage, etc.

A professional home inspection should cover the foundation, grounds, roof, attic, exterior, heating/cooling system, electrical, plumbing, interior and appliances.

Below is a helpful graphic to visually explain what is included in a general home inspection. You can also visit our Home Inspection Services page to learn about the additional inspection services we offer.

detailed graphic of what is included in our jacksonville fl home inspections

How Do I Schedule My Home Inspection?

That’s easy! Call or email us today to schedule your Home Inspection in Jacksonville, FL and surrounding areas including all of Duval, St. Johns, Clay and Nassau counties. We offer free, no obligation Home Inspection quotes.

 

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Common Home Inspection Findings in January 2019

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What Can I Do Before a Home Inspection?

Each month we list our common home inspection findings from the homes we inspected in and around Jacksonville, FL. Most of the items are simple, inexpensive fixes that can be corrected before the home inspection. Fixing these items ahead of time can reduce the last minute back-and-forth negotiations between buyers and sellers.

 

1. TPR Discharge Pipe

We often see TPR discharge pipes installed at water heaters that are made of an improper material. TPR discharge pipes should be made of galvanized steel, copper, or CPVC to prevent melting when hot water or gases escape.

Missing TPR discharge pipe from Jacksonville FL Home Inspectors

2. Roof – Exposed Nail Heads

Nail heads that are exposed to the elements over long periods of time can degrade and potentially allow water intrusion. Proper sealing of any exposed nail heads is recommended to prevent the chance of roof leaks.

exposed nail heads from Jacksonville FL Home Inspectors

3. Debris in Gutters

With winter upon us and trees shedding their leaves, we saw a lot of clogged gutters this month. This can cause gutters to overflow and allow water to accumulate at the building foundation. Gutters should be kept free and clear of debris to allow water to drain properly.

Debris in gutters from Jacksonville FL Home Inspectors

4. Reversed Polarity Outlets

Otherwise known as Hot-Neutral Reverse. This means that the “hot” and “neutral” wires are reversed, either at the receptacle, or upstream from the receptacle. These are a potential shock hazard, but are typically an easy repair.

hot-neutral reverse from Jacksonville FL Home Inspectors

5. Caulking

Deteriorated or missing caulk at bathtub/shower surrounds and at kitchen backsplashes are back on the list this month. This is a simple fix that can protect the wall structure behind the materials from water damage.

Missing Caulk from Jacksonville FL Home Inspectors

Can I Fail a Home Inspection?

Simply put, no. A home inspection is a visual examination of the current condition of the home. It is not an appraisal, and it is not a code-compliance inspection. Home inspectors do not pass or fail a home, but instead report on the home’s overall condition and point out any systems or components that may need repair or replacement.

Call or Email Us Today!

 

 

Buying or selling a home in the Jacksonville FL area? Our detailed home inspection consists of a thorough examination of all systems and components of the home. See one of our sample home inspection reports and read our 5-star home inspection Jacksonville FL reviews. We’re always here to answer any questions, whether it’s weeks, months or years after your home inspection. Let our local, Jacksonville FL home inspectors help you make an informed decision.

Bold City Home Inspections provides home inspection services to all of Duval, St. Johns, Clay and Nassau counties. Click the button below for a FREE, no-obligation home inspection quote:

 

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Common Home Inspection Findings in September 2018

Each month we list the common home inspection findings from the homes we inspected in and around Jacksonville, FL. Most of the items are simple, inexpensive fixes that can be corrected before the home inspection. Fixing these items ahead of time can reduce the last minute back-and-forth negotiations between buyers and sellers.

 

1. GFCIs

Ground-fault circuit-interrupter (GFCI) outlets are safety devices that help protect you from electrical shock. GFCIs will usually work reliably for many years, but over time they can fail and lose their primary safety function. GFCIs can also be wired improperly, which will disable the safety feature of the outlet. GFCI outlets have built-in testing and can be replaced relatively easily if needed.

 

2. Dirty Air Filters

With the heat of the summer upon us, A/C units are running longer and more frequently. A dirty air filter can restrict the flow of air into the system’s air handler which places additional strain on the unit. A dirty filter can also reduce the air quality in the home. Filters should be checked monthly and replaced if necessary to prevent potential costly repairs.

 

3. Caulking

Deteriorated or missing caulk at bathtub/shower surrounds and at kitchen backsplashes came up a lot this month. This is a simple fix that can protect the wall structure behind the materials from water damage.

 

4. Missing Electrical Cover Plates

Cover plates for electrical junction boxes are intended to contain fire and prevent electric shock from exposed wires. Junction boxes with missing cover plates are often found in attics or garages. Installing missing cover plates is a cheap and easy repair.

 

5. Decayed Wood

Decayed wood siding and trim is on the list again for this month. Everything from minor decay at the bottom ends of siding boards, to much more extensive decay that needed immediate correction was found. Most decayed siding can be repaired or replaced relatively easily.

 

Can You Fail a Home Inspection?

Simply put, no. A home inspection is a visual examination of the current condition of the home. It is not an appraisal, and it is not a code-compliance inspection. Home inspectors do not pass or fail a home, but instead report on the home’s overall condition and point out any systems or components that may need repair or replacement.

Call or Email Us Today!

 

 

Buying or selling a home in the Jacksonville FL area? Our detailed home inspection consists of a thorough examination of all systems and components of the home. See one of our sample home inspection reports and read our 5-star home inspection Jacksonville FL reviews. We’re always here to answer any questions, whether it’s weeks, months or years after your home inspection. Let our local, Jacksonville FL home inspectors help you make an informed decision.

Bold City Home Inspections provides home inspection services to all of Duval, St. Johns, Clay and Nassau counties. Click the button below for a FREE, no-obligation home inspection quote:

 

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Home Inspection Checklist for Buyers and Sellers

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Should I Get a Home Inspection?

Purchasing a home is likely one of the biggest investments a person will make. A buyer will want to learn as much as possible about the home they’re considering. A home inspection may identify the need for major repairs or construction oversights which can minimize surprises and save on costly repairs. A home inspection can also identify the need for maintenance so you can keep your home in top shape. Knowing more about the home will allow you to make important decisions with confidence.

 

Home inspections can also be beneficial if you’re planning on selling your home. Having a seller’s home inspection performed can eliminate stress and allow you to get ahead of any issues that may need to be resolved. Pricing the home accurately will also be much easier.

 

What is a Home Inspection?

A home inspection is intended to provide the client with information regarding the overall condition of installed systems and components of the home. The inspection is based on observation of the visible and apparent condition of the structure and components at the time of the home inspection. A home inspection is not a prediction of future conditions.

 

What is Included in a Home Inspection?

Our home inspections are in compliance with InterNACHI’s comprehensive Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. InterNACHI is the world’s largest organization of residential and commercial property inspectors. Our detailed home inspection consists of a thorough, visual examination of all safely-accessible systems and components of the home including, but not limited to:

  • Roof
  • HVAC Systems
  • Attic, Insulation & Ventilation
  • Plumbing System
  • Foundation
  • Electrical System
  • Patios, Balconies & Decks
  • Exterior (doors, windows, sidings, soffits, fascias)
  • Stairs, Steps, Railings & Handrails
  • Driveways & Walkways
  • Interior (doors, floors, walls, ceilings, stairs)
  • Structural Components
  • Fireplace & Chimney
  • Vegetation & Surface Drainage

 

How Much Does a Home Inspection Cost?

The cost of a home inspection varies geographically, and will typically vary based on a number of factors such as the size of the home, age of the home, scope of the inspection to be performed, and more. The knowledge and peace of mind gained from a home inspection is well worth the cost, and the lowest-priced inspection is not necessarily a good bargain. We offer free, no obligation home inspection quotes.

 

Who Should Pay for the Home Inspection?

Typically the buyer of the home will pay for the inspection. Sometimes the seller may choose to have a pre-listing inspection performed to find out if there are any issues that need repair before putting the home on the market. The seller typically pays for a pre-listing home inspection.

 

How Long Does a Home Inspection Take?

The time it takes to perform a home inspection depends on the age, size of the home, the home’s location and the inspector’s work protocol and ethics. That being said, most inspections can take up to three hours on-site for an average-size home. Additional time is usually required to complete the home inspection report. Adding ancillary services (such as a pool inspection or additional buildings) can increase the inspection time.

 

Do I Need to Attend the Home Inspection?

We always encourage our clients to attend the home inspection. You will gain a better understanding of the home’s condition, which can allow you to make more informed decisions regarding the purchase of the home. However, if you can not make it to the inspection, our home inspection reports are detailed and will include all of our findings. Additionally, you can always contact us with any questions you may have.

 

What Happens if the Home Inspection Reveals Problems?

No house is perfect. If your home inspection reveals problems, it is important to understand the severity of those problems. We use color coding in our home inspection reports to identify different levels of severity. For example, a dirty HVAC filter can easily be replaced at a low cost. If the problem is more severe, such as an ongoing roof leak, you should find out whether you can negotiate the cost of repair with the seller, or if you have enough in your budget to pay for the repair yourself.

 

Can a House Fail a Home Inspection?

Simply put, no. A home inspection is a visual examination of the current condition of the home. It is not an appraisal, and it is not a code-compliance inspection. Home inspectors do not pass or fail a home, but instead report on the home’s overall condition and point out any systems or components that may need repair or replacement.

How do I schedule my Home Inspection?

That’s easy! Click the button below to schedule your home inspection in just a few simple steps. Call or email us with any questions you may have.

 

Schedule My Home Inspection

 

Brought to you by Bold City Home Inspections. Proudly serving Jacksonville, FL and surrounding areas including all of Duval, St. Johns, Clay and Nassau counties.

 

Home Inspectors Jacksonville FL | Home Inspection Jacksonville FL | Northeast Florida Home Inspections

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Common Home Inspection Findings in August 2018

Each month we list our common home inspection findings from the homes we inspected in and around Jacksonville, FL. Most of the items are simple, inexpensive fixes that can be corrected before the home inspection. Fixing these items ahead of time can reduce the last minute back-and-forth negotiations between buyers and sellers.

 

1. Decayed Wood

Lots of decayed wood siding and trim this month. Everything from minor decay at the bottom ends of siding boards, to much more extensive decay that needed immediate correction. Most decayed siding can be repaired or replaced relatively easily.

 

2. HVAC Condensate Drain

Condensate drain lines should discharge at least 12 inches from the building foundation. If the drain line is too close to the home, it can usually be corrected by simply adding an extension to the existing line.

 

3. Gutter Downspouts

Downspouts draining too close to the home can allow water to accumulate at the building foundation. Downspout extensions such as splash blocks or drain pipes should be installed to drain rainwater away from the structure.

 

4. Dishwasher High Loop

A dishwasher high loop, or anti siphon, is meant to prevent water from siphoning out of the dishwasher, and to prevent water from the sink drain or food disposal from entering the dishwasher. This is the tubing you see under the sink that runs from the dishwasher to the garbage disposal or sink drain pipe.

 

5. Vegetation

This comes up all the time. Trees, shrubs and/or vines in contact with, or close to the building exterior. The vegetation can serve as a pathway for wood-destroying insects and can retain moisture against the exterior after it rains. Pruning vegetation to maintain at least 6 inches of space from the structure is an easy fix.

 

Can You Fail a Home Inspection?

Simply put, no. A home inspection is a visual examination of the current condition of the home. It is not an appraisal, and it is not a code-compliance inspection. Home inspectors do not pass or fail a home, but instead report on the home’s overall condition and point out any systems or components that may need repair or replacement.

Call or Email Us Today!

 

 

Buying or selling a home in the Jacksonville FL area? Our detailed home inspection consists of a thorough examination of all systems and components of the home. See one of our sample home inspection reports and read our 5-star home inspection Jacksonville FL reviews. We’re always here to answer any questions, whether it’s weeks, months or years after your home inspection. Let our local, Jacksonville FL home inspectors help you make an informed decision.

Bold City Home Inspections provides home inspection services to all of Duval, St. Johns, Clay and Nassau counties. Click the button below for a FREE, no-obligation home inspection quote:

 

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