When it comes to buying, selling, or maintaining a home, one step stands above the rest in protecting your investment: the home inspection. It’s one of the most important tools homeowners have to avoid costly surprises and ensure peace of mind.
But what exactly does a home inspection cover? How do you find the right home inspectors, and when should you schedule an inspection? In this post, we’ll break it all down so you can feel confident and informed, whether you’re renewing your insurance policy or simply keeping your property in top shape.
What Is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a comprehensive visual examination of a property’s major systems and structures. Conducted by licensed home inspectors, it assesses the condition of key components like:
- Roof
- HVAC system
- Electrical and plumbing
- Foundation and structure
- Attic, insulation, and ventilation
- Exterior and drainage
The goal of an inspection is to identify safety issues, potential repairs, and maintenance needs before they become major problems.
Why Are Home Inspections So Important?
Whether you’re buying your first home or selling a property you’ve owned for years, a home inspection can save you time, stress, and thousands of dollars.
Here’s how:
- Buyers can use the inspection report to negotiate repairs or walk away from a risky deal.
- Sellers can uncover hidden issues before listing and avoid last-minute surprises.
- Homeowners benefit from routine inspections to maintain safety and extend the life of their home’s systems.
In short, a professional home inspection provides clarity, leverage, and peace of mind.
What's Included in a Home Inspection?
While not all home inspections are the same, here are some of the most common:
Wind Mitigation Inspections
This inspection is especially valuable in storm-prone areas across Florida. Our licensed home inspectors will capture information on:
- Age of the home and roof
- Presence or absence of roof to wall connections
- Roof deck attachment type and spacing
- Roof shape or geometry
- Presence or absence of impact-resistant opening protection (doors, windows, skylights, etc.)
- Presence or absence of secondary water resistant barriers
4-Point Inspections
This type of home inspection is required for certain insurance policies and it covers four major areas of your home:
- Roofing
- Electrical
- Heating & Air Conditioning (HVAC)
- Plumbing
Did you know? You get a discount when you bundle a Wind Mitigation Inspection and a 4-Point Inspection!
Roof Certification Inspections
You guessed it! Your roof is the star of this inspection type, including:
- The overall condition of your roof system and covering types
- The roof’s age (date last replaced)
- Potential damage (e.g. cracking and peeling with shingles or flashing damage)
- Granule loss amount (if asphalt shingles)
- Estimated number of years of useful life remaining
- Satisfactory or unsatisfactory condition assessment
Full Home Inspections
- This is the most comprehensive type of home inspection, covering:
- Heating & Cooling Systems
- Interior Plumbing
- Electrical Systems
- Roof & Attic Areas
- Plumbing
- Visible Insulation
- Walls, Ceilings, & Floors
- Windows & Doors
- Foundation
- Basement Areas
- Exterior
How to Choose the Right Home Inspectors
Not all home inspectors are created equal. When selecting a professional, look for:
- Licensing and insurance
- Strong reviews and referrals
- Experience in your region
- Detailed sample reports
- Excellent communication and availability
The best home inspection company will take time to explain their findings and provide actionable recommendations—not just hand you a checklist.
When Should You Get a Home Inspection?
Timing matters. Here are the most common scenarios:
- Renewing home insurance: Most insurance agencies will require a 4 point inspection before finalizing your home insurance policy. We work with hundreds of insurance agencies, and we will email them your inspection report as soon as it is ready.
- Looking to save on home insurance: In the state of Florida, you can receive discounts on your home insurance with a favorable wind mitigation inspection
- Before buying a home: Typically done after your offer is accepted but before finalizing the purchase.
- Before listing your home: Gives you time to fix issues and avoid delays.
- After major storms or renovations: To check for damage or code compliance.
- Every five years: For insurance purposes, or simply for general upkeep and peace of mind.
If you’re not sure whether you need an inspection, a quick consultation with one of our knowledgeable Customer Service Reps can point you in the right direction.
The Bottom Line
A home inspection is one of the smartest investments you can make in your homeownership journey. Whether you’re buying, selling, or renewing your insurance policy, working with experienced home inspectors ensures you have the insights you need to protect your home—and your budget.
Still have questions? Our team is here to help you schedule the right inspection for your needs. Get in touch today to learn more about our full range of home inspections and specialty services.