Inspection Report or Punch List?

Many of our Clients use the Inspection report as a "Punch List" to negotiate contracts or to simply prepare themselves for what they need to do to make an "as is" home ready for their intended use.  

With thousands of Home Inspectors to choose from in Florida, there are also several hundred different report writing methods among these Inspectors.  The report writing methods range from a simple carbon copy "check box" style form to full comprehensive reports, including color photographs.  

When engaging a Home Inspector it is important to know what type of reports they will provide and how long you have to wait to receive the completed report.  A Professional Inspector will provide an Inspection report immediately upon completion of the Inspection that reports on the following:

• Property & Inspection Details:
• • Property Details
  • Easy to Understand Scope of the Inspection (How the Inspector conducts the Inspection and reports on the results)
  • Clear definitions for the language used within the Inspection Report
• Roofing System
• • Roof Components Installed
  • Condition of Components
  • Deficiencies (Including Color Photographs)
• Exterior Elements
• • Exterior Components (Site Elements, Exterior Walls, Windows, Doors, etc.)
  • Condition of Components
  • Deficiencies (Including Color Photographs)
• Structural System
• • Structural Components (Foundation, Floor Support, Roof Support, etc.)
  • Condition of Components
  • Deficiencies (Including Color Photographs)
• Interior Elements
• • Interior Components (Finished Surfaces, Interior Doors, Cabinetry, Flooring, Appliances, etc.)
  • Condition of Components (Including whether the property is contaminated by Chinese Drywall)
  • Deficiencies (Including Color Photographs)
• Insulation & Ventilation Systems
• • Installed Insulation & Ventilation Components (Insulation, Vapor Barriers, Ventilation Components, etc.)
  • Condition of Components
  • Deficiencies (Including Color Photographs)
• Cooling & Heating Systems
  • Installed Cooling & Heating Components (System Age, Size, Efficiency, etc.)
  • Condition of Systems
  • Deficiencies (Including Color Photographs)

•   Plumbing System
• • Type of Systems & Distribution Methods (Service Supply Type, Supply & Waste Distribution Components, etc.)
  • Condition of Components
  • Deficiencies (Including Color Photographs)
• Electrical System
• • Electrical Components (Service Size, Wiring Type, Installed Components, Safety Features, etc.)
  • Condition of Components 
  • Deficiencies (Including Color Photographs)

Finally, the report should include a summary of ALL deficiencies found.  This is often what is used as a "Punch List" for Clients. 

Kross Inspectors has invested many resources into providing a comprehensive Home Inspection Report that assists consumers in making informed decisions about a major purchase.  Our experienced Professional Inspectors are equipped to provide a comprehensive Home Inspection Report BEFORE THEY LEAVE THE PROPERTY!  

To find out more, visit www.krossinspectors.com or call (239) 677-4403 to speak with one of our Professional Home Inspectors! 

What Is That "Rotten Egg" Smell? Could It Be Chinese Drywall??

Being the leader in Chinese Drywall Inspections, we are often called when a Home Owner, Home Buyer, or Real Estate Professional smells a strange odor that resembles "Rotten Eggs" in a home. 

The "gut" reaction by most consumers is that the home contains Chinese Drywall!  

Why the "gut" reaction?

Simple, the media began sensationalizing Chinese Drywall in late 2008.  One of the first mistakes made at that time was that the odor presented by Chinese Drywall gases was that of a "Rotten Egg".  

Unfortunately, the media has never corrected this "myth" about the "Rotten Egg" smell.  To date, we are still witnessing news reports that incorrectly describe the odor and place a panic among unknowing consumers.  This often ends up with Kross Inspectors being called in to perform a Chinese Drywall Inspection to diagnose the source of the odor.  

Where is that odor coming from?

In performing over 9,000 Chinese Drywall Inspections, we have data that reflects less than 5% of the homes built between 2004 and 2008 contain problem drywall.  In performing these Inspections and researching culprits for the "Rotten Egg" odor, we have found that many public and private water systems contain a high amount of sulfur.  Often, when home sit vacant or private water systems go untreated, the sulfur content of the water magnifies and releases an unpleasant odor.  This common phenomena is often the source of the "Rotten Egg" smell found in vacant homes!  

This too is why many Home Inspectors misdiagnose a home as containing Chinese Drywall, when in fact, it does not!

When contemplating a purchase on a home that was built between 2004 and 2008, consumers should rely upon proven experience in order to avoid losing out on an opportunity or even worse, making a mistake that may cost thousands of dollars!  

To find out more, visit www.krossinspectors.com/chinesedrywall, or call our Chinese Drywall Hotline at (877) 496-4662. 

Name That Deficiency Contest! Win a $25 Gift Card!

It's your turn to be the Inspector!

Each week, we offer consumers and Real Estate Professionals the opportunity to "Stand in the Inspector's shoes"!

At the end of each Inspection, our Professional Inspectors give the Clients and Realtors a "Walk Through" in order to point out deficiencies observed and to offer maintenance tips that help the consumer get the most out of their new home purchase.  Often the deficiency items are not so obvious to the untrained eye! 

Test your Inspection skills by taking a look at the photo to the left.  Enter your guess by clicking on the photo (you will be directed to our web site where you may view a larger image), or simply reply to this email. 

Good Luck! 

This week's winner will receive a $25 Bahama Breeze Gift Card!