Types of home Inspections

Four Point Inspection

Four-point inspections are usually required by insurance companies, especially for older homes, (generally 20 years old or older). The typical inspection will determine the following:

• Structural condition
• Roofing, material and estimated remaining life
• Electrical, amperage, type of wire, ground, breaker or buss fuse
• Plumbing, type of supply lines and discharge
• HVAC, type, age and condition
• Insulation, thickness and type
• Ventilation

The MartinBack Group charge for a Four-point inspection is $125 within a 25 mile radius of Gainesville Fl. An additional fee of .25 per mile, beyond the 25 mile radius, will be added as a fuel charge for each Four-Point inspection. If your insurance provider requires a special form to meet their requirements, they can contact me directly on how to forward their form to me.

Home Inspection

Usually, a home inspection is ordered by a buyer or buyer’s representative to inspect residential property for the above-mentioned areas, but in more detail. A thorough inspection can answer these questions:

Is the water heater in good condition? How old is it? Was it properly installed, and is it properly ventilated?

What condition is the HVAC unit in? Are ducts and trunk lines properly sealed?

What type of plumbing material is installed? Does it meet current building codes? Are there any leaks? Do the shutoff valves work? Are fixtures in good condition?

Is the electrical panel in good condition, and is the load sufficient for property upgrades? Are junction boxes secure? Are there loose wires in crawlspaces or in the attic?

Is the roof in good condition? Are there missing shingles or rotten decking? Are plumbing vents properly sealed? What’s the valley condition? If the roof was recently replaced, was it inspected?

Are the windows in good condition? How about the appliances?

Are there problems with the septic system?

Any recent upgrades to the property and were permits pulled and was it finalized by the local building authority.

A full inspection can last from 45 minutes to several hours. In order to prevent some nasty surprises, it is time well-spent. The MartinBack Group has a minimum charge of $175 for a condo or attached units under 1100 SF. Single family residence start at $200 and increase in cost as per square footage. A written narrative letter will be sent to the requesting party by email. Hard copy letters and photos can be provided at an additional charge.

Free Maintenance Inspections

A maintenance inspection is a combination Four-Point inspection and home inspection with the focus on maintenance issues. Upon completion of the maintenance inspection, a estimated cost to repair or maintain the property will be issued to the requesting party. Upon further request, a proposal for specific items to be repaired will be issued to the requesting party. Referrals for licensed contractors will be given for repairs needed that are not within the scope of this contractor. All contractor referrerals are given as a professional courtesy and not as a paid refferal.