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Jay Smith, CEO of A Snoop Inspections, is a veteran in his field of property inspection. Jay possesses over 30 years in property inspection experience as well as hands-on knowledge of building construction. Jay has an invaluable insight into the key concepts of inspecting properties.

Property inspections can cause even the most seasoned real estate investor to shudder. Not only do inspections have the potential to turn up devastating issues for investors close to finalizing a deal, under-qualified inspectors may cost an investor thousands of dollars in corrective aggravation. Recent changes to insurance policies and coverage in Florida have led to increased concern over property inspections and their impact on real estate investment. Commercial investors need to be especially careful as there are many more aspects to commercial property inspection as opposed to residential. This episode will cover six hot spots or areas of focus for any investor to cover when inspecting properties.

1. Electrical
   1. Out-dated wiring methods may preclude properties from meeting current insurance requirements
      1. Aluminum wiring dating mid 1960s-1970s a prevalent issue; Cloth wiring; Knob-and-tube wiring
      2. No safety outlets by water areas source of concern
2. Roofs
   1. Major area of concern when inspecting properties. Damage can be detrimental to property and repairs costly.
      1. Look for flat roofs or areas where water pools
      2. Leaks cause major damage
      3. A/C units on roofs – water damage from condensation, impede accessible roof maintenance. New FL building codes require roof-units be on raised platforms
3. Insurance Changes
   
   1. Changes to FL insurance coverage a important concern for new buyers
      1. Standards for coverage have changed over recent years
      2. Require more detailed inspections, won’t insure certain construction methods/materials
      3. Insurance coeerage under previous owner will not extend to new buyer
4. Sinkholes
   1. Costly and potentially dangerous inspection issue
      1. Look for long, horizontal cracks in and around structure
      2. $2000 geo-technical survey
5. Mold
   1. Serious issue in FL
      1. Difficult to asses severity or extent of infestation
      2. Especially an issue in vacant or untended properties
6. Inspector Due Diligence
   1. In FL especially, determine certifications of inspectors prior to selecting
      1. FL requires Home Inspector license only
      2. International Association of Home Inspectors – largest H.I. association in U.S.
      3. For specific issues, contact specialists (i.e. mold inspector, master electrician, professional roofer)

To contact Jay for information on inspecting properties or to inquire about his own property inspection services, visit his website: www.a-snoop.com or call (813) 345-2600