Choosing an Inspector

Choosing an inspector

We hope these tips are helpful to you. Whether you hire us or someone else, please choose your inspector carefully. You may think an inspection is just a formality that is required by your insurance company and is very generic in nature. An inspection done properly by a professional inspector won’t be a big deal if it is done thoroughly and done right the first time. However, the problems that arise from an improper insurance inspection can become time-consuming and frustrating for you and may even result in hiring another inspector.

Q: How long has the inspector been in business?

A: Are you hiring an inspector whose business is inspections or someone who is doing inspections because of the downturn in the economy? Many people are working outside their fields of expertise today just to get by. There is a prescribed methodology for conducting inspections properly. As a Building Inspector working for government municipalities for many years, I have been trained specifically to conduct inspections. There is a difference between an experienced inspector and someone who has gained their knowledge from working in the field of construction. William Key, Inc. was formed in early 2008 and insurance inspections are our only business. We plan to be in business after the economy recovers so we conduct our business with a long term strategy in mind. We do not try to sell you additional products or offer to perform repairs on your home.

Q: Is the inspector bonded and insured?

1A: A: When you hire a contractor to do work at your home, you want to make sure that you hire someone that is bonded and insured in case the job doesn’t go the way it should. You may be thinking that this isn’t important for an inspection. Though you don’t have to worry about an inspector digging a hole in your back yard and taking the first draw never to be seen again, being bonded and insured does demonstrate that the inspector’s business is conducted in a responsible manner. Insurance companies generally do not partner or assume a fiduciary responsibility with someone who conducts their business in an irresponsible manner or has a history of problems and complaints. Being bonded and insured certainly isn’t a guarantee that you will be making the right choice, but it is an indication that your inspector takes his or her business seriously.

Q: Is the inspector licensed?

A: Some insurance companies will only accept inspections from licensed inspectors. Licensed inspectors are required to complete complex coursework and take a proctored exam. An individual has to prove by documentation that they have at least 5 years experience in the construction industry before they are even eligible to take these exams. In order to maintain their license(s), continuing education is required every 2 years to stay informed of current construction methods and building code laws. I became a Building Contractor in 1983 and upgraded to a General Contractor License in 1987. I have been a State Licensed Building Inspector since 1990. I am also a Licensed Home Inspector as required by Florida law effective July 2010.

Q: Is the inspector experienced?

A: Why is experience so important? Four Point inspections are generally required on homes that are 30 years old. These homes have features that are different from newer homes. Mistakes can be costly to you! For example: A chrome plated copper pipe that is mistaken for a galvanized pipe could result in higher premiums or even cancellation of your policy. On the other end of the spectrum, something that is overlooked or improperly identified during an inspection could result in your insurance company not covering a future claim. Having been in the business for over 30 years, I am knowledgeable of the older construction methods as well as the new. For wind mitigation inspections, in addition to properly identifying the mitigation features on your home, the inspector must properly complete the form. The only way to know this is by taking APPROVED wind mitigation training. I completed 2 courses through the University of Florida and an additional 2011 course. I am also required to take additional Wind Mitigation training to earn my continuing education credits for my Building Inspectors License. In addition, I worked for a reputable engineering firm conducting wind mitigation inspections for 2 years. I have performed over 1,500 wind mitigation inspections.

Q: Does the inspector retain records and for how long?

A: We have copies of every inspection we’ve performed including My Safe Florida Home Inspections. If you lose your copy of our inspection 2 years from now, we will provide another copy to you free of charge.

Q: How long will it take to get the report after the inspection is performed?

A: Your report is sent to you and/or your agent the evening of the inspection. The reason that the report is not left with you at the time of the inspection is because we take the time to prepare a neat, legible document with pictures that has been checked for errors. There is no additional charge for sending electronic reports to whoever you want.

Q: What is the re-inspection fee?
A: Re-inspections fees are often charged when an inspector has to come back to your property. If you have upgrades or repairs to your property, your agent may request a re-inspection to ensure you get the best price and coverage. Some of the re-inspection fees are as high as the price of the original inspection. As a thank you for choosing us to do your inspection, we do these re-inspections for a minimal charge. You and/or your agent will receive an amended report the same day of the re-inspection.

Q: Is there an additional charge for pictures?
A: Some inspections don't include pictures or only include the minimal amount of pictures and there is an extra charge for additional pictures. Often only pictures of defects are included in inspection reports. We take enough pictures so that your insurance company can get an indication of the overall condition of your house. We feel that pictures of the good things on your house are just as, if not more important. Pictures are included in our reports at no additional charge.

William Key, Inc

Inspected once, Inspected right!