by CFBIBlog | Nov 28, 2022 | CFBI Blog
According to the Census Bureau, roughly 18 million Americans were military veterans in 2018. This figure accounted for roughly 7% of the adult population.
Americans find several ways to express their gratitude for veterans, and this appreciation extends to the federal government. For this reason, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers several loans to help veterans purchase a home.
A VA loan comes with two primary benefits. First, the borrower rarely needs a down payment.
Second, there are no private mortgage insurance requirements. However, the property must pass a VA inspection, which includes the VA water test.
If you’re unfamiliar with these tests, don’t worry! We’ll explore four essential facts in this guide.
1. What Does a VA Water Test Look For?
The primary concern in a VA water test is ensuring the property has safe drinking water. However, the VA has no specific requirements for water tests. As such, these tests aren’t looking for any specific contaminants.
Instead, water tests must ensure that the water on your property meets local health requirements. Usually, this means your water cannot contain the following:
- lead
- coliform
- nitrites
- nitrates
Some locales lack a local health authority. In these cases, your home must meet state standards or provisions set by the EPA.
2. How Long Will Your Test Results Remain Valid?
The VA does not conduct your water test itself. Instead, a local health authority will test your water and verify if the sample passes inspection.
If so, you can report this information to the VA. You will have 90 days from the time health officials conduct the test to do so.
What happens if you don’t make the 90-day deadline? Generally, you can request another test to ensure the water meets the requirements. However, this can prolong the loan approval process.
3. What About a VA Well Water Test?
Some locations may receive their water from well sources. In general, these fall into two categories:
Private wells require a water test conducted by local authorities. These follow the standard requirements laid out previously.
Shared wells have a few more requirements beyond standard water test requirements. The well must also support each property within its network with safe water.
Likewise, this well must include a permanent easement that allows access for maintenance and repairs. However, if the water comes from a spring or cistern, it only must pass a water test.
4. Who Pays for Water Tests
VA lenders must ensure the water test passes examination before closing the loan. Often, veterans pay for these tests out of pocket. However, they can also ask for reimbursement from the lender afterward.
Find a Quality Well Water Testing Agency
The VA water test is crucial in getting a VA loan for homebuyers. However, you may not know where to get a reliable inspection for the loan.
Many Central Florida residents turn to us for this task. Our company offers well water quality testing for homeowners and buyers. Contact today to schedule an appointment!
by CFBIBlog | Sep 26, 2022 | CFBI Blog
Getting ready to buy a house? If so, here’s a quick tip: make sure your home inspection includes checking out the sewage system.
See, plumbing is one of those things that most buyers expect to work as intended. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. A simple sewer scope may reveal issues that could set you back thousands of dollars.
Not sure what kind of problems we’re talking about? If so, here’s a list of four things that will tank any home’s value.
1. Root Intrusion
Root intrusion is a classic example of a sewer pipe issue that gets much worse with time. Tree roots are naturally attracted to the moisture in sewer pipes. To them, sewage often serves as a fertilizer.
When these roots start growing around—or into—the line, they can cause severe clogs. And unlike most debris, tree roots aren’t easy to snake out. As the root grows, it can cause the pipe to break or even burst.
Unless the owner plants the trees strategically, root intrusion is hard to prevent. That said, a sewer camera inspection will at least make it easy to detect the exact spots where roots have entered the pipes.
2. Poor Pipe Health
Are you buying a home that’s over 20 years old? If so, that’s all the more reason to schedule a residential inspection. Many older homes have outdated piping materials that are prone to cracking.
Even if the home isn’t that old, a sewer scope can reveal all kinds of pipe issues. These include misplaced pipes or accumulated gunk from things like soap scum, cooking grease, and so on.
3. Line Breaks
Sewer line breaks can be hard to detect until it’s too late. Once it happens, it will likely affect your entire plumbing system. Sinks won’t drain, toilets won’t work, and you may even have sewage leaking under your house.
Root intrusion is a common cause of line breaks, but it’s far from the only one. For example, a simple soil shift can force pipes to shift along with it. On top of line breaks, this can cause serious structural issues.
The bottom line: line breaks are something you should identify quickly. Even if there’s no evidence of sewage issues, you’ll want to ensure there won’t be any in the future. A sewer scope is the best way to achieve that.
4. Random Blockages
Not long ago, the only way to find a clog in sewer lines was to dig a trench on your lawn. The excavation process was expensive and labor-intensive. Plus, it took a while before your landscaping recovered from it.
These days, a sewer inspection will identify any blockages without destroying your yard. It’s all done by attaching a high-tech camera to a long, flexible cable and sending it into your sewer system.
Scheduling a Sewer Scope
Remember: the cost of a single inspection is trivial compared to what it will cost to repair a sewer line. As such, a sewer inspection can do a lot for your peace of mind before buying a house.
Want to add a sewer scope to your home inspection checklist? Our specialist inspectors can take care of it for you! Contact us here to schedule a sewer scope or learn more about our services.
by cfbi1 | Aug 29, 2022 | CFBI Blog
What is a GFCI Outlet?
A GFCI outlet is a special type of safety outlet that will protect people from electrical shock. GFCI stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters. They are inexpensive and easy to install and are required by the NEC or National Electrical Code. Why are these outlets so important?
Why are GFCI Outlets Important?
GFCI outlets are very important because they prevent electrocution. They are a fast-acting system designed to turn off electrical power in the event of a ground-fault within as little as 1/40 of a second. The GFCI breaker compares the amount of current going to and returning from equipment along the circuit conductors and will immediately cut off the power if there is a disruption.
Where do GFCI Outlets Belong?
Per the National Electric Code, GFCI outlets belong in all damp or wet locations such as but not limited to:
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Outdoors
- Garage
- Utility rooms
- Laundry rooms
- Crawlspaces
- Basements
- Wetbars
- Pool and spas
How Do I Test a GFCI?
GFCI outlets have a special test button on the front of the outlet. Once pressed, the button will pop out and the power should be turned off at the receptacle. To engage the outlet, the other button, typically labeled reset, will need to be pressed. GFCIs are also found at the actual breaker panel in some homes and the process is a little different. There is still a button on the breaker which will cause the breaker to trip or move. The breaker oftentimes will need to be reset by moving the breaker all the way off and then pushed back to the on position. The regular checking of these devices is recommended and could save someone’s life.
Can I Install a GFCI Myself
Typically, we always recommend having an electrician perform this type of work. However, if the individual is handy enough, this is a relatively easy project for your do-it-yourselfer. Always ensure the power going to the outlet has been turned off at the breaker panel and verified with an electrical tester. Items you will need:
- New GFCI outlet & cover
- Flathead screwdriver
- Phillips screwdriver
- Flashlight
- Electrical outlet wiring tester (to ensure proper wiring configuration)
We hope you have found this blog post helpful regarding GFCIs and their benefits and uses. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or to learn more about GFCIs and your home.
by CFBIBlog | Aug 24, 2022 | CFBI Blog
Around one-third of houses for sale are new home construction builds, which appeal to many buyers. After all, new home builds offer various benefits, but they do not come without risks. So, how can you guarantee you find a dream home you can depend on?
The benefits of new home construction include convenience, energy efficiency, customizable options, and usually less maintenance. However, benefits such as low maintenance should not be taken for granted. It is essential to have a new construction home inspection to check everything is in order and keep you safe in your new home.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about a new build inspection.
What Is a New Construction Home Inspection?
A home inspection is when a third-party expert evaluates your new home, checking its structure, systems, and other factors that determine its quality. They produce a home inspection report highlighting any construction issues or other factors that need to be resolved before you move in. These inspections are essential to avoid hazards, safety risks, and costly problems later.
Common New Home Construction Issues
While a new home can provide quality, issues can still arise, which is why new build inspections occur. For example, there can be poor quality construction, which leads to structural defects such as cracking, unstable foundations, or insufficient framing.
There can also be leak risks, electrical issues, or plumbing issues in new homes. Some homes even are incomplete, with missing parts or a lack of insulation.
Home Inspection Types
There are different types of new build inspections to check your home is ready for you. It is best to have all of these inspections if possible. These include:
- Foundation inspection
- Pre-drywall inspection
- Final inspection
- 11-month builder warranty inspection
These home inspections cover different stages of the home build process. The foundation inspection occurs just after the foundation is laid to check it is durable and long-lasting, without issues such as poor grading.
The pre-drywall inspection happens are your roof and windows are installed to check for any issues that would later be hidden behind the walls. The final assessment is once the building is complete. Inspectors will advise if the home meets local building codes and is safe, so you can move in.
Benefits of a Home Building Inspection
Moving homes is often considered one of life’s most stressful events. However, you can reduce added stress and costly issues by ensuring your home is safe before you move in. Inspectors know what to look for in your new home to meet local compliance rules and quality standards, so you can move in with peace of mind.
Ready for Your New Build Inspection?
There are many reasons why a new home inspection is important; however, many people overlook them when it comes to new home construction. It is a huge investment to purchase a home, so invest in a new construction home inspection to ensure it is a home built to last. Be sure to pick a reputable Orlando Florida home inspector for a reliable report.
Are you looking for a quality home building inspection in Central Florida? CFBI is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your home inspection options.
by CFBIBlog | Jun 6, 2022 | CFBI Blog
Home construction is expected to boom this year. New housing starts in March were 6.8% higher than the previous month. As you try to make sure that you don’t miss your construction targets, be sure to avoid new construction inspection mistakes.
Whether you are inspecting new homes for the first time or just want to improve the process, read on to learn five mistakes to avoid.
1. Hiring the Cheapest Inspector
When hiring a home inspector, it’s easy to think about going cheap. You should never settle on the cheapest inspector you find. Try finding someone who offers the best value for a fair price.
Remember, you are already investing a lot of money in your home. Don’t throw that investment away by failing to find the right inspector. You can save future headaches by doing it right the first time around.
Read reviews and testimonials and ask about the inspector’s experience and credentials.
2. Forgoing Additional Tests
An inspector will often ask for a specialist to evaluate a potential problem. Maybe mold was found or there is a need for a roofing expert.
Don’t ignore these recommendations. Hiring a specialist is often not as expensive as you think. It can take minimal time to schedule and should be an important part of your checklist.
3. Disregarding the Report
Inspecting new homes is only one part of the process. You will also need to take the report seriously. Once the home is inspected, you will receive a report. Listen carefully to what the inspector tells you.
New homeowners sometimes make the error of just skimming over a report instead of reading it through.
4. Forgetting to Have a Final Inspection After Repairs
Once you have addressed the issues you should have another inspection. People sometimes skip this step. It is important to understand if the repairs were done correctly.
Sometimes, you may find that the issues were not fixed. A second inspection protects you and the potential seller.
5. Not Being Present for the Inspection
Don’t be tempted to skip out on the inspection. It’s not enough to just read the inspection report later.
Nothing beats being present for an inspection. Hearing the inspector’s comments can help greatly. Not everything is always written down as part of the home inspection process.
Inspections can take upward of three hours. Be sure that you are there for at least the end so you can speak with the inspector directly. You may catch small bits of advice that aren’t listed on the home inspection report.
Learn More Tips on Avoiding New Construction Inspection Mistakes
Following these five tips can help you avoid potentially costly new construction inspection mistakes. A successful inspection process can give you peace of mind.
Are you looking for a trusted home inspector in the Central Florida area? Call our office today. You can also leave us an online message and a member of our team will respond promptly.
by CFBIBlog | May 19, 2022 | CFBI Blog
In the US, an estimated 23 million homes rely on private wells for drinking water. Well water provides a reliable and renewable source of drinking water, making them so popular. The EPA does not regulate these private wells, so homeowners are responsible for the safety of their well water.
In Florida, 90% of the population relies on groundwater for drinking water. Although groundwater is better protected from contaminants than surface water, chemicals and bacteria can still reach them. As a result, well water testing is essential to know if your water is contaminated.
Read on to learn more about testing well water in Florida to ensure your family’s water is safe.
1. Florida Water Testing Laws
Florida does not have any laws that require individuals to test well water when private homes are sold. But, some lenders like the Federal Housing Administration and Veterans Affairs will require water tests as part of their loan process. You, the homeowner, are responsible for setting up the water well testing to close on your loan.
Florida has laws about public sources of drinking water being tested, but there are no laws that require private well owners do routine water testing. It is up to private individuals to test that their water meets EPA and local standards.
Some counties in Florida have rules that call for well water testing when an individual builds a new private well or conducts repairs on one. Regardless, if you are building a new home and a new well, you should get the groundwater tested to ensure your water is safe.
2. What Should Your Well Water Test Kit Check For?
You should test your well water for nitrates and bacteria. These are the two most common types of water contaminants found in Florida groundwater. But, you should also be aware of other pollutants common in your local area.
Florida has a lot of agriculture which can cause runoff of toxins and pesticides to make their way into the groundwater. Sulfer is another common issue that Florida homeowners find in their drinking water. Some other contaminants you can test for include:
- Ions
- Fluoride
- Arsenic
- Total Dissolved Solids
3. How Often Should You Do Well Water Testing?
You may have had your water tested when your home was built, or you first bought it, but the quality of your well water changes over time. You should get a well water test at least once a year. A test for potability, nitrates, and bacteria should be a priority.
You should test your water even if no one has gotten sick or there has been no change in taste or color. There could still be contaminants in your water that you don’t notice. If you do see a difference, it’s best to get a well water test kit and check for contaminants as soon as possible.
When testing well water, you’ll want to test from two places, the source of your water and the tap. These sources will give you a clear idea of the safety of your drinking water.
Make Sure Your Drinking Water Is Safe
Well water testing is a simple and cost-effective way to ensure your drinking water is safe. Testing on a routine basis will point out any issues, so you can hire a professional to help you get your drinking water safe again.
Are you worried about your home’s well water? We here at Central Florida Building Inspectors can help you get back your peace of mind. Click here to schedule a well water test today.
