Common Questions About Jacksonville Home Inspections
These are the questions I answer almost every week when working with Jacksonville buyers.
How much does a home inspection cost in Jacksonville?
Most standard home inspections in Jacksonville range from $350 to $500, depending on the size and age of the home. A 1,500 square foot home built in the 1990s might be on the lower end, while a 3,000 square foot historic home in Riverside could be at the higher end or above. Additional services like wind mitigation, four-point inspections, and termite inspections add to the total.
Do I need a wind mitigation inspection in Jacksonville?
You don't legally need one, but you probably want one. A wind mitigation inspection documents hurricane-resistant features in your home and can result in significant insurance discounts. I've seen homeowners save hundreds of dollars annually on their insurance premiums. The inspection typically costs $75-$150 and is often bundled with your home inspection.
What is a four-point inspection?
A four-point inspection examines the roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems. Many Florida insurance companies require this for homes over 20 or 30 years old before they'll write a policy. If you're buying an older home in Jacksonville, budget for this in addition to your standard home inspection. It usually runs $100-$150.
Should I get a separate termite inspection?
Yes. While home inspectors look for visible evidence of wood-destroying organisms, a dedicated termite inspection by a licensed pest control company is more thorough. In Jacksonville's humid climate, termites are active year-round. A termite inspection typically costs $75-$100 and includes both subterranean and drywood termite evaluation.
How long does a Jacksonville home inspection take?
Plan for 2-4 hours depending on the property. A newer 1,500 square foot home might take closer to 2 hours. A larger or older home with a pool, detached garage, or other outbuildings can take 3-4 hours. I always encourage buyers to attend at least the last hour so we can walk through findings together.
Jacksonville-Specific Concerns
Our area has some unique considerations that buyers from other parts of the country might not be familiar with.
What issues are most common in Jacksonville homes?
The top issues I find in Jacksonville inspections are: moisture and humidity damage (especially at exterior trim and windows), aging HVAC systems stressed by our climate, termite activity or past damage, foundation settling in sandy soil, and roof wear from UV exposure and storms. Homes near the beach have additional concerns with salt air corrosion.
Are there different concerns for different Jacksonville neighborhoods?
Definitely. Riverside and San Marco historic homes often have knob-and-tube wiring, galvanized plumbing, and foundation settling to watch for. Mandarin and Southside homes from the 1980s may have polybutylene plumbing. Beach communities deal with salt air corrosion. Newer construction in Nocatee and St. Johns County can have their own issues with builder quality and drainage.
How does Jacksonville's humidity affect homes?
Humidity is a constant factor here. I look for signs of moisture intrusion around windows, mold in HVAC systems, wood rot at exterior trim, and condensation issues in attics. Homes with poorly maintained AC systems or inadequate ventilation show humidity damage more quickly. Your HVAC system is your first line of defense against humidity in Jacksonville.
What should I know about flood zones in Jacksonville?
Parts of Jacksonville, especially near the St. Johns River and in low-lying areas, are in FEMA flood zones. Check flood zone status before buying. Flood zone designation affects insurance costs significantly and may require flood insurance even if your lender doesn't require it. Your real estate agent or a title company can provide flood zone information.
After the Inspection
What happens after your Jacksonville home inspection is complete.
When will I get my inspection report?
Most Jacksonville home inspectors deliver reports within 24 hours, often the same day. The report includes photos, descriptions of findings, and recommendations. Review it carefully and don't hesitate to call your inspector with questions.
Can I use the inspection to negotiate the price?
Yes, though how much leverage you have depends on the market. In a competitive Jacksonville market, sellers may be less willing to negotiate. Focus repair requests on significant safety and structural issues rather than cosmetic concerns. Your real estate agent can advise on negotiation strategy.
What if the inspection finds major problems?
First, don't panic. Most issues are fixable. Get contractor estimates for significant repairs to understand actual costs. Decide whether you want the seller to fix issues, provide a credit, or reduce the price. In some cases, problems may be serious enough to reconsider the purchase. That's exactly why you got an inspection.