Electrical
During a home inspection, the home electrical system is visually inspected at the service entrance, disconnects, electrical panels, breakers, and accessible receptacles and fixtures.
Accessible receptacles may be tested for proper polarity and grounding, and visible electrical components are evaluated for general condition and safety concerns.
Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection is an important safety feature in locations where electrical equipment may be exposed to moisture. Older homes may not have the same level of GFCI or AFCI protection typically found in newer construction.
Certain older electrical panels and components have known performance or safety concerns. When such equipment is present, it will be identified in the inspection report and further evaluation may be recommended.
Age alone does not indicate that an electrical panel is defective. Older panels and components are evaluated based on visible condition, installation, operation where applicable, and observed deficiencies.
HVAC
The home’s heating and cooling (HVAC) systems are inspected for visible condition and general operation using normal operating controls when conditions permit.
System age is considered along with visible condition, performance, maintenance history, corrosion, and other observed conditions. Older equipment may remain operational for many years, while newer equipment may still require repair.
Accessible HVAC components are inspected visually. Components requiring invasive disassembly or specialized service procedures are outside the scope of a general home inspection.
South Florida’s heat, humidity, and coastal environment can contribute to corrosion and deterioration of HVAC equipment and may affect service life.
Plumbing
The home plumbing system, including accessible supply, drain, waste, vent, fixture, and water-heating components, is visually inspected for general condition, operation, and visible leakage.
Water temperatures above approximately 120°F can increase the risk of scalding.
Older plumbing materials such as cast iron drainage piping, galvanized supply piping, and polybutylene supply piping may warrant additional evaluation depending on age, condition, installation, and the presence of deterioration or leakage.
Shut-off valves are generally not exercised during a home inspection because older or deteriorated valves may leak or fail when operated.
Where further evaluation or repair is recommended, use an appropriately licensed or qualified professional.