Research & Writing Assignment:
I read the wind mitigation article which gives a basic overview of this course. It explains how Citizens Insurance Company mandated a 45% increase in rates in 2006. The article also goes on to explain the importance of wind mitigation devices that can protect the homeowner from catastrophic wind damage.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The picture submitted shows what would be termed a “clip” on the form. It IS secured with a minimum of three nails AND embedded in the bond beam with less than a 1/2 inch gap. It is a metal connector that does not wrap over the top of the truss, which cannot be considered as a “single wrap”.
Research & Writing Assignment:
In Florida most single-story home foundations are monolithic slab type construction. Basements are typically not found in Florida homes where the high water table would usually flood a basement easily. Occasionally crawl spaces can be found where the foundation would be concrete pier construction.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The attic inspection includes determining the deck (sheathing) type and thickness, type of deck-to-truss/rafter fastening system (8d nails, 6d nails, staples, etc.), nail spacing for the deck attachment, type of roof-to-wall fastening system (example: clips or single wrap straps) and gable bracing.
Research & Writing Assignment:
in this course I have learn how to qualify for wind mitigation discounts on your insurance premium, you must have a Wind Mitigation Inspection, also called a Wind Inspection. The Wind Inspection takes approximately 20- 30 minutes and consists of an attic and exterior inspection.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
As demonstrated in the wind mitigation inspection videos, the Zircon MT-6 sensor is a valuable time saving identification tool. Verifying the distance between sheathing fasteners can be difficult if one is not using such a tool. As shown in the video, marking and labeling the distance between the nails shows that the inspection was done and where.
Research & Writing Assignment:
The Wind Mitigation Inspection illustration shows the basics of a wind mitigation inspection. Starting with the roof geometry basics, to the roof to wall connections. All the items listed are part of the wind mitigation inspection that are required on the Uniform Mitigation Verification Inspection Form for the client.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Detached garage with a Hip roof. Attic inspection confirms high quality roof installation with appropriate wall connections to provide qualification for discount. Unfortunately the garage door, egress door, and glazing did not qualify as they do not conform to the high standards required in this area of Florida.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Hip roof designs that do not have gabled areas of more than 10 percent of the total linear feet of the roof are subjected to 40 percent less uplift pressures as a gable roof. This is why insurance companies are often offering discounts on premiums for such structures.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This is a picture of a house front entry door. During the inspection I intended to determine if the subject door was rated as Large missile Impact since no other exterior protection such as door shutters were present. The steel glazed door does not have any rating sticker or stamp present. Owner was not able to provide documentation regarding door manufacture and/or installation. I was unable to find how the door was connected to walls. The top lite appear to be double glassed with thin glass and air gap in between. In conclusion this opening will be classified X in the Opening Protection Level Chart of the Mitigation Report
Research & Writing Assignment:
This is a picture of a house front entry door. During the inspection I intended to determine if the subject door was rated as Large missile Impact since no other exterior protection such as door shutters were present. The steel glazed door does not have any rating sticker or stamp present. Owner was not able to provide documentation regarding door manufacture and/or installation. I was unable to find how the door was connected to walls. The top lite appear to be double glassed with thin glass and air gap in between. In conclusion this opening will be classified X in the Opening Protection Level Chart of the Mitigation Report
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The picture is of the garage door located at the residence being inspected. The gaage door appeared to gave horizontal bracing , however there were only 4 brackets holding the tracks to the structure. There were also no labels , or homeowner documentation available stating that the door was impact rated.
Research & Writing Assignment:
One of the most effective ways to protect your home during a hurricane is through proper wind mitigation practices. Taking appropriate steps to safeguard you residence can not only protect the home from damage , but can also lower insurance premiums .
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This was a recent observation noted in our HVAC section of one of our property inspection. Here you will notice a air handler, also known as a blower that was located in the attic of this residence. Upon entry of the attic we noticed the temperature of the attic was quite “comfortable”. After further evaluation we noted the system was leaking air into the attic and recommended repairs/service of the system.
Research & Writing Assignment:
This essay is in reference of the electrical portion on a home inspection. In many cases I have observed double taps, aluminum wiring and/or many other deficiencies in the electrical panels throughout the years I have been inspecting homes. Properly and safely removing the electrical covers of electrical boxes are crucial to your inspection. Otherwise these observations could be missed and miss inform the customer.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This gable style roof is susceptible to damage under strong wind load. The exposed wall of a gable roof will experience forty pounds per square foot more pressure in the same wind event than a hip style roof will. In Florida, gable roofs need to be properly braced as per local building codes. It is also important that wall sheeting be installed in the entirety of the gable wall, not just simply covered with house wrap as is common in some areas to aid with ventilation of the attic space.
Research & Writing Assignment:
The illustration titled “Wind Mitigation Inspection” details the numerous parts of a home that are covered in a wind mitigation inspection. The image indicates the type of roof, the roof’s age, the construction style used to build the roof and the presence of roof ties are all important parts to a completed wind mitigation inspection. The inspector will also look for protected door and window openings to include the garage door. If a home is deemed to have successfully mitigated the risk of wind damage, insurance companies may expand coverage in the case of a wind event. The homeowner may also qualify for a lower insurance premium.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This photo shows a new installation of 25 year Architect shingles. The top course on both sides was not completed. The seams between shingles are visible and will allow water penetration at that point. There should be a cut final course tucked under the cap on both sides to complete the job.
Research & Writing Assignment:
This essay is written based on my observations of a wind mitigation photo. Some of the basics of performing a wind mitigation inspection would include the following. Photos, opening protection, the presence of Secondary Water Resistance, Roof deck attachment, roof to wall attachment, roof geometry and age of roof covering.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
In the picture we can see tongue and groove lumber, very well placed and properly nailed.
No misnails, which will make very hard to determine the nails size.
There is enough space to place a thin ruler and determine the sheathing thickness. Wood looks dry and professionally installed.
