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TRANSCRIPT
Home Inspection – The Basics
Part 3 - Standards of Practice – (1hr)
Part 3 of a 3 Part 5-Hour CE Package
CILB: 0610043 Gen - Architects: - 9878256 (H/S/W) ECLB: 0800897 (B),
Inspectors: Reciprocity (Gen) - Miami-Dade: 022-079 Engineers: Provider
#0003342 – (AOP) - Home Inspectors: 00000332 (Gen)
Objective
o The objective of this one hour section is to
increase understanding of the key statutory
responsibilities and standards of practice
established by both:
Florida Statutes for home inspection
(F.S. 468.83 – 468.8325), and
Florida Administrative Code, Rule 61-30.801
as they apply to the practice of Home Inspection
Home Inspection
o HOME INSPECTION
“Associations to Profession”
Statutory Requirements
o Florida Statutes
o Title XXXII Regulation of Professions and
Occupations
o Chapter 468 Miscellaneous Professions and
Occupations
o Part XV Home Inspectors
o F.S. 468.83 - 468.8325
F.S 468.83 – 468.8325 Contents
o Part XV Home Inspectors
o Contents
o 468.83 Home inspection
services licensing program;
purpose.
o 468.831 Exemptions.
o 468.8311 Definitions.
o 468.8312 Fees.
o 468.8313 Examinations.
o 468.8314 Licensure.
o 468.8315 Renewal of license.
o 468.8316 Continuing
education.
o 468.8317 Inactive license.
o 468.8318 Certification of
corporations and partnerships.
o 468.8319 Prohibitions;
penalties.
o 468.832 Disciplinary
proceedings
o 468.8321 Disclosures.
o 468.8322 Insurance.
o 468.8323 Home inspection
report.
o 468.8324 Grandfather clause.
o 468.8325 Rulemaking
authority.
The next slides will highlight only selected sections of Part XV. However, it is
advisable for home inspectors to be knowledgeable of all Part XV statutes.
468.83 Purpose
o 468.83 Home inspection services licensing program;
purpose.—
o (1) There is created within the department the home
inspection services licensing program.
o (2) The Legislature recognizes that there is a need to
require the licensing of home inspectors and to ensure
that consumers of home inspection services can rely on
the competence of home inspectors, as determined by
educational and experience requirements and testing.
Therefore, the Legislature deems it necessary in the
interest of the public welfare to regulate home inspectors
in this state.
468.831 Exemptions
o 468.831 Exemptions.—The following persons
are not required to comply with any provision of
this part:
o (1) An authorized government employee of the
United States, this state, or any municipality,
county, or other political subdivision who is
conducting home inspection services within the
scope of that employment, as long as the
employee does not hold out for hire to the
general public or otherwise engage in home
inspection services.
468.831 Exemptions (cont’d.)
o 468.831 Exemptions.—The following persons
are not required to comply with any provision of
this part:
o (2) A person acting within his or her authorized
scope of practice as licensed under federal,
state, or local codes or statutes, except when
such person holds himself or herself out for hire
to the public as a “certified home inspector,”
“registered home inspector,” “licensed home
inspector,” “home inspector,” “professional home
inspector,” or any combination thereof stating or
implying licensure under this part.
468.831 Exemptions (cont’d.)
o 468.831 Exemptions.—The following persons are not
required to comply with any provision of this part:
o (3) An officer appointed by the court.
o (4) A person performing safety inspections of utility
equipment in or on a home or building or other duties
conducted by or for a utility under chapter 366 or rules
adopted by the Public Service Commission.
o (5) A certified energy auditor performing an energy audit
of any home or building or other duties conducted by or
for a utility under chapter 366 or rules adopted by the
Public Service Commission.
468.8311 Definitions
o 468.8311 Definitions.—As used in this part, the term:
o (1) “Department” means the Department of Business and
Professional Regulation.
o (2) “Home” means any residential real property, or
manufactured or modular home, which is a single-family
dwelling, duplex, triplex, quadruplex, condominium unit,
or cooperative unit. The term does not include the
common areas of condominiums or cooperatives.
Note: While a CILB residential contractor can only construct up
to and including a triplex, this definition goes beyond that to
allows inspection of quadruplexes and condominiums which by
certain other statutory definitions and Florida Building Code is
considered “commercial”
468.8311 Definitions (cont’d.)
o 468.8311 Definitions.—As used in this part, the term:
o (3) “Home inspector” means any person who provides or
offers to provide home inspection services for a fee or
other compensation.
o (4) “Home inspection services” means a limited visual
examination of the following readily accessible installed
systems and components of a home: the structure,
electrical system, HVAC system, roof covering, plumbing
system, interior components, exterior components, and
site conditions that affect the structure, for the purposes
of providing a written professional opinion of the
condition of the home.
468.8313 Examinations
o 468.8313 Examinations.—
o (1) A person desiring to be licensed as a home inspector must
apply to the department after he or she satisfies the
examination requirements of this part.
o (2) An applicant may practice in this state as a home inspector
if he or she passes the required examination, is of good moral
character, and completes a course of study of at least 120
hours that covers all of the following components of a home:
structure, electrical system, HVAC system, roof covering,
plumbing system, interior components, exterior components,
and site conditions that affect the structure…
o (5)(a) “Good moral character” means a personal history of
honesty, fairness, and respect for the rights of others and for
the laws of this state and nation.
468.8316 Continuing Education
o 468.8316 Continuing education.—
o (1) The department may not renew a license until the licensee
submits proof satisfactory to the department that during the 2 years
before application for renewal the licensee completed at least 14
hours of continuing education. Of the 14 hours, at least 2 hours must
be in hurricane mitigation training that includes hurricane mitigation
techniques and compliance with the uniform mitigation verification
inspection form developed under s. 627.711(2). The department
shall adopt rules establishing criteria for approving continuing
education providers and courses.
o (2) The department may prescribe by rule additional continuing
professional education hours, not to exceed 25 percent of the total
hours required, for failure to complete the hours required for renewal
by the end of the reestablishment period.
468.8318 Certification of Corporations &
Partnerships
o 468.8318 Certification of corporations and partnerships.
o The practice of or the offer to practice home inspection services by
licensees through a corporation or partnership offering home
inspection services to the public, or by a corporation or partnership
offering such services to the public through licensees under this part
as agents, employees, officers, or partners, is permitted subject to
the provisions of this part, provided that all personnel of the
corporation or partnership who act in its behalf as home inspectors
in this state are licensed as provided by this part. Nothing in this
section shall be construed to allow a corporation to hold a license to
practice home inspection services.
o No corporation or partnership shall be relieved of responsibility for
the conduct or acts of its agents, employees, or officers by reason of
its compliance with this section, nor shall any individual practicing
home inspection services be relieved of responsibility for
professional services performed by reason of his or her employment
or relationship with a corporation or partnership.
468.8319 Prohibitions; Penalties
o 468.8319 Prohibitions; penalties.-
o (1) A person may not:
(a) Effective July 1, 2011, practice or offer to practice
home inspection services unless the person has
complied with the provisions of this part.
(b) Effective July 1, 2011, use the name or title
“certified home inspector,” “registered home
inspector,” “licensed home inspector,” “home
inspector,” “professional home inspector,” or any
combination thereof unless the person has complied
with the provisions of this part.
(c) Present as his or her own the license of another.
468.8319 Prohibitions; Penalties (cont’d.)
o 468.8319 Prohibitions; penalties.-
o (1) A person may not:
(d) Knowingly give false or forged evidence to the
department or an employee thereof.
(e) Use or attempt to use a license that has been
suspended or revoked.
(f) Perform or offer to perform any repairs to a home
on which the inspector or the inspector’s company
has prepared a home inspection report. This
paragraph does not apply to a home warranty
company that is affiliated with or retains a home
inspector to perform repairs pursuant to a claim made
under a home warranty contract.
468.8319 Prohibitions; Penalties (cont’d.)
o 468.8319 Prohibitions; penalties.-
o (1) A person may not:
(g) Inspect any property in which the inspector or the inspector’s
company has any financial or transfer interest.
(h) Offer or deliver any compensation, inducement, or reward to
any broker or agent therefor for the referral of the owner of the
inspected property to the inspector or the inspection company.
(i) Accept an engagement to make an omission or prepare a
report in which the inspection itself, or the fee payable for the
inspection, is contingent upon either the conclusions in the
report, preestablished findings, or the close of escrow.
468.8319 Prohibitions; Penalties (cont’d.)
o 468.8319 Prohibitions; penalties.-
o (2) Any person who is found to be in violation of any provision
of this section commits a misdemeanor of the first degree,
punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
775.082 Penalties
(4) A person who has been convicted of a designated misdemeanor
may be sentenced as follows:
(a) For a misdemeanor of the first degree, by a definite term of
imprisonment not exceeding 1 year;
775.083 Fines
(1)…Fines for designated crimes and for noncriminal violations shall
not exceed:
(d) $1,000, when the conviction is of a misdemeanor of the first degree.
468.8321 Disclosures
o 468.8321 Disclosures.—
o Prior to contracting for or commencing a home
inspection, a home inspector shall provide to the
consumer a copy of his or her license to practice home
inspection services in this state and a written disclosure
that contains the scope and any exclusions of the home
inspection.
Question: If a General Contractor (GC) is performing a property
condition inspection and evaluation under the licensure
exemption, must he or she provide these disclosures?
Answer: No, because the GC is operating as a GC under his
scope of licensure. General contractors can perform property
condition reports as long as they do not hold themselves out as
a "Home Inspector" and thus they are not bound by the same
disclosure rules.
468.8322 Insurance
o 468.8322 Insurance.
o A home inspector shall maintain a commercial
general liability insurance policy in an amount of
not less than $300,000.
468.8323 Inspection Report
o 468.8323 Home inspection report.-
o Upon completion of each home inspection for
compensation, the home inspector shall provide
a written report prepared for the client.
o (1) The home inspector shall report:
(a) On those systems and components inspected that,
in the professional opinion of the inspector, are
significantly deficient or are near the end of their
service lives.
468.8323 Inspection Report (cont’d.)
o 468.8323 Home inspection report.-
o (1) The home inspector shall report: (cont’d.)
(b) If not self-evident, a reason why the system or
component reported under paragraph (a) is
significantly deficient or near the end of its service life.
(c) Any systems and components that were present at
the time of the inspection but were not inspected, and
a reason they were not inspected.
o (2) A home inspector is not required to provide
estimates related to the cost of repair of an
inspected property.
Florida Administrative Code
o F.A.C. 61-30 Standards of Practice
o Rules Relating to the Home Inspector Profession
Standards of Practice,
61-30.801 General
61-30.802 Structure
61-30.803 Electrical Systems
61-30.804 HVAC Systems
61-30.805 Roof Covering
61-30.806 Plumbing System
61-30.807 Interior Components
61-30.810 Exterior Components
61-30.811 Site Conditions that Affect the Structure
The purpose of these
Standards of Practice is to
establish a standard for
home inspectors licensed
under Chapter 468 Section
XV of the Florida Statutes.
61-30.801 General Requirements
o 61-30.801 Standards of Practice, General.
o (1) Home inspections performed to these Standards of
Practice are intended to provide the client with
information regarding the overall condition of installed
systems and components of the home based on
observation of the visible and apparent condition of the
structure and components at the time of the home
inspection and to report on those systems and
components inspected that, in the professional opinion of
the inspector, are significantly deficient or at the end of
their service lives. A home inspection does not include
the prediction of future conditions.
61-30.801 General Requirements (cont’d.)
o 61-30.801 Standards of Practice, General (cont’d.)
o (2) These standards shall not be construed as limiting
the scope of the inspection process in those areas where
the inspector is qualified and/or has special knowledge.
o (3) The inspector shall inspect readily accessible,
installed systems and components of homes listed in
these Standards of Practice by using normal operating
controls and opening readily operable access panels.
Where multiple instances of the same component exist,
a representative number shall be inspected.
61-30.801 General Requirements (cont’d.)
o 61-30.801 Standards of Practice, General (cont’d.)
o (4) The inspector shall inspect and report as required by
FS 468.8323 when required by these standards,
systems or components by their type and/or significant
characteristics.
o (5) If not self-evident to the client at the time of
inspection, the inspector shall give a reason why, in his
or her opinion, the system or component was reported
as significantly deficient or near the end of its service life.
o (6) The inspector shall make recommendations for
correction and/or monitoring, or further evaluation of the
deficiencies that the inspector observed.
61-30.801 General Requirements (cont’d.)
o 61-30.801 Standards of Practice, General
(cont’d.)
o (7) These Standards of Practice do not limit
inspectors from:
(a) Including other inspection services, in addition to
those required by these Standards of Practice;
(b) Specifying repairs, provided the inspector is
appropriately qualified;
(c) Excluding systems and components from the
inspection if agreed upon in writing by the inspector
and client.
Rulemaking Authority 468.8325 FS. Law Implemented 468.8323, 468.832(1)(j)
FS. History‒New 10-22-13.
61-30.802 Structure
o 61-30.802 Standards of Practice, Structure
o Structural systems and components include the following:
o (a) Foundation
o (b) Floor structure
o (c) Wall structure
o (d) Ceiling structure
o (e) Roof structure
o (f) Posts
o (g) Beams
o (h) Columns
o (j) Joists
o (l) Rafters
o (m) Other framing, and
o (n) Ventilation of foundation areas.
61-30.802 Structure (cont’d)
o 61-30.802 Standards of Practice, Structure
(cont’d.)
o (2) The inspector shall inspect all of the visible
structural systems and components by probing
structural components where deterioration is
visible or suspected or where clear indications of
possible deterioration exist. Probing is not
required when, in the opinion of the inspector,
probing would only further damage any area
already identified as defective or where no
deterioration is visible or presumed to exist.
61-30.802 Structure (cont’d)
o 61-30.802 Standards of Practice, Structure (cont’d.)
o (3) The inspector is not required to enter or traverse any under-floor
crawl space or attic, if in the opinion of the inspector:
(a) An unsafe or unsanitary condition exists;
(b) Enter areas in which inadequate clearance exists to allow the
inspector safe entry or traversing;
(c) The potential exists to cause damage to insulation, ductwork, other
components or stored items.
o (4) The inspector is not required to provide any engineering or
architectural services or offer an opinion as to the adequacy of any
structural system or component.
Rulemaking Authority 468.8325 FS. Law Implemented 468.8323, 468.832(1)(j)
FS. History‒New 10-22-13.
61-30.803 Electrical
o 61-30.803 Standards of Practice, Electrical Systems.
o (1) Electrical systems and components include the following:
(a) Service entrance conductors, drip loop, cables, and raceways;
(b) Main service equipment and main disconnects;
(c) Service grounding;
(d) Interior components of main service panels and sub panels;
(e) Conductors;
(f) Over current protection devices;
(g) Readily accessible installed lighting fixtures, switches, and receptacles;
(h) Ground fault circuit interrupters;
(i) Amperage and voltage rating of electrical service;
(j) Main disconnect(s);
(k) Methods or types of wiring;
(l) Smoke detectors;
(m) Carbon monoxide detectors;
(n) Arc fault circuit interrupters.
61-30.803 Electrical
o 61-30.803 Standards of Practice, Electrical Systems.
o (2) The inspector shall inspect all of the visible and
readily accessible electrical systems and components.
o (3) The inspector is not required to inspect:
(a) Remote control devices;
(b) Security alarm systems and components;
(c) Low voltage wiring, systems and components, ancillary wiring
and systems and components not a part of the primary electrical
power distribution system;
(d) Generators, photovoltaic solar collectors or battery or
electrical storage devices and associated equipment.
61-30.803 Electrical
o 61-30.803 Standards of Practice, Electrical
Systems.
o (4) The inspector is not required to:
(a) Measure amperage, voltage or impedance;
(b) Perform a load calculation;
(c) Insert any tool, probe, or device into any electrical
component;
(d) Determine the accuracy of circuit labeling.
Rulemaking Authority 468.8325 FS. Law Implemented 468.8323, 468.832(1)(j)
FS. History‒New 10-22-13.
61-30.804 HVAC
o 61-30.804 Standards of Practice, HVAC Systems.
o (1) HVAC systems and components include heating and air
conditioning systems and components and HVAC distribution
systems and components.
o (2) Heating and air conditioning systems and components.
(a) The heating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems and components
include the following:
1. Installed heating equipment;
2. Fuel storage and fuel distribution systems;
3. Vent systems, flues, and chimneys;
4. Ductwork and air distribution components;
5. Mechanical ventilation systems;
6. Heating system energy source(s);
7. Heating system capacity in BTUs or kilowatts.
61-30.804 HVAC (cont’d.)
o Standards of Practice, HVAC Systems. (cont’d.)
o (2) Heating and air conditioning systems and
components.
(b) The inspector shall inspect all readily accessible heating and
air conditioning systems and components.
(c) The inspector is not required to inspect:
1. Interiors of flues or chimneys which are not readily
accessible;
2. Heat exchangers;
3. Humidifiers or dehumidifiers;
4. Electronic air filters, sanitizers, or UV lights;
5. Solar space heating systems;
6. Internal components such as coils and pans.
61-30.804 HVAC (cont’d.)
o Standards of Practice, HVAC Systems. (cont’d.)
o (3) HVAC distribution systems and components.
(a) The heating and air conditioning (HVAC)
distribution systems and components include the
following:
1. Energy source;
2. Cooling method by its distinguishing characteristics;
3. The presence of condensate over flow
warning/shutoff devices.
(b) The inspector shall inspect readily accessible
HVAC distribution systems.
61-30.804 HVAC (cont’d.)
o Standards of Practice, HVAC Systems. (cont’d.)
o (3) HVAC distribution systems and components.
(cont’d.)
(c) With regards to HVAC distribution systems, the
inspector is not required to inspect:
1. Electronic air filters, sanitizers, or UV lights;
2. Humidistats;
3. Automatic HVAC zoned systems, dampers, controls,
that are not readily accessible;
61-30.804 HVAC (cont’d.)
o Standards of Practice, HVAC Systems. (cont’d.)
o 4. Removable window air conditioning systems.
(3) The inspector is not required to:
(a) Determine heat supply adequacy or distribution balance;
(b) Operate heat pump systems when ambient temperatures
pose the potential for damage to the air conditioning system;
(c) Determine cooling supply adequacy, distribution balance
or indoor air quality;
(d) Operate the air conditioning system when ambient
temperatures pose the potential for damage to the air
conditioning system.
Rulemaking Authority 468.8325 FS. Law Implemented 468.8323, 468.832(1)(j)
FS. History‒New 10-22-13.
61-30.805 Roof Covering
o 61-30.805 Standards of Practice, Roof covering.
o Roof covering systems and components include the
following:
(a) Roofing materials;
(b) Flashings;
(c) Skylights, chimneys, and roof penetrations;
(d) Roof drainage systems;
(e) Ventilation of attics; and
(f) Insulation of attics.
o (2) The inspector shall inspect all of the visible and
readily accessible roof covering systems and
components.
61-30.805 Roof Covering
o 61-30.805 Standards of Practice, Roof covering.
o (3) The inspector is not required to inspect:
o (a) Components or systems that are not readily
accessible.
o (b) Antenna or other installed accessories.
o (c ) Interiors of flues or chimneys which are not readily
accessible.
o (4) The inspector is not required to walk on the roof
surface when, in the opinion of the inspector, the
following conditions exist:
o (a) Roof slope is excessive to safely walk on.
o (b) There is no safe access to the roof.
61-30.805 Roof Covering
o 61-30.805 Standards of Practice, Roof covering.
o (4) The inspector is not required to walk on the roof surface when, in
the opinion of the inspector, the following conditions exist:
o (a) Roof slope is excessive to safely walk on.
o (b) There is no safe access to the roof.
o (c ) The climate conditions render the roof unsafe to walk on.
o (d) The condition of the roofing material or roof decking renders the
roof unsafe to walk on.
o (e) Walking on the roof may cause damage o the roofing material.
o (f) Walking will place any liability or danger to the homeowner or
other representatives involved in the home inspection process.
o (5) The inspector is not required to disturb insulation.
Rulemaking Authority 468.8325 FS. Law Implemented 468.8323, 468.832(1)(j)
FS. History‒New 10-22-13.
61-30.806 Plumbing System
o 61-30.806 Standards of Practice, Plumbing System.
o Plumbing systems and components include the
following:
(a)Interior water supply piping and distribution systems including
all fixtures, faucets, and components;
(b) Drain, waste and vent systems, including all plumbing
fixtures;
(c) Plumbing related vent systems, flues, and chimneys;
(d) Drainage sumps, sump pumps, and related piping;
(e) Materials used for water supply, drain, waste, and vent
piping;
(f) Water heating equipment including the energy source;
(g) Main water and main fuel shut-off valves.
61-30.806 Plumbing System (cont’d.)
o 61-30.806 Standards of Practice, Plumbing System.
o (2) The inspector shall inspect all of the visible and
readily accessible plumbing systems and components.
o (3) The inspector is not required to inspect:
(a) Wells or water storage related equipment;
(b) Water conditioning systems;
(c) Solar water heating systems;
(d) Fire sprinkler systems;
(e) Private waste disposal systems;
(f) Irrigation system(s).
61-30.806 Plumbing System (cont’d.)
o 61-30.806 Standards of Practice, Plumbing System.
(cont’d.)
o (4) The inspector is not required to:
(a) Test shower pans, tub and shower surround for leakage;
(b) Operate safety valves or shut-off valves;
(c) Determine whether water supply and waste disposal systems
are public or private;
(d) Determine the quantity or quality of the water supply, or if the
function flow at the time of the inspection or thereafter will meet
the client’s needs.
Rulemaking Authority 468.8325 FS. Law Implemented 468.8323, 468.832(1)(j)
FS. History‒New 10-22-13.
61-30.807 Interior Components
o 61-30.807 Standards of Practice, Interior Components.
o The interior components that shall be inspected include
the following:
(a) Interior walls, ceilings, and floors;
(b) Steps, stairways, and railings;
(c) Countertops and representative number of installed cabinets;
(d) Garage doors;
(e) Interior and exterior doors and windows and their operating
locks and latches or other opening mechanisms;
(f) Insulation and vapor retarders in unfinished spaces;
(g) Fireplaces and solid fuel burning appliances;
(h) Vent systems, flues, and chimneys;
(i) Household appliances.
61-30.807 Interior Components (cont’d.)
o 61-30.807 Standards of Practice, Interior Components. (cont’d.)
o (2) The inspector shall inspect all of the visible and readily
accessible interior components.
o When inspecting doors and windows, the inspector may inspect a
representative number of doors and windows.
o The inspector shall inspect household appliances for normal
operation – using normal operating controls to activate a primary
function.
o Inspectors will not operate systems or appliances with owners’
belongings, or if there is a risk to the property being inspected.
o Inspectors will first review the system to be operated and use
professional judgment as to whether it is safe to operate using
normal operating controls and report accordingly.
61-30.807 Interior Components (cont’d.)
o 61-30.807 Standards of Practice, Interior Components. (cont’d.)
o (3) The inspector is not required to inspect:
(a) Paint, wallpaper, window treatments, and other specialty finish
treatments;
(b) Carpeting;
(c) Window treatments;
(d) Central vacuum systems;
(e) Recreational facilities;
(f) Fire screens and doors, if not permanently attached;
(g) Seals and gaskets on fireplaces;
(h) Automatic fuel feed devices;
(i) Mantles and fireplace surrounds;
(j) Combustion make-up air devices;
(k) Heat distribution assists whether gravity controlled or fan assisted in
fireplaces.
61-30.807 Interior Components (cont’d.)
o 61-30.807 Standards of Practice, Interior Components. (cont’d.)
o (4) The inspector is not required to:
(a) Open or operate any windows or doors and access covers that are
permanently or temporarily secured by mechanical means, are painted
shut, or are blocked by stored items or furniture;
(b) Ignite or extinguish fires;
(c) Light gas fireplaces or heaters, or other unlit pilot light devices;
(d) Determine draft characteristics for fireplaces and chimneys;
(e) Move fireplace inserts or stoves or firebox contents;
(f) Disturb insulation;
(g) Activate any system or appliance that is shut down, disconnected, or
otherwise rendered inoperable;
(h) Operate or evaluate any system, component or appliance that does
not respond to normal user controls;
(i) Operate any gas appliance that requires the manual lighting of a pilot
light or burner device;
61-30.807 Interior Components (cont’d.)
61-30.807 Standards of Practice, Interior Components. (cont’d.)
(4) The inspector is not required to: (cont’d.)(j) Operate any system, appliance or feature that requires the use of
special codes, keys, combinations, or devices or where user manual
reference is required;
(k) Operate any system, component, or appliance where in the opinion of
the inspector, damage may occur;
(l) Determine thermostat(s) calibration, adequacy of heating elements,
operate or evaluate self cleaning cycles, door seals, indicator lights,
timers, clocks or timed features, defrost cycles or frost free features, or
other specialist features as it applies to the appliance device;
(m) Determine leakage from microwaves ovens;
(n) Determine the presence or operation of back draft damper devices in
exhaust devices;
(o) Move any appliance;
(p) Confirm operation of every control or feature of a system or appliance.
Rulemaking Authority 468.8325 FS. Law Implemented 468.8323, 468.832(1)(j)
FS. History‒New 10-22-13.
61-30.810 Exterior Components
o 61-30.810 Standards of Practice, Exterior Components.
o (1) Exterior systems and components include the
following:
(a) Exterior wall cladding/siding, flashing and trim;
(b) All exterior doors;
(c) Attached decks, balconies, stoops, steps, porches, and their
associated railings;
(d) Eaves, soffits and fascias where accessible from the ground
level;
(e) Walkways, patios, and driveways leading to the dwelling
entrances;
(f) Garages and carports.
61-30.810 Exterior Components (cont’d.)
o 61-30.810 Standards of Practice, Exterior Components.
o (2) The inspector shall inspect all of the visible and
readily accessible exterior systems and components.
o (3) The inspector is not required to inspect:
(a) Window and door screening, shutters, awnings, and similar
seasonal or protective accessories and devices;
(b) Fences;
(c) Recreational facilities;
(d) Outbuildings, with the exception of garages and carports;
(e) Swimming pools, seawalls, break-walls, boat lifts and/or
docks.
61-30.810 Exterior Components (cont’d.)
o 61-30.810 Standards of Practice, Exterior Components.
o (4) The inspector is not required to move furniture,
appliances, lawn and garden equipment, tools, stored
items, wall decorations, floor covering, clothing or any
items that block the view and access to components or
structures.
Rulemaking Authority 468.8325 FS. Law Implemented 468.8323, 468.832(1)(j)
FS. History‒New 10-22-13.
61-30.811 Site Conditions
o 61-30.811 Standards of Practice, Site Conditions that
Affect the Structure.
o (1) Site conditions that affect the structure include the
following:
(a) Vegetation;
(b) Grading;
(c) Surface drainage; and
(d) Retaining walls on the property when any of these are likely
to adversely affect the structure.
o (2) The inspector shall inspect all of the visible and
readily accessible site conditions that affect the
structure.
61-30.811 Site Conditions (cont’d.)
o 61-30.811 Standards of Practice, Site Conditions that
Affect the Structure.
o (3) The inspector is not required to inspect:
(a) Geological, geotechnical or hydrological site conditions;
(b) Erosion control and earth stabilization measures.
Rulemaking Authority 468.8325 FS. Law Implemented 468.8323, 468.832(1)(j)
FS. History‒New 10-22-13.
Limitations & Exclusions
o Board Rule 61-30.812
o Standards of Practice, General Limitations and
Exclusions.
o This proposed rule was never adopted by the Home
Inspector Licensing Unit and therefore has been deleted.
o Much of the language now resides in scattered portions
of the current Rule 61-800 Standards of practice.
o However, it is worthwhile to review the language of this
former rule. This former rule places all the “do’s &
don’ts” in one place and contains a lot of practical
information on what a Home Inspector is required and
not required to perform while inspecting the subject
property.
Limitations & Exclusions
o Board Rule 61-30.812
o Standards of Practice, General Limitations and
Exclusions.
o General limitations for inspections:
o (a) Inspections are visual and non-invasive only and are
not technically exhaustive.
o (b) Inspections are subjective and rely upon the
inspector’s opinion, judgment and training, and
experience.
o (2) Generally, the inspector is not required to perform
any action or make any determination unless specifically
stated in these Standards of Practice. Inspectors are not
required to:
Limitations & Exclusions
o Standards of Practice, General Limitations and
Exclusions.
o (a) Determine:
o 1. The condition of the system or components which are
not readily accessible.
o (b) Offer to give warranties or guarantees of any kind.
o (c ) Operate:
1. Any system or component which is shut down or otherwise
inoperable or could cause damage.
2. Any system or component which does not respond to normal
operating controls.
3. Shut-off valves of any type.
Limitations & Exclusions
o Standards of Practice, General Limitations and
Exclusions.
o 4. Automatic safety controls, valves or devices of any
type.
o 5. The presence of any environmental hazards including,
but not limited to fungi, molds, toxins, carcinogens,
noise, and contaminants in solid, water, and air.
o (d) Enter:
o 1. Any area which will, in the opinion of the inspector,
likely to be dangerous to the inspector or other persons
or damage the property or its systems or components.
This situation will be noted in the home inspection report.
Limitations & Exclusions
o Standards of Practice, General Limitations and
Exclusions.
o 2. The under-floor crawl space or attics which are not
readily accessible. This situation will be noted in the
home inspection report.
o (e) Inspect:
o 1. Systems or components which are not installed or
readily accessible.
o 2. Installed decorative items.
o 3. Systems or components located in areas that are not
entered in accordance with these Standards of Practice.
o 4. Detached structures other than garages and carports.
Limitations & Exclusions
o Standards of Practice, General Limitations and
Exclusions.
o 5. Common elements or common areas in `multi-unit
housing, such as condominium properties or cooperative
housing.
o (f) Perform any procedure or operation which will, in the
opinion of the inspector, likely to be dangerous to the
inspector or other persons or damage the property or its
systems or components. This situation will be noted in
the home inspection report.
o (g) Describe or report on any system or component that
is not included in these standards and was not
inspected.
Limitations & Exclusions
o Standards of Practice, General Limitations and
Exclusions.
o (h) Move furniture, appliances, lawn and garden
equipment, tools, stored items, personal
belongings, wall or floor decorations, floor
coverings, suspended ceilings, clothing, debris,
soil, snow, ice, or any items or material that
blocks view and/or access to areas, components
or structure. This situation will be noted in the
home inspection report.
Limitations & Exclusions
o Standards of Practice, General Limitations and
Exclusions.
o (i) Utilizing special instruments, tools, or
measuring devices of any kind to measure
moisture, humidity, water or air volume, water or
air flow, water potability, air quality, temperature,
voltage, amperage, electrical grounding, polarity,
and continuity, VOC’s, microwaves,
electromagnetic fields, and other similar kinds of
conditions or activities.
Limitations & Exclusions
o Standards of Practice, General Limitations and
Exclusions.
o (j) Operating equipment, appliances, or devices on more
than one cycle, zone, or phase or operate any device,
appliance, system, or equipment which in the opinion of
the inspector may fail during the act of inspection.
o (3) Home inspectors shall not practice beyond the scope
of their license as a home inspector. The following
actions are beyond the scope of a Home Inspector
Licensee:
o (a) Identify concealed conditions or latent defects.
Limitations & Exclusions
o Standards of Practice, General Limitations and
Exclusions.
o (b) Determining:
o 1. The remaining life of any system or component.
o 2. The strength, adequacy, effectiveness, or efficiency of
any system or component.
o 3. The causes of any condition or deficiency.
o 4. The methods, materials, or cost of correction.
o 5. Future conditions including but not limited to, failure of
systems and components.
o 6. The suitability of the property for any specialized use.
Limitations & Exclusions
o Standards of Practice, General Limitations and
Exclusions.
o 7. Compliance with regulatory requirements (codes,
regulations, laws, ordinances, etc.), manufacturer
specifications, installation procedures or instructions.
o 8. The market value of the property or its marketability.
o 9. The advisability of the purchase of the property.
o 10. The presence of potentially hazardous plants or
animals including, but not limited to wood destroying
organisms or disease harmful to humans.
Limitations & Exclusions
o Standards of Practice, General Limitations and Exclusions.
o 11. The effectiveness of any system installed or methods
utilized to control or remove suspected hazardous
substances.
o 12. The operating costs of systems or components.
o 13. The acoustical properties of any system or component.
o 14. Conditions that might affect the ability to obtain insurance
and/or the price of insurance
o 15. the calibration of measuring devices including timers,
clocks, thermostats, and gauges.
o 16. The integrity of thermal glass seals.
Limitations & Exclusions
o Standards of Practice, General Limitations and Exclusions.
o 17. The presence of manufacturers’ defects in any product,
material, component, equipment, or systems, or information
related to recall notices
o 18. Installation conformance to manufacturers’ instructions for
any product, component, element, device, or system.
o (c) Offering to:
o 1. Perform any act contrary to law.
o 2. Perform engineering/architectural services.
o 3. Perform work in any trade or professional service other
than home inspection.
Limitations & Exclusions
o Standards of Practice, General Limitations and
Exclusions.
o (d) Dismantling any system or component,
except as explicitly required by these Standards
of Practice, or.
o (f) Providing any information from any source
regarding property ownership, property
boundaries, liens, outstanding loans, code
violations, reports of hazardous materials,
manufacturers’ recalls, Consumer Protection
Agency bulletins, and other similar kinds of
public information.
Limitations & Exclusions
o Standards of Practice, General Limitations and
Exclusions.
o (d) Inspecting:
o 1. Underground items including but not limited to
underground storage tanks or other indications
of their presence, whether abandoned or active.
o 2. Recreational facilities.
Limitations & Exclusions
o Standards of Practice, General Limitations
and Exclusions.
o (d) Inspecting:
o 1. Underground items including but not limited
to underground storage tanks or other
indications of their presence, whether
abandoned or active.
o 2. Recreational facilities.
Limitations & Exclusions
o Standards of Practice, General Limitations and
Exclusions.
o (d) Inspecting:
o 1. Underground items including but not limited to
underground storage tanks or other indications
of their presence, whether abandoned or active.
o 2. Recreational facilities.
Thank You!
o Thank you for participating in this course.
o Thank you for choosing Gold Coast Schools