Florida Home Inspections: Practical Tips with Kenny McLaurin

Buying or selling a home in Florida means dealing with strict insurance rules, tough roofing standards, and unpredictable weather. Florida home inspections are the key to navigating it all. In this episode of Palm Harbor Local, host Donnie Hathaway talks with Kenny McLaurin, owner of McLaurin Inspections, to share clear, practical advice you can use.

Why Florida Home Inspections Matter

Florida’s climate is unique. Homes face heat, hurricanes, and heavy rain. That puts roofs, siding, and windows to the test. A smart inspection can save buyers from costly surprises and give sellers leverage in negotiations.

Learn more about the Florida Homeowners Insurance Requirements from the Florida Department of Financial Services.

Four-Point and Wind Mitigation Inspections

Insurance companies often require a four-point inspection. It covers the roof, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical systems. A wind mitigation inspection can reduce your insurance premium if your home meets certain standards.

Quick tips for sellers and buyers:

• Fix obvious hazards before the inspection.

• Save permits and invoices.

• Confirm roof age and material.

For more details, check out this guide on wind mitigation discounts in Florida.

Roofing in Florida: What Inspectors Look For

Roofs drive both home value and insurance decisions. Kenny explains the pros and cons of the main types:

• Shingles: Affordable but wear quickly.

• Metal: Long-lasting and less likely to cause insurance issues.

• Tile: Stylish but fragile and costly to repair.

• TPO/PVC: Best for flat or low-slope roofs.

👉 Related: Palm Harbor Local: Roofing Tips Episode

Solar Panels and Florida Home Inspections

Solar energy is popular in Florida, but it can complicate inspections. Panels are mounted directly into the roof, creating a risk of leaks. Financing can also strip equity from a home if loans must be transferred or paid off before sale.

Learn more from the U.S. Department of Energy on solar basics.

Florida vs. Michigan Inspections

Kenny compares Florida with Michigan, where he inspected before relocating. Michigan homes often have basements and different seasonal issues. Florida inspections focus more on insurance, hurricanes, and roof age. No matter where you buy, clear communication with your inspector is the most valuable tool.

AI and Technology in Florida Home Inspections

From drones to thermal cameras, technology is changing inspections. AI tools can help create reports faster or triage leads. Still, human inspectors need to climb, crawl, and check details themselves. Tech is a support, not a replacement.

Read more about AI in real estate from the National Association of Realtors.

Building Trust Through Communication

Inspections are not just about pointing out flaws. They’re about explaining what matters most. Buyers want to know what is urgent versus what can wait. Sellers want to understand which repairs will close deals faster. Agents need clarity to guide negotiations.

👉 Listen to more local stories on the Palm Harbor Local Podcast.

Action Steps for Buyers and Sellers

For Buyers:

1. Hire a local pro who specializes in Florida home inspections.

2. Order a four-point and wind mitigation early.

3. Attend the walkthrough or recap call.

4. Use the report to negotiate repairs.

For Sellers:

1. Consider a pre-listing four-point inspection.

2. Service HVAC and fix obvious leaks.

3. Save all roof and repair documents.

4. Repair safety issues before listing.