They Stapled it.
Nails, Not Staples: What We Learned From a Recent Roof Install in Sebastian.
If you’ve ever wondered how the little details in home inspections and insurance reports can make a big difference for your home, here’s a story from our recent experience that might surprise you.
A few days ago, Eric completed a roof installation for a client approved under the My Safe Florida Home (MSFH) program. During the project, they noticed something unusual: the roof deck attachment used staples instead of nails. 😲
Now, staples on a roof deck aren’t unheard of—but here’s the kicker: the required Wind Mitigation Report submitted as part of the MSFH program stated that the decking was attached with 8d nails spaced 6 inches apart (also known as Box C on the wind mitigation form). In reality, based on what we found, it should have been listed as Box A.
So why does this matter?
Why Accurate Inspections and Reports Matter
When it comes to insurance and home safety, even small errors in inspections or reports can have real consequences. Here’s what you can learn from this experience:
Ask Questions and Request Changes
Don’t hesitate to clarify or request adjustments on your insurance inspection reports. There have been times where we’ve had inspectors come back to verify findings or make favorable changes for clients.Get a Second Set of Eyes
If you’re not in the real estate or construction industry, it’s easy to miss critical details. Lean on professionals like Realtors or home inspectors you trust to provide clarity and guidance.Reports Can Work For or Against You
Insurance and grant programs like MSFH rely on accurate reports. In our client’s case, the initial inspector indicated their roof deck attachments were good, even though they weren’t. Fortunately, because they didn’t have Secondary Water Resistance (SWR) issues, they were still approved for the $10,000 grant and a new roof with peel & stick underlayment. But imagine if this had been missed—it could have cost them thousands.
Key Takeaways for Homeowners
Always review your inspection and insurance reports carefully.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions or request re-inspections.
Use the expertise of Realtors, roofers, or other professionals to make sure you understand what’s in the reports.
Remember: details like nails vs. staples might seem small, but they can impact insurance approvals, safety, and funding opportunities.
Bottom Line
Whether you’re buying, selling, or upgrading your home, the details in inspections and reports matter. Never underestimate the power of a second opinion—and always make sure your home is evaluated accurately.
Have questions about your roof, wind mitigation reports, or home inspections? Drop them below or reach out—we’re always here to help! 😎