Previously, we discussed who can perform home inspections, what is included in a home inspection and who can make repairs. But, what about decayed wood - whose responsibility is decayed wood?

True or False? Home Inspectors are not authorized to report on decay damaged wood.

TRUE – This is the first time that I can recall, in which no one submitted a correct answer, which surprises me...

I am fortunate to assist with ECAR's Jump Start Program, and the point that I drive home when presenting is “Know Thy Contract”. So I recommend you check Paragraph 8(b) in the Florida Association of Realtors (FAR) Purchase Agreement. It clearly states that 'the BUYER...may have the Property inspected by a Florida licensed pest control business to determine the existence of past or present wood-destroying organism infestation and damage caused by infestation.'

Based upon the contract (and the State of Florida) professional, private home inspectors are not authorized to report on decay damaged wood. As a courtesy, home inspectors may record areas of the structure that have obvious wood damage, BUT remember, according to the FAR contract - the Florida LICENSED WDO inspector is the only inspector authorized to report decay damaged wood.

Denise Woodin of Legendary Realty.