Answer: | FALSE - BUT, this is a tricky question...and for the record, I am not trying to tell real estate professionals how to do their job, but I am working to familiarize agents with some areas of the contract that are often over looked during the buying process. By working as a "team", the agent and the inspector can better assist OUR mutual client, to facilitate a smooth transaction for BOTH the Buyer and Seller. Last week's question was designed to highlight one of the differences between the FAR and FAR/BAR agreements. Both contracts define torn or missing WINDOW screens as cosmetic. BUT, the FAR agreement differentiates between "window screens" and "screen enclosures". The FAR agreement defines "torn or missing pool cage and screen room screens" as warranted items that "...will be replaced." Now here's a twist...what does Florida state law require? The Florida Building Code, which is state law, requires all windows used for ventilation to have insect screens. So, how do I report the condition in a home inspection? My opinion is, "new" construction is required to have the window screens installed, damaged screen enclosures on re-sales are noted as defects, and missing or torn window screens are ignored. |
