Have questions or need a professional inspection? Contact WIN Home Inspection in {{DMA}} today — our expert team is here to assist you!

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I recently had a full home inspection conducted by Arshia from WIN Home Inspection in Irvine, and I couldn’t be happier with the service. Additionally, his ancillary water quality testing provided extra peace of mind, ensuring the home’s water supply met all safety and health standards.

WIN Home Inspection Irvine did a fantastic job with our pre-drywall inspection in Foothill Ranch. Arshia was thorough and explained everything clearly. I feel confident in the quality of our home thanks to his detailed work. Highly recommend!

I recently hired WIN Home Inspection/Irvine for a full home inspection, and I couldn’t be happier with the service provided. From start to finish, Arshia demonstrated exceptional professionalism, attention to detail, and a genuine commitment to ensuring I fully understood the condition of the property.

Gain valuable insights on 300+ items to make a sound decision on your investment.

A visual inspection of your condo including major systems not covered by the HOA.

A visual inspection of your townhome including major systems not covered by the HOA. 

Protect your property investment by identifying areas of concerns before you buy.

A visual inspection to assess the condition of the components of your duplex/multiplex.

A visual inspection to assess the condition of the components of your manufactured home.

Confirm all the requested repairs have been made from the initial inspection report.

Detect nitrates, bacteria and other contaminants in tap water that lead to health issues.

Detect harmful indoor allergens and pollutants to breathe easier in your home.

Uncover health and safety hazards hidden in walls and ceilings to avoid costly repairs.

Detect and mitigate clogged or damaged sewer lines before backups in the home occur. 

Ensure the pool and/or spa is functioning properly and free of safety hazards.

Detect mold via air sample to identify the presence of unseen moisture and leaks.

Ensure adequate water flow from the well system to the home. 

Identify meth residue to reduce the risk of serious health issues caused by meth exposure.

Inspect the fireplace and chimney to reduce fire hazards like creosote buildup.

Check the home’s wind resistance features and save on homeowners insurance.

Ensure the home is in good condition by checking the roof, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC.

Detect mold via surface sample to protect against health issues and structural damage.

Gain valuable insights on 300+ items in your new construction home to ensure peace of mind.

Get expert advice without a written report to make a quick, yet informed decision.

List your home confidently by identifying potential issues before the buyer’s inspection.

Customize this service to save on costly repairs and protect your health, safety, and home.

Elevate your listing, increase visibility on home selling platforms, and sell faster.

Address issues and request repairs with your builder before the warranty expires.

Get in Touch with WIN Home Inspection in {{DMA}}: Contact Us Today!

Have questions or need a professional inspection? Contact WIN Home Inspection today. Our expert team is here to assist you with all your home inspection needs.

Get in Touch with WIN Home Inspection: Contact Us Today!

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Barbeque is a great way to gather around friends and family during summer time! This can be a lot of fun, but it's important to take care when grilling to avoid accidents. These safety tips are designed to help keep your barbecues safe and enjoyable all summer long. So, fire up the grill and get cooking!

## Clean Your Grill

As you cook, heavy grease builds up on your grill. This grease is highly flammable, and too much of it can quickly start a fire. Clean your grill regularly to prevent grease buildup with these easy steps. 

- Remove all parts and accessories from the grill. 
- Spray them with a food-safe kitchen degreaser and scrub clean with a rag or sponge. 
- Scrape the grill with a wire brush or putty knife to rid the grill of caked-on food or grease.
- Reassemble the grill and turn it on to high heat to burn off any residue.

## Test Your Grill for Leaks 

It is recommended to test propane grills for leaks at least once a year. To do this, brush dish soap and water on the tank and gas line connections, then press the accelerator. If you see bubbles, you have a gas leak! Turn off the gas and tighten the connections to your propane tank. Allow 5 to 10 minutes for the gas to dissipate before testing the grill again.

## Avoid Wearing Loose Clothing 

While clothing catching fire may sound like a freak accident, it’s more common than you might think. You may not even realize your clothes are on fire until it's too late! To reduce the risk of catching fire, wear form-fitting clothing and securely fasten your hair. If you need to remove any loose clothing, keep it away from the grill. Discarded clothing left unattended for an extended period of time can catch fire. 

## Purchase Grilling Gloves and Appropriate Cooking Utensils

Grills generate a lot of heat, so having the right utensils and equipment is essential. Avoid handling food directly on the grill as much as possible. Invest in a pair of grilling gloves, tongs or other grilling utensils if you'll be handling hot pans or food. 

## Stock Up on Baking Soda and a Fire Extinguisher 

Grills can get as hot as, or hotter, than an oven. Be proactive and prepared to extinguish a fire should one occur. We recommend keeping baking soda close to your grill station in the event of a fire. If the fire is too large to put out with baking soda, use a fire extinguisher. Never use water to extinguish a fire. It could spread the fire or splash hot grease, oil, or coal, which is dangerous.

- **Take the Appropriate Safety Precautions:** Gas and propane grills can typically reach temperatures up to 550° F, while charcoal grills can reach temperatures up to 700° F. 
- **Three-foot rule:** Make sure your grill is at least three feet away from anything that could be flammable such as your deck, outdoor furniture, and trees. The heat from your grill can also melt and warp vinyl siding, so don’t keep your grill too close to your home.
- **Keep the grill outside:** Grilling in closed or poorly ventilated areas is not only a fire risk, but also a health risk as fires produce carbon monoxide, a deadly gas. To keep you and your family safe, know the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning prior to lighting up your grill and always grill in a well-ventilated area. 
- **Keep it level:** Do not use your grill on an incline or on uneven ground as it could topple over and cause a fire. 
- **Watch the grill carefully:** A lit grill should never be left unattended as food could burn, grease could build up and a fire could start. 
- **Keep children and pets away from the grill:** Never leave a grill unattended, especially if children or pets are around. Do not move a lit grill: Moving a lit grill can not only risk burning yourself or others, but also increase the risk of fire and dislodge important grill parts. 

## Do Not Overcrowd the Grill

Overcrowding the grill can cause your food to cook unevenly and become greasy.  Allow at least an inch of space in between to keep the grease and smoke to a minimum. 

## Turn Off the Grill After Use 

It's easy to become distracted while cooking, especially if you're entertaining friends or family.  Be sure to turn off the grill and thoroughly inspect your grilling station immediately after you’re finished cooking to reduce safety hazards.  

Know How to Put Out a Grill Fire: Whether brought on by a broken gas line, an accidental spark, or just too much heat, a grill fire may spread quickly and become dangerous. However, always stay calm and follow these steps:  

### Eliminate the fire hazard

Turn off the grill's gas supply immediately. If your grill runs on propane, switch off the valve on the propane tank. If you have a charcoal grill, wear heat-resistant gloves and use steel grilling equipment to remove the fire hazard. While you should never pour water directly onto a hot grill, you can use water to hasten the cooling process. Remove the coal and ashes safely and place them in a metal bucket with water. 

### Use a cover that can withstand fire

Cover the grill with a fire-resistant cover after the gas has been turned off or the affected coals have been removed. The flames will be smothered, and oxygen won't be able to reach them. In a pinch, a large pot lid or baking sheet will do.  

### Let the grill cool down

Before opening the lid, let the grill cool completely. Then you can look for damage and make any required repairs. With these easy steps, you can put out a barbecue fire quickly and safely. Remember, never put out a fire with water. 

As you enjoy your summer, always keep safety top of mind. WIN Home Inspection offers a variety of inspection services to keep you and your family safe this summer. From Deck Inspections to Pool and Spa Inspections, contact your [local WIN home inspector](https://wini.com/) so you have peace of mind and enjoy all that your backyard has to offer. 












Tips For Safe Grilling This Summer 

As you enjoy your summer, always keep safety top of mind. WIN Home Inspection offers a variety of inspection services to keep you and your family safe this summer. From deck inspections to pool and spa inspections, contact your local WIN home inspector so you have peace of mind and enjoy all that your backyard has to offer.

Renting vs Buying a House: Which Option Saves You Money in 2025? 

Buying a home is a huge life milestone. 

This life-changing purchase is likely one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make, and for most, it is a proud moment. This process symbolizes stability, permanence, warmth, and accomplishment. It’s an exciting time, but there’s also much to consider. 

Many steps are involved, each with its own considerations and best practices. Most people think of this process as finding a home, handing over a down payment, and signing the paperwork. However, navigating this journey is not always straightforward, especially with [older homes](https://wini.com/articles/10-essential-things-to-consider-when-buying-an-older-home/).  

For example, when making an offer, you must consider what may be lurking in a home before closing the deal. Imagine buying your dream house only to find it full of [black mold](https://wini.com/articles/how-to-get-rid-of-black-mold/) or [asbestos](https://wini.com/services/asbestos-test/) a month after closing. What if you have secured your home and moved in, but now your house is leaking, or a friend visits and expresses concerns about the foundation? Then what?

Just as you were proactive in saving money, finding the right neighborhood and working with a great agent, you must also get the necessary inspections. It’s part of your due diligence as a buyer. Identifying potential issues before you sign that dotted line could mean the difference between contingencies in your offer and an extensive (and costly) renovation bill. WIN Home Inspection supports home buyers during this crucial stage. However, there's plenty to consider before and after home inspections. Let's start at the beginning.

Here are 15 steps to consider when buying a house.

## Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a House

![house-for-electrical-article-1-of-1.jpg](https://d2nnm6ppct4rc3.cloudfront.net/house_for_electrical_article_1_of_1_63bbfdcc8c.jpg)

If this is your first time investing in property, you may wonder, how long does it take to buy a house? Whether you're new to the real estate game, are upsizing, downsizing, or building your investment portfolio, the buying process remains relatively the same. 

### Step 1: Evaluate if You're Ready to Buy

For many, homeownership feels like a pipe dream. A [recent poll](https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/25020045-more-than-half-of-american-renters-who-want-to-buy-a-home-fear-theyll-never-afford-one/) found that 86% of current renters in the United States WANT to buy a home but can't afford one. Among these respondents, 54% believe they will never own a home. However, many are hopeful that this affordability crisis will one day change. 

If you're someone who feels similarly, don't count yourself out. Take these steps to assess certain variables so that you can make changes to reach your financial and real estate goals:

- Check your financial health. Focus on your credit score and debt-to-income ratio. Start taking steps to improve your credit rating so you can obtain an affordable mortgage when you’re ready. 
- Consider job stability and long-term location plans. Access to work matters, as do any long-term goals you have for your life. 
- Your emotional readiness is another variable. Owning a home requires a lot of responsibility and ongoing maintenance. Make sure you’re ready for this commitment. 

### Step 2: Set a Budget and Use a Home Affordability Calculator 

If you're confident about step one and your ability to navigate it, it's time to crunch some numbers. That’s especially true if you're looking into how to buy a second house. You want to ensure you have enough money to cover your homeowner expenses. 

What is your budget based on current variables? Use a [home affordability calculator](https://www.zillow.com/mortgage-calculator/house-affordability/) to see what is attainable. 

Ask yourself how much you could afford each month to secure home ownership. Total monthly costs should cover more than just your mortgage. Factor in insurance, taxes, and an ongoing reserve for utility bills and unexpected events. Having a rough figure in mind can help you set goals and create a realistic action plan. 

### Step 3: Start Saving Early 

As soon as you decide you're working toward homeownership, start saving. How much money do you need to buy a house? You'll need enough to cover the following:

- Down payment: Most mortgage loans require you to put anywhere from [3% to 20% down](https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/how-much-is-a-down-payment-on-a-house/#:~:text=You%20can%20get%20a%20conventional,you%20a%20lower%20interest%20rate.). In 2024, the median down payment was [18% among all homebuyers](https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/first-time-home-buyers-shrink-to-historic-low-of-24-as-buyer-age-hits-record-high#:~:text=Eighty%2Deight%20percent%20of%20home%20buyers%20would%20use%20their%20agent,repeat%20home%20buyers%20since%202003.) and 9% among first-time homebuyers. 
- Closing costs: Legal fees, land transfer tax, inspection fees, survey fees, and other closing costs must be factored into your initial budget. Budget for 3% to 5% of your loan’s amount. It helps to use a [closing cost calculator](https://www.bankofamerica.com/mortgage/closing-costs-calculator/). 
- Emergency fund: A new homeowner should expect the unexpected, especially in the first year. Your water heater may go out, or your HVAC system may die. Life can also happen, and income is never 100% certain. Having six months of expenses saved is vital to ensure you don't fall behind on payments. 

### Step 4: Explore Mortgage Options 

At this point, you'll have a pretty good idea of what you can afford and will be more aware of common financial and real estate terms within the homebuying process. Now, to secure funding for the purchase. Compare your options (conventional mortgages vs. FHA vs. VA vs. USDA loans). 

To select an ideal loan type, consider:

- Eligibility requirements
- Minimum down payments
- Minimum credit score
- Maximum income and loan limits
- Insurance requirements

FHA loans are popular for first-time homebuyers. However, VA options may interest you if you're a veteran or active service member (especially if you are working on rebuilding your credit). 

This step is when you will seek pre-qualification. You can submit data to receive a preliminary estimate of the potential mortgage size for which you may qualify — you then move on to the pre-approval process. 

### Step 5: Get Pre-Approved 

When you get pre-approved for a mortgage, a lender assesses your current financial situation. Based on that information, they determine the maximum you can borrow to purchase a home. By taking this step, you’ll better understand your borrowing power. Having a figure in mind can help you budget accordingly. 

If you find a property you like, a pre-approval can also make your offer more appealing to sellers. In a competitive market, that may give you an edge over other bidders. Pre-approvals average [60-120 days](https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/mortgages/getting-preapproved.html) and are subject to continued good credit. 

Wondering how to buy a house with cash​? If this is an option for you, it can be advantageous in a competitive market, as sellers don't have to wait for loan approval. Gather your funds and get a letter from your bank showing that you have funds to fulfill your offer. 

### Step 6: Build Your Home Wishlist 

Before you start house shopping, list the must-haves vs. nice-to-haves. While the actual home and property matter regarding the number of bedrooms or yard space, you must also consider lifestyle factors. If you have children, how far is the nearest school, and will the bus pick them up? What about the neighborhood vibe? How long is your work commute? 

### Step 7: Find a Real Estate Agent 

Working with a real estate agent provides valuable expertise and local market knowledge. They will also help you get a more favorable deal via negotiation. So, how do you find one you trust?

When real estate agents build a positive reputation, word gets out. Ask friends and family who they have worked with in the past. You can also check online listings or visit open houses to see how agents interact with clients. It's best practice to contact three agents. Take note of their communication style, experience, and fees. Read online reviews and don't be shy to ask questions. 

### Step 8: Start House Hunting 

It's time for the fun part — house hunting!

Start by searching online, using tools like those offered by [realtor.com](http://realtor.com). Attend open houses and visit neighborhoods. As your preferences change, notify your agent so that they know what to look for. Acting quickly is key, so ensure your agent is on the ball!

### Step 9: Make a Competitive Offer

Did you find "the one," and you’re ready to make an offer? Lean on your agent for support. They have experience in negotiating with sellers and other agents. Your agent can help you secure favorable terms, including price, closing dates, and contingencies. For example, you might offer slightly less than asking and ask for the seller to provide documentation that a [home inspection was completed](https://wini.com/services/home-inspection/). 

If you're unsure about what is fair to offer, ask your agent to provide a comparative market analysis (CMA) to determine the fair market value of a property. Once you do make an offer, you'll want to pay earnest money, showing the seller you're serious. If the seller accepts, that payment will be applied to your down payment. The closing date will depend on your terms.

### Step 10: Schedule a Home Inspection 

![Why Home Inspections are Essential After Renovations](https://d2nnm6ppct4rc3.cloudfront.net/Why_Home_Inspections_are_Essential_After_Renovations_1641b44994.png)

This step is critical, as you may uncover issues that must be addressed before closing. To be proactive, seek a home inspection company with experience and a strong reputation. These companies will have highly trained, certified inspectors who use the latest tools and technology to [detect potential issues](https://wini.com/home-buyer/) that could affect your safety, health, and investment. For example, you might want to find inspectors offering [infrared (IR) scan](https://wini.com/services/infrared-scan-ir/) technology or [sewer scope inspections](https://wini.com/services/sewer-scope-inspection/). These options can take this process to the next level, helping you gain the peace of mind you need to commit. 

**Here is a [comprehensive home inspection checklist](https://wini.com/articles/home-inspection-checklist-a-complete-guide-to-the-home-inspection-process/).** 

### Step 11: Request Repairs or Negotiate 

The above step will help you navigate your following actions. Based on the inspection report, choose to renegotiate, request repairs, or walk away. Discuss this process with your agent and the home inspection company. Assess the urgency of issues so you know what’s most pressing. Prioritize anything that’s a safety concern or a red flag that may cause significant long-term problems. 

Collect photos and secure an inspection report for the negotiation process. Next, decide on your walk-away point. How much can you realistically afford to address repairs the seller won't? At what point will you walk away? Communicate with your agent throughout the negotiation process. 

### Step 12: Get the Home Appraised 

If you're at this step, you're closing in on owning your first (or next) home. Now that you have selected a house, you must get an appraisal. Lenders typically order a home appraisal as part of the mortgage process, usually after the buyer and seller have agreed on a price. The appraisal determines fair market value, ensuring the mortgage is within a safe range for the lender. 

If an appraisal comes in lower than expected, the lender could and likely will decrease the amount you can borrow. So, you'll need to pay more upfront to cover the difference. 

### Step 13: Secure Homeowners Insurance 

If there are no issues and you secure funding, it's time to shop for home insurance. While home insurance is not required by law, most mortgage lenders will ask for your policy before they release funds for the home purchase. Insurance is often necessary to protect the lender's investment, even if you're not moving in immediately. Just as you compared agents, review several quotes and what they cover to choose the best option. 

### Step 14: Do a Final Walk Through

You're almost ready to hold those house keys! If you've reached the final walk-through, there are only a few more minor steps. Start with any repairs you requested as part of your offer. Make sure they are completed, and then continue your walk-through. Check appliances, fixtures, and the overall condition of the house. 

### Step 15: Close the Deal 

It's time to finalize the real estate deal. You'll most often need a cashier's check or proof of wire transfer, two forms of identification, and evidence of property insurance. 

Take your time reviewing the paperwork. If there is anything you don't understand about the fees, terms, or loan details, now is the time to clarify. Be prepared to sign and receive your keys. You've done it — you're officially a homeowner, again or for the first time!

## Know What to Expect (and Enjoy the Journey)

The journey to becoming a homeowner can be stressful. 

However, it's also exciting. Learning how to buy a house for the first time is a rewarding experience. Although the journey may seem complex, breaking it down into steps is key. You also don’t want to rush the process, especially when it comes to home inspections. Finding potential problems now can help you move into a home that encourages happy memories, not renovation headaches. Happy house hunting!


How to Buy a House in 2025: 15 Steps Every Homebuyer Should Know

When the winds die down and the sky clears, you might feel relieved to see your home still standing. Tornadoes strike fast and hard, carving devastating paths. While your home may have not been directly in the tornado’s path, it can still experience serious damage from strong winds, flying debris, and nearby structural shifts.

Checking for damage right away — visible or hidden — is a smart move for any homeowner. While some storm damage is easy to spot, other damage can be difficult to see. From structural shifts to [roof leaks](https://wini.com/articles/leaking-roof-primer-on-finding-and-fixing-roof-leaks/), wind damage can hurt the safety, comfort, and value of your home. That’s where a thorough home inspection can help. 

Here’s what to know (and do) after high winds hit your area. 

## What Damage Can a Tornado Cause? 

![Tornado Damage.png](https://d2nnm6ppct4rc3.cloudfront.net/Tornado_Damage_e475172623.png)

Tornadoes and strong winds can damage your home in ways that aren’t obvious. Here are some of the most common issues to look for: 

- Roof Damage – High winds can rip off shingles, lift flashing, and create soft spots that lead to long-term water damage. Even small tears in roofing material can let moisture seep in over time.

- Siding and Gutters – Flying debris or wind pressure can crack, dent, or completely remove siding panels. Detached gutters might not channel rainwater properly, which increases the risk of water pooling near your foundation.

- Windows and Doors – Strong gusts can cause windows to shift or break. Even if the glass stays intact, wind pressure can damage the seals. Those damaged seals often lead to air and moisture leaks, reduced energy efficiency, and mold growth.

- Foundation Damage – Shifting soil and intense vibrations can cause small cracks in your foundation. These might seem cosmetic at first, but the small cracks can expand over time and compromise the building’s structural integrity.

- Water Intrusion – Torn-off shingles, dislodged flashing, and broken siding make it easy for water to enter your attic or crawl space. Once inside, water can soak insulation, damage wood framing, and create an environment that encourages mold.

- Detached Structures – Garages, sheds, porches, fences, and playsets are often more vulnerable during storms. They could shift, lean, or collapse from wind pressure or debris impact.

Taking a closer look after a storm could help spot problems that aren’t visible from the curb. 

## Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Tornado Damage?

Most [home insurance policies](https://wini.com/articles/homeowners-insurance-guide/) have coverage for tornado and windstorm damage, but the protection you can get can vary a lot from policy to policy. Here’s a breakdown of how different types of damage are typically handled: 

- Tornado and Wind Damage: These are generally included under the “windstorm” clause in standard policies. In some high-risk areas, though, policies might not cover wind damage or they will charge higher deductibles.

- Roof Damage from Wind: If your roof was in good condition before the storm, insurance will usually cover wind damage like torn-off shingles, structural damage, and leaks caused by the wind. The insurer could deny or reduce coverage, though, if the roof is already old or has been neglected.

- Wind Damage to Siding: Sudden damage from wind or flying debris is often covered. This type of damage includes cracks, holes, and sections of siding being torn off. Insurers may also cover repairs or replacements if there's a cosmetic inconsistency caused by mixing new and old materials.

**Tip:** Policies differ from one homeowner to another, so it’s always wise to review your coverage annually and clarify any windstorm exclusions with your insurance provider. You might also consider getting a wind mitigation inspection—it can identify features in your home that help resist wind damage and may even qualify you for insurance discounts, especially if you live in a high-risk area. 

## What Is the Average Cost to Repair Tornado Damage? 

The financial impact of a tornado can vary widely depending on how strong the storm was and how well your home was maintained beforehand. Here's a general range: 

- Minor Repairs ($2,000–$5,000): Includes cosmetic siding fixes, gutter replacements, and minor roof patching. These are often covered by insurance, but your policy might require you to meet a deductible before it starts paying out.

- Moderate Damage ($10,000–$20,000): Common when parts of the roof or siding are heavily damaged, windows need replacing, or water intrusion has affected insulation and drywall.

- Severe Damage ($30,000+): Typically includes extensive structural repairs, full roof replacements, foundation repairs, and mitigation of major water damage or mold.

Keep in mind that the longer damage is left unaddressed, the more expensive repairs tend to become — especially when moisture or mold is involved. 

## Why a Post-Storm Inspection Is Crucial 

After a major weather event, it's tempting to take a "wait and see" approach. It’s hard to admit that your home might have been damaged. That’s a risky move, though, because some damage caused by wind or water isn't immediately visible. The longer you wait to make repairs, the more money the job could end up costing. 

Here’s why a professional post-storm inspection is so valuable: 

- Hidden Damage Detection: Not all damage is visible from ground level. Similarly, the untrained eye could miss some signs of damage. For example, loose shingles may only be noticeable when viewed from above, and small water leaks can soak insulation long before drywall begins to stain. In many cases, inspectors use drones to safely assess roofs that may be unstable or compromised. Drones can capture high-resolution video and, with thermal scanning, even detect hidden leaks or cracks that aren’t visible to the naked eye.

- Insurance Documentation Support: A home inspector can provide a detailed, unbiased report of storm-related damage. This documentation can strengthen your claim and help you get fair compensation from your insurance company.

- Prevent Costly Repairs: Catching issues early makes it easier to fix problems while they’re still manageable. Waiting too long can lead to mold growth, electrical issues, or structural failure, which will only add to repair costs.

Think of a post-storm inspection as a [health check for your home](https://wini.com/home-owner/). It can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. 

## How to Prepare for Future Storms 

While we can't control the weather, we can take steps to reduce the risk of damage. Here are a few tips to protect your home before the next storm: 

- Secure Outdoor Items: High winds can turn patio furniture, grills, or trash bins into dangerous projectiles. Bring these items inside or anchor them down when storms are forecasted.

- Trim Trees and Overhanging Branches: Weak or overgrown trees near your home can break and fall onto your roof or siding. Pruning helps reduce this risk.

- Inspect Roofing and Siding Regularly: Have your roof and siding checked each year to identify signs of wear or damage. Replacing old shingles or siding before storm season can prevent bigger issues later.

- Seal Openings: Ensure that windows, doors, and attic vents are properly sealed to keep out wind-driven rain.

- Schedule Routine Home Inspections: Regular inspections help you catch issues early and keep your home in peak condition, storm or no storm.

## How WIN Home Inspection Can Help 

At WIN Home Inspection, we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a storm can be. That’s why we offer Post-Storm Home Assessments to help you identify issues early and make informed decisions about what steps you take next. 

- Advanced Tools for Deeper Insight: We use high-tech tools such as infrared (IR) cameras, drones, moisture meters, and sewer scope cameras to find hidden damage that isn’t visible to the naked eye. That means we can locate water intrusion, heat loss, and structural issues without invasive procedures.

- Fast, Detailed Reports: Our inspection reports are delivered within 24 hours to give you clear, actionable insights into your home’s condition. We design our reports for the average person, so they’re easy to understand. You can also share them with your insurance provider or contractor to get price estimates and schedule timely repairs.

- Thorough Assessments, Clear Guidance: Every WIN inspection is focused on educating you, not just listing defects. We explain what we find, why it matters, and what you can do about it. Whether the issue is minor or urgent, we show you a clear path forward. Through the Property Care List (PCL), we categorize findings into Repair or Replace to help you prioritize repairs and communicate with contractors. Our transparent, organized approach makes it much easier to determine what services you need and manage your next steps.

With decades of experience, cutting-edge tools, and a commitment to your safety, WIN Home Inspection is here to support you through recovery, from assessment to action. 

## FAQ: Tornado & Wind Damage 

**Q: Does homeowners insurance cover tornado damage?**
A: Yes, most standard policies cover damage from tornadoes. This includes structural repairs, roof replacement, and more. Check your policy for windstorm coverage specifics. 

**Q: What is the average cost of tornado damage?**
A: Storm-related repairs typically cost $2,700 to over $22,000, depending on the severity of the storm and the areas impacted. In some cases, repairs could cost as much as $60,000.

**Q: Does homeowners insurance cover wind damage to roof and siding?**
A: In most cases, yes. Sudden and accidental damage from wind is generally covered. However, general wear and tear or poor maintenance could affect the amount of money you get from your insurer. 

## Final Thoughts

Tornadoes and high winds can take a serious toll on your home. Getting a professional inspection soon after the storm helps protect your home and ensures you have the documentation you need to file an insurance claim.
 
If your area was recently hit by a storm, take the first step toward recovery with confidence. 
[Schedule a Home Inspection](https://wini.com/services/) with WIN today. Let us help you protect Your Home, Your Health, and Your Future. 

Tornado Season: What To Do After High Winds Hit Your Area

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Pre-Listing Inspection

Condo/Duplex/Multiplex Inspection

Detect asbestos in your home, which was commonly used in building materials before 1980.

Asbestos Test

WIN360 3D Virtual Tour and 2D Floor Plan

Home Seller Consultation

Infrared (IR) Scan

Fireplace and Chimney Inspection

Wind Mitigation Inspection

Sewer Scope Inspection

Mold Air Test 

4-Point Inspection

Inspect your dock to check for structural damage, wood rot and other safety hazards.

Boat Lift and Dock Inspection

Protect the home’s structural integrity by identifying signs of pest infestations. 

WDO/WDI (Pest) Inspection

Mold Surface Test

Identify lead, prevalent in homes built before 1978, to reduce the risk of health effects.

Lead Test

Meth Test

Water Quality Test

Identify elevated radon levels in groundwater to eliminate its harmful health effects.

Radon-in-Water Test 

Ensure the septic system is free and clear of debris and is functioning properly. 

Septic Inspection

Well Flow Test

Check for safety hazards including wood rot, loose floorboards or handrails.

Deck Inspection

Commercial Inspection

Condo Inspection

Inspect the foundation and other areas to ensure quality throughout the building process.

Construction Phase Inspection

Assess the progress made on a new construction home to ensure it’s built according to plan.

Draw Inspection

Mold Air Test

Radon-in-Water Test

Full Home Inspection

Home Buyer Consultation

Inspect the framing, plumbing, and electrical before the drywall goes up.

Pre-Drywall Inspection

New Construction Inspection

One-Year Warranty Inspection

Get an unbiased assessment of the rental home’s condition before moving in.

Move-In Inspection

Duplex/Multiplex Inspection

Manufactured Home Inspection

A visual inspection to assess the condition of the components of your mobile home.

Mobile Home Inspection

A thorough inspection of a recently purchased home, giving peace of mind after closing.

Post-Close Inspection

Re-Inspection

Get recurring updates on your appliances, including recalls, long after your inspection.

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