Please carefully read the General Inspection Agreement, and if you understand and agree, please sign this contract online, at the end of this page or in the proposal/invoice provided.
GENERAL INSPECTION AGREEMENT (Contract).
THIS IS A LEGALLY BINDING CONTRACT AND CONTAINS AN ARBITRATION CLAUSE.
THIS CONTRACT LIMITS OUR LIABILITY; PLEASE READ CAREFULLY.
This Inspection Agreement contains the terms and conditions of the Client contract with All Home Meters, LLC (the Company).
In General:
This Inspection Agreement contains limitations on the scope of the Inspection, terms, remedies, exclusions, disclaimers, requirements, procedures, liability, etc. Please read it carefully. By signing this agreement, or even just ordering the inspection with oral acceptance, EVEN if the Client FAILED to produce a signature, Client represents and warrants that Client has secured all approvals necessary for the Company to conduct the Inspection of the Property. The Client also guarantees they will read the entire Inspection Report when received and shall promptly call with any questions or concerns the Client may have regarding the Inspection or Inspection Report. This Inspection is being performed for the exclusive use and benefit of the Client, and the Inspection, including the written Report, is not to be transferred to, utilized, or relied upon by any other person or entity without prior written permission of the Company.
If this or these inspections are performed, the Parties Understood and Agreed as follows:
If Client, at the end, orders the inspection, that means that you orally agreed with the agreement, EVEN if you FAILED to produce a signature.
Client cannot assign this agreement but All Home Meters, LLC. Use of the report by any unauthorized persons is prohibited.
Report is the exclusive property of this inspection company.
The Agreement is enforced for all inspections performed at the same time, all inspections that were quoted under the same proposal and apply to subsequent inspections or re-inspections.
NO party must rely totally upon this report as a warrant that the property complies with all Zoning and Building Codes.
Cost estimates (if any) to repair, legalize or replace any of the inspected items are provided (when stated) ONLY as informative and CANNOT be considered as final costs, qualified contractors must review the report, search for plans, evaluate issues and give a better estimate.
Total costs (if any) might be much higher than stated in the report.
Client, Buyer, Seller, qualified contractors and interested parties must search for plans, permits, inspections, etc. and evaluate all issues to have a final estimate taking into consideration potential additional cost related with latent defects, issues out of the scope of this inspection or changes to the property following the date of this inspection.
Payment:
Payments are to be made as stated in the proposal/invoice/communications provided.
Payments for initial inspections and/or any re-inspections are to be made in advance.
A minimum retainer payment is required in advance, as provided in our communications and or in the proposal/invoice.
Complete payment is required before providing the signed and sealed report.
Payment methods:
Cash
Zelle to info@allhomemeters.com or 786-318-7203.
Check payable to All Home Meters.
Square. Client pays 3.5% transaction fee (to calculate payment divide the Cost in the invoice by 0.965).
Other inspections/tasks:
We do not perform structural inspections; we do not remove covers of electrical equipment. As per your request, as a courtesy, we might forward your information to other Providers, and you might receive estimates from them. This is not a referral and the acceptance of any of those proposals is out of our responsibility and liability, and we will not have any involvement in those inspections or tasks. Please, you are responsible to check the qualifications of those Providers and arrange, directly with them, price, terms, and conditions.
If price for the Structural Inspection has been provided, as per your request, and only as a courtesy, that structural inspection will be performed by a Licensed Structural Engineer. Electrical and Structural inspections are totally independent, and each Engineer/Company is responsible for its part. Client is responsible for acceptance of the Licensed Structural Engineer to perform the Structural Inspection. All Home Meters, LLC does not have any responsibility or liability arising from that Structural Inspection.
Reinspection:
When a reinspection is required, a minimum reinspection fee will be charged, as stated in our invoice/communications.
Please check that all problems have been corrected before ordering a reinspection, otherwise, additional fees for subsequent reinspections might apply.
Out of the scope:
The following systems and components and areas are out of the scope of the inspection unless included in the Inspection Report:
Latent or concealed defects, compliance with code or zoning ordinances or permit research or system or component installation or recalls, unless specified in the guidelines or standards of practice.
Structural forensics, geological, soil, wave action or hydrological stability, engineering survey, analysis, or testing.
Termites or other wood destroying insects and or organisms, rodents or other pests, dry-rot or fungus; or damage from or relating to the Preceding, unless specified in the guidelines or standards of practice.
Private water, sewage systems, water softeners or purifiers, radiant heat systems or solar heating systems.
Pools, spas, hot tubs, saunas, steam baths, fountains, or other types of related systems and components, unless specified in the guidelines or standards of practice.
Repair cost estimates or building value appraisal.
Thermostatic or time clock controls, radio-controlled devices, automatic gates or elevators, lifts, dumbwaiters, unless specified in the guidelines or standards of practice.
Free standing appliances and gas appliances such as fire pits, barbecues, heaters, and lamps. Main gas shut off valve. Any gas leaks. Furnace heat exchangers.
Seismic safety, security or fire safety systems or security bars and/or safety equipment, unless specified in the guidelines or standards of practice.
Any adverse condition that may affect the desirability of the property including but not limited to proximity to railroad tracks or airplane routes, boundaries, easements or rights of way, adjoining properties, or neighborhood.
Unique/technically complex systems or components, system or component life expectancy or adequacy or efficiency of any system or component.
We do not test for radon, mold, termites, asbestos, lead paint, soil contamination, environmental hazards, etc.
Local government or other fees, cost, etc., associated with plans, designs, permits, etc., are NOT included in our proposal.
Submission, filing, recording, governmental fess, designs, site plans, floor plans, boundary surveys, construction, etc.
Research in Microfilm Section and Property Appraiser for proper construction permits and final inspections granted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), building code violations, zoning violations, zoning resolutions, historical documents, citations, liens, open and expired permits, unsafe structure cases and records in general.
We do not inspect buildings with crawl space or built before 1957.
We ONLY provide digitally signed and sealed PDF reports. If printed copies are requested, ONLY because the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) does not accept electronic submissions, Clients will be responsible for that task and cost. We do NOT mail reports, Clients should pick them up.
Items NOT directly specified in this report were not inspected and are out of the scope.
Inspection guidelines/procedures/report:
This inspection report is ONLY valid for the conditions at the time of the inspection.
The inspection will be performed following minimum inspection guidelines, laws, rules, standards of practice, policies, regulations, Codes of the Municipality, County, State of Florida and/or Underwriters, when applicable for the type of inspection.
Engineers performing the inspection can exceed the requirements stated in the minimum inspection guidelines.
Findings will be reported according to the specifications in the appropriate form for each type of inspection.
If Engineer finds during the inspection, major alterations, modifications and/or additions to the original structure, related with any of the building systems (structure, roof, windows and doors, electrical, plumbing, air conditioning, etc.), and if the Engineer through an online search, cannot verify that such major alterations, modifications or additions, were built with proper permits, then the Client, Owner, Realty Company, Management Company, Bank or Financial Institution, etc., will have the responsibility to provide proper documentation with the stamp of the Authority Having Jurisdiction, if requested, or might need to provide, instead, and depending on the opinion of the Engineer, or the Authority Having Jurisdiction, notarized attestations about those alterations, modifications and/or additions.
Photos will be part of the report if that requirement has been stated in the guidelines or constitute a requirement for evaluation.
This inspection is ONLY limited to readily visible defects.
The inspection is NOT intended to be technically exhaustive.
This inspection does NOT include any destructing test or dismantling.
The Inspector will NOT inspect for any deficiency on elements or areas, which are not exposed to view, are concealed, are inaccessible because of soil, walls, floors, carpets, ceilings, furnishing or in any other fashion, or otherwise difficult to inspect and cannot be visually examined.
Final Report or Deficiencies Report will be provided within 5 business days from the time of the inspection, unless some research, extra visit or documentation is needed or requested.
The Inspector, for some types of inspections, might NOT be acting or representing himself/herself as a specific licensed structural engineer, electrical engineer, mechanical engineer, termite inspector, sewer inspector, mold inspector, a qualified contractor or an expert in any craft or trade, unless specified in the guidelines or standards of practice.
Report Disclosures:
Client agrees not to disclose any part of the inspection report to any other person unless required as part of the actual purpose of the inspection.
The Client agreed to hold the inspectors, agents, and employees harmless for any and all actions/claims arisen due to an improper disclosure of this report to third parties.
The client(s) listed in the report title receives a copy for information / evaluation of conditions / findings of the property.
Inspection Reports are only valid for the persons named in the documents and are not valid for construction and/or planning purposes.
Client Responsibilities:
As required by the guidelines, the Client will need to provide OSHA compliant means of access and personnel required to gain access to inspect the roof, interior of electrical equipment, etc. Engineers do not perform manual tasks.
Clients should provide a person to remove objects, furniture, open doors, panels to ceiling or other spaces, etc., when required by the Engineers. Engineers are only at the property to inspect, not to perform any other task.
Clients should provide records from Microfilm Section, Property Appraiser, etc., when requested. Clients will pay the associated fees.
Client should provide professional personnel (Electrical Contractor) or a person with an active Certificate of Completion on NFPA 70E / OSHA 1910, to be able to take electrical measurements, as instructed, and remove covers of electrical equipment. We are required to inspect the interior of the electrical panels. We do not have any responsibility or liability.
If we are also performing the Infrared Thermography Inspection in your building, the removal of all required covers can be done at the same time as that inspection. If covers were NOT removed at the time of the electrical inspection and we are NOT performing the Infrared Thermography Inspection in the building, we are required to be notified the date and time of such inspection, and a reinspection fee will be charged for the visit.
Clients should provide a person, at their risk (Electrical Contractor is the proper person), to remove the covers of electrical pieces of equipment at the time of the inspection.
The covers of electrical equipment should be removed before the arrival of the Thermographer (at least in the locations without public access). We have several inspections scheduled and removal of covers should be performed in advance. Connections of cables in screws and running of conductors inside the enclosures should be visible. Covers should be removed from panels, fuse boxes, gutters, junctions’ boxes, contactors, disconnects and all pieces identified to be inspected as per BORA rules.
Clients should provide the location of all pieces of equipment requiring infrared inspection (see below BORA rules) or as specified by the Professional performing the electrical part of the Recertification. Clients should provide access to all areas in the building, including the rooftop, and provide OSHA compliant ladders when required. We are NOT responsible for the list of pieces of electrical equipment to be inspected. It is OUT of our responsibility to provide a list of pieces of equipment not inspected and the causes UNLESS pieces are discovered during the inspection.
Clients should inform the date and time of the inspection to the Professional performing the electrical part of the Recertification.
If we are performing the Infrared Thermography Inspection and not performing the electrical part of the Recertification, the Client should be responsible to confirm the capacity of the service with the Professional performing the electrical part of the Recertification. The charge for our visit will be $400 if the Infrared Thermography Inspection is not required.
The inspection is NOT considered to be a guarantee, warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, home warranty or insurance policy of the future life or failure of the items inspected, expressed, or implied. Additionally, neither the Inspection nor Inspection Report are substitutes for any real estate transfer disclosures which may be required by law.
The owner is responsible for work performed without proper authorization and to provide proper documentation when requested by the Engineer of Record or by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Clients should provide to the Professional performing the electrical part of the Recertification, the list of issues or problems found during our infrared inspection.
Corrections:
BEFORE doing corrections or demolitions, please ask your Contractors to search Microfilm Section, Property Appraiser records, etc., and obtain the permits, when required.
For additions, modifications and/or alterations to the original structure, Engineer will conduct some research, ONLINE ONLY, and will NOT be a thorough investigation and NOT totally reliable. The Owner will be responsible for providing proper documentation when requested by the Engineer or by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
The Owner is responsible for work performed without proper authorization and to provide proper documentation from Microfilm Section Building/Zoning or any other Department, when requested.
If issues found during the inspection were corrected, and no permits were obtained, because according to the owner or contractor, permits were not required because those repairs were not regulated by the Code, and depending on the opinion of the Engineer that performed the inspection, notarized letterheads from qualified contractors stating that permits were not required might be needed.
All Home Meters, LLC is NOT responsible for repairs performed WITHOUT proper permits and repairs might NOT be approved by the Engineer of Records in Responsible Charge of the inspection.
No inspection report will be signed and sealed without meeting the Engineer's requirements.
Please, when applicable, have available any verifiable documentation (permits, invoices for purchases, installation details, etc.) for updates and/or repairs in the electrical, roofing, plumbing, mechanical systems, windows, doors, shutters, skylights, etc.
Property might need to comply with other requirements including life-safety enforcement.
Inspections performed on occupied properties have very limited visibility and evaluation.
The Homeowner Association or Property Management might be responsible for certain costs.
Any information provided after the inspection, like deficiencies, issues, photometric, pictures, maps, sketches, etc., has been only provided as INFORMATIVE, it is ONLY a sample of the problems found and NOT all problems the property might have.
Issues found apply for all units, locations, zones, etc., in the entire building, even if they were only found in the sample inspected.
Corrections should be made to the entire building.
Qualified Contractors must evaluate the entire building, and repair as required.
Permits and Inspections from the Authority Having Jurisdiction might be required to perform corrections.
Please, ask your Licensed Contractor to attest, in letterhead, when permits are NOT required because repairs/corrections are NOT regulated by the Code.
Always perform repairs or corrections with qualified licensed contractors, only use a handyman for very simple corrections not regulated by the Code.
Please check that all problems have been corrected before ordering a re-inspection, otherwise, additional fees for subsequent re-inspections might apply.
Please, ask your Licensed Contractor to attest, in letterhead, when permits are NOT required because repairs/corrections are NOT regulated by the Code.
Qualifications:
A Structural Engineer, with special recognition as FRSE by the Florida Board of Professional Engineers (FBPE), will be responsible for the structural part if the building is considered a threshold building.
An Electrical Engineer, specialized in Power Engineering and certified as Infrared Thermographer Level II or III, will be responsible for the electrical & illumination parts (if the building is considered a threshold building), and Infrared Thermography Inspection, if required.
Each Engineer will be responsible for his part in the Recertification Inspection.
Parking Lot Illumination:
For properties located in Miami-Dade County, illumination in the parking lot should meet Code Section 8C-3 for minimum level, and maximum to minimum ratio, according to the building occupancy. Please see https://library.municode.com/fl/miami_-_dade_county/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTIIICOOR_CH8CBUSEME_S8C-3ILOPPALOALACTHPANOARUNWIBU
To take measurements, a light meter should be placed horizontally in the parking surface, allowing all sources of light. A parking lot includes parking spaces and maneuvering areas.
Certificate of Compliance with Parking Lot Illumination, as per Section 8C-3 of the Miami-Dade Code of Ordinances, does not enforce measurements for "vertical illumination" and "spillage", therefore those measurements are out of the scope of the inspection/report.
Infrared Thermography Report:
Service should be 400A or more to require an Infrared Thermography Inspection.
Even if out of the scope of our thermal inspection, we have the duty to inform the Professional performing the electrical part of the Recertification if we discover any non-thermal problem. Please check, BEFORE THE INSPECTION, the interior of your panels, search for multiple taps, corrosion, improper connection of grounding and neutral cables, improper match of breaker capacity and conductor size, improper use of breakers from other manufacturers, proper fittings in the openings of the enclosure, working space/clearance, etc.....and correct appropriately. Also take the opportunity to confirm the torque in the connection screws. That way you are decreasing the risk of reinspection.
The possible causes of issues, and recommendations, if any stated in this thermography report, were based only on the observable conditions. The licensed electrical contractor hired by the Client will be responsible to find the real causes of the problems and provide proper repairs confirming that issues have been corrected before re-inspection. Please confirm that the Electrical Contractor has checked that all problems have been properly corrected by using a PROFESSIONAL INFRARED IMAGER (minimum infrared resolution 320x240, manual focus, etc.) and confirming that all Temperatures measured meet NETA standards), before ordering a re-inspection, otherwise, additional fees for subsequent re-inspections might apply.
Re-inspection, when required, will be a flat fee per piece of equipment or device corrected, with a minimum cost per building, to be paid before scheduling the inspection, as established in our communications. We ONLY reinspect when thermal problems are found or when the Professional of Records performing the electrical part of the Recertification asks for reinspection because contacts were altered during other non-thermal corrections.
Big disconnects, switchgears, might count as more than one piece according to the amount of cover and spacing between electrical parts/contacts.
Meter Centers are OUT of the scope of the inspection unless Client secures access with the Utility Company. We do NOT break seals.
Governmental buildings are OUT of the scope of the inspection unless Client obtains proper permit and security clearance.
Equipment on the roof or located higher than 5 feet on a wall, is OUT of the scope of the inspection, unless a proper OSHA compliant ladder is provided (two leg ladder in case of equipment located on a wall).
Clients or their representatives/electrical contractors are the ones authorized to power off the service, in case that is needed to remove a cover, otherwise that equipment will NOT be inspected.
Please ensure your system is operating at a minimum of 40% of the nominal load.
We ONLY provide digitally signed and sealed PDF reports. If printed copies are requested, ONLY because the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) does NOT accept electronic submissions, Clients will be responsible for that task and cost. We do NOT mail reports, Clients should pick them up.
Rules for Infrared Thermography Inspection as per Miami-Dade County Board of Rules and Appeals (BORA):
For electrical systems operating at 400 amperes or greater, an infrared thermography inspection with a written report of the following electrical equipment must be provided as applicable or as otherwise indicated below: busways, switchgear, panelboards (except in dwelling unit load centers), disconnects, VFDS, starters, control panels, timers, meter centers, gutters, junction boxes, automatic/manual transfer switches, exhaust fans and transformers. Grounding/Bonding System (grounding rods and connections to water pipes) has also been added to the list. The infrared inspection of electrical equipment shall be performed by a Level-II or higher certified infrared thermographer who is qualified and trained to recognize and document thermal anomalies in electrical systems and possesses over 7 years of experience inspecting electrical systems associated with commercial buildings.
The threshold for requiring thermographic inspection shall be an electrical service rating of 400 amperes or higher.
The equipment called out in the guidelines for thermographic inspection must be supplied by an electrical service of 400 amperes or higher, but the individual equipment to be inspected DOES NOT need to be rated at 400 amperes or higher.
We provide a complete report, ACCEPTED BY ALL CITIES. Our inspections are performed by Certified Infrared Thermographers Level III or II, holding Professional Electrical Engineer licenses.
A THERMOGRAPHY REPORT WILL BE ALWAYS ACCEPTED BY ALL CITIES ONLY IF:
It is produced by a Level II or higher Certified Thermographer.
Certified Thermographer has 5 Years of experience inspecting COMMERCIAL electrical systems and is trained and qualified to detect electrical anomalies (Residential or Home inspections do NOT count). To meet these requirements, the Thermographer should hold an ELECTRICAL license as a Professional Engineer, Contractor or Inspector.
A building might require an Infrared Thermography Inspection if the Electrical Service is 400A or more. That cost has NOT been included in this proposal, another email with the cost associated to that inspection will be provided separately.
Always, when required, the Thermography Report, program file, thermal & visible photos with sufficient resolution, should be provided to complete the electrical report.
To be accepted by all Cities, the Thermography Report should be produced by a Certified Level II or higher Thermographer with an Electrical License as a Professional Engineer, Electrical Contractor, or Electrical Inspector, and should be digitally signed and sealed by a Professional Engineer. Our inspections and reports are accepted by all Cities.
At the end, the report needs to be attached to the electrical report and signed and sealed by a Professional Engineer.
STANDARDS - NETA (InterNational Electrical Testing Association)
Based on TABLE 100.18 for Thermographic Survey - Suggested Actions Based on Temperature Rise
The section below is not exactly a part of the ANSI/NETA MTS.
Values in Table 100.18 were originally stated only in ºC.
Values were converted to ºF, and intervals were arranged.
CUSTOM SEVERITY INDEX SYSTEM - PRIORITY LEVELS.
Severity Level 0 - Critical Deficiency. Heat Rise, Temperature Difference (Delta T) of more than 70ºC/126ºF above Ambient Operating Temperature (AOT). Component Failure is Imminent. Immediately inform the responsible party. CORRECTIONS REQUIRED.
Severity Level 1 - Major Deficiency. Heat Rise, Temperature Difference (Delta T) between 40ºC/72ºF and 70ºC/126ºF above AOT ... OR ... Temperature Difference (Delta T) more than 15º C (>27ºF based on comparisons between similar components under similar loading. Component Failure Almost Certain, unless corrected. Repair immediately. CORRECTIONS REQUIRED.
Severity Level 2 - Intermediate Deficiency. Heat Rise, Temperature Difference (Delta T) between 20ºC/36ºF and 40ºC/72ºF above AOT ... OR ... Temperature Difference (Delta T) between 3.1ºC/5.5ºF – 15ºC/27ºF based on comparisons between similar components under similar loading. Confirmed deficiency. Component Failure Probable, unless corrected. Schedule repairs as soon as possible. CORRECTIONS REQUIRED.
Severity Level 3 - Minor Deficiency. Heat Rise, Temperature Difference (Delta T) between 10ºC/18ºF and 20ºC/36ºF above AOT ...OR ... Temperature Difference (Delta T) between 3.1ºC/5.5ºF and 15ºC/27ºF) based on comparisons between similar components under similar loading. Probable deficiency. Component Failure Unlikely but Corrective measures required at the next scheduled routine maintenance period or as scheduling permits. CORRECTIONS REQUIRED.
Severity Level 4 - Slight Deficiency (NON-SIGNIFICANT). Heat Rise, Temperature Difference (Delta T between 1ºC/1.8ºF and 10ºC/18ºF above AOT ... AND ... Temperature Difference (Delta T) between 1ºC/1.8ºF – 3ºC/5.4ºF) based on comparisons between similar components under similar loading. Possible Deficiency. This is usually NOT considered significant enough but should be investigated. Annual monitoring inspection is required, and if needed, corrective measures should be taken at the next scheduled routine maintenance period or as scheduling permits. CORRECTIONS NOT REQUIRED AT THIS TIME.
Severity Level 5 - Minimal Deficiency (NON-SIGNIFICANT). Heat Rise, Temperature Difference (Delta T) of less than 1ºC/1.8ºF above AOT ... AND ... Temperature Difference (Delta T) of less than 1ºC/1.8ºF based on comparisons between similar components under similar loading. Usually, there is no thermal problem. NOT considered significant enough to record. Usually not included in the reports unless the fault temperature is being affected by other factors. Annual monitoring is recommended. CORRECTIONS NOT REQUIRED AT THIS TIME.
The repair priority rating is an objective measure which is based on the severity of the apparent Temperature Rise (Delta T) measured by the Thermographer.
To determine repair schedules, the ratings should be combined with the judgement of the maintenance personnel as to the importance of each potential problem with regard to personnel safety and the consequences of equipment failure.
For buildings with electrical services of more than 400A, an Infrared Thermographic Inspection might be required. Inspector needs to be Certified as Level II Infrared Thermographer with more than 7 years inspecting commercial electrical systems and as enforced by some Cities, Thermographer should hold an electrical license as Engineer, Electrical Contractor, or Electrical Building Inspector.
Infrared Thermography Survey must be done in all equipment, as specified in the guidelines, Board of Rules and Appeals (BORA) and/or the Cities (Authority Having Jurisdiction-AHJ), All Home Meters does not provide list of equipment to be scanned unless a fee is charged. Infrared Thermography Inspection Report must detail all equipment and provide photos, when required as per guidelines.
If price for the Electrical Infrared Thermography Inspection has been provided, as per your request, and only as a courtesy, that infrared inspection will be performed by a Level II or higher Certified Thermographer. Electrical and Infrared inspections are totally independent, and each Engineer/Thermographer/Company is responsible for its part. The client is responsible for acceptance of the Engineer/Thermographer to perform the Infrared Inspection. All Home Meters, LLC does not have any responsibility or liability arising from that Infrared Inspection if not performed or signed and sealed by Armando Longueira.
Limitations on Time:
When signed and sealed reports are provided, they should be submitted to the city within 15 days from the date of the inspection, otherwise a reinspection and associated fees will be required if the reports are not accepted by the City.
After 60 days from the initial inspection, if an extension letter is needed, a re-inspection will be required, and a re-inspection fee will be charged.
Extensions are only valid for 60 days.
When an application for permit has been submitted or when a permit has been issued, this Project will be automatically canceled after 180 days of inactivity from the date of application or issuance.
If no process has been submitted or no permit has been issued, this Project will be automatically canceled after 180 days from the initial inspection or 90 days from the last re-inspection, whatever is longer.
In no case the project will be valid for more than 360 days after the date of the initial inspection.
After the time permitted by our limitations, the project will be automatically canceled, the Engineers will have NO responsibility and NO obligation to reinspect. At the desire of the Engineers, fees and conditions might be discussed for a "possible" re-inspection or new inspection. If parties do not agree with the fees and conditions, clients will need to hire other Professionals.
THIS INSPECTION HAD A VERY LIMITED SCOPE. Engineer signing the report is only strictly acting as a Thermographer. The report depicted here is ONLY and STRICTLY limited to "thermal" issues. The signature and seal in this report is ONLY and STRICTLY related with "thermal" issues. Other problems like physical issues (improper taps, improper sizes, improper types & manufacturers, corrosion, improper connection between grounding and neutral conductors, etc.) are OUT of the scope of this report, unless a thermal problem is present.
A thermographer is NOT responsible for electrical systems operating at less than 40% of their nominal load. All your electrical equipment was inspected in an “as found” condition. As we do not know the loading on any given circuit at the time it was inspected, any circuit not under load would not show any issues, even though once loaded, a serious problem may exist. All efforts are made to view equipment that is operational at the time of the inspection. Ideally, we would request a minimum of 40% current loading, but we also understand that some circuits are intermittent in their usage. Our statements are a starting point for the evaluation of the seriousness of an anomaly. This survey relies on your personnel to know the criticality of a component as it relates to your processes. Your personnel are better suited to evaluate any corrective action that may need to be undertaken and establish a time frame for responding to the documented anomaly. Due to the conditions of the loads and other factors, the Infrared Thermography Inspection Report is NOT covered by professional liability.
We are NOT responsible for determining the causes of problems or results of repairs. All Home Meters, LLC., our Engineers, Thermographers and Contractors, hereby, disclaim any liability for the performance of the Client or Client's personnel in removing covers, powering off services, determining causes of problems and/or implementing any corrections or repairs.
We are Professional Engineers ONLY signing and sealing the Infrared Thermography Report. Other physical issues, not directly related to thermal problems, are out of the scope of our work and OUT of our responsibility. If during our infrared inspection, we discover other issues, beyond the thermal problems, the Owner and/or the Professional performing the electrical part of the Recertification Inspection will be informed of the need for repairs, but we do NOT have the duty to cover those problems in our inspection UNLESS they are the causes of thermal problems. Those problems are NOT under our responsibility and we do NOT have any liability for NON-thermal issues that might be present in the electrical system.
DISCLAIMERS for Infrared Thermography Inspection:
List of equipment as approved by the Client.
A minimum of three (3) feet clearance is required around any piece of equipment, we will try our best to scan and take the pictures but otherwise the piece will not be scanned.
We do not move furniture in front of any piece of equipment.
We cannot wait to solve any problem affecting the scan result of any piece of your equipment, we have a schedule with many inspections.
We do not scan equipment with defective parts.
We do not remove covers; it is out of the scope of our work. We do not have any responsibility or liability for the risks of electrical shock, fire, etc. If contracted, the electrical contractor will be in charge of that task.
Big disconnects, switchgears, might count as more than one piece according to the amount of covers and spacing between electrical parts/contacts.
The possible causes of issues, and recommendations, if any stated in this thermography report, were based only on the observable conditions.
The licensed electrical contractor hired by the Client will be responsible to find the real causes of the problems and provide proper repairs confirming that issues have been corrected before re-inspection (corrections should be scanned with an infrared imager to confirm they were successful).
We are NOT responsible for repairs and/or for possible subsequent re-inspections if issues were not totally resolved. Ask your Licensed Electrical Contractor to scan the equipment with an infrared imager to confirm corrections.
We are NOT responsible for electrical systems operating at less than 40% of their nominal load.
Meter Centers are OUT of the scope of the inspection unless Client secures access with the Utility Company. We do not break FPL, Utility seals.
AC disconnects are OUT of scope unless specifically requested.
The bathrooms’ small exhaust fans are out of the scope of the inspection unless specifically requested.
Equipment on the roof or located higher than 5 feet on a wall, is OUT of the scope of the inspection, unless a proper OSHA compliant ladder is provided (two leg ladder in case of equipment located on a wall).
Clients or their representatives should be PRESENT at the time of the inspection to authorize power off the service, in the case that action is required to remove a cover to inspect a piece of equipment, otherwise that equipment will NOT be inspected. The equipment might fail when restarting the service, that is NOT our responsibility and repairs are OUT of our scope.
Beyond thermal issues, we might report other problems found (double tap, improper wiring, improper circuit breaker of fuse, improper size of conductor, etc.).
Due to the conditions of the loads and other factors, the infrared thermography inspection report is not covered by professional liability.
REMOVAL / ATTACHMENT OF COVERS (out of our scope, responsibility, or liability). This task should be performed by an Electrical Contractor because of the risks involved with electrical shocks, injuries, fires, etc. You should search directly for a qualified person or company to do this job safely, that is out of our responsibility or liability.
Required Digitally Signed and Sealed Thermography Report:
If we are NOT performing the Infrared Thermography Inspection in the building, that report, digitally signed and sealed by a Professional Engineer, should be provided before completing our report.
Duty to Report:
Any engineer or architect who performs an inspection of an existing building or structure has a duty to report to the Building Official any findings that, if left unaddressed, would endanger life or property no later than ten (10) days after informing the building owner of such findings unless the engineer or architect is made aware that action has been taken to address such findings in accordance with applicable code.
However, if such engineer or architect finds that there are conditions in the building or structure causing an actual or immediate danger of the failure or collapse of a building or structure, or there is a health, windstorm or fire hazard, such engineer or architect shall report such conditions to the Building Official within twenty-four (24) hours of the time of discovery. In addition to assessing any fines or penalties provided in Chapter 8CC of the Code of Miami-Dade County, the Building Official shall also report any violations of this provision to the appropriate licensing agency, regulatory board, and professional organization of such engineer or architect.
8-11(e) Failure to timely report life safety concern 2,500.00 first offense, 5,000.00 second offense, and 10,000.00 third offense and each repeat offense thereafter.
Limitations in liability:
Inspectors do NOT warrant or imply that the information obtained through public or governmental records such as building permits, inspections, citations, lien, variances, zoning classification, property age and size, bathrooms and bedrooms, improvements, resolutions, administrative adjustments, etc. is accurate.
Client might need to contact Zoning Hearings for a non-use variance if property does not meet setbacks.
Corrections and/or repairs on structures MUST be done in compliance with all laws, rules, standards, policies, regulations and codes of Miami-Dade County, Municipalities and State of Florida.
The Client specifically acknowledges that a Property Inspection is NOT an Environmental Survey and is not intended to detect, identify, disclose, or report on the presence of any actual or potential environmental concerns or hazards in the air, water, soil or building materials. Such environmental concerns and hazards include but are not limited to asbestos; “Chinese Drywall”; radon; lead; urea formaldehyde; mold; mildew; fungus; odors; noise; toxic or flammable chemicals; water or air quality; PCB's or other toxins; electro-magnetic fields; underground storage tanks; proximity to toxic waste sites; carbon monoxide. You agree to hold the Company and Inspector harmless for any injury, health risk or damage caused or contributed to by these conditions.
It is understood and agreed by the parties hereto that all provisions, limitations, exceptions, and exclusions of this agreement shall apply to any optional services entered into by the parties.
It is understood that the Client is not interested or has declined additional inspection services or tests, even though they were recommended.
The inspection/report depicted here is NOT covered by professional liability insurance. Also, claims do not apply for negligent referral and/or vicarious liability.
It is expressly understood and agreed to that liability for damages resulting directly from any errors and omissions in the services provided in connection with this report shall be limited ONLY to the fees paid for the inspection and preparation of report: Any other charge to cover third party fees cannot be recovered.
This liability limitation is binding on the client and client's spouses, heirs, executors, administrators, principals, successors, assigns, representatives of any kind whatsoever, and anyone else who may otherwise claim through client.
This limitation of liability applies to anyone who is damaged or has to pay expenses of any kind because of mistakes or omissions in this inspection and report.
The liability of the inspectors, agents, and employees for and against all claims, losses, expenses, liabilities, suits, damages, and injury arising out of or relating to the performance of services is also limited to the fees paid.
Client acknowledges and agrees that in connection with this inspection, Inspector might retain the services of subcontractors or independent contractors unrelated to the Inspector and the same limitations of liability apply.
Our Company only retains Subcontractors or Independent Contractors licensed in the State of Florida and covered under their own insurance policies for Professional Liability (E&O) and General Liability (GL), in some cases All Home Meters, LLC is named as an additional insured, but the limitation of liability stated here also applies to them.
This Contract will be governed by the laws of the State of Florida.
The Client agreed to hold the Inspector harmless for any and all claims related to conditions that are altered or repaired without said notice, inspection or informed after the reasonable time for prompt notification.
The client assumes the risk of all losses greater than the fee paid for the inspection.
Any recovery contemplated under the agreement shall be subject to prompt notification of any defect in the performance of any of the inspector’s duties.
The Client shall provide reasonable notice, notify in writing, and permit an inspection of the conditions which gave rise to the complaint or any claim for negligence, breach of contract or otherwise.
Reasonable time to provide a notice is limited to seven (7) days from the date of the inspection; failure to notify the Inspector in the specified time shall constitute a waiver of all claims for said failure to accurately report the condition in question.
The client agrees to immediately accept a refund of the fee as full settlement of any and all claims which may ever arise from this inspection.
All suits or actions arising out of this Contract/Agreement shall be brought in Miami-Dade County, Florida.
Client has agreed that if a court of competent jurisdiction determines and declares that any portion of this Contract is void, voidable, or unenforceable, the remaining provisions and portions shall remain in full force and effect.
LIQUIDATED DAMAGES – Limitation of Liability Clause:
Please read carefully.
Due to the nature of the services, we are providing, it is difficult to foresee or determine (at the time this Agreement is formed) potential damages in the event of negligence or breach of this Agreement by us. Thus, if we fail to perform the Services as provided herein or are careless or negligent in the performance of the Services and/or preparing the Report, our liability for any and all claims related thereto is limited to the fee paid for the Services (unless contrary to state law), and you release us from any and all additional liability, whether based on contract, tort, or any other legal theory. There will be no recovery for consequential damages. You understand that the performance of the Services without this limitation of liability would be more technically exhaustive, likely require specialties, and would cost substantially more than the fee paid for this limited visual inspection. You understand that you are free to consult with another professional if you do not agree to this provision. By signing this agreement, the client agrees to be bound by the provisions of this limitation of liability provision.
Arbitration Clause:
Please read carefully.
Any dispute, controversy, interpretation, or claim including claims for, but not limited to, breach of contract, any form of negligence, fraud, or misinterpretation arising out of, from or related to, this contract or arising out of, from or related to the inspection or inspection report shall be submitted first to a Non-Binding Mediation conference and absent a voluntary settlement through Non-Binding Mediation to be followed by final and Binding Arbitration, if necessary, as conducted by a dispute resolution provider, utilizing its respective Rules and Procedures. If the dispute is submitted to Binding Arbitration, the decision of the Arbitrator appointed there under shall be final and binding and the enforcement of the Arbitration Award may be entered in any Court or administrative tribunal having jurisdiction thereof.
Notice: You and We would have a right or opportunity to litigate disputes through a Court and have a Judge or Jury decide the disputes but have agreed instead to resolve disputes through mediation and binding arbitration. By signing this agreement, the client agrees to the Arbitration Clause.
To the best of our knowledge, ability, belief and professional judgment, our reports represent an accurate appraisal of the present condition of the building based upon careful evaluation of observed conditions, to the extent reasonably possible.
This Agreement represents the entire agreement between the parties. No oral agreements, understandings or representations shall change, modify or amend any part of this Agreement. No change or modification shall be enforceable against any party unless such changes or modifications are in writing and signed by the parties and supported by valid consideration. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the parties hereto and their spouses, heirs, executors, administrators, successors, assigns and representatives of any kind whatsoever.
The Company’s agreement to perform the Inspection is contingent on the Client’s agreement to the provisions, terms, conditions, and limitations of this Agreement.
If this Inspection is performed, even if this Inspection Agreement was not signed by the Client prior to or at the time of the inspection, is because the Client orally agreed with the terms and conditions, but the Client only failed to produce signature.
Party ordering the inspection (Clients, Buyers, Sellers, Persons, Institutions, Property Owners, Real Estate Agents, Insurance Agents, Agents in general, etc.) has received a “VERIFICATION CODE” to authenticate the online signature of the Agreement.
If there are more than one Client, the signatory has been authorized to sign the Agreement on behalf of all Clients.
Thanks.
Armando Longueira, P.E. #67462
All Home Meters, LLC. (Florida Registry / CA # 28738)
786-318-7203.
Clients, Buyers, Sellers, Persons, Institutions, Property Owners, Real Estate Agents, Insurance Agents, Agents in general, or any other party ordering the inspection has read, understood, and agreed with this general inspection agreement.
YOUR SIGNATURE ONLINE WILL CARRY THE SAME LEGAL WEIGHT AS A TRADITIONAL PAPER-BASED SIGNATURE.
Please open the Form below (black rectangle) to sign the General Inspection Agreement.
The Form contains the same text you have read above.
Please fill in the blanks with the required information (property address, name, phone and email).
Please, after reading, understanding, and agreeing, mark the check button as proof that “YOU AGREE” with the General Inspection Agreement.
Please Date your acceptance.
Please enter the “VERIFICATION CODE” we previously sent to the person that claimed responsibility for the inspection (Clients, Buyers, Sellers, Persons, Institutions, Property Owners, Real Estate Agents, Insurance Agents, Agents in general, or any other party ordering the inspection).
Please hit the “SUBMIT” button ONLY IF YOU CAREFULLY READ, UNDERSTOOD AND AGREED WITH THIS GENERAL INSPECTION AGREEMENT.