When purchasing or maintaining a home in Florida and across the Southeast, a standard home inspection is only part of the due diligence process. While a general inspection provides a broad overview of a property's condition, many of the most expensive and disruptive issues originate in areas that require specialized evaluation. This is where ancillary inspection services play a critical role. These add-on services are designed to uncover hidden conditions that are not always visible during a traditional inspection but can have a substantial impact on safety, health, and long-term financial risk.
At LunsPro, ancillary services are an integral part of delivering thorough, professional home inspections throughout Florida and the Southeast. From sewer scope inspections and mold testing to water quality analysis and crawl space evaluations, these services help buyers, sellers, and homeowners gain a more complete understanding of a property. In a region known for aging infrastructure, high moisture levels, and rapid development, these inspections are not luxuries—they are essential tools for informed decision-making.
Sewer Scope Inspections: Protecting Against Major Underground Expenses
One of the most important ancillary services offered by LunsPro is the sewer scope inspection. A sewer scope involves using a specialized camera that is inserted into the main sewer line, allowing inspectors to visually assess the pipe running from the house to the municipal connection at the street. This inspection focuses exclusively on the main sewer lateral and does not include interior branch drain lines.
The value of a sewer scope lies in its ability to detect conditions that would otherwise remain hidden until a serious failure occurs. Common issues identified through sewer scoping include root intrusion, crushed or collapsed pipes, offset joints, corrosion, and improper installation. These problems are especially common in older Florida homes, but they are not limited to aging properties. New construction is also vulnerable due to construction activity, heavy equipment traffic, and landscaping or irrigation work that can inadvertently damage underground sewer lines.
Sewer line repairs are rarely minor expenses. Unlike many household repairs that may cost hundreds of dollars, sewer line failures frequently result in repair bills totaling thousands—or even tens of thousands—of dollars. For this reason, LunsPro strongly recommends sewer scope inspections whenever possible, particularly during real estate transactions. While access to a cleanout is not always available, inspectors make every effort to perform this service when conditions allow.
Septic Systems: Knowing When to Call a Specialist
In many areas of Florida and the Southeast, homes are served by septic systems rather than municipal sewer connections. When a property is on septic, LunsPro does not perform full septic system inspections. Septic inspections typically require the tank to be pumped and evaluated internally, a process best handled by licensed septic professionals.
That said, LunsPro can perform a limited sewer scope inspection from the home to the septic tank if a client is concerned about the condition of the line itself. However, for a complete assessment—including tank integrity, baffles, drain fields, and overall system performance—homebuyers and homeowners are advised to engage a dedicated septic inspection company. This ensures that all components of the system are evaluated thoroughly and in accordance with local standards.
Mold Testing and Air Quality Assessments in Florida Homes
Mold is a persistent concern in Florida due to the region's humidity, frequent rainfall, and warm climate. LunsPro offers mold testing services designed to address both visible mold growth and hidden airborne contaminants that may impact indoor air quality.
When visible mold is present, surface swab testing can confirm the type of mold and help determine appropriate remediation steps. However, mold testing becomes especially important when there are no obvious visual indicators but occupants have health concerns such as asthma, allergies, or respiratory sensitivities. In these cases, air quality testing is often recommended.
Air sampling involves collecting one or more samples from different areas of the home, depending on its size and layout. These samples are sent to a certified laboratory for analysis. The resulting report identifies mold spores and other particulates present in the air, along with their concentration levels. Clients receive clear explanations of whether the findings are within normal limits or may warrant further action. This type of testing is invaluable for identifying issues that cannot be seen with the naked eye and provides peace of mind for buyers and occupants alike.
Water Quality Testing: Wells, Loans, and Peace of Mind
Water quality is another critical consideration, particularly in Florida's diverse geological landscape. LunsPro offers water quality testing to evaluate potable water for contaminants, including metals, bacteria, and other substances that may pose health risks.
Water testing is strongly recommended for homes served by private wells, as well water is not regulated in the same way as municipal supplies. Testing ensures that the water is safe for consumption and free from harmful contaminants. Additionally, water quality testing is often required for certain loan types, including FHA and VA loans. Buyers using these financing options should verify requirements early in the transaction process to avoid delays prior to closing.
Even when not required by a lender, water quality testing provides valuable information and reassurance, making it a prudent investment for many homeowners.
Pool and Spa Inspections: Surface-Level but Essential
Pools and spas are common features in Florida homes, and they require proper evaluation during the inspection process. LunsPro performs surface-oriented pool and spa inspections, focusing on visible components and operational functionality. Inspectors assess the pool structure for cracks or leaks, evaluate equipment operation, and verify that safety features are present and functioning as intended.
While LunsPro does not perform invasive leak detection or underwater testing, clients seeking a more in-depth analysis can be referred to specialized pool companies. Nonetheless, a professional surface inspection can identify many common issues and provide important insights into the condition and safety of the pool system.
Additional Structures and Detached Buildings
Properties throughout the Southeast often include detached structures such as barns, sheds, workshops, or garages. LunsPro offers inspections for these additional buildings upon request. Because these structures fall outside the scope of a standard home inspection, an additional fee applies.
Inspecting detached structures is important, as they may contain electrical systems, roofing, or structural components that require evaluation. Clients are encouraged to request these inspections at the time of booking to ensure adequate time and access.
Crawl Space Inspections: A Critical Area Not to Be Overlooked
Homes with crawl spaces present unique inspection challenges, yet these areas are among the most important to evaluate. Crawl spaces often house plumbing, structural supports, insulation, and may show early signs of moisture intrusion, pest activity, or termite damage.
LunsPro offers crawl space inspections as an ancillary service, typically for an additional fee. This fee reflects the physical difficulty and environmental conditions associated with accessing crawl spaces, particularly in Florida's climate. In some cases, advanced tools such as crawl space robots may be used to assist with inspection.
From a professional standpoint, a home with a crawl space cannot be fully evaluated without inspecting this area. The information gained can be critical to understanding the overall condition and longevity of the property.
Why Ancillary Services Matter in Florida and the Southeast
Ancillary inspection services provide a deeper, more comprehensive understanding of a property—something that is especially important in Florida and across the Southeast, where environmental conditions and infrastructure challenges are unique. Issues such as sewer line failures, mold contamination, water quality concerns, and hidden structural problems often exist beyond the scope of a standard inspection but carry significant financial and health implications.
LunsPro's approach to ancillary services reflects a commitment to thoroughness, transparency, and professional standards. By offering services such as sewer scopes, mold and air quality testing, water quality analysis, pool inspections, crawl space evaluations, and inspections of additional structures, LunsPro equips clients with the information they need to make confident, informed decisions.
Ultimately, ancillary inspections are not about adding unnecessary services—they are about risk management and long-term protection. For buyers, sellers, and homeowners throughout Florida and the Southeast, working with an experienced inspection company like LunsPro ensures that no critical detail is overlooked and that every property is evaluated with the depth and care it deserves.