Cape Coral has more than 400 miles of canals, a housing stock that runs from 1960s block ranches to brand-new builds, and a water table a few feet down. A walk-through will show you the finishes. The inspection shows you the house. Here’s what we look at.

Termites

Most Cape Coral homes are concrete block, which limits structural damage, but trusses, decking, fascia, framing, and cabinets are all wood. Subterranean termites tube up block walls to reach it; drywood termites fly in. A WDO inspection by a licensed pest-control company can be scheduled with the home inspection. See termite inspections.

Moisture and mold conditions

Heat, humidity, and summer rain make moisture the primary enemy of Cape Coral homes. We use infrared imaging and a moisture meter on every inspection to find wet areas in walls, ceilings, and around windows and sliders. Where we find elevated moisture or visible growth, the report says so; laboratory air or surface sampling is available as an add-on.

Roof and structure

Roof age and condition drive both repair cost and insurability. We document the covering, flashings, penetrations, and attic-side evidence of leaks, and the roof-to-wall connections that matter for wind mitigation.

Plumbing and water

We check supply and drain lines, fixtures, the water heater (age, condition, venting, relief valve), and, where present, pool equipment, irrigation, and well equipment. Water heaters rusting at the base and polybutylene supply lines are common findings in older Cape homes.

HVAC

We run the system and document the age and condition of the air handler and condenser. In Cape Coral, condensers near the canal corrode fast. We report what we see; sizing and efficiency calculations are an HVAC contractor’s job, not an inspector’s.

Electrical

We open the main panel and check the service entrance, grounding and bonding, breaker sizing, wiring types, evidence of overheating, and double-tapped breakers (a double tap is only acceptable when the breaker is specifically rated for two conductors; most aren’t). We also look for panel brands that insurers flag.

Canal-front items

Seawalls, docks, boat lifts, and pool enclosures are a large part of a Cape Coral home’s value and are not part of a standard home inspection. They can be added. Ask when you schedule.

Coastal Home Inspectors has performed roughly 5,000 inspections in Lee and Collier counties. See pricing or request an inspection.