CAVEAT EMPTOR!

Just when you thought you heard it all in Florida real estate! I am representing the buyer of a Clearwater condo. The Florida home inspector is a registered member of ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors). He advised that buildings in that particular area had used a substance know as EIFS (Exterior Insulation Finish System.) This synthetic stucco causes significant structural damage as a result of its ability to absorb large quantities of water. This absorption coupled with the Florida heat and wood frame construction creates a Petri dish for mold growth. The Pinellas County home inspector advised that we confirm the use of this product in this building to avert special repair assessments that could eventually be imposed on the Florida condo owner. In keeping with our litigious-crazed society there are now law firms representing Florida homeowners who got sucked in like water into a Clearwater condo façade. Now and forever, buyer beware!