Pre-Listing Inspection Checklist for Palm Beach County Sellers

Thinking about selling your home in Palm Beach County? The fastest way to keep your deal on track is to uncover issues before buyers do. You want a smooth sale, strong offers, and no last-minute surprises at inspection or insurance. In this guide, you’ll see exactly which inspections matter most here, what they cost, and how to use the results to protect your timeline and price. Let’s dive in.

Why pre-listing inspections matter here

Palm Beach County buyers and their insurers look closely at roofs, wind protections, and termites. Getting ahead of these items can make your home easier to insure and finance. Insurance carriers often ask for 4-point and wind mitigation reports, and Citizens, the state-backed insurer, publishes specific guidelines for these inspections. Reviewing those details early can prevent delays when a buyer binds coverage. See Citizens’ guidance on 4-point and wind mitigation inspections.

Florida also now requires a residential flood disclosure. You must provide the state “FLOOD DISCLOSURE” form at or before contract signing, including any flood insurance claims or federal assistance you received for flood damage during ownership. Review the new Florida flood disclosure law.

What to inspect before you list

Full home inspection

A general inspection gives you a full picture of the home’s condition. It helps you decide what to fix, price with confidence, and reduce renegotiations later. Typical local pricing for an average single-family home ranges by size and scope. See example local inspection costs.

WDO (termite) inspection

Termites are common in South Florida, and many lenders and buyers request a WDO report on the FDACS DACS-13645 form. Use a licensed pest professional and keep copies of the report and any treatment receipts. Learn what a WDO inspection covers and see typical local pricing.

Roof inspection and roof certification

Insurers often ask for a roof certification showing the roof has at least five years of remaining useful life. This is especially important if your roof is older. A certification can lower the risk of insurance denial near closing. Why roof certifications matter for insurance.

4-point and wind mitigation inspections

Many Florida carriers, and especially Citizens, use these reports to underwrite or discount premiums. A 4-point covers roof, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical. Wind mitigation documents hurricane-resistant features like opening protections, roof-to-wall connections, and roof shape. Review insurer inspection requirements.

Pool inspection and safety compliance

If you have a pool, confirm equipment condition and verify that your barriers meet the Florida Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act. Noncompliance can trigger repair requests or closing delays. See the pool safety statute.

Sewer line, seawall, and specialty checks

If your home has older plumbing or recurring backups, consider a sewer-scope to catch root intrusion or broken lines. Waterfront sellers should evaluate seawall or bulkhead condition, especially if damage is visible. Order specialty inspections as needed for known concerns like certain electrical panels, structural movement, or moisture.

Palm Beach County pre-listing checklist

High-priority legal and insurance items

• Complete Florida’s required “FLOOD DISCLOSURE” and be ready to deliver it with your contract. Review the law.
• Order a WDO inspection and address any active infestations. Keep the FDACS report and treatment documents. What a WDO includes.
• Verify roof age and obtain a roof certification if the roof is older or as advised by your insurance agent. Why certifications matter.
• If your buyer will use Citizens or a carrier that requests them, consider pre-ordering a 4-point and wind mitigation to share with prospects. Insurer inspection basics.

Permits, associations, and documentation

• Pull permits and completion certificates for past work. Resolve any open or expired permits before you list. Use the county’s portal for lien and permit searches. Start a Palm Beach County permit or lien search.
• If your home is in a condo or HOA, request the estoppel and resale package early. Timelines and fees are set by statute. Review condo estoppel requirements.
• Disclose any PACE or other non-ad valorem assessments and gather payoff details. What to disclose about PACE.

Exterior and site prep

• Improve grading or drainage that pushes water toward the home. Re-secure gutters and repair exterior leaks.
• Trim trees and palms away from the structure and remove wood-to-soil contact to deter termites.
• Repair missing screens, damaged soffits, and failed caulking or seals.

Interior quick fixes

• Test and replace smoke and CO detector batteries. Confirm GFCI outlets work in kitchens, baths, garage, and exterior.
• Fix visible plumbing leaks and note the water heater’s age and service history.
• Lubricate or adjust sticking doors and windows; tighten loose handrails.

Decide how to share results

• Many sellers provide the pre-listing report and proof of repairs to build trust. Keep invoices and permit close-outs to support your disclosures.

Timing, costs, and logistics

Plan inspections 1 to 12 months before listing. Many sellers aim for at least 4 to 8 weeks so they can compare contractor bids, complete repairs, and close out permits. Insurance inspections like 4-point and wind mitigation are often valid 6 to 12 months, but carriers set their own rules. Check insurer guidance.

Typical local ranges vary by size and scope:

• Full home inspection: about $350 to $600. Local cost examples
• WDO inspection: about $100 to $250. Typical pricing
• Roof certification: about $100 to $300. Why insurers ask for it
• 4-point and wind mitigation combo: often $150 to $350. Insurer requirements overview
• Pool inspection: commonly $100 to $300. Pool safety statute

For county records, formal permit or lien search results can take about 7 to 10 business days, so start early if you need to reactivate permits or schedule inspections. Use Palm Beach County’s search portal.

How to use your results with buyers

• Fix and document: Complete repairs, close permits, and provide invoices and photos to improve buyer confidence.
• Price or credit: If you choose not to repair, get estimates and price accordingly or offer a credit at closing.
• Disclose clearly: Provide the Florida flood disclosure and your inspection summaries to prevent disputes later. Buyers respond well to transparent, organized sellers.

Work with a local team that handles the details

You deserve a smooth sale and a confident plan from list to close. Our team helps you prioritize inspections, solve permit issues, and present a clean file to buyers. If you want a concierge, bilingual partner who knows Palm Beach County inside and out, reach out to the Elite Home Team. We’ll help you prepare, price, and market with clarity.

FAQs

Do Palm Beach County sellers have to provide a flood disclosure?

• Yes, Florida now requires a residential “FLOOD DISCLOSURE” and you must deliver it at or before contract signing; it includes any flood insurance claims or federal assistance during your ownership. See the law.

Which inspections help buyers secure insurance in Palm Beach County?

• Roof certification, 4-point, and wind mitigation reports are common insurer requirements here, and Citizens publishes specific guidance on what they accept. Review Citizens’ info.

How can I check for open permits before I list my home?

• Use the county Planning, Zoning and Building portal to search permit and lien records, then resolve any open or expired permits ahead of listing. Start a county search.

What does a WDO (termite) inspection include in Florida?

• A licensed inspector checks for termites and other wood-destroying organisms and issues a state FDACS DACS-13645 report that lenders and buyers commonly request. See what’s covered.

What are typical costs for pre-listing inspections in Palm Beach County?

• Local examples: full home $350 to $600, WDO $100 to $250, roof certification $100 to $300, and 4-point plus wind mitigation often $150 to $350; prices vary by size and scope. View local cost ranges.