All Forum Posts by: Cindy Joseph
Cindy Joseph has started 23 posts and replied 66 times.
Post: Flooring for Florida duplex?
- Posts 66
- Votes 10
What is the best and most cost-effective flooring for a rental duplex? The original flooring was Terrazzo. One side has vinyl planks over the terazzo. The other half has Terrazzo with some damaged terazzo. Is it better to refinish the Terrazzo or install vinyl planks on top on that side.
From the quotes I’ve been getting, Terrazzo seems to be cheaper. My concern is if it’s more easily damaged – I read that you have to use a specific ph cleaner and can’t have too much excess water (like mopping) or it will damage the terazzo and cost more to fix. Is there anyway to protect the terazzo from this? Or would it be better to just add vinyl planks?
I bought my first place which is a duplex from 1957 in December. I had an inspection before I brought it and they tested for humidity and thought there was a low risk of mold. I bought a Hydro meter which mostly reads 50 to 60%. Sometimes it shoots up higher when we shower, we do not have vents yet. A few days ago I saw some black residue on the corner of the bathroom wall (see picture). I scrubbed it off and peeled some of the paint, underneath, there are some lighter gray residue. Is this mold or moisture? Should I get a professional to look at it? I bought it at home test kit also.
Post: Umbrella insurance for citizens policy holders in Brevard county?
- Posts 66
- Votes 10
We purchased a duplex and Brevard county Florida. We are living in one side and getting the other side ready to rent. Because of the age of the house (1957) location citizens insurancr is the only insurance that will ensure us. They have a liability of $100,000. I would like to purchase umbrella insurance for extra liability coverage when we get tenants. However the minimum liability coverage needed for umbrella is 300,000. We are hesitant to make an LLC in case the bank will require us to pay upfront and also loss of some of the tax benefits. Is it worth it to get excess liability coverage to bridge the gap and then get umbrella? It would be about 100 month extra for an extra 200,000 liability. Then we would have to pay the premium for the umbrella as well. We are already spending 5,700 a year for home owners insurance through citizens and flood insurance. I am just not sure if this is worth it. What does everyone think who has been a similar situation?
Quote from @Meghan Purkis:
Quote from @Cameron Moore:
It is not uncommon for insurance companies to have strict requirements for certain types of homes, particularly older homes. It sounds like there may have been some miscommunication or confusion with the terms of your policy with Citizens Insurance.
It's important to speak with an insurance brokerto discuss your options. Some insurance companies will insure older homes, but the coverage and rates may vary. You may want to consider contacting a local independent insurance agent who can help you compare policies and coverage options from multiple insurance companies.
I agree with Cameron!
Try reaching out to and agent I know below to see if he can help you!
William Arnold
Agency Owner
We Insure : SeaSalt Insurance Group
Thank you!
Hello we purchased a home in December. Initially citizens insurance approved it but then told us they were going to cancel Our policy is the roof was not repaired within 25 days. Then they said they would extend it to 45 days if go under contract. We went under contract and now they are going against their word and not honoring it. Has this ever happened to anyone before? We will likely get forced insurance from the lender. This is our first property and I feel so defeated.
Does anyone know of any other insurance companies that insure older homes (1950s) on Brevard county FL. Citizens is the only one I could seem to find.
Post: Best material for flat roof?
- Posts 66
- Votes 10
Quote from @Jerry V.:
(from a Roofer) For a residence (duplex), it's probably best/easiest to go with an asphalt type material (as Eugene mentioned), like Mod Bit (Modified Bitumen). It'll match more closely to other shingle roofs in the area, and you can get it in different colors as well. And after 10-15yrs (more at times), when it starts to get worn, yes you can clean it up, prep it, and do a Coating on it for another 10+ years out of it!
The EPDM (rubber) is basically "out" now, and pricing on TPO (white membrane) is really crazy and still has supply shortages. With the code restrictions there in FL, it's probably best to get that Mod Bit as "APP torch applied." BUT, also because of the codes/restrictions there, "torch" applied may be harder to get approved in your area. (many cities and areas are restricting the use of "open flame" and "combustible materials" on job sites.) So you may have to go with a cold process or self-adhered method.
There is even the metal roof option of course. But that has it's own caveats, and costs.
Whichever you chose, make sure you have a good contractor that has LONGEVITY in the area, and knows what they are doing with the specific type you go with. Maybe even try to see if they are Certified with xxx manufacturer, and that will add an extra 5-10yrs of warranty to the job as well! But yes, it usually adds costs to it, but that may be worth it.
Let us know how it turns out! And if you have specific roofing questions, simply send me a message. (with J's Roofing , Richardson, TX)
Thanks! What coating are you referring to?
Post: Best material for flat roof?
- Posts 66
- Votes 10
Hello I am trying to replace my flat roof of a duplex father quickly. I was wondering what the best material is for it? It’s located on the east coast of Florida
Quote from @Steve Vaughan:
It's an extremely high-priced generic insurance. It's probably 3x the cost of a standard policy that's 1/3 the coverage.
Try to get a policy now subject to a 60-day roof correct. My State Farm agent does that for me for my new LL policies.
Thank you! Unfortunately in Florida given the age of the property (1957)- citizens insurance is the only one I can use. They are state run
I initially had citizens insurance approved. They are now going back and cancelling my policy as they said the roof was not satisfactory after reviewing the pictures. In case I can not fix the roof in time, I would need forced placed insurance. Can someone shed some light on what exactly this is and how it works. I know it’s a lender based policy but not sure much else besides that.
I initially had citizens insurance approved. They are now going back and cancelling my policy as they said the roof was not satisfactory after reviewing the pictures. In case I can not fix the roof in time, I would need forced placed insurance. Can someone shed some light on what exactly this is and how it works. I know it’s a lender based policy but not sure much else besides that.