This report published on Friday, October 12, 2018 9:43:47 AM EDT
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How to Read this Report
This report is organized by the property's functional areas. Within each functional area, descriptive information is listed first and is shown in bold type. Items of concern follow descriptive information.
Concerns are shown and sorted according to these types:
Safety
Poses a risk of injury or death
Repair/Replace
Recommend repairing or replacing
Repair/Maintain
Recommend repair and/or maintenance
Maintain
Recommend ongoing maintenance
Evaluate
Recommend evaluation by a specialist
Monitor
Recommend monitoring in the future
Comment
For your information
Click here for a glossary of building construction terms.Contact your inspector If there are terms that you do not understand, or visit the glossary of construction terms at https://www.reporthost.com/glossary.asp
Source for main building age: Municipal records or property listing
Occupied: Yes, Furniture or stored items were present
1) Microbial growths were found at one or more locations in the crawl space, the basement , under guest house, and in basement under main house. It is beyond the scope of this inspection to identify what substance or organism this staining is. However such staining is normally caused by excessively moist conditions, which in turn can be caused by plumbing or building envelope leaks and/or substandard ventilation. These conducive conditions should be corrected before making any attempts to remove or correct the staining. Normally affected materials such as drywall are removed, enclosed affected spaces are allowed to dry thoroughly, a mildewcide may be applied, and only then is drywall reinstalled. For evaluation and possible mitigation, consult with a qualified industrial hygienist or mold/moisture mitigation specialist. For more information, visit: http://www.reporthost.com/?MOLDCDC http://www.reporthost.com/?MOLDEPA
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2) Radon reduction system was found at this property, it appears this system was installed 11/08/13 . This system should be evaluated and serviced every two years. Client should hire a radon testing company to conduct a a 48 hour radon test, to verify radon levels are below the radon level of 4 pCi/L.
Limitations: Unless specifically included in the inspection, the following items and any related equipment, controls, electric systems and/or plumbing systems are excluded from this inspection: detached buildings or structures; fences and gates; retaining walls; underground drainage systems, catch basins or concealed sump pumps; swimming pools and related safety equipment, spas, hot tubs or saunas; whether deck, balcony and/or stair membranes are watertight; trees, landscaping, properties of soil, soil stability, erosion and erosion control; ponds, water features, irrigation or yard sprinkler systems; sport courts, playground, recreation or leisure equipment; areas below the exterior structures with less than 3 feet of vertical clearance; invisible fencing; sea walls, docks and boathouses; retractable awnings. Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only.
Driveway material: Poured in place concrete
Sidewalk material: Poured in place concrete, Brick
Deck, porch and/or balcony material: Wood
Exterior stair material: Wood
3) Large gaps at stair risers were found. This is a potential safety hazard for children (e.g. falling, getting stuck in gaps). Recommend that a qualified contractor repair as necessary to eliminate large gaps in stairs at elevations over 30 inches high. For example, by installing boards for risers.
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4) One or more treads and or stringers at exterior stairs were loose, and deteriorated. This is a potential fall hazard. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary.
5) Guardrails at one or more locations with drop-offs higher than 30 inches were wobbly, at guest house deck, and pose a fall hazard. Recommend that a qualified person repair guardrails as necessary.
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6) Some nails securing decking boards were loose and were not flush with the surfaces of boards. Boards are more likely to loosen and warp. This may pose a safety hazard to those with bare feet. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary. For example, by replacing nails or installing screws. Note that existing nails that are simply pounded back in will be likely to loosen again. Deck at guest house
7) One or more decking boards were loose. In some cases this may pose a trip hazard. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary.
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8) Significant erosion was found in one or more areas. Recommend having a qualified person evaluate and make repairs as necessary to repair erosion, and to prevent erosion in the future. Right side of structure.
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9) Minor deterioration (e.g. cracks) was found in the driveway, but no trip hazards were found. The client may wish to have repairs made for cosmetic reasons.
10) Minor deterioration (e.g. cracks) was found in the patio, but no trip hazards were found. The client may wish to have repairs made for cosmetic reasons.
Limitations: The inspector performs a visual inspection of accessible components or systems at the exterior. Items excluded from this inspection include below-grade foundation walls and footings; foundations, exterior surfaces or components obscured by vegetation, stored items or debris; wall structures obscured by coverings such as siding or trim. Some items such as siding, trim, soffits, vents and windows are often high off the ground, and may be viewed using binoculars from the ground or from a ladder. This may limit a full evaluation. Regarding foundations, some amount of cracking is normal in concrete slabs and foundation walls due to shrinkage and drying. Note that the inspector does not determine the adequacy of seismic reinforcement.
Apparent wall structure: Wood frame
Wall covering: Brick veneer, Expanded insulation foam system (EIFS)
Apparent foundation type: Unfinished basement
Foundation/stem wall material: Poured in place concrete, Concrete block
11) Major cracks or areas with damage were found in the masonry (brick) veneer. This may indicate that settlement has occurred and/or that the foundation has failed. At a minimum, a qualified contractor should repair the damaged masonry veneer to prevent water from entering wall cavities and causing mold, fungal rot or structural damage. Consult with a qualified engineer to determine if foundation repairs are needed, and/or if settlement is ongoing. Any such repairs should be made by a qualified contractor. Such contractors and engineers may include:
Foundation repair contractors who may prescribe repairs, and will give cost estimates for prescribed repairs
Masonry contractors who repair and/or replace brick veneer
Geotechnical engineers who attempt to determine if settlement is ongoing, and the cause of the settlement
Structural engineers who determine if repairs are necessary, and prescribe those repairs
front of structure
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12) Fungal rot was found at one or more soffits, fascia. Recommend that a qualified contractor repair as necessary. All rotten wood should be replaced.
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13) The masonry (brick) veneer was deteriorated or damaged in some areas. Where cracks or openings are exposed, water may enter the wall structure causing mold, fungal growth and structural damage. Recommend that a qualified contractor repair as necessary. For example, by repointing mortar or replacing broken or missing masonry.
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14) One or more exhaust duct end caps were deteriorated. Their purpose is to prevent unconditioned air from entering the building, and keep out birds, rodents and bugs. Blocked ducts can cause fan motors and/or clothes dryers to overheat and can pose a fire hazard. Recommend that a qualified person repair or replace caps as necessary.
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15) Moderate cracks (1/8 inch - 3/4 inch) were found in the foundation, under guest house. This may be a structural concern or an indication that settlement is ongoing. The client should consider hiring qualified contractors and/or engineers as necessary for further evaluation. Such contractors may include:
Foundation repair contractors who may prescribe repairs, and will give cost estimates for such repairs
Masonry contractors who repair and/or replace brick veneer
Geotechnical engineers who attempt to determine if settlement is ongoing, and the cause of the settlement
Structural engineers who determine if repairs are necessary, and prescribe those repairs
At a minimum, recommend sealing cracks to prevent water infiltration. Numerous products exist to seal such cracks including hydraulic cement, resilient caulks and epoxy sealants.
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16) One or more minor cracks (1/8 inch or less) were found in the foundation. These didn't appear to be a structural concern, but recommend sealing them to prevent water infiltration and monitor them in the future. Numerous products exist to seal such cracks including hydraulic cement, non-shrinking grout, resilient caulks and epoxy sealants.
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17) Caulk was missing, deteriorated in some areas. For example, around windows, around doors. Recommend that a qualified person renew or install caulk as necessary. Where gaps are wider than 1/4 inch, an appropriate material other than caulk should be used. For more information, visit: http://www.reporthost.com/?CAULK
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18) Some areas of the exterior finish appeared to be exterior insulation and finishing system (EIFS). This is a synthetic stucco that is prone to failure, especially in damp climates. Typically, cracks occur in the finish and allow moisture to penetrate the foam backing. This often produces fungal rot which causes structural damage to wooden wall structures behind the EIFS. It may also result in mold growth.
The client should understand that this is a visual inspection only. No destructive testing or probing is performed, and the inspector cannot determine the condition of materials inside or behind the EIFS finish. It is common practice for EIFS to be evaluated by a certified EIFS specialist, even when no obvious signs of deterioration or substandard installation are found. Recommend that a certified specialist evaluate further to determine if repairs are needed. Any repairs needed should be made by a qualified contractor. For more information, visit: http://www.reporthost.com/?EIFS
Limitations: Structural components such as joists and beams, and other components such as piping, wiring and/or ducting that are obscured by under-floor insulation are excluded from this inspection. The inspector does not determine if support posts, columns, beams, joists, studs, trusses, etc. are of adequate size, spanning or spacing.
The inspector does not guarantee or warrant that water will not accumulate in the crawl spaces in the future. Complete access to all crawl space areas during all seasons and during prolonged periods of all types of weather conditions (e.g. heavy rain, melting snow) would be needed to do so.
The inspector attempts to locate all crawl space access points and areas. Access points may be obscured or otherwise hidden by furnishings or stored items. In such cases, the client should ask the property owner where all access points are that are not described in this inspection, and have those areas inspected. Note that crawl space areas should be checked at least annually for water intrusion, plumbing leaks and pest activity.
Crawl space inspection method: Traversed
Pier or support post material: Wood
Insulation material underneath floor above: Fiberglass roll or batt
Condition of vapor barrier: Required repairs, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Ventilation type: Unconditioned space
19) Evidence of prior water intrusion or accumulation was found in one or more sections of the crawl space. For example, sediment stains on the vapor barrier or foundation, and/or efflorescence on the foundation. Accumulated water is a conducive condition for wood-destroying organisms and should not be present in the crawl space. The crawl space should be monitored in the future for accumulated water, especially after heavy and/or prolonged periods of rain. If water is found to accumulate, then recommend that a qualified contractor who specializes in drainage issues evaluate and repair as necessary. Typical repairs for preventing water from accumulating in crawl spaces include:
Repairing, installing or improving rain run-off systems (gutters, downspouts and extensions or drain lines)
Improving perimeter grading
Repairing, installing or improving underground footing and/or curtain drains
Ideally, water should not enter crawl spaces, but if water must be controlled after it enters the crawl space, then typical repairs include installing trenches, gravity drains and/or sump pump(s) in the crawl space.
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20) The vapor barrier in some areas of the crawl space was loose or askew, substandard. Soil was exposed as a result and will allow water from the soil to evaporate up into the structure. This is a conducive condition for wood-destroying organisms. A 6 mil black plastic sheet should be placed over all exposed soil with seams overlapped to 24 inches, and not in contact with any wood structural components. The sheeting should be held in place with bricks or stones, not wood. Recommend that a qualified person replace or repair the vapor barrier where necessary and per standard building practices.
Limitations: The following items or areas are not included in this inspection: areas that could not be traversed or viewed clearly due to lack of access; solar roofing components. Any comments made regarding these items are made as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not provide an estimate of remaining life on the roof surface material, nor guarantee that leaks have not occurred in the roof surface, skylights or roof penetrations in the past. Regarding roof leaks, only active leaks, visible evidence of possible sources of leaks, and evidence of past leaks observed during the inspection are reported on as part of this inspection. The inspector does not guarantee or warrant that leaks will not occur in the future. Complete access to all roof and attic spaces during all seasons and during prolonged periods of all types of weather conditions (e.g. high wind and rain, melting snow) would be needed to do so. Regarding the roof drainage system, unless the inspection was conducted during and after prolonged periods of heavy rain, the inspector was unable to determine if gutters, downspouts and extensions performed adequately or were leak-free.
Roof inspection method: Viewed from ground with binoculars
Roof surface material: Asphalt or fiberglass composition shingles
Roof type: Hipped
Gutter and downspout material: Metal
Gutter and downspout installation: Full
21) Extensions such as splash blocks or drain pipes for one or more downspouts were misaligned, damaged. Water can accumulate around the building foundation or inside crawl spaces or basements as a result. Recommend that a qualified person install, replace or repair extensions as necessary so rainwater drains away from the structure.
22) One or more gutters appeared to be loose. Rainwater can come in contact with the building exterior or accumulate around the building foundation as a result. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary.
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23) One gutter was leaking. Rainwater may come in contact with the building exterior or accumulate around the foundation as a result. Recommend that a qualified contractor repair as necessary. Left front corner of structure
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24) Significant amounts of debris have accumulated in one or more gutters or downspouts. Gutters can overflow and cause water to come in contact with the building exterior, or water can accumulate around the foundation. This is a conducive condition for wood-destroying organisms. Recommend cleaning gutters and downspouts now and as necessary in the future.
Limitations: The inspector does not determine the adequacy of firewall ratings. Requirements for ventilation in garages vary between municipalities.
Condition of door between garage and house: Appeared serviceable
Type of door between garage and house: Solid core, Wood
Type of garage vehicle door: Sectional
Number of vehicle doors: 3
Condition of automatic opener(s): Appeared serviceable
Mechanical auto-reverse operable (reverses when meeting reasonable resistance during closing): Yes
25) One garage vehicle door had an automatic opener installed, and the manual lock mechanism on the door hadn't been permanently disabled. The automatic opener can be damaged, or injury can occur if the automatic door opener is operated with the manual lock engaged. A qualified contractor should disable or remove the lock mechanism per standard building practices. At guest house
Limitations: Evaluation of and determining the adequacy or completeness of the following items are not included in this inspection: water recirculation pumps; solar water heating systems; Energy Smart or energy saver controls; catch pan drains. Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not provide an estimate of remaining life on water heaters, does not determine if water heaters are appropriately sized, or perform any evaluations that require a pilot light to be lit or a shut-off valve to be operated.
Type: Tank
Energy source: Electricity, Natural gas
Capacity (in gallons): 40, all three water heaters are 40 gal.
Temperature-pressure relief valve installed: Yes
Manufacturer: General Electric, Rheem
Location of water heater: Basement, Crawl space
Hot water temperature tested: Yes
Water temperature (degrees Fahrenheit): 140 at laundry sink, 110 at guest house, 149 at master bathroom sinks
26) The temperature-pressure relief valve drain line had more than 4 elbows , at both water heaters in basement. This is a potential safety hazard due to the risk of explosion from restricted flow. A licensed plumber should repair per standard building practices. For more information, visit: http://www.reporthost.com/?TPRVALVE
27) The hot water temperature was greater than 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a safety hazard due to the risk of scalding. The thermostat should be adjusted so the water temperature doesn't exceed 120 degrees. If the water heater is powered by electricity, a qualified person should perform the adjustment, since covers that expose energized equipment normally need to be removed. For more information on scalding dangers, visit: http://www.reporthost.com/?SCALD
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: generator systems, transfer switches, surge suppressors, inaccessible or concealed wiring; underground utilities and systems; low-voltage lighting or lighting on timers or sensors. Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not determine the adequacy of grounding or bonding, if this system has an adequate capacity for the client's specific or anticipated needs, or if this system has any reserve capacity for additions or expansion. The inspector does not operate circuit breakers as part of the inspection, and does not install or change light bulbs. The inspector does not evaluate every wall switch or receptacle, but instead tests a representative number of them per various standards of practice. When furnishings, stored items or child-protective caps are present some receptacles are usually inaccessible and are not tested; these are excluded from this inspection. Receptacles that are not of standard 110 volt configuration, including 240-volt dryer receptacles, are not tested and are excluded. The functionality of, power source for and placement of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms is not determined as part of this inspection. Upon taking occupancy, proper operating and placement of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms should be verified and batteries should be changed. These devices have a limited lifespan and should be replaced every 10 years. The inspector attempts to locate and evaluate all main and sub-panels. However, panels are often concealed. If panels are found after the inspection, a qualified electrician should evaluate and repair if necessary. The inspector attempts to determine the overall electrical service size, but such estimates are not guaranteed because the overall capacity may be diminished by lesser-rated components in the system. Any repairs recommended should be made by a licensed electrician.
Primary service type: Underground
Service voltage (volts): 120-240
Primary service overload protection type: Circuit breakers
Main disconnect rating (amps): 150, 200
Location of main service panel #A: Building exterior
Location of main service panel #B: Building exterior
Location of sub-panel #C: Basement
Location of sub-panel #D: Garage
28) One or more ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) receptacles (outlets) wouldn't trip, wouldn't reset at the exterior. This is a potential shock hazard. Recommend that a licensed electrician evaluate and repair as necessary.
29) Neutral and equipment ground wires were bonded (connected) at sub-panel(s) # C. This should only occur in the main service panel, not sub-panels, and is a shock hazard. Neutral wires should be attached to a "floating" neutral bar not bonded to the panel, and grounding wires should be attached to a separate grounding bar bonded to the sub-panel. Recommend that a licensed electrician repair per standard building practices. For more information, visit: http://www.reporthost.com/?SUBGRND
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30) One or more slots where circuit breakers are normally installed were open in panel(s) #C. Energized equipment was exposed and is a shock hazard. Recommend that a qualified person install closure covers where missing.
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31) One or more cover plates for switches, receptacles (outlets) or junction boxes were missing or broken. These plates are intended to contain fire and prevent electric shock from occurring due to exposed wires. Recommend that a qualified person install cover plates where necessary. Cabinet above microwave at guest house, basement, garage
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32) The functionality of, power source for and placement of smoke alarms is not determined as part of this inspection. Smoke alarms should be installed in each bedroom, in hallways leading to bedrooms, on each level and in attached garages. They have a limited lifespan and should be replaced every 10 years. Batteries in smoke alarms should be changed when taking occupancy and annually in the future. Carbon monoxide alarms should be installed near sleeping areas and on each level in homes with a fuel-burning appliance or attached garage. For more information, visit: http://www.reporthost.com/?SMKALRM http://www.reporthost.com/?COALRM
33) One or more light fixtures were substandard, and or missing. (Front entrance and basement.) Recommend that a licensed electrician repair or replace light fixtures as necessary.
Photo 33-1 Exterior at front entrance
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34) The front door's doorbell button was missing. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary.
Limitations: Structural components such as joists and beams, and other components such as piping, wiring and/or ducting that are obscured by under-floor insulation are also excluded from this inspection. Note that the inspector does not determine if support posts, columns, beams, joists, studs, trusses, etc. are of adequate size, spanning or spacing.
The inspector does not guarantee or warrant that water will not accumulate in the basement in the future. Access to the basement during all seasons and during prolonged periods of all types of weather conditions (e.g. heavy rain, melting snow) would be needed to do so. The inspector does not determine the adequacy of basement floor or stairwell drains, or determine if such drains are clear or clogged.
Note that all basement areas should be checked periodically for water intrusion, plumbing leaks and pest activity.
Exterior door material: Metal
Pier or support post material: Bearing wall
Beam material: Laminated wood
Floor structure: Engineered wood joists
Insulation material underneath floor above: Fiberglass roll or batt
36) One exterior door was bolted shut. Recommend that a qualified person evaluate and repair as necessary.
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37) Minor cracks were found in the concrete slab floor. These are common and appeared to be only a cosmetic issue.
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: private/shared wells and related equipment; private sewage disposal systems; hot tubs or spas; main, side and lateral sewer lines; gray water systems; pressure boosting systems; trap primers; incinerating or composting toilets; fire suppression systems; water softeners, conditioners or filtering systems; plumbing components concealed within the foundation or building structure, or in inaccessible areas such as below tubs; underground utilities and systems; overflow drains for tubs and sinks; backflow prevention devices. Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not operate water supply or shut-off valves due to the possibility of valves leaking or breaking when operated. The inspector does not test for lead in the water supply, the water pipes or solder, does not determine if plumbing and fuel lines are adequately sized, and does not determine the existence or condition of underground or above-ground fuel tanks.
Water service: Public
Water pressure (psi): 66
Location of main water shut-off: Crawl space
Supply pipe material: Copper
Drain pipe material: Plastic
Waste pipe material: Plastic
Vent pipe material: Plastic
Sump pump installed: None visible
Sewage ejector pump installed: None visible
38) The inspector did not determine the location of the water meter. Recommend consulting with the property owner to determine the meter location, that you locate it yourself, or consult with the local water municipality if necessary. It is especially important to find the meter if no main shut-off valve is found because the meter may be the only way to turn off the water supply in the event of an emergency, such as when a supply pipe bursts.
39) Main water shut off location, crawlspace, and basement
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40) Main gas shut off at meter, left side of structure
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: humidifiers, dehumidifiers, electronic air filters; solar, coal or wood-fired heat systems; thermostat or temperature control accuracy and timed functions; heating components concealed within the building structure or in inaccessible areas; underground utilities and systems; safety devices and controls (due to automatic operation). Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not provide an estimate of remaining life on heating or cooling system components, does not determine if heating or cooling systems are appropriately sized, does not test coolant pressure, or perform any evaluations that require a pilot light to be lit, a shut-off valve to be operated, a circuit breaker to be turned "on" or a serviceman's or oil emergency switch to be operated. It is beyond the scope of this inspection to determine if furnace heat exchangers are intact and free of leaks. Condensation pans and drain lines may clog or leak at any time and should be monitored while in operation in the future. Where buildings contain furnishings or stored items, the inspector may not be able to verify that a heat source is present in all "liveable" rooms (e.g. bedrooms, kitchens and living/dining rooms).
General heating system type(s): Forced air, Furnace
General heating distribution type(s): Ducts and registers
Condition of forced air heating/(cooling) system: Appeared serviceable
Forced air heating system fuel type: Natural gas
Forced air heating system manufacturer: Rheem
Location of forced air furnace: Basement, Attic
Cooling system and/or heat pump fuel type: Electric
Estimated age: 02/2011, 04/2011, 05/2011, 05/2011
Manufacturer: American Standard
41) Supply air from the air conditioning cooling systems was not cool enough. (System for master bedroom area, and system for second story). It should be 14-20 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than at the return duct(s) or current room temperature. This may be caused by refrigerant loss, dirty coils, a failing compressor, an over-sized fan, or a deficient return-air system. Recommend that a qualified HVAC contractor evaluate and repair as necessary.
42) The last service date of all forced air heating/cooling systems appeared to be more than 1 year ago, or the inspector was unable to determine the last service date. Ask the property owner when they were last serviced. Recommend that a qualified HVAC contractor service these systems and make repairs if necessary. Because these systems have compressors and refrigerant systems, this servicing should be performed annually in the future. Any needed repairs noted in this report should be brought to the attention of the contractor when it's serviced.
43) Recommend replacing HVAC filters upon taking occupancy. Regardless of the type, recommend checking filters monthly in the future and replacing them as necessary. How frequently they need replacing depends on the type and quality of the filter, how the system is configured (e.g. always on vs. "Auto"), and on environmental factors (e.g. pets, smoking, frequency of house cleaning, number of occupants, the season).
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: household appliances such as stoves, ovens, cook tops, ranges, warming ovens, griddles, broilers, dishwashers, trash compactors, refrigerators, freezers, ice makers, hot water dispensers and water filters; appliance timers, clocks, cook functions, self and/or continuous cleaning operations, thermostat or temperature control accuracy, and lights. Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not provide an estimate of the remaining life of appliances, and does not determine the adequacy of operation of appliances. The inspector does not note appliance manufacturers, models or serial numbers and does not determine if appliances are subject to recalls. Areas and components behind and obscured by appliances are inaccessible and excluded from this inspection.
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: coal stoves, gas logs, chimney flues (except where visible). Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not determine the adequacy of drafting or sizing in fireplace and stove flues, and also does not determine if prefabricated or zero-clearance fireplaces are installed in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications. The inspector does not perform any evaluations that require a pilot light to be lit, and does not light fires. The inspector provides a basic visual examination of a chimney and any associated wood burning device. The National Fire Protection Association has stated that an in-depth Level 2 chimney inspection should be part of every sale or transfer of property with a wood-burning device. Such an inspection may reveal defects that are not apparent to the home inspector who is a generalist.
Wood-burning fireplace type: Metal pre-fab
Wood-burning chimney type: Metal
Gas fireplace or stove type: Metal pre-fab fireplace
46) A "vent-free" gas fireplace was installed. The client should be aware that exhaust gases from these appliances are vented directly into the living space where they are located, not outdoors. Exhaust gases can contain carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, particles and other pollutants. They can also contain very high levels of moisture (up to 25%), which can be be detrimental to a house over time. Unpleasant odors may be emitted.
Vent-free fireplaces or stoves are not allowed in some municipalities. They must be used exactly as described by the manufacturer, normally for limited times, not in bedrooms and not while occupants are sleeping. They must be serviced periodically. Consult with a qualified HVAC contractor knowledgeable of local codes, and that this appliance be evaluated. For more information, visit: http://www.reporthost.com/?VENTFREE
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: security, intercom and sound systems; communications wiring; central vacuum systems; elevators and stair lifts; cosmetic deficiencies such as nail-pops, scuff marks, dents, dings, blemishes or issues due to normal wear and tear in wall, floor and ceiling surfaces and coverings, or in equipment; deficiencies relating to interior decorating; low voltage and gas lighting systems. Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not evaluate any areas or items which require moving stored items, furnishings, debris, equipment, floor coverings, insulation or similar materials. The inspector does not test for asbestos, lead, radon, mold, hazardous waste, urea formaldehyde urethane, or any other toxic substance. Some items such as window, drawer, cabinet door or closet door operability are tested on a sampled basis. The client should be aware that paint may obscure wall and ceiling defects, floor coverings may obscure floor defects, and furnishings may obscure wall, floor and floor covering defects. If furnishings were present during the inspection, recommend a full evaluation of walls, floors and ceilings that were previously obscured when possible. Determining the cause and/or source of odors is not within the scope of this inspection.
Exterior door material: Metal, wood, Glass panel
Type(s) of windows: Vinyl
Wall type or covering: Drywall
Ceiling type or covering: Drywall
Flooring type or covering: Wood or wood products, Tile
47) Condensation or staining was visible between multi-pane glass in one window in guest house bedroom. This usually indicates that the seal between the panes of glass has failed or that the desiccant material that absorbs moisture is saturated. As a result, the view through the window may be obscured, the window's R-value will be reduced, and accumulated condensation may leak into the wall structure below. Recommend that a qualified contractor evaluate and repair windows as necessary. Usually, this means replacing the glass in window frames.
Be aware that evidence of failed seals or desiccant may be more or less visible depending on the temperature, humidity, sunlight, etc. Windows or glass-paneled doors other than those that the inspector identified may also have failed seals and need glass replaced. It is beyond the scope of this inspection to identify every window with failed seals or desiccant.
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: overflow drains for tubs and sinks; heated towel racks, saunas, steam generators, clothes washers, clothes dryers. Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not determine the adequacy of washing machine drain lines, washing machine catch pan drain lines, or clothes dryer exhaust ducts. The inspector does not operate water supply or shut-off valves for sinks, toilets, bidets, clothes washers, etc. due to the possibility of valves leaking or breaking when operated. The inspector does not determine if shower pans or tub and shower enclosures are water tight, or determine the completeness or operability of any gas piping to laundry appliances.
Location #A: Full bathguest house
Location #B: Half bath, first floor
Location #C: Master bath, first floor
Location #D: Full bath, second floor
Location #E: Full bath, second floor
Condition of counters: Appeared serviceable
Condition of cabinets: Appeared serviceable
Condition of flooring: Appeared serviceable
48) The toilet at location(s) #A was loose where it attached to the floor. Leaks can occur. Flooring, the sub-floor or areas below may get damaged. Sewer gases can enter living spaces. Recommend that a qualified contractor remove the toilet(s) for further evaluation and repair if necessary. A new wax ring should be installed and toilet(s) should be securely anchored to the floor to prevent movement and leaking.
49) One sink drain was leaking at location(s) #C right side. A qualified person should repair as necessary.
Photo 49-1
50) One shower head at location(s) #C was damaged was dripping when the shower was turned on. Recommend that a licensed plumber repair as necessary.
Limitations: The following items or areas are not included in this inspection: areas that could not be traversed or viewed clearly due to lack of access; areas and components obscured by insulation. Any comments made regarding these items are made as a courtesy only. The inspector does not determine the adequacy of the attic ventilation system. Complete access to all roof and attic spaces during all seasons and during prolonged periods of all types of weather conditions (e.g. high/low temperatures, high/low humidity, high wind and rain, melting snow) would be needed to do so. The inspector is not a licensed engineer and does not determine the adequacy of roof structure components such as trusses, rafters or ceiling beams, or their spacing or sizing.
Attic inspection method: Traversed
Location of attic access point #A: hall at guest house
Location of attic access point #B: Hallway, second floor
Location of attic access point #C: Hallway, second floor
Location of attic access point #D: Bedroom closet, second floor
Attic access points that were opened and viewed, traversed or partially traversed: A, B, C, D
Condition of roof structure: Appeared serviceable
Roof structure type: Rafters
Ceiling structure: Ceiling joists
Condition of insulation in attic (ceiling, etc.): Appeared serviceable
52) One or more attic access hatches or doors had no weatherstripping, or the weatherstripping was substandard. Weatherstripping should be installed around hatches or doors as necessary to prevent heated interior air from entering the attic. For more information, visit: http://www.reporthost.com/?ATTACC
