1) The electric service was not turned on during the inspection. As a result, branch circuit wiring, fixtures such as lights and fans, switches, ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) devices, arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) devices, and some appliances such as boilers, forced air conditioning units, and kitchen appliances could not be evaluated. Recommend having a qualified electrician evaluate these items when the electric service is turned on, and make repairs as necessary.

2) Prior to purchase, recommend verifying the following with local municipal authorities: 1. The zoning of this property is in compliance with local authorities. 2. Permits and certificates of occupancy have been obtained to verify the conformance of the structure or any component of the structure to local ordinances. 3. All permits have been obtained and certificates of completion have been met for any upgrades made on this property.

3) A radon test has been ordered for this property and is in progress. The radon test results will be delivered to your attorney under separate cover when it becomes available.

4) Stairs with three or more risers have no handrail installed. This is a safety hazard. A qualified contractor should install graspable handrails at stairs where missing, as per standard building practices.

5) The siding material on the structure is engineered insulation finishing system (E.I.F.S.) siding. Damage and deterioration was found in many areas. Concealed damage may exist. No weep or venting screens were found at the base of siding or at windows or doors. Siding is in contact with the roof surface. Moisture will accumulate behind siding and can result in concealed damage and mold. Previous repairs have been made in some areas. A qualified contractor who specializes in this material should evaluate and make repairs or replace siding as necessary. This material should be evaluated annually in the future.

6) Leaks were found at the soffit at the right side of the structure. Water intrusion will result in concealed damage. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair as necessary.

7) The perimeter grading slopes towards the structure in one or more areas. This can result in water accumulating around the structure's foundation or in the basements or crawl space. Accumulated water is a conducive condition to wood destroying insects and organisms. Wet soil may also cause the foundation to settle and possibly fail over time. Recommend grading soil so it slopes down and away from the structure with a slope of at least 5% (10% or better is optimal) for at least 6 feet.

8) The saddle at the garage door is not properly supported. Continued movement will result in damage. Recommend repair.

9) Vegetation such as trees, shrubs and/or vines are in contact with or less than one foot from the structure's exterior. Vegetation can serve as a conduit for wood destroying insects and may retain moisture against the exterior after it rains. Vegetation should be pruned and/or removed as necessary to maintain a one foot clearance between it and the structure's exterior.

10) One downspout is routed behind siding materials. We were unable to locate the termination point. Recommend evaluation to determine the downspout terminates away from the structure.

11) The roof surface material is at the end of its intended service life. Evidence of water intrusion was found in multiple areas. The client should consult with a qualified roofing contractor to determine replacement options and cost estimates.

12) Rust or corrosion was found on the metal chimney cap. Continued deterioration will result in leaks. A chimney service contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as needed.

13) Debris has accumulated in one or more gutters. Gutters may overflow and cause water to come in contact with the structure's exterior or allow water to accumulate around the foundation. Gutters should be cleaned now and as necessary in the future.

14) Trees are overhanging roof and are within 10 feet of roof vertically. This is a conducive condition for wood destroying insects and organisms since organic debris such as leaves or needles are more likely to accumulate on the roof surface. Accumulated debris may cause water to enter gaps in the roof surface and leak into attic and/or interior spaces. Trees should be pruned so they are at least 10 feet above roof, or don't overhang the roof.

15) The garage-house door isn't equipped with an automatic closing device such as spring hinges. This door should close and latch automatically to prevent vehicle fumes from entering living spaces. A qualified contractor should install automatic closing devices, so this door closes and latches automatically.

16) The electric service panel and sub panel were serviceable at the time of the inspection.

17)  Main electric service switch.

18) One gas pipe in the laundry room is not properly capped or terminated. This presents a potential safety hazard. Recommend repair by a plumber.

19) The well should be evaluated by a well service contractor.

20)  Main water shut-off valve.

21) The water heater was serviceable at the time of the inspection.

22) The water heater was serviceable at the time of the inspection.

23) The estimated useful life for gas fired boilers is 20 to 25 years. This boiler appears to be at this age and may need replacing at any time. Recommend budgeting for a replacement in the near future.

24) The estimated useful life for air conditioning compressors is 12 to 15 years. This unit is at this age and may need replacing at any time. Recommend budgeting for a replacement in the near future.

25) The estimated useful life for air conditioning air handlers is 20 years. This unit has exceeded this age and may need replacing at any time. Recommend budgeting for a replacement in the near future.

26) The filter for the cooling system is located at the base of the air handler. This filter should be replaced every 4 to 6 weeks during the cooling season.

27) The heating and cooling system could not be evaluated due to the electric service being turned off.

28) The condensate drain for the air handler is routed to plumbing vent pipes. This is a safety hazard as sewer gases are entering the attic spaces. A qualified heating and cooling contractor should evaluate and route condensate drains to the exterior, or to drains with proper wet traps.

29) The estimated useful life for air conditioning compressors is 12 to 15 years. This unit is at this age and may need replacing at any time. Recommend budgeting for a replacement in the near future.

30) The filter for the cooling system is located at the return air vent in the hall ceiling. This filter should be replaced every 4 to 6 weeks during the cooling season.

31)  The cooling system could not be evaluated due to the electric service being turned off.

32) What appears to be mold was found on floor joist, beams and subflooring in multiple areas of the basement. Mold is a known health hazard. A mold remediation contractor should evaluate and remediate as necessary.

33) Damage from termites was found at rim joist at the right rear section of the basement. A qualified pest control contractor should evaluate and treat the structure for termites. All damaged materials should be replaced. See the NPMA-33 form for more details.

34) Standing water and/or wet areas were found in multiple sections of the basement (left rear, water service closet, right front). Accumulated water is a conducive condition for wood destroying insects and organisms and should not be present in the basement. A qualified contractor who specializes in drainage issues should evaluate and repair as necessary. Typical repairs for preventing water from accumulating in the basement 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 the basement, but if water must be controlled after it enters the basement, then typical repairs include installing sump pumps or interior perimeter drains.

35) Active water intrusion was found at floor joist, rim joist and subflooring at the right rear section of the basement. Concealed damage is likely. A qualified contractor should evaluate and make repairs as necessary, replacing all damaged materials.

36) Active water intrusion was found at floor joist, rim joist and subflooring at the right section of the basement. Concealed damage is likely. A qualified contractor should evaluate and make repairs as necessary, replacing all damaged materials.

37) Damage from ongoing water intrusion was found at floor joist and rim joist in the crawlspace. This appears to be due to damaged siding materials. Concealed damage is likely. A qualified contractor should evaluate and make repairs as necessary, replacing all damaged materials.

38) Staining from ongoing water intrusion was found in multiple sections of the crawlspace. Accumulated water is a conducive condition for wood destroying insects and organisms and should not be present in the crawlspace. A qualified contractor who specializes in drainage issues should evaluate and repair as necessary. Typical repairs for preventing water from accumulating 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 the crawlspace, but if water must be controlled after it enters, then typical repairs include installing sump pumps or interior perimeter drains.

39) Two roof rafters are cracked or damaged. This is a structural concern especially when snow loads are applied. A qualified contractor that specializes in structural repairs should evaluate and make repairs as necessary. One acceptable repair is to "sister" new rafters of equal size to the damaged rafters.

40) Wire splices for one exhaust fan are exposed and not in a covered junction box. This is a safety hazard due to the risk of shock and fire. A qualified electrician should evaluate and make repairs as necessary.

41) Evidence of "heavy" rodent infestation was found in one or more areas. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) defines this as more than 20 feces per square foot. Rodent infestation may be a safety hazard due to the risk of contracting Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS). HPS is a rare (only 20-50 cases per year in the United states) but deadly (40% mortality rate) disease transmitted by infected rodents through urine, droppings, or saliva. Humans can contract the disease when they breathe in aerosolized virus. For example, from sweeping up rodent droppings.

Because this infestation is "heavy", recommend that the clients consult with a qualified pest control operator for extermination services. Also recommend consulting with a qualified, licensed abatement contractor or industrial hygenist for clean up of rodent waste and nesting materials. All damaged materials should be replaced.

42) Evidence of squirrel infestation was found in the attic space. Vermin can cause considerable damage to building components, and may present a safety hazard. A qualified pest control contractor should trap and remove any vermin, seal any points of entry, and replace all damaged building materials.

43) Staining from ongoing water intrusion was found on roof sheathing in multiple areas. A roofing contractor should evalaute and repair or replace roof covering as needed to prevent water intrusion.

44) Bathroom exhaust fans have ducts that terminate in the attic. This will lead to increased moisture levels in the attic from the exhaust air. A qualified contractor should install ducts and vent caps so exhaust air is vented outside.

45) Two attic exhaust fans are inoperable. This will lead to excessive high temperatures during the summer months and reduced air circulation. A qualified contractor should replace both attic fans.

46) Balusters on guardrails on stairs and upper hallway are loose and installed in a substandard manner. This presents a safety hazard especially for children and pets. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace balusters as necessary.

47) Stains and damage from ongoing water intrusion was found at the transom window above the rear kitchen sliding doors. A qualified contractor should evaluate and make repairs as necessary to eliminate water intrusion. All damaged materials should be replaced.

48) Wood flooring is damaged and cupping at the rear kitchen sliding door. This appears to be due to water intrusion. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair as necessary to eliminate water intrusion. Damaged flooring should be repaired or replaced.

49) The sash spring mechanisms in one window in the front center bedroom are broken or loose. A qualified contractor should make repairs so the windows operate as intended (open easily, stay open without support, close easily).

50) Seals between double-pane glass in one living room window appears to have failed based on condensation or stains between the panes of glass. A qualified contractor should evaluate and replace glass where necessary.

The client should be aware that evidence of broken seals may be more or less visible from one day to the next depending on the temperature, humidity and sunlight. Windows or glass doors other than those identified may also have failed seals and need glass replaced too.

51) The deadbolt mechanism on the front entry door is damaged or inoperable. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair as necessary.

52) Lock mechanisms on two windows in the upper left room are missing and/or inoperable. Repairs should be made so that windows lock and unlock as intended.

53) The sink has no hot water supply. Recommend evaluation and repair by a plumbing contractor.

54) The sink drain uses flexible drain pipe. This type of drain pipe is more likely to clog than smooth wall pipe. Recommend having this pipe replaced with standard plumbing components (smooth wall pipe) to prevent clogged drains.

55) The door binds in the jamb and is difficult to open and close. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair by adjusting jambs or trimming doors.

56) The shower glass door makes contact with the vanity top. This will result in damage. Recommend having repairs made to eliminate contact.

57) Active leaks were found at the tub spout. Water intrusion into the wall cavity may occur. A plumbing contractor should evaluate and repair.

58) The shower pan is improperly installed so that water accumulates in the pan rather than draining. Leaks may occur as a result. Mold or mildew growth will occur due to ongoing standing water. A qualified contractor should evaluate and make repairs as needed.

59) The tub faucet is loose. Continued movement will result in damage or leaks. Recommend repair by a plumbing contractor.

60) The door stopper for the glass doors needs adjustment or repair.

61) The fireplace is equipped with a gas burner and has a damper that can be closed. This is a safety hazard due to the possibility of burner or pilot light exhaust gases entering living spaces. A qualified chimney service contractor should make repairs as necessary so the damper is made permanently open. Typically a bracket or bolt is installed for this purpose.

62) The gas fireplace did not respond when the controls were operated. As a result, this appliance was not fully evaluated. Recommend having a gas appliance contractor evaluate and make repairs as necessary.

63)  INSPECTION REPORT - PART A


Explanations/Disclaimers/Maintenance

The home inspection report consists of two parts, Part A and Part B. This is Part A of the home inspection report. The reports should be read in their entirety and cannot be interpreted separately.

Prior to purchase, recommend verifying the following with local municipal authorities:
• The zoning of this property is in compliance with local authorities
• Permits and certificates of occupancy have been obtained to verify the conformance of the structure or any component of the structure to local ordinances
• All permits have been obtained and certificates of completion have been met for any upgrades made on this property

At your request, and in your presence or the presence of your representative, a visual inspection of the referenced property was conducted. This inspection report reflects the visual conditions of the property at the time of the inspection only. Hidden or concealed defects cannot be included in this report. No warranty is either expressed or implied. This report is not an insurance policy, nor a warranty service.

The Inspection will be performed in a manner consistent and governed by the New Jersey Administrative Code contained at N.J.A.C. 13:40-15.16 Standards of practice, and the agreed upon Pre-inspection agreement. The Standards of Practice and the Pre-inspection Agreement contain more detailed information about a home inspection, including limitations and exclusions.
Visit this link for details of the Standards of Practice:
https://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/regulations/Chapter-40-Subchapter-15-Home-Inspection-Advisory-Committee.pdf

An earnest effort was made on your behalf to discover all visible defects, however, in the event of an oversight, maximum liability must be limited to the fee paid. Part B is an opinion report, expressed as a result of the inspection. Recommend obtaining estimates for upgrades and or repairs of all deficient areas cited in the report. In the event recommendations are not followed, Accredited Home Inspection is released from any, and all, responsibilities. Please take time to review limitations contained in the pre-inspection agreement.

Photographs provided in the Home Inspection Report may be reflective of one defect and/or deficiency and are not inclusive of all effected areas. Photographs are used as an illustration only.

GROUNDS: This inspection is not intended to address or include any geographical conditions or site stability information. For information concerning these conditions, a geologist or soils engineer should be consulted. Any reference to grade is limited to only areas around the exterior of the exposed areas of foundation or exterior walls. Roof and surface water must be controlled to maintain a dry basement or crawlspace. This means keeping gutters cleaned and properly aligned; extending down spouts away from the foundation; and building up the grade so that roof and surface water are diverted away from the building. This inspection is visual in nature and does not attempt to determine drainage performance of the site or the condition of any underground piping, including municipal water and sewer service piping or septic system particularly during severe weather conditions. Decks and porches are often built close to ground, where no viewing or access is possible. These areas as well as others too low to enter, or in some other manner not accessible, are excluded from the inspection and are not addressed in the report. It is recommended that the purchaser determine if any underground storage tanks are on the property. This may be determined from a tank location test or tank sweep, performed by a tank location testing or tank sweep contractor. Knowledge of any prior foundation or structural repairs should also be determined prior to purchase as well as the possibility of other abandoned/buried objects such as in ground pools and old septic tanks. Recommend verifying with municipal authorities if any of these may be on the property.

EXTERIOR, FOUNDATION: The Inspection Report is an opinion based on the inspection of the visual portion of the exterior. Most exterior wood surfaces do require some kind of finish, unless the material being used is of very high quality; such as cedar, pressure treated wood, or redwood. This inspection does not attempt to determine the quality of such finishes. All surfaces of untreated wood need regular applications of oil-based paint or special chemicals to resist rot. Concerning foundations, minor cracks are typical in many foundations, and most do not represent a structural problem. If minor cracks are present along with bowing, it is recommended that further evaluation be made by a licensed structural engineer. All exterior grades should allow for surface and roof water to flow away from foundation. All concrete floor slabs experience some degree of cracking due to shrinkage in the drying process. In most instances, floor coverings prevent recognition of cracks or settlement in all but the most severe cases. Where carpeting and other floor coverings are installed, the materials and condition of the flooring underneath cannot be determined. Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) are required in all damp or wet locations, such as exterior locations. GFCI’s should be tested monthly to insure proper operation.

ROOFS: The Inspection Report is an opinion of the general quality and condition of the roofing material. The inspector cannot and does not offer any opinion or warranty as to whether the roof leaks or may be subject to future leakage. The only way to determine whether a roof is absolutely watertight is to observe it during heavy and/or prolonged period of rainfall. Many times, this situation is not present during the inspection. Many roofs are hazardous to walk on and in most cases can be satisfactorily inspected from the ground with binoculars or from a window above with a good view of the roof. Accordingly, unless noted otherwise, the inspector has based the report of the roof on visible evidence which could be seen without walking on the roof. A roof which is stated to be in serviceable condition may show evidence of past or present leaks that can be seen in the attic or other areas of the house. Repairs may be made to these roofs and give satisfactory service. It is recommended that gutters be installed and kept clean to protect the structure below. It is recommended that a licensed and insured roofing specialist be obtained for any roof upgrades or repairs. It is recommended the client/homeowner have the roof system evaluated annually by a licensed and qualified roofing contractor, and repairs and/or replacement made as necessary.

GARAGE: Determining the heat resistance rating of firewalls is beyond the scope of this inspection. For your safety, flammable materials such as gasoline cans or propane tanks should not be stored within closed garage areas. It is recommended that they be stored out in open areas or behind detached sheds or garages. Volatile fume accumulation is possible in enclosed areas.

ATTIC: Minor stains from condensation may be noted, but the attic area should be monitored to determine if corrective action is needed in the future. Buyers are encouraged to ask the sellers about any roof leaks. Very often, minor leaks are noted, that appear to have been repaired in the past. Active leaks can occur at anytime regardless of the age and condition of the roof covering. Monitoring this area after heavy rain and heavy snow conditions is advised. Annual inspections by a qualified contractor are recommended as part of general home maintenance.

ELECTRIC: Any electrical repairs to the home should be performed by a licensed and insured electrician. Aluminum wiring requires periodic maintenance by a licensed and insured electrician. Operation of time clock motors is not verified. Inoperative light fixtures often lack bulbs or have dead bulbs installed. Light bulbs are not changed during the inspection, due to time constraints and inaccessibility. Smoke alarms should generally be installed and tested regularly. Smoke alarms are not tested during the inspection. Contact the local fire safety inspector for proper location and operation in your community.
If young children will be living in or visiting the home, it is recommended that a licensed electrician upgrade household receptacles to Tamper Resistant Receptacles (TRR). These receptacles have spring-loaded shutters that help prevent foreign objects from being inserted into the receptacles. Tamper- resistant receptacles are an important next step to making the home a safer place for children.

HEATING, VENTILATION, AIR CONDITIONING: Some furnaces are designed or installed in such a way that the inspection is extremely limited. The inspector cannot and does not light pilot lights. Safety devices are not tested. It is recommended that both a smoke alarm and a carbon monoxide detector be located in the furnace area as well as at each floor level for safety of all occupants. We recommend you contact the fire official for the municipality of the home for an inspection and proper location of smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers. Thermostats are not tested for calibration or timed function. Adequacy, efficiency, or the even distribution of air, heated or cooled, throughout a building, cannot be addressed by a visual inspection. Pressure test on coolant systems are not made, therefore no representation is made regarding coolant charge or line integrity. Subjective judgment of system capacity is not a part of the inspection.
Normal service and maintenance is recommended on an annual basis. Recommend contacting a licensed and insured HVAC contractor (heating, ventilation, air condition) for any repairs and or upgrades. As part of general home maintenance, we recommend having a qualified heating and cooling contractor inspect, clean, and service the heating and air conditioning system annually, and make repairs as necessary.
If your heating and/or cooling system uses disposable 1” filters, they should be replaced every 4 to 6 weeks.

PLUMBING: There is always a possibility of future drain blockages and new leaks, which did not exist or were not evident at the time of the inspection.
DRINKING WATER: It is suggested that as normal practice let water run for 45 seconds or more before drinking or using for general use if the system has been dormant for several hours. This is applicable to all types of water systems. Recently, The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) cited lead as one of the most common and potentially dangerous drinking water contaminants in the United States. Recommend the water be tested for lead if any of the following conditions exist in the building: Copper piping is noted; the building was constructed prior to 1986; Plumbers may have used lead-based solder since 1986. It is recommended by the EPA that the water be run for a minimum of five minutes in the morning and after the water has not been used for a period of six hours or longer. In addition, hot water should not be used for cooking or drinking. An alternative recommended by professionals is to install an under-sink water filter or use bottled water for cooking and drinking. Water quality or hazardous materials (lead) testing is available from licensed local testing labs. All underground piping related to water supply, waste, or sprinkler use are excluded from this inspection. Leakage or corrosion in underground piping cannot be detected by a visual inspection.

LAUNDRY: The continued operation of all major appliances is dependent on many internal factors that cannot be measured by a visual inspection. Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) are required in all damp or wet locations, such as in laundry rooms. GFCI’s should be tested monthly to insure proper operation. Laundry appliances are generally not tested or moved during the inspection and the condition of any walls or flooring hidden by them cannot be judged. Drain lines and water supply valves may be subject to leaking if turned on. Any appliance testing done is performed as a courtesy and should not be considered as “Technically Exhaustive”. Recommend obtaining any available appliance operation manuals prior to closing. Appliances should be evaluated and tested as part of the buyer’s final walkthrough, prior to closing.

BASEMENT AND CRAWLSPACES: Basement dampness is frequently noted in houses and the conditions which cause it are usually determined by the inspection, unless the evidence has been concealed by recent painting, inaccessible areas, lack of recent rainfall, finished surfaces or extensive storage in this area. Areas hidden from view by finished walls cannot be judged and are not part of this inspection. The probability of dampness and/or seepage of some level exists in every house because of the nature of its below grade location. Minor cracks are typical in many foundations and most do not represent a structural problem. When recommended to repair or monitor cracks, the cracks should be repaired by a qualified contractor and the walls monitored for further movement and cracking. If major cracks are present along with bowing, it is recommended further evaluation be made by a licensed and insured structural engineer. Full evaluation of water penetration into basement/crawl spaces is often not fully possible until there is a surface or underground water condition affecting this area due to wet/extreme weather conditions or seasonal high-water tables.
Most basements and crawlspaces experience water intrusion from time to time. Basements and/or crawlspaces must be monitored in the future for accumulated water, especially after heavy and/or prolonged periods of rain. Typical repairs for preventing water from accumulating in the basement 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.
If water enters the basement or crawlspace, it can be controlled by installing sump pumps and/or interior perimeter drains. Because site and ground conditions change over time it is recommended that all areas of basements and/or crawlspaces be evaluated annually by a qualified contractor, and repairs or modifications made as necessary.

FIREPLACES/WOODSTOVES/CHIMNEYS: Due to the concealed nature of fireplaces, wood stoves, chimneys, and chimney flues it is impossible for a home inspection to determine with any degree of certainty whether the fireplace or flue is free from defects. The National Fire Prevention Association recommends having all chimneys inspected before buying a home. Recommend having a Certified Chimney Specialist conduct a Level II inspection of the chimney flue prior to purchase. Refer to: https://www.csia.org/ to locate a specialist near you. A Level II inspection is very comprehensive and can better determine the condition of the flue than can a limited generalist inspection or a Level I chimney inspection. Our inspection is that of a generalist, not a specialist, and meets industry standards. However, significant areas of fireplaces, wood stoves and chimney flues cannot be adequately viewed during a home inspection, and it should not be expected that the distant oblique view from the top or bottom is adequate to fully document damage even with a strong light. Therefore, because our inspection of fireplaces, wood stoves and chimney flues is limited to those areas that can be viewed without dismantling any portion of them, and does not include the use of specialized equipment, we will not guarantee their integrity and we recommend that they be video-scanned prior to purchase. All fireplaces should be cleaned and inspected annually to make sure that no cracks or damage has developed. Large fires in the firebox can overheat the firebox and flue liners, sometimes resulting in internal damage.

INTERIOR: Most small cracks in interior walls and ceilings are minor and should be considered as cosmetic flaws. Nail pops are due to normal expansion and contraction of the wood beneath the drywall or plaster material. These pops or imperfections are of no structural significance. Repairs include patching, caulking, and refinishing. No effort was made to move furniture or other obstructions which are sometimes present and restrict viewing of interior areas. The condition of walls behind wall coverings, paneling and furnishings cannot be judged. Only the general condition of visible portions of floors is included in this inspection. As a general rule, cosmetic deficiencies are considered normal wear and tear and are not reported. Determining the source of odors or like conditions is not a part of this inspection. Floor covering damage or stain may be hidden behind furniture. The condition of floors underlying floor coverings is not inspected. Determining the condition of insulated glass windows is not always possible due to temperature, weather, and lighting conditions. State law requires all homes have carbon monoxide detectors. Verify they are installed as per local municipality specifications. It is recommended that carbon monoxide detectors be placed at each level and adjacent to combustible gas appliances, such as furnaces, water heaters etc.
Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) are required in all damp or wet locations, such as: on all kitchen counters; bathrooms; laundry rooms; garages and utility rooms. GFCI’s should be tested monthly to insure proper operation.

KITCHEN: The continued operation of all major appliances is dependent on many internal factors which cannot be measured by a visual inspection. Dishwashers are generally not tested unless all connections are visible for inspection. Recommend having the dishwasher tested during the final walkthrough prior to closing. Drain lines and water supply valves may be subject to leaking if turned on. Any appliance testing done is performed as a courtesy and should not be considered as “Technically Exhaustive”. Recommend obtaining any available appliance operation manuals prior to closing.

BATHROOMS: Excessive moisture and/or mold may accumulate in bathrooms due to inadequate or improperly used ventilation. It is strongly advised that if exhaust fans are in place, use them. If no exhaust fans are present, we recommend installation of exhaust fans for proper ventilation. All bathroom exhaust fans should have ducts that terminate to the building’s exterior. Shower pans and tub enclosures are visually checked for leakage, but leaks often are not evident or visible. Minor imperfections or deteriorated grout and caulk can allow water to get into the wall or floor area and cause damage. Proper ongoing evaluation and maintenance is required and recommended in all bathrooms.

LEAD: Homes built before 1978 may have been painted with lead-based paint. As of that date, the manufacture of lead-based paint was banned in the U.S. The main concern with lead is that exposure can harm young children, babies, and even unborn children. People can get lead in their bodies by breathing or swallowing lead dust or by eating soil or paint chips with lead in them. If you think you may have lead hazards, contact the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency at https://www.epa.gov/lead or The National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-5323.

ASBESTOS: A home inspection does not evaluate for the presence of asbestos. Asbestos materials were often used in building material until the 1970's. The danger is that over time; damaged asbestos may release asbestos fibers that present a health hazard. People exposed to high levels of asbestos fibers have an increased risk of cancer and asbestosis. Asbestos fibers may be found in some homes in fibers in pipe and duct insulation, resilient floor tiles, cement sheeting and shingles, soundproofing, joint compounds and many fireproof or fire-resistant materials. This material should be tested by licensed and insured asbestos testing contractor or laboratory. If you think you may have asbestos hazards, consult the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency at https://www.epa.gov/asbestos

CARBON MONOXIDE: CO should be a concern for all homeowners. It is a silent killer because it is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. Most CO problems are caused by poor maintenance or improper use of fuel-burning equipment such as heating furnaces, boilers, gas dryers and stoves. It is recommended the homeowner have all gas burning appliances serviced annually. The symptoms of CO poisoning are similar to the flu without fever, dizziness, nausea fatigue, headache and irregular breathing. Protect house inhabitants with CO detectors. Contact local authorities for the required locations and proper installation of these detectors.

CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS: State law now requires all homes have a Carbon Monoxide detector. Verify they are installed as per local municipality specifications. It is recommended that Carbon Monoxide detectors be placed at each level and adjacent to combustible gas appliances such as furnaces water heaters etc.

MOLD: A home inspection does not determine or evaluate for the presence of mold. Mold is a known health hazard. Mold spores need water to grow. In most instances, mold problems occur when there is excess water. Mold problems in a bathroom resulting from steam can be controlled by using a bathroom exhaust fan that discharges to the exterior of the structure.
When a mold problem exists, it is recommended that the building be inspected in order to identify the source. Once the problem has been identified and corrected, mold remediation should be performed by a mold remediation contractor. For more information refer to: https://www.nj.gov/health/ceohs/environmental-occupational/mold/