(203) 515-6622
24 Huntington Court
Bethel CT 06801
Bethel CT 06801
Inspector: Thomas Schlotter
Summary
| Client(s): | Donna Roberts |
| Property address: | 91 Foxton Road Unit 3 Norwalk, CT |
| Inspection date: | Tuesday, October 28, 2014 |
This report published on Wednesday, October 4, 2023 9:07:03 PM EDT
IMPORTANT - This is not the complete inspection report but a summary. The concerns listed here are either safety issues or are, in my opinion, concerns more likely to be of a higher priority and/or that require more immediate attention. This summary does not comprise a complete list of all defects found during the inspection. IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT YOU READ THE COMPLETE INSPECTION REPORT IN ITS ENTIRETY.
 | Safety | Poses a risk of injury or death. Have the appropriate contractor evaluate and correct the defect at once. |
 | Repair / Replace | Item or component broken or not functioning as intended, or is in need of immediate attention to prevent further damage / deterioration.. Need further inspection by a specialist to determine if repair is possible or replacement is needed. |
 | Upgrade / Repair / Replace | Recommend improvement, upgrading, repairing, or replacing. |
 | Maintain | Recommend maintenance / repair, or will need ongoing maintenance / repair. |
 | Evaluate | Recommend evaluation by a specialist before purchasing the home. Client to assess information and determine personal level of concern. Make any repairs or replacements as suggested or needed. |
 | Monitor | Possible defect - check this at least monthly for any change or deterioration in condition. Have appropriate contractor repair or replace as needed. |
 | Comment | For your information |
Possible Environmental Hazards
2) Copper water supply pipes in buildings built prior to 1986 may be joined with solder that contains lead. Lead is a known health hazard, especially for children. Laws were passed in 1985 prohibiting the use of lead in solder, but prior to that solder normally contained about 50 percent lead. The client should be aware of this, especially if children will be living in this structure. Evaluating for the presence of lead in this structure is not included in this inspection. The client should consider having a qualified lab test the water in the house for lead, and if necessary take steps to reduce or remove lead from the water supply. Go to http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead/index.html for more info.
Could not test for radon gas - home did not not meet EPA testing guidelines on the day of inspection (windows were open, home was aired-out). Test results would not have been valid or accurate.
Radon is an odorless radioactive gas listed by the EPA as being the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. EPA recommends that you conduct a radon test anytime you buy a home, and I highly recommend you have a radon in air test done. Radon gas may or may not exist in this home. Go to www.epa.gov/radon for more details.
Copper water supply pipes in buildings built prior to 1986 may be joined with solder that contains lead. Lead is a known health hazard, especially for children. Laws were passed in 1985 prohibiting the use of lead in solder, but prior to that solder normally contained about 50 percent lead. The client should be aware of this, especially if children will be living in this structure. Evaluating for the presence of lead in this structure is not included in this inspection. The client should consider having a qualified lab test the water in the house for lead, and if necessary take steps to reduce or remove lead from the water supply. Go to http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead/index.html for more info.Could not test for radon gas - home did not not meet EPA testing guidelines on the day of inspection (windows were open, home was aired-out). Test results would not have been valid or accurate.
Radon is an odorless radioactive gas listed by the EPA as being the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. EPA recommends that you conduct a radon test anytime you buy a home, and I highly recommend you have a radon in air test done. Radon gas may or may not exist in this home. Go to www.epa.gov/radon for more details.
Exterior
3) No joist hangars noted under deck / porch, should be added. Joist hangers are metal fasteners used to support the joist under the deck where it connects with the beam or perimeter joist. They serve to insure that the weight of the joist bears properly on the beam. A joist hanger is a piece of sheet metal that is flat on the bottom, to cradle the joist, and twisted on each of its sides so it also sits flat against the beam. The hanger is then nailed to the beam. Toe nailing is a common way of connecting a joist to a beam but not as sturdy. When the joist is toe-nailed, the nail is driven at about a 45-degree angle through the side of the joist end, into the beam. This can be unreliable if done incorrectly because the structural load will not bear properly on the nail, leading to eventual separation of the junction.
Boards on the deck show rot, cracks, checking, or other damage and need replacement.
Wood trim at deck loose, needs repair.
One or more deck or porch joists were not positively secured to the support beam(s) below. Decks and porches are subject to movement under live loads and require a positive connection (not "toenailing" with nails) between their joists and beams. Usually metal post-to-beam attachments are tacked on for added strength.
One or more deck or porch beams were not positively secured to the support posts below. Decks and porches are subject to movement under live loads and require a positive connection (not "toenailing" with nails) between their support posts and beams. Recommend that a qualified contractor repair per standard building practices. Usually metal post-to-beam attachments are installed for added strength.
Flashing cannot be seen above the porch / deck ledger board, it may or may not exist. Recommend having a carpenter evaluate and install flashing above ledger board as needed to prevent water from entering the space from behind the board and causing rot. Go to http://www.decks.com/article28.aspx for more info.
http://www.nachi.org/gallery/thumbs/lrg-732-ledger-flashing-3d-notext.jpg
Consider upgrading your deck and/or porch support posts to a larger size. The American Wood Council recommends using 6x6 posts for decks because they are more resistant to bowing. These posts appear to be smaller than 6x6. Replace as needed.
No joist hangars noted under deck / porch, should be added. Joist hangers are metal fasteners used to support the joist under the deck where it connects with the beam or perimeter joist. They serve to insure that the weight of the joist bears properly on the beam. A joist hanger is a piece of sheet metal that is flat on the bottom, to cradle the joist, and twisted on each of its sides so it also sits flat against the beam. The hanger is then nailed to the beam. Toe nailing is a common way of connecting a joist to a beam but not as sturdy. When the joist is toe-nailed, the nail is driven at about a 45-degree angle through the side of the joist end, into the beam. This can be unreliable if done incorrectly because the structural load will not bear properly on the nail, leading to eventual separation of the junction.Boards on the deck show rot, cracks, checking, or other damage and need replacement.
Wood trim at deck loose, needs repair.
One or more deck or porch joists were not positively secured to the support beam(s) below. Decks and porches are subject to movement under live loads and require a positive connection (not "toenailing" with nails) between their joists and beams. Usually metal post-to-beam attachments are tacked on for added strength.
One or more deck or porch beams were not positively secured to the support posts below. Decks and porches are subject to movement under live loads and require a positive connection (not "toenailing" with nails) between their support posts and beams. Recommend that a qualified contractor repair per standard building practices. Usually metal post-to-beam attachments are installed for added strength.
Flashing cannot be seen above the porch / deck ledger board, it may or may not exist. Recommend having a carpenter evaluate and install flashing above ledger board as needed to prevent water from entering the space from behind the board and causing rot. Go to http://www.decks.com/article28.aspx for more info.
http://www.nachi.org/gallery/thumbs/lrg-732-ledger-flashing-3d-notext.jpg
Consider upgrading your deck and/or porch support posts to a larger size. The American Wood Council recommends using 6x6 posts for decks because they are more resistant to bowing. These posts appear to be smaller than 6x6. Replace as needed.
Main Electrical Service
12) Noted one or more electric outlets with an open ground at the dining room, needs repair by a licensed electrician for safety. http://www.thecircuitdetective.com/insp.htm for more info.
Noted one or more electric outlets with an open ground at the dining room, needs repair by a licensed electrician for safety. http://www.thecircuitdetective.com/insp.htm for more info.
13) Exposed or loose electrical wire(s) noted at kitchen, needs to be corrected for safety. Recommend having a licensed electrician evaluate and correct as needed.
Exposed or loose electrical wire(s) noted at kitchen, needs to be corrected for safety. Recommend having a licensed electrician evaluate and correct as needed.
14) Noted loose outlets at first floor bathroom needs to be corrected for safety.
Noted loose outlets at first floor bathroom needs to be corrected for safety.
15) Cover plate for light switch in second floor hall bath does not completely cover the wires, correct for safety.
Cover plate for light switch in second floor hall bath does not completely cover the wires, correct for safety.
17) The electrical meter and main disconnect switch for this unit are not labeled or marked, no way to ascertain what the amperage is. Recommend asking the condo association, or you can have an electrician evaluate as needed.
Since the switches are unmarked the amperage of the unit is unknown. My best guess is 150AMPS but this should be verified by the association or an electrician.
No ground wire could be located leading from the electrical panel to a water main or exterior ground rod. This is common in condo units, the ground may be located in a common area or utility closet in another location. Ask the condo association or an electrician to ascertain its location and confirm that the ground is installed and connected properly.
The electrical meter and main disconnect switch for this unit are not labeled or marked, no way to ascertain what the amperage is. Recommend asking the condo association, or you can have an electrician evaluate as needed.Since the switches are unmarked the amperage of the unit is unknown. My best guess is 150AMPS but this should be verified by the association or an electrician.
No ground wire could be located leading from the electrical panel to a water main or exterior ground rod. This is common in condo units, the ground may be located in a common area or utility closet in another location. Ask the condo association or an electrician to ascertain its location and confirm that the ground is installed and connected properly.
Plumbing and Laundry
20) Could not find water meter, main water shut-off valve. Should be located. Contact water company for further information.
Could not find water meter, main water shut-off valve. Should be located. Contact water company for further information.
21) Could not determine if the dryer vent actually goes to the exterior. It should be investigated, if not vented to the exterior it should be corrected.
Noted vents at front exterior wall, could be for dryer.
Could not determine if the dryer vent actually goes to the exterior. It should be investigated, if not vented to the exterior it should be corrected.Noted vents at front exterior wall, could be for dryer.
Heating and Air Conditioning
22) The electrical disconnect at the exterior cooling compressor at the front exterior is missing a safety plate or a lock - electrical wires are exposed. Have cooling contractor add for safety.
The electrical disconnect at the exterior cooling compressor at the front exterior is missing a safety plate or a lock - electrical wires are exposed. Have cooling contractor add for safety.
Fireplaces and Wood Stoves
26) Interior of chimneys and flues cannot be seen by the inspector. I always recommend that all fuel burning apparatus (fireplaces, wood stoves, furnaces, boilers) have their chimneys evaluated and cleaned by a qualified chimney service contractor. You should also do this on an annual basis. Any damage, deterioration, or build-up of soot or creosote could cause flues and chimneys not to vent properly or become a possible fire hazard.
Interior of chimneys and flues cannot be seen by the inspector. I always recommend that all fuel burning apparatus (fireplaces, wood stoves, furnaces, boilers) have their chimneys evaluated and cleaned by a qualified chimney service contractor. You should also do this on an annual basis. Any damage, deterioration, or build-up of soot or creosote could cause flues and chimneys not to vent properly or become a possible fire hazard.
Bathroom 2
30) A cross-connection is present when there is a possibility that the potable drinking water could mix with the non-potable wastewater. The most common occurrence is when the pressure in the supply system changes or is turned off and dirty water is drawn into the supply system. Some examples: a garden hose resting on the ground while connected to a spigot, a faucet outlet or spout below the rim or upper-most level of a sink or tub, when a sink or bathtub with a sprayer or shower head has a hose that falls below the rim and could allow contaminated water to be drawn into the supply piping, or a toilet where the water supply line becomes detached and falls below the water level or drain overflow tube. The water in the tank may be drawn into the supply line if the pressure goes off.
Conditions have to be just right for these problems to occur, but they are possible. Recommend plumber evaluate the system and make any repairs as needed.
http://www.watts.com/pro/divisions/backflowprevention/learnabout/learnabout_usc.asp#laundry
A cross-connection is present when there is a possibility that the potable drinking water could mix with the non-potable wastewater. The most common occurrence is when the pressure in the supply system changes or is turned off and dirty water is drawn into the supply system. Some examples: a garden hose resting on the ground while connected to a spigot, a faucet outlet or spout below the rim or upper-most level of a sink or tub, when a sink or bathtub with a sprayer or shower head has a hose that falls below the rim and could allow contaminated water to be drawn into the supply piping, or a toilet where the water supply line becomes detached and falls below the water level or drain overflow tube. The water in the tank may be drawn into the supply line if the pressure goes off. Conditions have to be just right for these problems to occur, but they are possible. Recommend plumber evaluate the system and make any repairs as needed.
http://www.watts.com/pro/divisions/backflowprevention/learnabout/learnabout_usc.asp#laundry
33) When you move in and it is empty check to make sure that the cabinet over the toilet is properly secured to the wall.
When you move in and it is empty check to make sure that the cabinet over the toilet is properly secured to the wall.
Bathroom 3
34) A cross-connection is present when there is a possibility that the potable drinking water could mix with the non-potable wastewater. The most common occurrence is when the pressure in the supply system changes or is turned off and dirty water is drawn into the supply system. Some examples: a garden hose resting on the ground while connected to a spigot, a faucet outlet or spout below the rim or upper-most level of a sink or tub, when a sink or bathtub with a sprayer or shower head has a hose that falls below the rim and could allow contaminated water to be drawn into the supply piping, or a toilet where the water supply line becomes detached and falls below the water level or drain overflow tube. The water in the tank may be drawn into the supply line if the pressure goes off.
Conditions have to be just right for these problems to occur, but they are possible. Recommend plumber evaluate the system and make any repairs as needed.
http://www.watts.com/pro/divisions/backflowprevention/learnabout/learnabout_usc.asp#laundry
A cross-connection is present when there is a possibility that the potable drinking water could mix with the non-potable wastewater. The most common occurrence is when the pressure in the supply system changes or is turned off and dirty water is drawn into the supply system. Some examples: a garden hose resting on the ground while connected to a spigot, a faucet outlet or spout below the rim or upper-most level of a sink or tub, when a sink or bathtub with a sprayer or shower head has a hose that falls below the rim and could allow contaminated water to be drawn into the supply piping, or a toilet where the water supply line becomes detached and falls below the water level or drain overflow tube. The water in the tank may be drawn into the supply line if the pressure goes off. Conditions have to be just right for these problems to occur, but they are possible. Recommend plumber evaluate the system and make any repairs as needed.
http://www.watts.com/pro/divisions/backflowprevention/learnabout/learnabout_usc.asp#laundry
Kitchen and Interior Rooms
39) Recommend installing more carbon monoxide detectors so there is a working unit on each level of the home.
Noted carbon monoxide detector(s) of the plug-in variety. Unit(s) may or may not be present after the owner moves out. Recommend you check upon moving in, make sure you have at least (1) working carbon monoxide detector on each living level of the house for safety (check with the manufacturers, they are usually not recommended for basements and attics).
Recommend installing more carbon monoxide detectors so there is a working unit on each level of the home.Noted carbon monoxide detector(s) of the plug-in variety. Unit(s) may or may not be present after the owner moves out. Recommend you check upon moving in, make sure you have at least (1) working carbon monoxide detector on each living level of the house for safety (check with the manufacturers, they are usually not recommended for basements and attics).
40) Hand rail or guard rail at stairs not returned to the wall, has openings that are too wide , needs correction for safety. Contact carpenter or appropriate contractor for repair.
Hand rail or guard rail at stairs not returned to the wall, has openings that are too wide , needs correction for safety. Contact carpenter or appropriate contractor for repair.
41) Bubbling paint visible at kitchen ceiling. Ceiling material is wet, apparently from an active leak in plumbing above. Recommend repairing plumbing leak. Recommend removing wet wallboard or plaster and replacing with new after area has dried thoroughly.
Tested area with moisture meter (see picture), it was damp at the time of inspection.
Bubbling paint visible at kitchen ceiling. Ceiling material is wet, apparently from an active leak in plumbing above. Recommend repairing plumbing leak. Recommend removing wet wallboard or plaster and replacing with new after area has dried thoroughly.Tested area with moisture meter (see picture), it was damp at the time of inspection.