This report published on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 5:21:04 PM CST
This report is the exclusive property of this inspection company and the client(s) listed in the report title. Use of this report by any unauthorized persons is prohibited. Inspected a brick/sided house with an attached two car garage and add-on sunroom. House was built in 1988 with an asphalt shingled roof and new siding that is in very good condition. The subject property is +35 years old and the home inspector considers this while inspecting. It is common to have areas that no longer comply with current code, yet are allowed to be "grandfathered in". This is not a new home and this home cannot, necessarily, be expected to meet current code standards. This inspection makes every effort to point out safety issues, whether they are allowed by the grandfathering process or not, but does not inspect for code. It is common that homes of any age will have had repairs performed and some repairs may not be in a workmanlike manner. Some areas may appear less than standard. This inspection looks for items that are not functioning as intended or are, in the opinion of the inspector, unsafe according to current standards. It does not grade the repair. It is common to see old plumbing or mixed materials. Sometimes water signs in crawlspaces or basements could be years old from a problem that no longer exists. Or, it may still need further attention and repair. Determining this can be difficult on an older home. Sometimes in older homes there are signs of damage to wood from wood eating insects. Having this is typical and fairly common. If the home inspection reveals signs of damage you should consider having a qualified pest control company inspect further for activity and possible hidden damage. The home inspection does not look for possible manufacturer re-calls on old components that could be in this home. Always consider hiring the appropriate expert for any repairs or further inspection. When remodeling or repairing, the inspector may give his opinion of good quality, licensed and insured tradesmen, but it is always prudent to get at least 3 quotes for any work from licensed and insured tradesmen. This will usually ensure a quality repair and give the client the protection of the contractor's errors and omissions insurance, as well general liability insurance.
Summary of issues found: -Roof chimney has minor cracks and could use some tuckpointing. -Many downspouts empty onto roof and can deteriorate shingle faster. -Bay window gutter has no downspout. -Ejector pump line is cracked or line to storm drain is plugged. Water is pooling against foundation. -Many minor cracks in foundation walls. One area shows active infiltration.
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 safety hazard
Repair/Replace
Recommend repairing or replacing
Repair/Maintain
Recommend repair and/or maintenance
Minor Defect
Correction likely involves only a minor expense
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
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.
Site profile: Level
Condition of driveway: Appeared serviceable
Driveway material: Asphalt
Condition of sidewalks and/or patios: Appeared serviceable
Sidewalk material: Poured in place concrete
Condition of deck, patio and/or porch covers: Appeared serviceable
Deck, patio, porch cover material and type: Open
Condition of decks, porches and/or balconies: Appeared serviceable
Deck, porch and/or balcony material: Wood
Condition of stairs, handrails and guardrails: Appeared serviceable
Exterior stair material: Wood
1) Significant amounts of standing water or evidence of past accumulated water were found at one or more locations in the yard or landscaped areas, and no drain was visible. If evidence of past water was found (e.g. silt accumulation or staining), monitor these areas in the future during periods of heavy rain. If standing water exists, recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary. For example, installing one or more drains, or grading soil.
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.
Wall inspection method: Viewed from ground
Condition of wall exterior covering: Appeared serviceable
Wall covering: Brick veneer, Hardiboard
Apparent foundation type: Crawl space, Finished basement
Foundation/stem wall material: Poured in place concrete
2) Moderate cracks (1/8 inch - 3/4 inch) and/or leaning were found in the foundation. 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.
Foundation wall adjacent to sump pump discharge show signs of water infiltration. If infiltration continues after sump pump issue is fixed, recommend contacting a foundation repair consultant.
Photo 2-1 Photo 2-2
3) 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.
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: Viewed from hatch(es)
Location of crawl space access point #A: Basement
Crawl space access points that were opened and viewed, traversed or partially traversed: A
Condition of floor substructure above: Appeared serviceable
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.
Condition of floor substructure above: Appeared serviceable
Pier or support post material: Steel
Beam material: Steel
Floor structure above: Solid wood joists
4) One or more windows were at or below grade with damaged wells. Wells should be installed when windows are at or near grade to prevent soil from contacting the structure and causing fungal rot or moisture problems. This is a conducive condition for wood-destroying organisms. Recommend that a qualified person install, replace or repair window wells 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. Occupants should monitor the condition of roofing materials in the future. For older roofs, recommend that a professional inspect the roof surface, flashings, appurtenances, etc. annually and maintain/repair as might be required. If needed, the roofer should enter attic space(s). 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 perform adequately or are leak-free.
Roof inspection method: Viewed from ground, Drone
Condition of roof surface material: Appeared serviceable
Roof surface material: Asphalt or fiberglass composition shingles
Roof type: Gable, Hipped
Condition of exposed flashings: Appeared serviceable
Condition of gutters, downspouts and extensions: Appeared serviceable
Gutter and downspout material: Metal
Gutter and downspout installation: Full
5) One or more gutters were very long and had too few downspouts. At least one downspout should be installed for every 30-40 feet of gutter. Too few downspouts may result in gutters being overwhelmed and then overflowing during heavy rain. Keep gutters clear of debris and monitor such gutters during periods of heavy rain. If they overflow, recommend that a qualified person install additional downspouts and extensions per standard building practices. Gutter above bay window at rear has no downspouts. Water can pool along foundation and cause infiltration
Photo 5-1
6) Flashings at the base of one or more chimneys were substandard. Leaks can occur as a result. This is a conducive condition for wood-destroying organisms. Recommend that a qualified contractor evaluate and repair as necessary.
Chimney flashing on high end dumping down chimney instead of down roof to a gutter. The constant water can cause deterioration of brick.
Photo 6-1 Photo 6-2
Photo 6-3
7) One or more downspouts terminated above a roof surface, and rainwater from the downspouts washes over the roof surface below. This is a common configuration, but in some cases large quantities of rainwater can damage shingles by removing granules and reduce the life of the roof surface. Consider installing extensions to route the rainwater directly to the closest gutter below to prevent such damage.
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: Viewed from hatch(es)
Location of attic access point #A: Bedroom, second floor, north, east
Location of attic access point #B: Garage, west
Attic access points that were opened and viewed, traversed or partially traversed: A, B
Condition of roof structure: Appeared serviceable
Roof structure type: Rafters
Ceiling structure: Ceiling joists
Condition of insulation in attic (ceiling, skylight chase, etc.): Appeared serviceable
Ceiling insulation material: Fiberglass loose fill
Roof ventilation type: Ridge vent(s), Open soffit vents
Limitations: The inspector cannot reasonably determine the integrity of all elements of limited fire resistance at residential construction or verify firewall ratings at multi unit construction. Requirements for ventilation in garages vary between municipalities.
Type: Attached
Condition of door between garage and house: Appeared serviceable
Type of door between garage and house: Metal
Condition of exterior entry doors: Appeared serviceable
Exterior door material: Metal
Condition of garage vehicle door(s): Appeared serviceable
Type of garage vehicle door: Sectional
Number of vehicle doors: 1
Condition of automatic opener(s): Appeared serviceable
Mechanical auto-reverse operable (reverses when meeting reasonable resistance during closing): Yes
Condition of garage floor: Appeared serviceable
Condition of garage interior: Appeared serviceable
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
Number of service conductors: 2
Service voltage (volts): 120-240
Estimated service amperage: 200
Primary service overload protection type: Circuit breakers
Service entrance conductor material: Stranded copper
Main disconnect rating (amps): 200
Condition of main service panel: Appeared serviceable
Location of main service panel #A: Basement
Location of main disconnect: Breaker at top of main service panel
Arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) protection present: No
Smoke alarms installed: Installed and appear to be functioning properly at this time
Carbon monoxide alarms installed: Yes
10) One or more light fixtures installed outside were Not working. This is a potential shock and/or fire hazard. Recommend that a qualified electrician repair as necessary.
Exterior garage side door light inoperable. May be simple burned out bulb
Photo 10-1 Photo 10-2
11) One or more light fixtures were controlled by a metal pull chain. This is a safety hazard for shock. Recommend that strings or isolating links be installed to prevent shock.
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.
Condition of service and main line: Appeared serviceable
Water service: Public
Location of main water shut-off: Basement
Service pipe material: Copper
Condition of supply lines: Appeared serviceable
Supply pipe material: Copper
Condition of drain pipes: Appeared serviceable
Drain pipe material: Plastic
Waste pipe material: Plastic
Location(s) of plumbing clean-outs: Not determined (obscured, inaccessible or none found)
Vent pipe condition: Appeared serviceable
Vent pipe material: Plastic
Sump pump installed: Yes
Condition of sump pump: Appeared serviceable
Condition of fuel system: Appeared serviceable
Location of main fuel shut-off valve: At gas meter
13) The inspector & Plumber were unable to locate the main sewer clean-out, and unable to verify that one exists. Such clean-outs can help determine if the main line versus a fixture drain line is clogged, and make clearing out the sewer line easier and less expensive. Without a main sewer clean-out, a plumber's drain clearing machine will need to be run through an internal fixture (e.g. a toilet) or through a vent pipe typically located on the roof. Consult with the property owner, or have a qualified plumber evaluate if necessary, to determine if a clean-out exists. If one is not installed, then recommend that a qualified plumber install one per standard building practices.
Sewer Scope was not done. Clean out is most likely behind drywall and could not access. Plumber was confident that there would probably not be an issue found. Offered to run a camera on a toilet connection but couldn't guarantee results due to unknown turns in the line. Would have charged $750.
14) The sump pump's discharge line was leaking. Recommend that a qualified person make permanent repairs as necessary.
Discharge is either backed up or cracked and water is pooling at foundation
Photo 14-1
15) No battery backup system was found for the sump pump. If the power goes out during heavy rains, the sump pump won't be able to eliminate accumulated water. Consider installing a battery backup system for the sump pump.
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: Natural gas
Estimated age: 2010
Capacity (in gallons): 40
Temperature-pressure relief valve installed: Yes
Manufacturer: Bradford White
Model number: MI40T6FBN
Serial number: GB13049893
Hot water temperature tested: Yes
Water temperature (degrees Fahrenheit): 135
16) 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: https://www.reporthost.com/?SCALD
Simple lowing of dial on water heaters
Photo 16-1 Photo 16-2
Photo 16-3
17) Water Heater-Right Richmond 40 Gal Mod #6G40-36F3 Ser #0052309398 2023
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
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
Estimated age of forced air furnace: 2004
Forced air heating system manufacturer: York
Forced air furnace model #: PV9D20N120UP11A
Forced air furnace serial number: W0L4119703
Location of forced air furnace: Basement
Condition of furnace filters: Appeared serviceable
Location for forced air filter(s): At base of air handler
Condition of forced air ducts and registers: Appeared serviceable
Condition of cooling system and/or heat pump: Appeared serviceable
Cooling system and/or heat pump fuel type: Electric
Location of heat pump or air conditioning unit: south
Estimated age of heat pump or air conditioning unit: 2004 est
Manufacturer of cooling system and/or heat pump: York
Heat pump or air conditioner model number: CMA06011A
Heat pump or air conditioner serial number: Worn off
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.
Condition of wood-burning fireplaces, stoves: Appeared serviceable
Condition of chimneys and flues: Appeared serviceable
Wood-burning chimney type: Masonry
20) The brick chimney was Minor deteriorated. For example, loose or missing mortar, cracked, broken, loose or spalled bricks. Loose bricks can pose a safety hazard, and deteriorated masonry can allow water to infiltrate the chimney structure and cause further damage. Recommend that a qualified contractor repair as necessary.
Minor cracks to masonry. Previous repairs to the crown were visible.
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: 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: Half bath, first floor, north
Location #B: Full bath, second floor, east
Location #C: Master bath, south
Location #D: Bar sink, south
Location #E: Laundry room/area, first floor
Condition of counters: Appeared serviceable
Condition of cabinets: Appeared serviceable
Condition of flooring: Appeared serviceable
Condition of sinks and related plumbing: Appeared serviceable
Condition of toilets: Appeared serviceable
Condition of bathtubs and related plumbing: Appeared serviceable
Condition of shower(s) and related plumbing: Appeared serviceable
Condition of ventilation systems: Appeared serviceable
Bathroom and laundry ventilation type: Spot exhaust fans
Gas supply for laundry equipment present: Yes
240 volt receptacle for laundry equipment present: No
22) One or more cabinets, drawers and/or cabinet doors at location(s) #E were loose. Recommend that a qualified person repair or replace as necessary.
Doors don't close completely
Photo 22-1
23) Cabinet door handles or drawer pulls were missing at location(s) #C. Where operation is difficult, recommend installing handles and/or pulls.
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. Carpeting and flooring, when installed over concrete slabs, may conceal moisture. If dampness wicks through a slab and is hidden by floor coverings that moisture can result in unhygienic conditions, odors or problems that will only be discovered when/if the flooring is removed. Determining the cause and/or source of odors is not within the scope of this inspection.
Exterior door material: Wood, Metal
Condition of interior doors: Appeared serviceable
Condition of windows and skylights: Appeared serviceable
Type(s) of windows: Vinyl, Casement
Condition of walls and ceilings: Appeared serviceable
Wall type or covering: Drywall
Ceiling type or covering: Drywall
Condition of flooring: Appeared serviceable
Flooring type or covering: Carpet, Wood or wood products, Tile
Condition of stairs, handrails and guardrails: Appeared serviceable
24) Handrails at one or more flights of stairs were loose. This is a safety hazard. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary.
Basement railing needs tightening
Photo 24-1
25) Some interior door hardware (locksets) were inoperable. Recommend that a qualified person repair or replace as necessary.
Some locksets did not lock
Photo 25-1
26) Drywall around one skylight on 1st floor has gap and should be filled
Limitations: This report only includes findings from accessible and visible areas on the day of the inspection. In addition to the inaccessible areas documented in this report, examples of other inaccessible areas include: sub areas less than 18 inches in height; attic areas less than 5 feet in height, areas blocked by ducts, pipes or insulation; areas where locks or permanently attached covers prevent access; areas where insulation would be damaged if traversed; areas obscured by vegetation. All inaccessible areas are subject to infestation or damage from wood-destroying organisms. The inspector does not move furnishings, stored items, debris, floor or wall coverings, insulation, or other materials as part of the inspection, nor perform destructive testing. Wood-destroying organisms may infest, re-infest or become active at any time. No warranty is provided as part of this inspection.
Home inspectors are not required to report on the following: Life expectancy of any component or system; The causes of the need for a repair; The methods, materials, and costs of corrections; The suitability of the property for any specialized use; Compliance or non-compliance with codes, ordinances, statutes, regulatory requirements or restrictions; The market value of the property or its marketability; The advisability or inadvisability of purchase of the property; Any component or system that was not observed; The presence or absence of pests such as wood damaging organisms, rodents, or insects; or Cosmetic items, underground items, or items not permanently installed. Home inspectors are not required to: Offer warranties or guarantees of any kind; Calculate the strength, adequacy, or efficiency of any system or component; Enter any area or perform any procedure that may damage the property or its components or be dangerous to the home inspector or other persons; Operate any system or component that is shut down or otherwise inoperable; Operate any system or component that does not respond to normal operating controls; Disturb insulation, move personal items, panels, furniture, equipment, plant life, soil, snow, ice, or debris that obstructs access or visibility; Determine the presence or absence of any suspected adverse environmental condition or hazardous substance, including but not limited to mold, toxins, carcinogens, noise, contaminants in the building or in soil, water, and air; Determine the effectiveness of any system installed to control or remove suspected hazardous substances; Predict future condition, including but not limited to failure of components; Since this report is provided for the specific benefit of the customer(s), secondary readers of this information should hire a licensed inspector to perform an inspection to meet their specific needs and to obtain current information concerning this property.
Significant amounts of standing water or evidence of past accumulated water were found at one or more locations in the yard or landscaped areas, and no drain was visible. If evidence of past water was found (e.g. silt accumulation or staining), monitor these areas in the future during periods of heavy rain. If standing water exists, recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary. For example, installing one or more drains, or grading soil.
Moderate cracks (1/8 inch - 3/4 inch) and/or leaning were found in the foundation. 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:
One or more downspouts terminated above a roof surface, and rainwater from the downspouts washes over the roof surface below. This is a common configuration, but in some cases large quantities of rainwater can damage shingles by removing granules and reduce the life of the roof surface. Consider installing extensions to route the rainwater directly to the closest gutter below to prevent such damage.
