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Kevin Lear Home Inspections

Home Inspection Report

Client(s):  Sample report for townhouse
Property address:  123 Main st
Thomasville, Georgia
Inspection date:  Saturday, March 13, 2021

This report published on Wednesday, March 9, 2022 2:53:11 PM EST

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.

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:
Concern typeSafetySafety concern
Concern typeRepair/ReplaceRecommend repairing or replacing
Concern typeMinor DefectCorrection likely involves only a minor expense
Concern typeMaintainRecommend ongoing maintenance
Concern typeEvaluateRecommend evaluation by a specialist
Concern typeServiceableItem or component is in serviceable condition
Concern typeCommentFor 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

Table of Contents

General Information
Grounds
Exterior / Foundation
Roof / Attic
Garage / Carport
Electric
Plumbing / Fuel Systems
Water Heater
Cooling / Heat Pump
Fireplaces / Stoves / Chimneys
Kitchen
Bathrooms / Laundry / Sinks
Interior Rooms / Areas

View summary

General Information
Table of contents
Report number: 8136
Time started: 1:00 PM
Present during inspection: Client, Property owner, Realtor
Client present for discussion at end of inspection: Yes
Weather conditions: Clear
Temperature: Warm
Ground condition: Dry
Inspection fee: 250.00
Type of building: Townhouse
Number of residential units inspected: 1
Age of building(s): Built 1996
Source for building age: Municipal records
Occupied: Yes
1) Some wall and floor surfaces were obscured by furniture and/or stored items and couldn't be fully evaluated.
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: swimming pools, spas, hot tubs, water features and related equipment; playground, recreation or leisure equipment; landscape lighting; areas below exterior structures with less than three feet of vertical clearance; irrigation systems; invisible fencing; sea walls, docks and boathouses. Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not test or determine the adequacy of drainage systems for grounds, walkways, below-grade stairs and roof downspouts. The inspector does not provide an evaluation of geological conditions and/or site stability, compliance of pool or spa fencing with municipal requirements, or determination that deck, balcony and/or stair membranes are watertight.
Condition of driveway: Appeared serviceable
Driveway material: Poured in place concrete
Condition of decks, porches and/or balconies: Appeared serviceable
Condition of guardrails: Appeared serviceable
Deck, porch and/or balcony material: Wood
Condition of exterior stairs: Required repairs, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Condition of handrails: Appeared serviceable
Exterior stair material: Wood
2) Exterior stairs were deteriorated. A qualified person should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
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Photo 2-1 Bottom tread at deck steps is deteriorated.
3) Most areas of the deck substructure were inaccessible due to lack of access from permanently installed skirting. These areas couldn't be evaluated and are excluded from the inspection.
Exterior / Foundation
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Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: below-grade foundation walls and footings, or those obscured by vegetation or building components; exterior building surfaces or components obscured by vegetation, stored items or debris. Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Some amount of cracking is normal in concrete slabs and foundation walls due to shrinkage and drying. Note that the inspector does not determination the adequacy of sump pumps, seismic reinforcement, nor determine if support posts, columns, beams, joists, studs, trusses, etc. are of adequate size, spanning or spacing.
Condition of wall covering: Required repairs, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Apparent wall structure: Wood frame
Wall covering: Vinyl, Expanded insulation foam system (EIFS)
Condition of foundation and footings: Appeared serviceable
Foundation type: Slab on grade
4) Caulk was deteriorated around some windows. A qualified person should repair or replace as necessary.
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Photo 4-1 
5) Gaps existed at one or more openings around the exterior, such as those where outside faucets, refrigerant lines, and/or gas supply pipes penetrate the exterior. Gaps should be sealed as necessary to prevent moisture intrusion.
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Roof / Attic
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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; solar roofing components; any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not determination if rafters, trusses, joists, beams, etc. are of adequate size, spanning or spacing. The inspector does not provide an estimate of remaining roof surface life, does not determine that the roof has absolutely no leaks at the time of the inspection, and does not determine that the roof won't leak in the future. Only active leaks and evidence of past leaks observed during the inspection are reported on as part of this inspection. To absolutely determine than no leaks exist, complete access to all roof structure areas must be available during a wide variety of weather conditions, including prolonged heavy rain, high wind from varying directions, heavy accumulations of snow and/or ice, and melting snow and ice.
Condition of roof structure: Appeared serviceable
Roof inspection method: Traversed
Condition of gutters, downspouts and extensions: Appeared serviceable
Gutter and downspout material: Metal
Gutter and downspout installation: Full
Condition of attic: Appeared serviceable
Attic inspection method: Traversed
Roof structure type: Rafters
Ceiling insulation material: Cellulose loose fill
Ceiling insulation depth: 6-7 inches
Roof ventilation: Appears serviceable
6) Recessed "can" lights were installed in the ceiling below the attic. The inspector was unable to find a label or markings that indicated if these lights are designed to be in contact with insulation, and one or more lights are in contact with insulation. This is a possible fire hazard. Further evaluation should be performed, by a qualified contractor if necessary, to determine if these lights are rated for contact with insulation. If they aren't, or if their rating can't be determined, insulation should be moved, and wells or barriers should be installed or repaired as necessary to keep the insulation away from these lights.
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Photo 6-1 
7) Visible areas of shingles and flashing appeared serviceable. Repairs to shingles are visible around the chimney area.
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8) Visible areas of rafters and roof decking appeared serviceable.
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Garage / Carport
Table of contents
Limitations: The inspector does not determine the adequacy of firewall ratings. Requirements for ventilation in garages varies between municipalities.
Type: Attached, Garage
Condition of garage vehicle door(s): Appeared serviceable
Garage vehicle door type: Roll
Number of vehicle doors: 1
Condition of automatic opener(s): Appeared serviceable
Condition of garage floor: Appeared serviceable
9) Some floor areas were obscured by vehicles and/or stored items and couldn't be evaluated. These areas are excluded from the inspection.
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: generator systems, 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, does not determine if this system has an adequate capacity for the client's specific needs, nor determine if this system has any reserve capacity for additions or expansion. The inspector does not operate circuit breakers as part of the inspection, install or change light bulbs, nor determine the operability of every wall switch.
Electric service condition: Appeared serviceable
Primary service type: Underground
Service voltage (volts): 120/240
Service amperage (amps): 200
Primary service overload protection type: Circuit breakers
Main disconnect rating (amps): 200
Condition of main service panel: Appeared serviceable
Location of main service panel #A: Garage
Location of main disconnect: Breaker at top of main service panel
Branch circuit wiring type: Nonmetallic sheathed
Condition of branch circuit wiring: Required repair, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Condition of smoke detectors: Required repair, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Smoke detectors present: Yes
Carbon monoxide detectors present: Not determined
10) One or more sections of wiring that weren't terminated were found. This is a potential safety hazard due to the risk of shock. A qualified electrician should evaluate and repair as necessary. For example, cutting the wire to length and terminating the wire with wire nuts in a securely anchored, covered, properly sized junction box.


Under the kitchen sink. Appears to be a wire for previous garbage disposal.
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Photo 10-1 
11) Smoke detectors were missing from bedrooms. Additional smoke detectors should be installed as necessary so a functioning one exists in each hallway leading to bedrooms, in each bedroom, and one each level of the building. For more information, visit http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/5077.html
12) One or more light covers were missing and should be replaced as necessary.

Garage ceiling lights.
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Photo 12-1 
Plumbing / Fuel Systems
Table of contents
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: private wells and sewage disposal systems; main, side and lateral sewer lines; gray water systems; pressure boosting systems; incinerating or composting toilets; fire suppression sprinkler 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 determining the existence or condition of underground or above-ground fuel tanks.
Condition of service and main line: Appeared serviceable
Location of main water meter: Front yard
Location of main water shut: Front yard
Water service: Public
Service pipe material: Not determined
Condition of supply lines: Appeared serviceable
Supply pipe material: Copper
Condition of waste lines: Appeared serviceable
Waste pipe material: Plastic
Water Heater
Table of contents
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: solar water heating systems; circulation systems. 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.
Condition of water heater: Appeared serviceable
Type: Tank
Estimated age: 11 years old
Energy source: Electricity
Capacity (in gallons): 40
Manufacturer: Whirlpool
Location of water heater: Garage storage room
13) The estimated useful life for most water heaters is 8 to 12 years. This water heater appears to be at this age.

Manufactured in 2010.
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Cooling / Heat Pump
Table of contents
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: humidifiers, dehumidifiers, electronic air filters; thermostat or temperature control accuracy and timed functions; cooling 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 cooling system components, does not determine if cooling systems are appropriately sized, and does not test coolant pressure. Condensation pans and drain lines may clog or leak at any time and should be monitored while in operation in the future.
Condition of cooling system and/or heat pump: Appeared serviceable
Type: Split system, Heat pump
Estimated age: 4 years old
Approximate tonnage: 2.5 tons
Manufacturer: Carrier
Condition of distribution system: Appeared serviceable
Condition of controls: Appeared serviceable
Condition of air filters: Appeared serviceable
Location of air filters: Behind return air grill
14) Manufactured in 2017.
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Fireplaces / Stoves / Chimneys
Table of contents
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, nor 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.
Condition of fireplaces, stoves: Appeared serviceable
Location #A: Family room
Fireplace type: Prefabricated
Fuel type: Natural gas
Condition of chimneys: Appeared serviceable
Chimney type: Metal, with wood enclosure
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: free-standing or portable appliances such as dishwashers, trash compactors, refrigerators, freezers, ice makers; specialty appliances such as hot water dispensers, water filters and trash compactors; 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 such as dishwashers, garbage disposals, trash compactors, ovens, broilers, etc.
Condition of counters: Appeared serviceable
Condition of cabinets: Appeared serviceable
Condition of sinks and related plumbing: Appeared serviceable
Condition of dishwasher: Appeared serviceable
Condition of range, cooktop: Appeared serviceable
Range, cooktop type: Electric
Condition of refrigerator: Appeared serviceable
Condition of built: Appeared serviceable
15) Some cabinet surfaces, drawers and/or doors showed minor damage.
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Bathrooms / Laundry / Sinks
Table of contents
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: overflow drains for tubs and sinks; bidets, 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: Hall bathroom
Location #B: Master bathroom
Condition of counters: Appeared serviceable
Condition of cabinets: Appeared serviceable
Condition of sinks and related plumbing: Required repair, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Condition of toilets: Appeared serviceable
Condition of bathtubs and related plumbing: Appeared serviceable
Condition of shower(s) and related plumbing: Required repair, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Condition of ventilation systems: Appeared serviceable
Condition of laundry facilities: Required repair, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
240 volt receptacle for laundry equipment present: Yes
16) The shower door at location #B was difficult to operate. A qualified person should evaluate and repair as necessary.
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17) The sink drain stopper mechanism at location #B was difficult to operate. A qualified person should repair or replace as necessary.
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18) Towel hanger is loose in the hall bathroom.
19) The clothes dryer exhaust duct appeared to need cleaning.
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Interior Rooms / Areas
Table of contents
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: security, intercom and sound systems; communications wiring; central vacuum systems; elevators and stair lifts; sources of obnoxious odors; cosmetic deficiencies 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 operability are tested on a sampled basis. The client should be aware that paint may obscure wall and ceiling defects, floor coverings may obscure floor defects, and furnishings may obscure wall, floor and floor covering defects. If furnishings were present during the inspection, recommend a full evaluation of walls, floors and ceilings that were previously obscured when possible. Determining the cause of odors is not within the scope of this inspection.
Exterior door material: Metal, Fiberglass or vinyl
Condition of exterior entry doors: Appeared serviceable
Condition of interior doors: Appeared serviceable
Type of windows: Aluminum, Multi-pane
Condition of windows: Required repair, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Wall type or covering: Drywall
Condition of walls: Appeared serviceable
Ceiling type or covering: Drywall
Condition of ceilings: Appeared serviceable
Flooring type or covering: Laminate, Tile
Condition of flooring: Appeared serviceable
20) Seals between multi-pane glass in some windows appear 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, sunlight, etc. Windows or glass doors other than those that the inspector identified may also have failed seals and need glass replaced too.
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Photo 20-1 Fogged window in the office.
21) Screens in some windows are damaged. A qualified person should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
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22) Minor blemishes were found in ceilings in one or more areas. They do not appear to be a structural concern, but the client may wish to repair these for aesthetic reasons.

This is a visual inspection only. Any repairs or remodeling may reveal defects that were not visible at time of inspection. Thank you for your business.