This report published on Friday, April 19, 2019 8:42:51 PM PDT
This report is the exclusive property of Washington Home Inspection 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:
Safety
Poses a safety hazard
Major Defect
Correction likely involves a significant expense
Repair/Replace
Recommend repairing or replacing
Repair/Maintain
Recommend repair and/or maintenance
Maintain
Recommend ongoing maintenance
Evaluate
Recommend evaluation by a specialist
Monitor
Recommend monitoring in the future
Comment
For your information
Click here for a glossary of building construction terms.Contact your inspector If there are terms that you do not understand, or visit the glossary of construction terms at https://www.reporthost.com/glossary.asp
Client present for discussion at end of inspection: No
Weather conditions during inspection: Dry (no rain)
Temperature during inspection: Cool
Inspection fee: $460
Payment method: Invoiced
Age of main building: 1977
Source for main building age: Municipal records or property listing
Front of building faces: South
Main entrance faces: South
Occupied: Yes
1) Structures built prior to the mid 1980s may contain lead and/or asbestos. Lead is commonly found in paint and in some plumbing components. The EPA does not recognize newer coats of paint as encapsulating older coats of lead-based paint. Asbestos is commonly found in various building materials such as insulation, siding, and/or floor and ceiling tiles. Laws were passed in 1978 to prohibit usage of lead and asbestos, but stocks of materials containing these substances remained in use for a number of years thereafter. Both lead and asbestos are known health hazards. Evaluating for the presence of lead and/or asbestos is beyond the scope of this inspection. Any mention of these materials in this report is made as a courtesy only, and meant to refer the client to a specialist. Consult with specialists as necessary, such as industrial hygienists, professional labs and/or abatement specialists for this type of evaluation. For information on lead, asbestos and other hazardous materials in homes, visit: http://www.reporthost.com/?EPA http://www.reporthost.com/?CPSC http://www.reporthost.com/?CDC
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: Steep slope
Condition of driveway: Appeared serviceable
Driveway material: Poured in place concrete
Condition of sidewalks and/or patios: Required repairs, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Sidewalk material: Poured in place concrete
Condition of deck, patio and/or porch covers: Appeared serviceable
Condition of decks, porches and/or balconies: Appeared serviceable
Condition of stairs, handrails and guardrails: Appeared serviceable
Exterior stair material: Plastic fiber
2) Cracks, holes, settlement, heaving and/or deterioration resulting in trip hazards were found in the back patio. For safety reasons, recommend that a qualified contractor repair as necessary to eliminate trip hazards.
Back patio area has had some sections of concrete replaced but there continues to be heaving sections.
Photo 2-1 Photo 2-2
Photo 2-3 Photo 2-4
3) Minor deterioration (e.g. cracks, holes, settlement, heaving) was found in the driveway, but no trip hazards were found. The client may wish to have repairs made for cosmetic reasons.
Because the driveway was stained with a darker concrete stain the minor spalling looks worse than it really is.
Photo 3-1
4) The front sidewalk has recently been skim coated, looked good at the time of the inspection. Mentioned here for informational purposes.
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
Apparent wall structure: Wood frame
Wall covering: Stone or faux stone veneer, Metal
Condition of foundation and footings: Required repairs, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Foundation/stem wall material: Poured in place concrete
5) Signs of settlement and structural repairs was found in the foundation, there was a steel angle installed at the back foundation wall and cracks along the length of the steel angle. These appear to be a structural concern and may indicate that settlement is ongoing. Recommend 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
Repairs should be made by a qualified contractor.
Reference the Garage section below for further information that may be related to this issue.
Photo 5-1 Photo 5-2
Photo 5-3 Photo 5-4
Photo 5-5 Photo 5-6
6) Some sections of siding and/or trim were split and/or missing. Recommend that a qualified person repair, replace or install siding or trim as necessary.
The small dormer on the roof as shown below has no exterior grade siding, merely plywood. This area is not visible from the ground and partially shielded from the elements by the soffits overhang. There is some visible evidence of past moisture intrusion in the attic on the back side of this area.
Photo 6-1 Photo 6-2
Photo 6-3 This is bare plywood that should be covered with some sort of weatherproof siding.
7) One or more holes or gaps were found in siding or trim. Vermin, insects or water may enter the structure. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary.
Photo 7-1
8) 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.
Photo 8-1
9) Vegetation such as trees, shrubs and/or vines was in contact with or close to the building exterior. Vegetation can serve as a pathway for wood-destroying insects and can retain moisture against the exterior after it rains. This is a conducive condition for wood-destroying organisms. Recommend pruning, moving or removing vegetation as necessary to maintain at least 6 inches of space between it and the building exterior. A 1-foot clearance is better.
Photo 9-1 Photo 9-2
Photo 9-3
10) Some areas of the exterior paint or stain finish were incomplete and/or substandard (e.g. primed only, too few coats). Recommend that a qualified contractor prep (e.g. clean, scrape, sand, prime, caulk) and repaint or restain the exterior where necessary and per standard building practices. Any repairs needed to the siding or trim should be made prior to this.
This refers to the facials, soffits and siding areas on the roof, there are 3 or 4 of these areas.
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.
Limitations: The following items or areas are not included in this inspection: areas that could not be traversed or viewed clearly due to lack of access; solar roofing components. Any comments made regarding these items are made as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not provide an estimate of remaining life on the roof surface material, nor guarantee that leaks have not occurred in the roof surface, skylights or roof penetrations in the past. Regarding roof leaks, only active leaks, visible evidence of possible sources of leaks, and evidence of past leaks observed during the inspection are reported on as part of this inspection. The inspector does not guarantee or warrant that leaks will not occur in the future. Complete access to all roof and attic spaces during all seasons and during prolonged periods of all types of weather conditions (e.g. high wind and rain, melting snow) would be needed to do so. Regarding the roof drainage system, unless the inspection was conducted during and after prolonged periods of heavy rain, the inspector was unable to determine if gutters, downspouts and extensions performed adequately or were leak-free.
Roof inspection method: Traversed
Condition of roof surface material: Appeared serviceable
Roof surface material: Asphalt or fiberglass composition shingles
Roof type: Hipped
Apparent number of layers of roof surface material: One
11) The is a roof vent that has sealant that has deteriorated. Recommend that a qualified contractor evaluate and repair as necessary.
Photo 11-1 Photo 11-2
12) Moss was growing on the roof. As a result, shingles can lift or be damaged. Leaks can result and/or the roof surface can fail prematurely. Efforts should be made to kill the moss during its growing season (wet months). Typically, zinc or phosphate-based chemicals are used for this and must be applied periodically. For information on various moss treatment products and their pros and cons, visit: http://www.reporthost.com/?MOSS
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: Partially traversed
Condition of roof structure: Appeared serviceable
Roof structure type: Trusses
Ceiling structure: Trusses
Condition of insulation in attic (ceiling, skylight chase, etc.): Appeared serviceable
Ceiling insulation material: Fiberglass loose fill, Fiberglass roll or batt
Approximate attic insulation R value (may vary in areas): More than R-38
Limitations: The inspector does not determine the adequacy of firewall ratings. 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: Wood
Condition of garage vehicle door(s): Appeared serviceable
Type of garage vehicle door: Sectional
Number of vehicle doors: 1
Condition of automatic opener(s): Required repair, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Condition of garage floor: Required repair, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Condition of garage interior: Appeared serviceable
13) Significant cracks, heaving and/or settlement were found in one or more sections of concrete slab floors. Uneven surfaces can pose a trip hazard. Recommend that a qualified contractor repair or replace concrete slab floors where necessary.
The first picture below shows the slab settlement directly over the foundation repaired area discussed above. This area has settled quite a bit, many if not all cracks in the garage have been patched with some sort of sealant or grout product. Recommend asking the sellers what information they have concerning these areas.
Photo 13-1 Photo 13-2
14) One or more automatic door openers were malfunctioning. Recommend that a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace opener(s) as necessary.
The automatic garage door opened properly but when trying to close the door stopped and reversed. Upon closer examination the door track roller shown below came out of the track when the door opened. In order to get the door closed the inspector puled the door back into the tack and it functioned properly. Opening and attempting to close it 4 or 5 more times the door functioned properly about half the time.
Photo 14-1 Photo 14-2 Roller shown out of track here. Pulling it back in did not take much force at all.
15) One or more garage vehicle doors were damaged or deteriorated, in this case the side and door bottom weather stripping was both damaged. Recommend that a qualified contractor replace door(s) as necessary.
Photo 15-1 Photo 15-2
Photo 15-3 The weather stripping here appears to be compromised because of the settlement that is occurring in the garage.
16) Gaps were found below or around one or more garage vehicle doors. Vermin and insects can enter the garage as a result. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary to eliminate or minimize gaps. This is due to the settlement of the concrete slab on the left and right side of the slab.
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.
Electric service condition: Appeared serviceable
Number of service conductors: 3
Service voltage (volts): 120-240
Primary service overload protection type: Circuit breakers
Service entrance conductor material: Stranded aluminum
Main disconnect rating (amps): 200
Condition of main service panel: Appeared serviceable
Location of main service panel #A: Basement
Location of main service panel #B: Basement
Location of main disconnect: Breaker at top of main service panel
Carbon monoxide alarms installed: Yes, but not tested
17) Panel(s) #A and B were manufactured by the Zinsco company. These panels and their circuit breakers have a history of problems including bus bars made from aluminum that oxidize and corrode, breakers that don't trip under normal overload conditions, and breakers that appear to be tripped when they're not. This is a potential safety hazard for shock and/or fire. Recommend that a qualified electrician carefully evaluate all Zinsco brand panels and components and make repairs as necessary. Consider replacing Zinsco panels with modern panels that offer more flexibility for new, safer protective technologies like arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCls). For more information, visit: http://www.reporthost.com/?ZINSCO1 http://www.reporthost.com/?ZINSCO2
Photo 17-1
18) Substandard wiring was found at the attic. For example, missing or broken cover plates. This is a safety hazard. Recommend that a qualified electrician evaluate and repair as necessary and per standard building practices.
Photo 18-1
19) One or more ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) receptacles (outlets) wouldn't reset at the bathroom(s). This is a potential shock hazard. Recommend that a qualified electrician evaluate and repair as necessary.
Photo 19-1
20) One or more electric receptacles (outlets) at the kitchen and/or wet bar had no visible ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection, or the inspector was unable to determine if GFCI protection was present. If not GFCI-protected, receptacles in wet areas pose a shock hazard. Recommend that a qualified electrician evaluate and install GFCI protection if necessary and per standard building practices. General guidelines for GFCI-protected receptacles include the following locations:
Outdoors (since 1973)
Bathrooms (since 1975)
Garages (since 1978)
Kitchens (since 1987)
Crawl spaces and unfinished basements (since 1990)
21) The electrical panel on the left was found in the exact location as it is shown in the first picture, hanging off the breakers with no screws securing it to the box. The metal panel hanging on the breakers is an unsafe condition as it could prevent a breaker from tripping in the event of a short. After inspecting the panel the screws laying on the shelf under the panel were too small to fit the holes in the box and so for safety reasons the panel cover on the right was left as shown in the second picture below. A licensed electrician should take corrective measures to secure the panel to the box. Having an open panel like this also poses a safety risk.
Photo 21-1 Photo 21-2
Photo 21-3 These screws were too small for the panel box screw holes.
22) One or more electric receptacles (outlets) and/or the boxes in which they were installed were loose and/or not securely anchored. Wire conductors can be damaged due to repeated movement and/or tension on wires, or insulation can be damaged. This is a shock and fire hazard. Recommend that a qualified electrician repair as necessary.
The GFCI receptacle at the master bathroom on the right was very loose, the same outlet that wouldn’t reset.
Additionally there is an outlet laying on top of the electric steam boiler that services the steam shower in the master bathroom. All outlets should be securely attached to wall studs.
23) One or more cover plates for switches, receptacles (outlets) or junction boxes were missing or broken. These plates are intended to contain fire and prevent electric shock from occurring due to exposed wires. Recommend that a qualified person install cover plates where necessary.
Photo 23-1 Photo 23-2
24) The legend for circuit breakers or fuses in panel(s) #A and B was missing, incomplete, illegible or confusing. This is a potential shock or fire hazard in the event of an emergency when power needs to be turned off. Recommend correcting the legend so it's accurate, complete and legible. Evaluation by a qualified electrician may be necessary.
Photo 24-1 Photo 24-2
25) As a reminder prior to or at the time of closing ask the seller for the codes to the security system.
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
Water pressure (psi): 76 psi
Location of main water shut-off: Garage, In utility room
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.
Condition of water heater: Appeared serviceable
Type: Tank
Energy source: Natural gas
Estimated age: 2018
Capacity (in gallons): 40
Temperature-pressure relief valve installed: Yes
Location of water heater: Utility room, Basement
Hot water temperature tested: Yes
Water temperature (degrees Fahrenheit): 126
Condition of burners: Appeared serviceable
Condition of venting system: Appeared serviceable
26) The hot water temperature was greater than 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a safety hazard due to the risk of scalding. The thermostat should be adjusted so the water temperature doesn't exceed 120 degrees. If the water heater is powered by electricity, a qualified person should perform the adjustment, since covers that expose energized equipment normally need to be removed. For more information on scalding dangers, visit: http://www.reporthost.com/?SCALD
Limitations: 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.
Condition of water heater: Appeared serviceable
Type: Tank
Energy source: Natural gas
Estimated age: 2015
Capacity (in gallons): 48
Temperature-pressure relief valve installed: Yes
Location of water heater: Utility room, Basement
Hot water temperature tested: Yes
Water temperature (degrees Fahrenheit): 118
Condition of burners: Appeared serviceable
Condition of venting system: Appeared serviceable
27) Each water heater services opposite sides of the house, both functioned properly.
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: humidifiers, dehumidifiers, electronic air filters; solar, coal or wood-fired heat systems; thermostat or temperature control accuracy and timed functions; heating components concealed within the building structure or in inaccessible areas; underground utilities and systems; safety devices and controls (due to automatic operation). Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not provide an estimate of remaining life on heating or cooling system components, does not determine if heating or cooling systems are appropriately sized, does not test coolant pressure, or perform any evaluations that require a pilot light to be lit, a shut-off valve to be operated, a circuit breaker to be turned "on" or a serviceman's or oil emergency switch to be operated. It is beyond the scope of this inspection to determine if furnace heat exchangers are intact and free of leaks. Condensation pans and drain lines may clog or leak at any time and should be monitored while in operation in the future. Where buildings contain furnishings or stored items, the inspector may not be able to verify that a heat source is present in all "liveable" rooms (e.g. bedrooms, kitchens and living/dining rooms).
General heating system type(s): Forced air, Furnace
General heating distribution type(s): Ducts and registers
Last service date of primary heat source: 2015
Source for last service date of primary heat source: Label
Condition of forced air heating/(cooling) system: Appeared serviceable
Forced air heating system fuel type: Natural gas
Estimated age of forced air furnace: 1994
Location of forced air furnace: Utility room, Basement
Condition of furnace filters: Required washing or cleaning
Location for forced air filter(s): At base of air handler
Condition of forced air ducts and registers: Appeared serviceable
Condition of burners: Appeared serviceable
Type of combustion air supply: Intake duct
Cooling system and/or heat pump fuel type: Electric
Type: Split system
Condition of controls: Appeared serviceable
28) The last service date of the gas or oil-fired forced air furnace appeared to be more than 1 year ago, or the inspector was unable to determine the last service date. Ask the property owner when it was last serviced. If unable to determine the last service date, or if this system was serviced more than 1 year ago, recommend that a qualified HVAC contractor inspect, clean, and service this system, and make repairs if necessary. For safety reasons, and because this system is fueled by gas or oil, this servicing should be performed annually in the future. Any needed repairs noted in this report should be brought to the attention of the HVAC contractor when it's serviced. For more information visit: http://www.reporthost.com/?ANFURINSP
Photo 28-1
29) The forced air heating or cooling system was noisy. Recommend that a qualified HVAC contractor evaluate and repair as necessary.
30) An electronic air filter was installed. Recommend checking filters upon taking occupancy and monthly in the future. Guidelines vary depending on the manufacturer, but when the filters are dirty, the following steps should normally be performed:
Turn off filter and wait 30 seconds before pulling off cover
Note direction arrow on cells is oriented and positions of pre-filters and cells
Remove cells and pre-filters
Clean pre-filters with a vacuum cleaner and brush attachment
Wash cells in a dishwasher, in a tub or with a garden hose
Be careful not to break ionizing wires or bend collector plates
Use only soaps that are safe for aluminum (e.g. dishwasher soap)
When using a dishwasher, support cells with 4 glasses, and don't use the drying cycle
When using a bathtub, soak cells for 15-20 minutes and then agitate them
Let cells air-dry
Reinstall cells and filters in the correct position and orientation and turn filter back on
Note that how often filters need cleaning depends on how the system is configured (e.g. always on versus "auto"), and on environmental factors (e.g. pets, smoking, frequency of house cleaning, number of occupants, the season). For more information, visit: http://www.reporthost.com/?EAFM
Photo 30-1 Photo 30-2
Photo 30-3
31) The outdoor air temperature was below 65 degrees Fahrenheit during the inspection. Air conditioning systems can be damaged if operated during such low temperatures. Because of this, the inspector was unable to operate and fully evaluate the cooling system.
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
Wood-burning fireplace type: Masonry
Gas fireplace or stove type: Converted wood-burning fireplace
Condition of chimneys and flues: Appeared serviceable
32) One or more wood-burning fireplaces or stoves were found at the property. When such devices are used, they should be professionally inspected and cleaned annually to prevent creosote build-up and to determine if repairs are needed. The National Fire Protection Association states that a "Level 2" chimney inspection should be performed with every sale or transfer of property with a wood-burning device. Recommend consulting with the property owner about recent and past servicing and repairs to all wood-burning devices and chimneys or flues at this property. Recommend that a qualified specialist evaluate all wood-burning devices and chimneys, and clean and repair as necessary. Note that if a wood stove insert is installed, it may need to be removed for such an evaluation. For more information, search for "chimney inspection" at: http://www.reporthost.com/?CSIA
Photo 32-1 Photo 32-2
33) The gas fireplace or stove was not fully evaluated because the pilot light was off. The inspector only operates normal controls (e.g. on/off switch or thermostat) and does not light pilot lights or operate gas shut-off valves. Recommend that the client review all documentation for such gas appliances and familiarize themselves with the lighting procedure. If necessary, a qualified specialist should assist in lighting such appliances, and make any needed repairs.
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.
Condition of counters: Appeared serviceable
Condition of cabinets: Appeared serviceable
Condition of sinks and related plumbing: Appeared serviceable
Condition of under-sink food disposal: Appeared serviceable
Condition of dishwasher: Appeared serviceable
Condition of range, cooktop or oven: Appeared serviceable
Range, cooktop or oven type: Electric
Type of ventilation: Hood or built into microwave over range or cooktop
Condition of refrigerator: Appeared serviceable
Condition of built-in microwave oven: Appeared serviceable
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: 3/4 bath, Master bath
Location #B: Full bath, first floor
Location #C: 3/4 bath, basement
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: No
240 volt receptacle for laundry equipment present: Yes
34) The bathroom with a shower or bathtub at location(s) #B didn't have an exhaust fan installed. Moisture can accumulate and result in mold, bacteria or fungal growth. Even if the bathroom has a window that opens, it may not provide adequate ventilation, especially during cold weather when windows are closed or when wind blows air into the bathroom. Recommend that a qualified contractor install exhaust fans per standard building practices where missing in bathrooms with showers or bathtubs.
35) The exhaust fan at location(s) #A was noisy or vibrated excessively. Moisture may accumulate and result in mold, bacteria or fungal growth. Recommend that a qualified person clean, repair or replace fans as necessary.
36) Water was leaking at the sink faucet base or handles at location(s) #lower level craft room. Recommend that a qualified plumber repair as necessary.
Photo 36-1
37) The steam function for the master bedroom showers was briefly tested but it appears there is a heating up period for the unit. Recommend asking the seller about the proper functionality of the unit prior to closing.
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: security, intercom and sound systems; communications wiring; central vacuum systems; elevators and stair lifts; cosmetic deficiencies such as nail-pops, scuff marks, dents, dings, blemishes or issues due to normal wear and tear in wall, floor and ceiling surfaces and coverings, or in equipment; deficiencies relating to interior decorating; low voltage and gas lighting systems. Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not evaluate any areas or items which require moving stored items, furnishings, debris, equipment, floor coverings, insulation or similar materials. The inspector does not test for asbestos, lead, radon, mold, hazardous waste, urea formaldehyde urethane, or any other toxic substance. Some items such as window, drawer, cabinet door or closet door operability are tested on a sampled basis. The client should be aware that paint may obscure wall and ceiling defects, floor coverings may obscure floor defects, and furnishings may obscure wall, floor and floor covering defects. If furnishings were present during the inspection, recommend a full evaluation of walls, floors and ceilings that were previously obscured when possible. Determining the cause and/or source of odors is not within the scope of this inspection.
Condition of exterior entry doors: Appeared serviceable
Exterior door material: Wood
Condition of interior doors: Appeared serviceable
Condition of windows and skylights: Appeared serviceable
Type(s) of windows: Vinyl, Metal
Condition of walls and ceilings: Appeared serviceable
Wall type or covering: Drywall
Ceiling type or covering: Drywall
Condition of flooring: Appeared serviceable
Condition of stairs, handrails and guardrails: Appeared serviceable
38) Stains and elevated levels of moisture were found in one or more ceiling areas. The stains appear to be due to an active plumbing leak. Recommend that a qualified contractor evaluate and repair as necessary.
Above the lower level bathroom toilet, the moisture meter levels were 100%. Directly above this is the master bathroom and other main floor bathroom. Prior to closing the source of the leak should be identified and repairs including cei ling and any other saturated areas.
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39) One or more interior doors wouldn't latch or were difficult to latch. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary. For example, by adjusting latch plates or locksets. Lower level bedroom door.
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40) One or more interior doors were sticking in the door jamb and were difficult to operate. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary. For example, by trimming doors.
Lower level closet door with the homes water shut off inside.
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41) Stains were found in one or more window sill areas. However, no elevated levels of moisture were found. The stain(s) may be due to past roof and/or plumbing leaks.Consult with the property owner and monitor the stained area(s) in the future, especially after heavy or prolonged rain. If elevated moisture is found in the future, then recommend that a qualified contractor evaluate and repair as necessary.
Lower level window sill.
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42) Screens were missing from many windows. These windows may not provide ventilation during months when insects are active.
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