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Your inspection and report are based upon the conditions that existed at the time of the inspection. Theinspection covers the listed items in the report for function and safety; not for code compliance. Yourinspection is not intended to reflect the value of the property, nor make any representation as to theadvisability or inadvisability of purchase. Repair estimates may have been discussed during thewalkthrough portion of your inspection, but if provided, they should be considered approximations at bestand must be confirmed by quotes from qualified contractors.
All homes have some defects and it is our goal to identify as many of these as is possible during theinspection period. However, the inspection is not intended to be technically exhaustive and therefore,cannot guarantee that every defect was discovered. This is due primarily to time constraints, but also toweather conditions, and inaccessible / concealed areas. There is no destructive analysis, or technicaltesting performed during the evaluation.
A complete list of items that are and are not inspected is available at our website - The NAHI Standards ofPractice. Some of these limitations include the following:
No tests are performed to determine the presence of airborne particles such as asbestos or noxious gases(i.e. formaldehyde, molds, mildews, toxic / carcinogenic / malodorous substances) or other conditions of airquality that may be present. No test for lead products is performed. No representations as to the existenceof abandoned well(s), septic system(s), or underground fuel storage tank(s) are made. Hazardous wastesare not part of the inspection. The quality of drinking water is not a part of this inspection. No tests areperformed to determine the presence or absence of rodents and insect pests. All cosmetic conditions, suchas carpeting, vinyl floors, wallpapering and painting are also excluded.
If your inspector believes that specific items warrant further investigation, he will direct you to theappropriate specialist. As a prudent home buyer, you should consider requesting further evaluation bylicensed specialists of all issues that you are not comfortable with, regardless of your inspector's opinions.
This summary report is intended to provide a convenient and cursory preview of the conditions and components that have beenidentified within your report, but since this summary is strictly based on the inspector's opinions, it is possible that some of yourconcerns may have been omitted. Therefore, it is important for you to review the entire report to ensure that all of your concerns canbe addressed prior to closing.
Unless the items listed in your report are cited as potential hazards, structural concerns, or "unsatisfactory", they should be regardedas recommendations only. All homes have some defects, but in most cases, it is acceptable to defer repairs to a later date, withoutcause for concern. The bottom line is that all items in this report are correctable.
This summary does not require the seller to make repairs. You (the buyer) and your agent must negotiate with the seller to decidewhich items, if any, will be replaced/repaired prior to closing.
Ideally, all repairs that are made would be performed by licensed specialists, who may identify additional defects, or recommendadditional upgrades.
HOUSE EXTERIORMASONRY SIDING:
BLOCK VENEER: Cracks exist at the top portions of the wall, which should be sealed. The cause of this was not determined, but itmay indicate that water has leaked behind the materials. See below.
BRICK VENEER INSTALLATION: Gaps exist at the horizontal joints between the brick and block veneers (front and left sides of home). Ideally, dripcaps (flashing) would have been installed at these locations. Minimally, these joints should be sealed.
The horizontal stone trim is negatively sloped at one location (front side of home). This will trap water against thehome, which could result in moisture leakage into the wall structure.
GAPS: A large gap exists around the cables that pass through the block (near electrical meter).
Gaps also exist at some of the hardie-board siding / brick joints.
FIBER CEMENT SIDING:HARDIE BOARD SIDING: Gaps exist at some locations, which should be re-sealed (i.e. window corners).
HOUSE ROOF SYSTEMROOF DESIGN & STRUCTURE:
METAL FASCIAS: A portion of the metal fascia is missing (at left side roof peak area).
UTILITY METER: Flashing was not installed above the electrical meter and the sides of the meter were not sealed. This allows waterto enter the wall structure. Over time, the OSB (particle board) will decay, unless it is properly protected.
SWITCHES:KITCHEN SWITCHES: A cold flow of air exists at a switch. This usually indicates that the box was not sealed properly (installing a foamgasket behind the switch may solve this).
OUTLETS:BEDROOM OUTLETS: A cold flow of air exists at an outlet (back side of home). This usually indicates that the box was not sealedproperly.
PLUMBINGMAIN PUBLIC WATER SUPPLY PIPE:
PIPE CONDITION: The main supply pipe is not secured in place properly (inside the water heater room).
A pressure reducing valve is located on the main supply pipe, which indicates that it is possible to change the waterpressure to the home, if desired. In this case, low water flow does exist at the various fixtures around the home. Further by a licensed plumber is recommended.
WATER HEATER:DISCHARGE PIPE: The discharge pipe is made from plastic, which is no longer approved. Plastic piping is not suitable for use with210 F water because a sudden discharge of 210 water can cause the pipe to separate or become dislodged. Theonly approved type of plastic plumbing is "FlowGuard Gold". Rigid metal is also approved (the end of the pipeshould not have a threaded end).
KITCHENCABINETS AND/OR CLOSETS:
COUNTER TOP: Burn marks / holes exist in two locations.
BATHROOM(S)PLUMBING FIXTURES:
TILED SHOWER STALL WALLS: Some re-grouting / re-caulking is needed (master bathroom).
SHOWER DOORS: There is no doorstop behind the shower door (master bathroom).
BATHTUB: Some re-grouting / re-caulking is needed around the master bathroom tub area.
WATER FLOW: The water flow to the bathroom fixtures (throughout the home) is low when the master bathroom's tub is running. The flow to the tub in the hallway bathroom is also low - even when the master bathtub is not in operation. Aspreviously mentioned, this condition my be resolved by adjusting the pressure valve at the main. Further evaluationby a licensed plumber is recommended.
BEDROOMSWINDOWS & DOORS:
SCREENS: A window screen is missing (back side of home).
FLOORS: A cold spot was found along the left side exterior wall - in the main floor living area (see photo). This spot appearsto be where the water heater exhaust pipe passes through the siding, which may indicate that the space / rim joist
SINGLE FAMILY HOME: Throughout the report, the specific sides of the home are referred to as Right, Left, Front andBack (as though you are looking at the home from the front yard).
My evaluation of the exterior of the property conforms to the NAHI standards of practice. Thisinspection is not intended to address or include any geological conditions or site stabilityinformation. For information concerning these conditions, a geologist or soils engineer shouldbe consulted. Any reference to Earth grade is limited to the areas around the exposed areas ofthe foundation. This inspection does not attempt to determine drainage performance of the site. Fences and outbuildings (other than garages) are not observed.
LANDSCAPING:
VEGETATION: No problems noted.
GRADING: The slope of the grade (soil next to the foundation walls) could not be positively determined, dueto snow coverage. A positive slope of 2.5" per ft., for a minimum of 10', is recommended. Flatgrading allows excess amounts of water to accumulate near the foundation walls, which canthen seep into the basement area. Saturated soils can also create horizontal forces against thefoundation walls, which can cause cracking.
HARD SURFACES:
CONCRETE DRIVEWAY: No problems noted.
SIDEWALKS: Most portions were not viewed, due to the snow coverage.
DECKS:
EVALUATION: The deck was not walked on, due to the excessive snow buildup blocking the doors.
FLOOR SURFACES: The deck floor was not visible, due to snow coverage.
HOUSE CONNECTION: No problems noted.
JOISTS: No problems noted.
FOOTINGS: Not visible.
HOUSE EXTERIOR
LIMITATIONS:
SINGLE FAMILY HOME: The inside of the wall structure is not visible. Therefore, the presence of rot, mold ordeterioration inside the wall cavity cannot be positively determined during the inspection. It isscientifically known that moisture and mold are inter-related. If moisture is listed in any portionof the report, you should understand that mold may also be present. If you are concerned, andwant further evaluation, please contact a moisture specialist (referrals are available on request).
All penetrations into or through an exterior wall / siding (typically around doors, windows,exterior light fixtures and outlets) must be kept well sealed against moisture intrusion by the useof an appropriate sealant such as caulk. These areas should be inspected and maintained on aregular basis by the homeowner.
MASONRY SIDING:
TYPE OF WALLSTRUCTURE:
Wood Framed, Brick & stone veneers.
BLOCK VENEER: Cracks exist at the top portions of the wall, which should be sealed. The cause of this was notdetermined, but it may indicate that water has leaked behind the materials. See below.
Gaps exist at the horizontal joints between the brick and block veneers (front and left sides ofhome). Ideally, drip caps (flashing) would have been installed at these locations. Minimally,these joints should be sealed.
The horizontal stone trim is negatively sloped at one location (front side of home). This will trapwater against the home, which could result in moisture leakage into the wall structure.
STORM DOORS: There are no storm doors at either entrance. Storm doors act as a thermal break and will helpprevent heat loss in the winter.
GLASS DOORS: The deck doors were not tested for operation, due to the large amount of snow accumulation.
HOUSE ROOF SYSTEM
LIMITATIONS:
SINGLE FAMILY HOME: My evaluation of the roof coverings, the components and drainage systems conforms to theNAHI standards of practice. I access every roof unless I feel it is unsafe to do so. The roofevaluation determines if portions are missing, deteriorated and/or subject to possible leakage. Every roof is only as good as the waterproof membrane beneath it. Since the underlayments,flashings and decking are hidden from view, they cannot be evaluated. The roof is notdisassembled during the inspection, so only surface areas are reported. My review is not aguarantee against roof leaks, nor is it a certification. Also note: certain attached roofaccessories, such as solar systems, antennae, and lightning rods are not observed.
EVALUATION:
ACCESS: The inspection was performed from the ground, using binoculars.
PERCENT VISIBLE: Less than 1% of the shingles were viewed, due to snow coverage.
ROOF DESIGN & STRUCTURE:
METAL FASCIAS: A portion of the metal fascia is missing (at left side roof peak area).
VAPOR BARRIER: No problems noted (Note: The entire vapor barrier is not viewed).
OTHER ROOF PENETRATIONS:
FURNACE / WATER HEATERFLUES:
The flue was not completely visible.
PLUMBING STACKS: The plumbing stacks were not completely visible.
BASEMENT
LIMITATIONS:
SINGLE FAMILY HOME: Water seepage and moisture penetration is common in basements and is usually the result ofinadequate water management above ground. Most cases can be corrected by improvinggrading and drainage. Please note: The review of the basement cannot always detect the pastor future possibility of water in this area.
INSPECTION CONDITIONS:
ACCESSIBILITY: Note: The first floor support system is completely covered and was not evaluated as a result.
EXPOSED FLOORBOARDS:
OSB: Not visible.
JOISTS & SILL PLATES:
ENGINEERED I-BEAMS: Not visible.
FOUNDATION WALLS:
TYPE: Poured concrete.
INSPECTION CONDITIONS: Note: The basement walls have been finished, which means that the foundation was notevaluated from inside the home.
FOUNDATION WALLS: No signs of past or current moisture infiltration were found during the inspection.
SUMP PIT LOCATION: Under staircase.
SUMP PIT & COVER: No problems noted.
DRAIN TILE: No problems noted.
Note: The interior portions of the drain tile are not evaluated, which means that it is not possibleto know if the drain tile was installed on all four sides of the home.
SUMP PUMP: No problems noted.
SUMP PUMP DISCHARGEPIPE:
The discharge pipe does not extend at least 10 ft. from the house. As a result, the water that isdischarged to the exterior will easily migrate back to the foundation walls. In this case, it doesnot appear as though the sump pump has been used. However, if you determine that the sumppump will be used (i.e. during, or after rain), the discharge pipe should be extended further fromthe home.
SINGLE FAMILY HOME: All accessible switches and outlets are tested for operation. Those that are inaccessible due tofurniture, or storage, or those that have electronic items such as clocks, stereo systems, orcomputers plugged into them are not tested. Inoperative light fixtures often lack bulbs, or havedead bulbs installed (light bulbs are not changed during the inspection, due to time constraints). Motion lights are not tested for operation. Cover plates are rarely removed. Time-clock motorsare not tested for operation. Low voltage systems - wiring that is not a part of the primaryelectrical distribution system - is not tested. Also, over current devices (other than ground faultcircuit interrupters) are not tested. Remember, the power to the entire house should be turnedoff prior to beginning any repairs, no matter how trivial the repair may seem.
UNDERGROUND SERVICE LATERAL:
MAST: No problems noted.
UTILITY METER: Flashing was not installed above the electrical meter and the sides of the meter were not sealed. This allows water to enter the wall structure. Over time, the OSB (particle board) will decay,unless it is properly protected.
KITCHEN SWITCHES: A cold flow of air exists at a switch. This usually indicates that the box was not sealed properly(installing a foam gasket behind the switch may solve this).
OUTLETS:
EXTERIOR OUTLETS: Note: Exterior GFCI outlets are not tripped during the inspection, due to the potential difficulty inlocating the reset location.
BEDROOM OUTLETS: A cold flow of air exists at an outlet (back side of home). This usually indicates that the box wasnot sealed properly.
FIXTURES / LUMINAIRES:
EXTERIOR FIXTURES: The exterior fixtures do not appear to be controlled by switches in this unit.
SINGLE FAMILY HOME: All owners of combustion heating systems should purchase a maintenance contract thatincludes an annual inspection and tune-up. This is especially true if the appliance is more thanfive years old.
FURNACE DESCRIPTION:
MAKE: Bryant.
MODEL: 310AV024070.
SERIAL NUMBER: 1410A32879.
APPROXIMATE AGE: The furnace is less than 1 year old. Average lifespan: 20-25 years.
INPUT CAPACITY OF UNIT: 66,000 btu.
SYSTEM TYPE: Forced Air, Induced Draft.
FUEL TYPE: Natural Gas.
PILOT TYPE: Glow plug.
BURNER TYPE: Mono port burners.
FURNACE CONDITION:
OVERALL CONDITION: The unit operated properly during the inspection and no concerns were identified. It is importantfor you to maintain your furnace and the best way to achieve this is to establish a maintenanceplan with a licensed heating contractor, or the Gas Company.
AIR FILTERS: The filter is dirty and is in need of replacement. Note: Filters should be replaced approximatelyevery 2 months.
Note: As a general rule, it is best to use high-quality filters during heating months, but lowquality filters during the cooling months. The reason for this is that the heavier, cold air isrestricted more by the higher quality filters. These filters also trap more particles, which resultsin even more air restriction. Ideally, the low quality filters would be changed twice per monthduring the cooling season.
% OF VISIBLE BURNERCHAMBER:
Less than 1% of the heat exchanger was visible.
HUMIDIFIER: Not applicable.
AIR FLOW DETECTED ATALL REGISTERS?:
Yes.
AIR CONDITIONING:
INSPECTION CONDITIONS: The system was not viewed in operation because the outside air temperature was not above 65degrees for at least the last 24 hours. You should never operate your air-conditioner under thesecircumstances. Liquids inside the compressor become thicker at lower temperatures. Theoperation of the air-conditioner under these circumstances can result in damage to thecompressor, or the compressor seals. In many cases, this damage will not manifest itself forseveral hours, or days.
APPROXIMATE AGE: The air-conditioner is less than 1 year old. Average lifespan: 20-25 years.
EVAPORATOR COIL(INTERIOR):
The indoor coils were not accessible and therefore, were not viewed.
SINGLE FAMILY HOME: The plumbing system is inspected in accordance with the NAHI standards of practice. Sinceshutoff valves are operated infrequently, it is not unusual for them to become stuck in place overtime. Stuck valves can leak or break when operated after a long period of inactivity. For thisreason NO shutoff valves are tested during the home inspection. Corrosion is very common atpipe joints and is often not reported.
Many portions of the plumbing system are not visible during a standard inspection. Thisincludes: underground supply and drain pipes, septic systems, and all plumbing that is locatedbehind walls, floors, or ceilings. Plumbing leakage is a major part of your inspection. Duringthe inspection procedures, all fixtures are operated for at least 10 minutes at each location (andoften much longer) and the areas under these fixtures are inspected for signs of leakagewhenever it is possible to do so. However, there ultimately is no way to guarantee that all leakshave been located, or that future leaks will not occur.
MAIN PUBLIC WATER SUPPLY PIPE:
MATERIAL: The portion of visible pipe is copper.
SIZE: 1 1/2"
LOCATION: Water heater room.
PIPE CONDITION: The main supply pipe is not secured in place properly (inside the water heater room).
A pressure reducing valve is located on the main supply pipe, which indicates that it is possibleto change the water pressure to the home, if desired. In this case, low water flow does exist atthe various fixtures around the home. Further by a licensed plumber is recommended.
WATER FLOW: Note: Water pressure is not measured during your home inspection. The water pressure withinpipes is commonly confused with water volume, but whereas high water volume is good, highwater pressure is not. In fact, whenever street pressure exceeds eighty pounds per square inch,a regulator is recommended, which typically comes factory preset between forty-five andsixty-five pounds per square inch.
DISTRIBUTION PIPES:
MATERIAL(S) USED (VisiblePortions Only):
PEX Plastic.
PEX PIPE CONDITION: No problems noted (most portions of the distribution plumbing were not viewed).
WATER SOFTENER: Not applicable.
EXTERIOR SPIGOTS: No problems noted.
SHUT-OFF VALVES (ToExterior Spigots):
No problems noted.
EVERY FALL: Before the first freeze, shut off the valve that supplies water to the exterior spigot. Next, open the exterior spigot so the pipe can drain. Then, open the air petcock (small caplocated on the interior shut-off valve). This will allow air into the line, which will drain theremaining water out of the valve. Replace the petcock cap. Finally, shut-off the outside spigot.
DRAIN, WASTE & VENT PIPES:
MATERIAL(S) USED: Plastic.
CLEANOUTS: No problems noted.
FLOOR DRAIN: No problems noted.
WATER HEATER:
FUEL TYPE: Natural Gas.
SIZE: 50 Gallons.
APPROXIMATE AGE: The water heater is less than 1 year old. Average lifespan: 15-20 years.
Note: Pressure relief valves are not tested during the inspection.
DISCHARGE PIPE: The discharge pipe is made from plastic, which is no longer approved. Plastic piping is notsuitable for use with 210 F water because a sudden discharge of 210 water can cause the pipeto separate or become dislodged. The only approved type of plastic plumbing is "FlowGuardGold". Rigid metal is also approved (the end of the pipe should not have a threaded end).
THERMOSTAT(S): Note: The water temperature should be set at a minimum of 110 degrees fahrenheit to killmicrobes and a maximum of 125 degrees to prevent scalding.
FUEL (Gas) SUPPLY:
GAS METER & UTILITYSERVICE:
No problems noted. Exposed portions of gas lines are inspected for leaks, but the absence ofleaks is not guaranteed.
SINGLE FAMILY HOME: The interior review is visual and the findings are reported in a manner that compares your hometo other homes of a similar age. Cosmetic considerations and minor flaws such as tornscreens, or an occasional cracked window can be overlooked. Therefore, we suggest that youdouble check for these minor items during the final walk through of your home, if concerned. Only the visible portions of the walls, floors and ceilings are included with the inspection. Thoseportions that are covered with floor coverings, furniture, or storage are not included. Falseceiling panels are generally not removed during the inspection unless there is a compellingreason to do so. Determining the source of odors, or like conditions is also not a part of thisinspection.
WINDOWS / VENTILATION & DOORS:
INTERIOR DOORS: There are no doorstops behind the doors.
APPLIANCES:
INSPECTION CONDITIONS: Currently, there are no appliances (washer or dryer). Plumbing is in place for a gas connectionto a dryer.
I suggest that you use steel reinforced supply hoses for the washing machine. This type of hoseis "burst-proof".
COUNTER TOP: Burn marks / holes exist in two locations.
CABINETS: No problems noted.
DRAWERS: No problems noted.
APPLIANCES & VENTILATION:
GAS RANGE CONDITION: An anti-tip bracket was not installed. This bracket is secured to the base of the wall (behind therange) and anchors one of the legs to the wall so that a child will not tip the appliance if he/shecrawls onto the open door.
Oven self cleaning or continuous cleaning operations, cooking functions, clocks, timing devicesand thermostat accuracy are not tested during this inspection. These devices usually fail, orneed adjustment long before the range or oven must be replaced. Electronic gadgetryconsistently incurs greater need for repairs than simple dial controls.
VENTILATION: The kitchen exhaust fan vents to the house interior (after filtering the air). This is acceptable,but it is not as desirable as one that vents to the house exterior.
REFRIGERATOR: No problems noted.
ICE MAKER: The ice maker was not tested for operation, but a water flow does exist at the dispenser.
DISHWASHER No problems noted. Note: The underside of the dishwasher was not evaluated.
DISPOSAL: No problems noted.
MICROWAVE: No problems noted.
The microwave unit is viewed, but proper operation is not determined. Testing of temperaturesettings, timers, clocks, radiation, etc., exceeds the scope of this inspection.
BATHROOM(S)
FLOOR, WALLS, CEILING & VENTILATION:
FLOOR COVERINGCONDITION:
No problems noted.
WALL CONDITION: No problems noted.
CEILING CONDITION: No problems noted.
FAN: No problems noted.
SUPPLY PLUMBING:
OVERALL CONDITION: No problems noted.
DRAIN & VENT PLUMBING:
OVERALL CONDITION: No problems noted.
PLUMBING FIXTURES:
COUNTER TOP: No problems noted.
SINKS: No problems noted.
SINK FAUCETS: No problems noted.
SINK VALVES: No problems noted.
TILED SHOWER STALLWALLS:
Some re-grouting / re-caulking is needed (master bathroom).
SHOWER DOORS: There is no doorstop behind the shower door (master bathroom).
BATHTUB: Some re-grouting / re-caulking is needed around the master bathroom tub area.
BATHTUB FAUCETS: No problems noted.
BATHTUB VALVES: No problems noted.
SHOWER HEADS: No problems noted.
SHOWER VALVES: No problems noted.
TOILET CONDITION: No problems noted.
WATER FLOW: The water flow to the bathroom fixtures (throughout the home) is low when the masterbathroom's tub is running. The flow to the tub in the hallway bathroom is also low - even whenthe master bathtub is not in operation. As previously mentioned, this condition my be resolvedby adjusting the pressure valve at the main. Further evaluation by a licensed plumber isrecommended.
SCREENS: A window screen is missing (back side of home).
INTERIOR DOORS: No problems noted.
SMOKE / CO DETECTORS:
SMOKE DETECTORLOCATION:
No problems noted.
SMOKE DETECTORCONDITION:
Note: Smoke detectors are not tested for operation during the inspection. The only sure way totest for operation is to use a smoke test. The test buttons (located on the detectors) test ONLYthe condition of the battery.
SMOKE DETECTORS HARDWIRED:
Yes.
CARBON MONOXIDEDETECTORS:
No problems noted.
REMAINING INTERIOR PORTIONS
THERMAL SCANNING IMAGES:
FLOORS: A cold spot was found along the left side exterior wall - in the main floor living area (see photo). This spot appears to be where the water heater exhaust pipe passes through the siding, whichmay indicate that the space / rim joist around the pipe was not insulated properly.