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Home Inspection Report

 

2415 Valley View Dr, Lees Summit, MO 64081

 

                                      Inspection Date:  11/30/2006

                                     

                                      Prepared For:   Jeff Knipp

                                     

                                      Prepared By:   Star Home Inspection Services

                                                                   705-B SE Melody Lane, Suite 124

                                                                   Lee's Summit, Missouri 64063

                                                                   (816) 554-1110

                                                                   (816) 554-2135 Fax

                                     

                                      Report Number:   11302006-1G

                                     

                                      Inspector:   Gregory Nyhus

 

   

© 2006 Star Home Inspection Services


 

Table Of Contents

Report Overview                                                                                                                  3

Structure                                                                                                                                6

Roofing                                                                                                                                       7

Exterior                                                                                                                                     8

Electrical                                                                                                                              10

Heating                                                                                                                                      11

Cooling / Heat Pumps                                                                                                        12

Insulation / Ventilation                                                                                                 13

Plumbing                                                                                                                                  14

Interior                                                                                                                                    15

Appliances                                                                                                                              16

Fireplaces / Wood Stoves                                                                                             17


Report Overview

THE HOUSE IN PERSPECTIVE

This is a well built home.  As with all homes, ongoing maintenance is required and improvements to the systems of the home will be needed over time.  The improvements that are recommended in this report are not considered unusual for a home of this age and location.  Please remember that there is no such thing as a perfect home.

 

          CONVENTIONS USED IN THIS REPORT

For your convenience, the following conventions have been used in this report.

Major Concern: a system or component which is considered significantly deficient or is unsafe. Significant deficiencies need to be corrected and, except for some safety items, are likely to involve significant expense.

Safety Issue:  denotes a condition that is unsafe and in need of prompt attention.

Repair: denotes a system or component which is missing or which needs corrective action to assure proper and reliable function.

Improve:  denotes improvements which are recommended but not required.

Monitor:  denotes a system or component needing further investigation and/or monitoring in order to determine if  repairs are necessary.

Please note that those observations listed under “Discretionary Improvements” are not essential repairs, but represent logical long term improvements.

·         For the purpose of this report, it is assumed that the house faces north.

 

          IMPROVEMENT RECOMMENDATION HIGHLIGHTS / summary

The following is a synopsis of the potentially significant improvements that should be budgeted for over the short term.  Other significant improvements, outside the scope of this inspection, may also be necessary.  Please refer to the body of this report for further details on these and other recommendations. 

All issues found in this report should be addressed with the appropriate parties to make any improvements, corrections or repairs necessary.  All improvements, corrections and repairs should meet the satisfaction of the client named on this report and the inspection agreement associated with this report prior to closing.  This report and the findings listed herein are intended for the client only and is not transferable without a signed written agreement.

Foundation

·         Monitor:  Common minor settlement cracks were observed in the foundation walls. This implies that some structural movement of the building has occurred. Cracks of this type should be watched for any sign of additional movement. In the absence of any sign of ongoing movement, repair should not be necessary.

·         Monitor:  The basement floor slab has typical cracks usually the result of shrinkage and/or settling of the slab as it cures. Shrinkage cracks are very common and are not normally a concern.

Sloped Roofing

·         Monitor:  The life expectancy of wood roofs is generally 15 t0 20 years in this area. This will depend on several factors such as the quality of shingle or shake, the slope of the roof (steeper is better), the amount of exposed shingle, and the amount of sun or shade. As with all roofs, annual maintenance is needed. Cracked, curled, or displaced shingles or shakes should be repaired. As a rule of thumb, replacement of the entire roof covering may be logical if more than ten percent of the wood roof requires repair.

Gutters & Downspouts

·         Repair:  The downspout(s) should discharge water at least five (5) feet from the house. Storm water should be encouraged to flow away from the building at the point of discharge.


 

Exterior Walls

·         Repair:  Localized rot/damage was observed in the siding. Following repair of the damaged areas (which should be combined with exterior painting/maintenance) proper maintenance of the siding and control of water from roof or surface runoff can avoid further damage.REPAIRED

·         Repair:  Localized rot was observed in the trim around siding/doors. Following repair of the damaged areas (which should be combined with exterior painting/maintenance) proper maintenance of the siding and control of water from roof or surface runoff can avoid further damage.REPAIRED

Garage

·         Repair, Safety Issue:  No safety springs/cables were noted on the garage door springs. The installation of the springs/cables would improve safety during operation.

·         Monitor:  The garage floor slab has typical cracks usually the result of shrinkage and/or settling of the slab.

Lot Drainage

·         Recommend:  The grading should be improved to promote the flow of storm water away from the house. This can often be accomplished by the addition of top soil. The ground should slope away from the house at a rate of one inch per foot for at least the first ten feet. At least eight (8) inches of clearance should be maintained between soil level and the bottom of exterior wall siding.

Patio

·         Monitor:  The patio has settled and cracked.  Persisting movement may result in the need for repairs.

Landscaping

·         Monitor/Repair:  Shrubs/bushes growing near exterior walls and vines growing on the exterior walls should be kept trimmed away from siding, window trims, and the eaves to reduce risk of insect and water damage.

Outlets

·         Repair:  A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet at the electrical panel did not respond correctly to testing during the inspection. This receptacle should be replaced.

Lights

·         Repair:  There are lights that are inoperative. If the bulbs are not blown, the circuit should be repaired.

Supply Air Ductwork

·         Monitor:  The east closet supply seems disconnected as there is little/no air flow.  Supplemental heat in the form of an electric baseboard heater has been installed in the east closet to alleviate any cold/heat issues.

Central Air Conditioning

·         Repair:  Damaged insulation on refrigerant lines should be repaired.

·         Improve:  The outdoor unit of the air conditioning system requires cleaning.

·         Monitor:  Evidence of prior leakage was observed at the condensate tray of the air conditioning system.

Water Heater

·         Monitor:  Water heaters have a typical life expectancy of 7 to 12 years. The existing unit is approaching or has exceeded this age range. One cannot predict with certainty when replacement will become necessary

Fixtures

·         Repair:  The faucet in the upstairs shared bathroom, left side is leaking.

·         Improve:  Cracked, deteriorated and/or missing bathtub enclosure grout and caulk should be improved.

Wall / Ceiling Finishes

·         Monitor:  Evidence of patching was detected.

·         Monitor:  Damage to the interior finish was observed.

·         Monitor:  Minor cracks were noted.

·         Monitor:  Typical drywall flaws were observed.

Floors

·         Monitor:  The carpet is stained (wear and tear).

Windows

·         Repair:  The window in the kitchen dining area is broken.

Doors

·         Repair:  Door to the master bedroom should be adjusted as necessary to latch properly.

Basement Leakage

·         Monitor:  No evidence of moisture penetration was visible in the basement at the time of the inspection. It should be understood that it is impossible to predict whether moisture penetration will pose a problem in the future. The vast majority of basement leakage problems are the result of insufficient control of storm water at the surface. The ground around the house should be sloped to encourage water to flow away from the foundation. Gutters and downspouts should act to collect roof water and drain the water at least five (5) feet from the foundation or into a functional storm sewer. Downspouts that are clogged or broken below grade level, or that discharge too close to the foundation are the most common source of basement leakage. Please refer to the Roofing and Exterior sections of the report for more information.
In the event that basement leakage problems are experienced, lot and roof drainage improvements should be undertaken as a first step. Please beware of contractors who recommend expensive solutions. Excavation, damp-proofing and/or the installation of drainage tiles should be a last resort. In some cases, however, it is necessary. Your plans for using the basement may also influence the approach taken to curing any dampness that is experienced.

Fireplaces

·         Monitor/Repair:  The hearth outside the fireplace is damaged (broken/cracked tile).

 

          THE SCOPE OF THE INSPECTION

All components designated for inspection in the ASHIâ Standards of Practice are inspected, except as may be noted in the “Limitations of Inspection” sections within this report.

It is the goal of the inspection to put a home buyer in a better position to make a buying decision.  Not all improvements will be identified during this inspection.  Unexpected repairs should still be anticipated.  The inspection should not be considered a guarantee or warranty of any kind.

 

Please refer to the pre-inspection contract for a full explanation of the scope of the inspection.

WEATHER CONDITIONS

There was snow on the ground during the course of the inspection. 

The estimated outside temperature was 25 degrees F.

RECENT WEATHER CONDITIONS

Winter weather conditions have been experienced in the days leading up to the inspection.

 

 


Structure

description of Structure

 

Foundation:                                                       ·Poured Concrete  ·Basement Configuration  ·25% Of Foundation Was Not Visible

Columns:                                                            ·Steel 

Floor Structure:                                               ·Wood Joist 

Wall Structure:                                                ·Wood Frame 

Ceiling Structure:                                           ·Joist 

Roof Structure:                                                ·Rafters  ·Spaced Plank Sheathing 

Structure observations

Positive Attributes

The construction of the home is good quality. The materials and workmanship, where visible, are good.  The visible joist spans appear to be within typical construction practices.  The inspection did not discover evidence of substantial structural movement. 

recommendations / observations

Foundation

·         Monitor:  Common minor settlement cracks were observed in the foundation walls. This implies that some structural movement of the building has occurred. Cracks of this type should be watched for any sign of additional movement. In the absence of any sign of ongoing movement, repair should not be necessary.

·         Monitor:  The basement floor slab has typical cracks usually the result of shrinkage and/or settling of the slab as it cures. Shrinkage cracks are very common and are not normally a concern.

 

limitations of Structure inspection

As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions:

·         Structural components concealed behind finished surfaces could not be inspected.

·         Only a representative sampling of visible structural components were inspected.

·         Furniture and/or storage restricted access to some structural components.

·         Engineering or architectural services such as calculation of structural capacities, adequacy, or integrity are not part of a home inspection.

 

Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection.

 


Roofing

description of Roofing

 

Roof Covering:                                                 ·Wood Shingle 

Roof Flashings:                                                ·Metal 

Chimneys:                                                          ·Metal below siding 

Roof Drainage System:                                ·Aluminum  ·Downspouts discharge above grade 

Method of Inspection:                                   ·Viewed from ladder at eave  ·Viewed with binoculars  ·Viewed from window 

 

Roofing observations

Positive Attributes

The roof coverings are to be in generally good condition.  The steep pitch of the roof should result in a longer than normal life expectancy for roof coverings. 

recommendations / observations

Sloped Roofing

·         Monitor:  The life expectancy of wood roofs is generally 15 t0 20 years in this area. This will depend on several factors such as the quality of shingle or shake, the slope of the roof (steeper is better), the amount of exposed shingle, and the amount of sun or shade. As with all roofs, annual maintenance is needed. Cracked, curled, or displaced shingles or shakes should be repaired. As a rule of thumb, replacement of the entire roof covering may be logical if more than ten percent of the wood roof requires repair.

Gutters & Downspouts

·         Repair:  The downspout(s) should discharge water at least five (5) feet from the house. Storm water should be encouraged to flow away from the building at the point of discharge.

 

limitations of Roofing inspection

As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions:

·         Not all of the underside of the roof sheathing is inspected for evidence of leaks.

·         Evidence of prior leaks may be disguised by interior finishes.

·         Estimates of remaining roof life are approximations only and do not preclude the possibility of leakage. Leakage can develop at any time and may depend on rain intensity, wind direction, ice build up, and other factors.

·         Antennae, chimney/flue interiors which are not readily accessible are not inspected and could require repair.

·         Roof inspection may be limited by access, condition, weather, or other safety concerns.

·         Portions of the roof were viewed from the ground using binoculars.  Some sections of the roof could not be viewed.

·         Portions of the roof were viewed from a ladder at the edge of the roof.  Some sections of the roof were not in view.

·         Snow on the roof restricted the inspection.

·         Unfavorable weather restricted the inspection of the roofing system.

·         Some sections of the roofing surface were concealed from view.

·         A chimney was not entirely visible during the inspection of the roofing system.

 

Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection.

 


Exterior

description of Exterior

 

Wall Covering:                                                 ·Stucco  ·Wood Siding 

Eaves, Soffits, And Fascias:                       ·Wood  

Exterior Doors:                                                 ·Metal 

Window/Door Frames and Trim:             ·Wood 

Entry Driveways:                                             ·Concrete  ·Not visible due to snow 

Entry Walkways And Patios:                     ·Concrete  ·Not visible due to snow 

Porches, Decks, Steps, Railings:             ·Concrete 

Overhead Garage Door(s):                         ·Wood  ·Automatic Opener Installed 

Surface Drainage:                                          ·Level Grade 

Retaining Walls:                                             ·Wood  ·Block 

Fencing:                                                              ·Wood 

Exterior observations

Positive Attributes

There is no significant wood/soil contact around the perimeter of the house, thereby reducing the risk of insect infestation or rot.  The auto reverse mechanism on the overhead garage door responded properly to testing. This safety feature should be tested regularly as a door that doesn’t reverse can injure someone or fall from the ceiling. Refer to the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer for more information.  The garage appears to be fully insulated.  The garage completely finished.  Freeze resistant hose bibs (exterior faucets) have been installed.  

recommendations / observations

Exterior Walls

·         Repair:  Localized rot/damage was observed in the siding. Following repair of the damaged areas (which should be combined with exterior painting/maintenance) proper maintenance of the siding and control of water from roof or surface runoff can avoid further damage.REPAIRED

·         Repair:  Localized rot was observed in the trim around siding/doors. Following repair of the damaged areas (which should be combined with exterior painting/maintenance) proper maintenance of the siding and control of water from roof or surface runoff can avoid further damage.REPAIRED

Garage

·         Repair, Safety Issue:  No safety springs/cables were noted on the garage door springs. The installation of the springs/cables would improve safety during operation.

·         Monitor:  The garage floor slab has typical cracks usually the result of shrinkage and/or settling of the slab.

Lot Drainage

·         Recommend:  The grading should be improved to promote the flow of storm water away from the house. This can often be accomplished by the addition of top soil. The ground should slope away from the house at a rate of one inch per foot for at least the first ten feet. At least eight (8) inches of clearance should be maintained between soil level and the bottom of exterior wall siding.

Patio

·         Monitor:  The patio has settled and cracked.  Persisting movement may result in the need for repairs.

Landscaping

·         Monitor/Repair:  Shrubs/bushes growing near exterior walls and vines growing on the exterior walls should be kept trimmed away from siding, window trims, and the eaves to reduce risk of insect and water damage.

 

limitations of Exterior inspection

As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions:

·         A representative sample of exterior components was inspected rather than every occurrence of components.

·         The inspection does not include an assessment of geological, geotechnical, or hydrological conditions, or environmental hazards.

·         Screening, shutters, awnings, or similar seasonal accessories, fences, recreational facilities, outbuildings, seawalls, break-walls, docks, erosion control and earth stabilization measures are not inspected unless specifically agreed-upon and documented in this report.

·         Storage in the garage restricted the inspection.

·         Snow restricted an inspection of the lot and various other aspects of the exterior of the house.

 

Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection.

 


Electrical

description of Electrical

 

Size of Electrical Service:                          ·120/240 Volt Main Service - Service Size: 200 Amp 

Service Drop:                                                   ·Underground 

Service Entrance Conductors:                  ·Aluminum 

Service Equipment &

Main Disconnects:                                          ·Main Service Rating 200 Amps  ·Breakers  ·Located: East wall of basement 

Service Grounding:                                       ·Copper  ·Water Pipe Connection 

Service Panel &

Distribution Wiring:                                       ·Copper 

Wiring Method:                                                · Non-Metallic Cable "Romex" 

Switches & Receptacles:                            ·Grounded 

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters:          ·Bathroom(s)  ·Whirlpool  ·Exterior  ·Garage  ·Kitchen  ·Basement  ·Electrical Panel 

Smoke Detectors:                                           ·Present 

Electrical observations

Positive Attributes

The size of the electrical service is sufficient for typical single family needs.  The electrical panel is well arranged and all fuses/breakers are properly sized.  Generally speaking, the electrical system is in good order.  The distribution of electricity within the home is good.  All 3-prong outlets that were tested were appropriately grounded.  Dedicated 220 volt circuits have been provided for all 220 volt appliances within the home.  All visible wiring within the home is copper. This is a good quality electrical conductor. 

recommendations / observations

Outlets

·         Repair:  A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet at the electrical panel did not respond correctly to testing during the inspection. This receptacle should be replaced.

Lights

·         Repair:  There are lights that are inoperative. If the bulbs are not blown, the circuit should be repaired.

 

limitations of Electrical inspection

As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions:

·         Electrical components concealed behind finished surfaces are not inspected.

·         Only a representative sampling of outlets and light fixtures were tested.

·         Furniture and/or storage restricted access to some electrical components which may not be inspected.

·         The inspection does not include remote control devices, alarm systems and components, low voltage wiring, systems, and components, ancillary wiring, systems, and other components which are not part of the primary electrical power distribution system.

 

Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection.

 


Heating

description of Heating

 

Energy Source:                                                ·Gas 

Heating System Type:                                  ·Forced Air Furnace  ·Electric Heaters/Baseboards  ·Manufacturer: Resco  ·Serial Number: 4493A10778 

Vents, Flues, Chimneys:                              ·Metal-Single Wall 

Heat Distribution Methods:                         ·Ductwork 

Other Components:                                       ·Humidifier 

Heating observations

Positive Attributes

The heating system is in generally good condition.  Heating a home with this type of heating system should be relatively economical.  Adequate heating capacity is provided by the system. 

recommendations / observations

Supply Air Ductwork

·         Monitor:  The east closet supply seems disconnected as there is little/no air flow.  Supplemental heat in the form of an electric baseboard heater has been installed in the east closet to alleviate any cold/heat issues.

 

limitations of Heating inspection

As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions:

·         The adequacy of heat supply or distribution balance is not inspected.

·         The interior of flues or chimneys which are not readily accessible are not inspected.

·         The furnace heat exchanger, humidifier, or dehumidifier, and electronic air filters are not inspected.

·         Solar space heating equipment/systems are not inspected.

 

Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection.

 


Cooling / Heat Pumps

description of Cooling / Heat Pumps

 

Energy Source:                                                ·Electricity 

Central System Type:                                   ·Air Cooled Central Air Conditioning  ·Manufacturer: Resco  ·Serial Number: 4993E02819 

Cooling / Heat Pumps observations

Positive Attributes

The capacity and configuration of the system should be sufficient for the home. 

recommendations / observations

Central Air Conditioning

·         Repair:  Damaged insulation on refrigerant lines should be repaired.

·         Improve:  The outdoor unit of the air conditioning system requires cleaning.

·         Monitor:  Evidence of prior leakage was observed at the condensate tray of the air conditioning system.

 

limitations of Cooling / Heat Pumps inspection

As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions:

·         Window mounted air conditioning units are not inspected.

·         The cooling supply adequacy or distribution balance are not inspected.

·         The air conditioning system could not be tested as the outdoor temperature was below 60 degrees F.

 

Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection.

 


Insulation / Ventilation

description of Insulation / Ventilation

 

Attic Insulation:                                               ·Loose Fiberglass/Mineral Wool in Main Attic 

Exterior Wall Insulation:                             ·R12 Fiberglass in Original Walls 

Basement Wall Insulation:                         ·None Visible 

Vapor Retarders:                                            ·Kraft Paper 

Roof Ventilation:                                             ·Roof Vents  ·Soffit Vents 

Exhaust Fan/vent Locations:                     ·Bathroom 

Insulation / Ventilation observations

Positive Attributes

This is a well insulated home. 

recommendations / Energy saving Suggestions

 

limitations of Insulation / Ventilation inspection

As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions:

·         Insulation/ventilation type and levels in concealed areas are not inspected. Insulation and vapor barriers are not disturbed and no destructive tests (such as cutting openings in walls to look for insulation) are performed.

·         Potentially hazardous materials such as Asbestos and Urea Formaldehyde Foam Insulation (UFFI) cannot be positively identified without a detailed inspection and laboratory analysis.  This is beyond the scope of the inspection.

·         An analysis of indoor air quality is not part of our inspection unless explicitly contracted-for and discussed in this or a separate report.

·         Any estimates of insulation R values or depths are rough average values.

 

Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection.

 


Plumbing

description of Plumbing

 

Water Supply Source:                                  ·Public Water Supply 

Service Pipe to House:                                ·Copper 

Main Water Valve Location:                     ·Front Wall of Basement 

Interior Supply Piping:                                ·Copper  ·Plastic 

Waste System:                                                 ·Public Sewer System 

Drain, Waste, & Vent Piping:                    ·Plastic 

Water Heater:                                                   ·Gas  ·Approximate Capacity (in gallons): 50  ·Manufacturer: American  ·Serial Number: 9423122353 

Fuel Shut-Off Valves:                                    ·Natural Gas Main Valve At Meter 

 

Other Components:                                       ·Pressure Regulator on Main Line 

Plumbing observations

Positive Attributes

The plumbing system is in generally good condition.  The water pressure supplied to the fixtures is reasonably good. A typical drop in flow was experienced when two fixtures were operated simultaneously.  The plumbing fixtures appear to have been well-maintained. 

recommendations / observations

Water Heater

·         Monitor:  Water heaters have a typical life expectancy of 7 to 12 years. The existing unit is approaching or has exceeded this age range. One cannot predict with certainty when replacement will become necessary

Fixtures

·         Repair:  The faucet in the upstairs shared bathroom, left side is leaking.

·         Improve:  Cracked, deteriorated and/or missing bathtub enclosure grout and caulk should be improved.

 

limitations of Plumbing inspection

As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions:

·         Portions of the plumbing system concealed by finishes and/or storage (below sinks, etc.), below the structure, or beneath the ground surface are not inspected.

·         Water quantity and water quality are not tested unless explicitly contracted-for and discussed in this or a separate report.

·         Clothes washing machine connections are not inspected.

·         Interiors of flues or chimneys which are not readily accessible are not inspected.

·         Water conditioning systems, solar water heaters, fire and lawn sprinkler systems, and private waste disposal systems are not inspected unless explicitly contracted-for and discussed in this or a separate report.

 

Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection.

 


Interior

description of Interior

 

Wall And Ceiling Materials:                      ·Drywall 

Floor Surfaces:                                                ·Carpet  ·Tile  ·Vinyl/Resilient  ·Wood  ·Concrete 

Window Type(s) & Glazing:                       ·Casement  ·Fixed Pane 

Doors:                                                                   ·Wood-Hollow Core 

Interior observations

General Condition of Interior Finishes

On the whole, the interior finishes of the home are in average condition. Typical flaws were observed in some areas. 

General Condition of Windows and Doors

The majority of the doors and windows are good quality. 

recommendations / observations

Wall / Ceiling Finishes

·         Monitor:  Evidence of patching was detected.

·         Monitor:  Damage to the interior finish was observed.

·         Monitor:  Minor cracks were noted.

·         Monitor:  Typical drywall flaws were observed.

Floors

·         Monitor:  The carpet is stained (wear and tear).

Windows

·         Repair:  The window in the kitchen dining area is broken.

Doors

·         Repair:  Door to the master bedroom should be adjusted as necessary to latch properly.

Basement Leakage

·         Monitor:  No evidence of moisture penetration was visible in the basement at the time of the inspection. It should be understood that it is impossible to predict whether moisture penetration will pose a problem in the future. The vast majority of basement leakage problems are the result of insufficient control of storm water at the surface. The ground around the house should be sloped to encourage water to flow away from the foundation. Gutters and downspouts should act to collect roof water and drain the water at least five (5) feet from the foundation or into a functional storm sewer. Downspouts that are clogged or broken below grade level, or that discharge too close to the foundation are the most common source of basement leakage. Please refer to the Roofing and Exterior sections of the report for more information.
In the event that basement leakage problems are experienced, lot and roof drainage improvements should be undertaken as a first step. Please beware of contractors who recommend expensive solutions. Excavation, damp-proofing and/or the installation of drainage tiles should be a last resort. In some cases, however, it is necessary. Your plans for using the basement may also influence the approach taken to curing any dampness that is experienced.

limitations of Interior inspection

As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions

·         Furniture, storage, appliances and/or wall hangings are not moved to permit inspection and may block defects.

·         Carpeting, window treatments, central vacuum systems, household appliances, recreational facilities, paint, wallpaper, and other finish treatments are not inspected.

 

Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection.


Appliances

description of Appliances

 

Appliances Tested:                                        ·Electric Range  ·Microwave Oven  ·Dishwasher  ·Waste Disposer 

Laundry Facility:                                             ·Dryer Vented to Building Exterior  ·Hot and Cold Water Supply for Washer  ·Waste Standpipe for Washer 

Other Components Tested:                        ·Door Bell 

Appliances observations

Positive Attributes

The appliances are to be in generally good condition.  All appliances that were tested responded satisfactorily.  The kitchen and laundry facilities are well organized. 

recommendations / observations

 

limitations of Appliances inspection

As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions

·         Thermostats, timers and other specialized features and controls are not tested.

·         The temperature calibration, functionality of timers, effectiveness, efficiency and overall performance of appliances is outside the scope of this inspection.

 

Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection.

 

 


Fireplaces / Wood Stoves

description of Fireplaces / Wood Stoves

 

Fireplaces:                                                         ·Steel Firebox 

Vents, Flues, Chimneys:                              ·Metal Flue-Single Wall 

Fireplaces / Wood Stoves observations

 

General Comments

On the whole, the fireplace and its components were found to be in average condition. Typical flaws were observed in some areas. 

recommendations / observations

Fireplaces

·         Monitor/Repair:  The hearth outside the fireplace is damaged (broken/cracked tile).

 

limitations of Fireplaces / Wood Stoves inspection

As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions

·         The interiors of flues or chimneys are not inspected.

·         Firescreens, fireplace doors, appliance gaskets and seals, automatic fuel feed devices, mantles and fireplace surrounds, combustion make-up air devices, and heat distribution assists (gravity or fan-assisted) are not inspected.

·         The inspection does not involve igniting or extinguishing fires nor the determination of draft.

·         Fireplace inserts, stoves, or firebox contents are not moved.

 

Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection.