GRANITE PEAK INSPECTION, Inc.

Website: http://WWW.GRANITEPEAKINSPECTION.COM
Email: bgotham@plix.com
Phone: (509) 684-5827
Brad Gotham 
2668 C Hwy 20E 
Colville, Wa 99114
Inspector: Bradley Gotham
Washington State Home Inspector License # 554
WSDA Structural Pest Inspector License # 78889

 

Property Inspection Report
Client(s):	Sample two
Property address:	Granite Peak Inspection
Inspection date:	1/17/2011

This report published on Monday, January 17, 2011 8:55:23 AM PST

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Granite Peak Inspection, Inc.
Bradley E Gotham, President
Washington Sate licensed home Inspector #554
Washington State Structural Pest Inspector
License number 78889

Thank you for using Granite Peak Inspection, Inc. for your home inspection. I know your home inspection is very important to you, and your business is very important to me. If I can help in anyway after the inspection, please call or email me at the email address or telephone number provided on this report. If you are happy with Granite Peak Inspection, Inc. please refer my company to your friends, your realtor and anyone you believe could benefit from my services. Granite Peak Inspection, Inc. not only performs inspections for purchasers, but also for people planning to sell a home who wish to estimate the amount of work that needs to be completed before listing the house.

A home inspection is a visual, and not an exhaustive or invasive, inspection of a home by a trained and impartial inspector. Your Granite Peak inspection adheres to the standards of the State of Washington.


This report includes an inspection for wood destroying organisms (WDO'S). More detailed information on this topic, and a suggestion as to how to more effectively use Form 17, the Real Property Transfer Disclosure Statement, is provided under general information. By law the State of Washington mandates that I inspect for, and report on, WDO infestations or conditions that are conducive to attracting WDO's.

Every Granite Peak Inspection, Inc. report includes photos and descriptions detailing the locations of areas of concern as noted by the inspector. Despite the photos and specific information provided, if during this inspection wood destroying organisms or conditions conducive to wood destroying organisms were found, I want you to know: WAC 16-228-2045 REQUIRES THAT A DIAGRAM BE PREPARED FOR WDO INSPECTION REPORTS. A COPY IS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST.

SUMMARY: NEAR THE TOP OF THE REPORT YOU MAY CLICK ON A "SUMMARY". THIS WILL SHOW ONLY THE MOST SIGNIFICANT ISSUES WHICH ARE TAKEN FROM THE MAIN REPORT BASED ON PRIORITY. THE SUMMARY LEAVES CONCERNS NUMBERED AS THEY ARE IN THE FULL REPORT, SO THEY ARE EASY TO LOCATE IN THE BODY OF THE REPORT. FOR THIS REASON, THE SUMMARY WILL PROBABLY NOT BE SEQUENTIALLY NUMBERED

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:

	Cautionary	A recommendation to enhance safety. Not necessarily urgent.
	Repair/Replace	Recommend repairing or replacing
	Repair/Maintain	Recommend repair and/or maintenance
	Minor Defect	A minor concern but not necessarily unimportant.
	Maintain	Recommend ongoing maintenance
	Evaluate	Client to determine level of personal concern or, if noted, consult with a specialist.
	Monitor	Recommend monitoring in the future
	Comment	For your information

Wood Destroying Organism Concerns
Concerns relating to wood destroying organisms are shown as follows:

	Infestation	Evidence of infestation of wood destroying insects or organisms (Live or dead insect bodies, fungal growth, etc.)
	Damage	Damage caused by wood destroying insects or organisms (Rot, carpenter ant galleries, etc.)
	Conducive conditions	Conditions conducive for wood destroying insects or organisms (Wood-soil contact, shrubs in contact with siding, roof or plumbing leaks, etc.)

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 http://www.reporthost.com/glossary.asp

1) A home inspection is a visual, and not an exhaustive or invasive inspection of a home by a trained and impartial inspector. Due to the inherent nature of construction, the inspector cannot see through or into interior walls or siding, through or into concrete slabs or floors, insulation, carpets, roofs and ceilings or down into the soil. Also, a home inspector may not be able to access some areas, due to inadequate clearances or safety hazards. A home inspector, by necessity, is looking for significant issues and not minor or primarily aesthetic concerns. Therefore, it is recommended that the buyer also pursue due diligence of his or her own, such as studying Form 17.

Form 17 is required on all real estate transactions conducted in the State of Washington. Granite Peak Inspection, Inc. encourages you to read Form 17, as it is frequently not provided to the home inspector. This crucial disclosure consists of about eighty questions pertaining to the home. By law, a seller is required to disclose on this form many details about the home and property, which may or may not be observable at the time of inspection. For example, the seller's disclosure could reveal hidden but known defects in materials or products used in construction of the home; well or water supply problems; known health or environmental concerns such as mold, underground fuel storage tanks, chemical pollutants, or a history of seasonal water, flooding, pest infestations or fire damage, etc.
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Wood Destroying Organisms: The wood destroying organism (WDO) inspection on the home is a good faith effort by the inspector to report the visual signs of WDO infestations. "Conducive conditions", deficiencies at the home or on the premises that can contribute to the likelihood of WDO infestations, will also be reported. Although a serious effort is made, it is not always possible to locate every WDO or conducive condition that may be present at a home. Furthermore, the report only refers to issues seen at the home at the time of the inspection.

2) One possible trip hazard was found in the driveway/sidewalk near the south side of the garage door due to heaving. Recommend if desired by the client having a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace driveway sections as necessary to eliminate trip hazards.

Photo 4   slightly raised slab south side of driveway.

3) Gates are damaged on the north side of the home. A qualified contractor should evaluate and make repairs as necessary.

Photo 12   Damaged gate

4) End caps of some gutters were leaking during the inspection. This can result in water accumulating on the home's exterior and around the structure's foundation, or in basements and crawl spaces. Accumulated water is a conducive condition to wood destroying insects and organisms, and may also cause the foundation to settle and possibly fail over time. A qualified contractor should replace or repair gutters where necessary.

5) Two of the crawlspace vents on the south side are near grade with no well to prevent rainwater from entering. This can lead to water entering and accumulating in the crawl space, and is a conducive condition for wood destroying insects and organisms. A qualified contractor should install wells where necessary.

Photo 17

Photo 53   Inside crawl space signs of water entrance.

6) One or more crawl space vent doors are damaged. Recommend a qualified contractor repair the vent door to keep cool air from entering the crawl space during the winter months.

Photo 18   Damaged door

7) Soil is in contact with or less than six inches from siding and/or trim. This is a conducive condition for wood destroying insects and organisms. Soil should be graded and/or removed as necessary so there are at least six inches of space between the siding and trim and the soil below.

Photo 7

8) One or more wooden deck support posts and steps are in contact with soil. This is a conducive condition for wood destroying insects and organisms. However, no damage from wood destroying insects or organisms was found. Standard building practices require that there be at least 6" of space between any wood and the soil below, even if the wood is treated. If possible, soil should be removed or graded so a 6" clearance is maintained. Otherwise recommend installing borate based Impel rods to prevent rot. For more information, visit:
http://www.google.com/search?q=impel+rods

Photo 15   Wood to soil contact.

Photo 16   Wood to soil contact.

9) Vegetation such as shrubs and flowers are in contact with or less than one foot from the structure's exterior in a few locations. Vegetation can serve as a conduit for wood destroying insects and may retain moisture against the exterior after it rains.
Recommend vegetation be pruned and/or removed as necessary to maintain a one foot clearance between it and the structure's exterior.

Photo 11

10) Snow covered most of the driveway and sidewalks, so the inspector was unable to fully evaluate these areas and they are excluded from the inspection.

Photo 3

Photo 19

Photo 2   Areas of concern	Photo 5   Black arrow: wood rot at window trim board. Red arrow: water damaged siding.
Photo 6   Wood rot at window trim board.	Photo 8   Water running down siding behind gutter cap.
Photo 9   Leakage at north side of window.	Photo 10   Damaged siding
Photo 21   Trim board close to roofing with rot.	Photo 22   Substandard flashing leak path
Photo 23   Close up of substandard flashing. Arrow shows leak path behind siding and damaged siding.	Photo 48   Trim board below window 19.8 % moisture. Excessive moisture is a conducive to wood destroying organisms.
Photo 49   Trim board below window 19.6 % moisture	Photo 50   Siding below window south side 21.0 % moisture. Excessive moisture is a conducive to wood destroying organisms.
Photo 51   Siding at north side of window 29.5% moisture; notice vegetation growing on siding to the right of the meter. Excessive moisture is a conducive to wood destroying organisms.	Photo 52   Under gutter 18.8 % moisture. Excessive moisture is a conducive to wood destroying organisms.

Photo 13

Photo 14

13) The trim on one or more exterior walls above lower roof sections is in contact with or has less than a one inch gap between it and the roof surface below. A gap of at least one inch is recommended so water isn't wicked up into the trim board from the shingles below, and also to provide room for additional layers of roofing materials when the current roof surface fails. Recommend having a qualified contractor make repairs as necessary, such as trimming trim boards, so at least a one inch gap exists between the siding and the roofing below where necessary.

Photo 21   Trim board close to roofing with rot.

14) Two sections of roof surfaces are sloped towards each other. Debris such as leaves or needles are more likely to accumulate in this area than rest of the roof. Leaks may occur as a result. Recommend monitoring such areas for accumulated debris in the future and cleaning as necessary.

15) The roof was partially obscured by snow and couldn't be fully evaluated.

Photo 1

Photo 20

16) Weatherstrip at the bottom of the vehicle door is missing. It should be installed where missing to prevent water and vermin intrusion.

Photo 24

17) The exterior entrance door has been forced open and is damaged and should be repaired or replaced by a qualified contractor.

Photo 33

18) An unknown white powder was found on the sill plate of the garage wall. Ask the owner about this and if the home was possibly treated for wood destroying insects such as ants.

Photo 27

Photo 26   Drain line?

Photo 28   Supply lines?

20) Some attic areas were inaccessible due to lack of permanently installed walkway and the possibility of damage to insulation due to compaction if walked upon. These areas are excluded from this inspection.

Photo 45	Photo 46
Photo 47

21) Two bushings are missing from where wires enter holes in the main service panel. This is a safety hazard as the wiring insulation can be cut or abraded on the metal edge of the hole(s). A qualified electrician should install bushings where missing.

Photo 25   Bushings are missing

22) One screw is missing from the main service panel cover and should be replaced. Because energized wiring may exist behind the holes with the missing screws, recommend that a qualified, licensed electrician replace these screws, or that care be taken to ensure that the new screws do not come in contact with wiring inside the panel when they are installed. Stock screws from the panel manufacturer should be used, or their equivalent.

23) The hot water temperature is greater than 120 degrees Fahrenheit, at 130 degrees 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. For more information on scalding dangers, visit:
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/5098.html

24) The water heater is missing earthquake straps. This is a potential safety hazard since movement can cause leaks in the gas supply lines or damage wiring. Leaks may also occur in water supply pipes. A qualified contractor should install seismic straps or struts as necessary and as per standard building practices.

25) Manufacturer's label on hot water tank.

Photo 31

26) The inspector was unable to determine the last service date. The client should 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 one year ago, a qualified heating and cooling contractor should 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. For more information visit:
http://www.cpsc.gov/CPSCPUB/PREREL/prhtml05/05017.html

27) One of the straps supporting heating/cooling duct work is broken. Permanent repairs should be made by a qualified contractor so ducts are adequately supported.

Photo 56

Photo 54

29) The clothes dryer exhaust duct is routed vertically. This can result in extended drying times, premature failure of the motor, drum rollers, and heater. Recommend having a qualified contractor reconfigure the clothes dryer exhaust duct so it is routed horizontally, or as close to it as possible.

30) Main shut off behind hot water tank.

Photo 32

31) Fire brick in the wood stove firebox is broken. This is a fire hazard. A qualified chimney service contractor should evaluate and repair as necessary.

Photo 34   Broken fire brick.

32) All solid fuel burning appliances (wood stoves and fireplaces, etc.) should be inspected, cleaned and repaired as necessary as well as annually by a qualified chimney service contractor such as A-1 Rooftop chimney sweep.
Colville
509-684-5100
Deer Park
509-276-7665
Spokane
509-323-0044
Cour d' Alene
208-665-1876

33) The vapor barrier needs repair. Exposed soil was found in some areas. This is a conducive condition for wood destroying insects and organisms due to the likelihood of water evaporating into the structure from the soil. A qualified contractor should make repairs as necessary so no exposed soil exists. Standard building practices require the following:

The soil below the vapor barrier should be smooth and free from sharp objects.

Seams should overlap a minimum of 12 inches.

The vapor barrier should lap up onto the foundation side walls.

Better building practices require that:

Seams and protrusions should be sealed with a pressure sensitive tape.

The vapor barrier should be caulked and attached tightly to the foundation side walls. For example, with furring strips and masonry nails.

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34) Cellulose-based debris such as wood scraps, form wood, cardboard and/or paper were found in crawl space. All cellulose-based debris should be removed to avoid attracting wood destroying insects.

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35) Some crawl space areas in the southwest section of the crawl space were inaccessible due to narrow access.
(less than 18 inches below floor joists and less that 12" below beams and ducting or access hatch smaller than 18 inches by 24 inches as per Washington state standards of practice), ductwork or pipes blocking, standing water, and/or stored items. These areas are excluded from this inspection. (See structural pest inspection diagram for locations of inaccessible areas)

Photo 55

Basement

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Insulation material underneath floor above: None visible
Pier or support post material: Bearing wall
Beam material: Built up wood
Floor structure above: Solid wood joists

Kitchen

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Kitchen Inspection comments: I check some appliances only as a courtesy to you, as inspection of appliances is not within the scope of a home inspector, nor is it a requirement. I do not evaluate them for their performance, nor for their settings or cycles. Appliances break, and I assume no responsibility for future problems with appliances. If appliances are older than ten years, they may exhibit decreased efficiency. For safety purposes, I do recommend installing a minimum five pound fire extinguisher mounted on the wall inside the kitchen area.

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36) The dishwasher upper dish rack guide wheel is broken and the rack is not supported, which will result in it falling down when loaded. The guide wheel should be replaced by a qualified appliance technician.

Photo 35   Broken missing wheel.

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37) The oven bake function appears to be inoperable. The client should ask the property owner about this, and if necessary, a qualified appliance technician should evaluate and repair as necessary.

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38) The range hood fan vents into the kitchen rather than outdoors. Ventilation may be inadequate and moisture may accumulate indoors. Recommend having a qualified contractor make modifications as necessary as per standard building practices so the range hood fan vents outdoors.

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39) Vinyl flooring is damaged and/or deteriorated in one area. A qualified contractor should replace or repair the damaged flooring.

Photo 36

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40) The refrigerator ice maker is in the "off" position. The inspector was unable to evaluate this component.

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41) The following appliances were operated:
Kenmore dishwasher was ran through the rinse cycle without any
visible leaks.
GE gas range: All stove top burners were turned on and lighted
The broil function operates, but the bake function will not operate.
The GE microwave/range hood appears to function correctly
The G.E. refrigerator door seals were inspected.

Bathrooms

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Bathroom inspection: As a home inspector, I inspect bathroom fixtures including toilets, tubs, and sinks. Readily visible water supply and drain pipes are inspected. Plumbing access panels that I can find are opened if readily accessible and available to open. I do not perform water leak tests on drain lines or shower pans. I simply look for active leaks, which is limited by the short time in the property.

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42) No ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection device is visible for the electric supply to the jetted tub. If no GFCI protection exists, then this is a safety hazard due to the risk of shock. A qualified electrician should evaluate and install GFCI protection if none is installed.

Photo 29

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43) The basement bathroom sink is loose, and is not securely attached to the wall behind it. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair as necessary.

Photo 30

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44) The basement bathroom laundry room and small office are under construction and are not finished. Recommend if desired by the client hire a qualified contractor to finish this area.

Master Bathroom

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45) The shower head leaks at the pipe connection.
A qualified plumber should evaluate and replace components or make repairs as necessary.

Photo 39

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46) The bases of all bathroom toilets have been caulked. Caulking will prevent water from being visible if one of these fixtures starts to leak.
Recommend removing caulking at the rear of the toilets base to allow any leaking water to escape and become noticed before major damages occur.

Interior rooms

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Interior inspection: As a home inspector, I check only a representative number of doors and windows. I am not required to inspect the paint, wallpaper, carpeting, window treatments and screens. I do not move furniture, lift carpets or rugs, empty closets or cabinets, and I do not comment on cosmetic deficiencies. I may not comment on cracks that appear around windows or doors, or which follow the lines of framing members and the seams of drywall and plaster board. These cracks are usually a consequence of movement, such as shrinkage and common settling, and often reappear. I do not report on odors from pets and smoking.

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47) An electric receptacle in the master bedroom west wall has burn or scorch marks on it. Receptacle(s) and/or wiring to them may be damaged. A qualified electrician should evaluate and make repairs as necessary, such as replacing damaged receptacles and/or wiring.

Photo 38   scorched outlet

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48) An insufficient number of smoke alarms are installed in the basement. Additional smoke alarms should be installed as necessary so a functioning one exists in each hallway leading to bedrooms, and in each bedroom. For more information, visit http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/5077.html

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49) Carpeting in the southeast bedroom has spots in it that appear to have had the color bleached out. Recommend if desired by the client replacing carpeting where necessary.

Photo 43

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50) Trim is missing in the basement areas. Recommend having a qualified contractor install trim where missing.

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51) Carpeting in one or more rooms is soiled and/or stained. Recommend having carpeting professionally cleaned as necessary.

Photo 44   Stain in living room.

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52) Cracks were found in wall and ceilings joints in one or more areas. They do not appear to be a structural concern and are likely due to poor craftsmanship, but the client may wish to repair these for aesthetic reasons.

Photo 37   Hall bathroom	Photo 40   Master bedroom
Photo 41   Master bedroom	Photo 42

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53) Inspectors closing comments:
This should be a great starter home for the client with a few concerns that are listed in this report that should be taken care of now.
Most of the other concerns in this report are deferred maintenance issues and can be repaired as time and budget allows.
Also recommend asking the seller for any operator owner's manuals they may have for any of the homes appliances such as the wood stove, hot water tank, furnace, whirlpool tub, and garage door opener to name a few.

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54)   Most walls are in need of a fresh paint job if desired by the client.

Structural pest inspection

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Granite Peak Inspection, Inc.: Granite Peak Inspection, Inc.
Pest Inspector: Bradley Gotham: Pest Inspector: Bradley Gotham
WSDA# 78889: Idaho inspection no WSDA #
2668 C Hwy 20 E: 2668 C Hwy 20 E
Colville, WA 99114: Colville, WA 99114
Phone 509.684.5827: Phone 509.684.5827
Email granitepeakinspection.com: Email granitepeakinspection.com
Inspection Date:: 12-21-2010
File No.:: 2010068
Time:: 1:00PM
Visit #:: One
Structure Inspected: 2698 Shooting Star
City: Post Falls
State: Id.
Zip: 83854
Visible Evidence of Active Wood Destroying Insects: No
Visible Evidence of Active Wood Decay Fungi: Yes
Visible Evidence of Damage by Wood Destroying Organisms: Yes
Visible Evidence of Conditions Conducive to Wood Destroying Organisms: Yes
Disclaimer: Neither the inspector nor the inspection firm shall be liable for any corrective actions required by future inspections as a consequence of this evidence. See FINDINGS and DIAGRAM page(s) of this report bearing the same ICN, for details.
Limitation of Liability: In accordance with the provisions of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 15.58.450, this report relates to a single sale, transfer, exchange, or refinance and is not transferable to and may not be relied upon by parties involved in any subsequent sale, transfer, exchange, or refinance of the same property. The findings listed within this report are determined by the inspector based on a visual inspection conducted in accordance with Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 16-228-2005 through 2045 and are subject to the limitations within this report, the standards listed below, and as modified by any and all associated reports attached. The above inspecting firm and inspector endeavor to perform their services in a professional manner consistent with the care and skill ordinarily exercised by structural pest inspection professionals. The inspecting firm will re-perform any services not meeting this standard without additional compensation. In any case, the inspecting firm's total liability is hereby limited to amounts paid to the inspecting firm for the inspections made of the inspected structure. The inspecting firm will not be liable for any special, incidental, punitive or consequential damages, whether foreseen or unforeseen, regardless whether liability is based on breach of contract, breach of express or implied warranty, negligence, strict liability, tort or otherwise.

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Full Home & Wood Destroying Organism Inspections
WWW.GRANITEPEAKINSPECTION.COM
Office 509-684-5827 Cell 509-675-4620

Home Maintenance Check List

Monthly:

1. Clean dishwasher filter(if provided), usually at lower spray arm.
2. Purge garbage disposal by first filling kitchen sink with clean water, then turn on food disposer until water is drained through.
3. Change/clean air conditioning return filters monthly. This will help keep your air cleaner and system running more efficiently. Clogged air filters will make your system operate longer than required, thereby increasing your monthly bills.
4. Wash refrigerator/freezer interior walls and door liner with solution of 1 quart warm water: 2 tablespoons of baking soda, and wipe dry.
5. Vacuum and clean all return air ducts/grills.
6. Inspect lighting fixtures and replace blown light bulbs.
7. Clean clothes drier lint traps and or ducts to reduce fire risk.
8. Clean toaster oven crumb tray.

Quarterly:

1.Inspect exterior doors to ensure they are weather tight. Adjust or replace weather stripping as needed.
2. Service doors(incl. garage doors) and drawers, clean and lubricate latches, hinges and guides.
3. Inspect and repair exterior caulking around windows, doors, and siding.
4. Replace/clean central heating system(furnace) filters.
5. Re-tighten knobs on kitchen cabinets, don't over tighten.

Semi-Annually:

1. Have heating and air conditioning systems inspected and serviced by licensed contractor.
2. Inspect and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors and replace back up batteries.
3. Check (GFCI)ground fault interrupted circuits. Test if grounded and correct polarity.
4. Inspect and maintain proper drainage around home. Clean gutters and down-pipes and ensure water is flowing away from your home.
5. Inspect home for rodent droppings or other pests. Have home treated as needed.
6. Test sump pump for reliable operation, especially before any rainy season.
7. Wash fan housing and metal filter connected to range hood exhaust fans. These can be safely washed by placing them inside the dishwasher.
8. Vacuum coils behind refrigerator/freezer to remove dust, this will improve efficiency of unit.
9. Tap off a bucket of water from the hot water heater until it runs clean.

Annually:

1. Inspect and repair settling cracks (if necessary).
2. Inspect and lubricate garage door tracks.
3. Inspect exterior paint for cracking and wear. Repaint or seal as needed.
4. Turn off power to then drain and refill water heater.
5. Trip main breaker on electric panel.
6. Inspect all electric cords and replace if necessary.
7. Inspect attic for water damage, birds, and rodents.
8. Inspect all electrical cords and replace if necessary.
9. Inspect basement for moisture/mold and wood rot.
10. Inspect attic for signs of roof leaks or water damage, bird nests, rodent or squirrel nests, and clean if necessary.
11. Change water filters and have water softeners serviced.
12. Inspect roof flashings, chimney caps, shingles(for mold and damage) and caulking for possible damage.
13. Pressure wash deck, walkways and driveway.
14. Reseal wood decks with preservative and inspect and secure nails that may be protruding out. Nails have a tendency to pop out after very cold weather conditions.
15. Clean or replace oil filter(oil fired burner only).
16. Inspect outside electrical service feeder for exposed bare wires and tree interference.
17. Inspect basement/crawl space area for signs of termites and/or other wood-boring insects.
18. Use hose to wash off dirt from coil and fan in heat pump/condenser locate outside of house.
19. Inspect all hoses(and replace if necessary) connected to laundry washer unit.
20. Clean and seal ceramic tile grout lines in bathrooms/toilets/kitchen.
21. Check caulking at tub and shower, and replace if necessary.
22. Wash and blow clean bathroom exhaust fan grill and fan blades.
23. Wash windows(exterior and interior), screens, seals and ledges. Repair if necessary.
24. Clean and lubricate sliding glass door tracks and window tracks.
25. Check stucco joints around doors and windows.
26. Inspect the dishwasher's motor motor spin seal, and replace if necessary.
27. Inspect laundry washer water fill hoses for cracks, blisters, corroded fittings and leaks.
28. Place beeswax or paraffin on built-in kitchen cabinets that have wooden guides.
29. Inspect for creosote deposits in the fireplace flue liner, these are black or brown residue of combustion that collects on the inner surfaces. If the build up is more than 1/8 inch, remove it.
30. Vacuum around the gas hot water heater(especially near furnace) to remove dirt and grime.

Tips for clogged drains:

Keeping the Drains Clear:
1. By pouring a pot of hot water down the drain once a week will melt away any fat or grease that may have built up in the drain line or P-trap.
2. If you have a clogged drain, just pour a 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/2 cup of white vinegar down the drain. Cover the drain and let the mixture sit for a few minutes, then pour a pot of hot water down the drain. This will break down fats and also keep the drains smelling fresh.
3. Every six months, keep your drains clean by using a copper sulfide or sodium hydroxide-based drain cleaner, or other recommended drain cleaner available from your local store.

Other safety tips:

Ensure that you know where the following items are located:
1. Emergency contact telephone numbers.
2. Fire extinguishers and water hose.
3. Heating gas/fuel main shutoff valve.
4. Main electrical disconnect circuit breaker(breaker box/service panel).
5. Main drain line clean-out.
6. Main water shut off valve.
7. All window and door exits.

In addition to the above, carry out the following monthly safety checks:
Some of these items may have already be included in the home maintenance list, but these monthly safety checks are advisable for safety reasons:
1. Test ground fault circuit interrupter receptacles(GFCI's).
2. Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, replace batteries if necessary.
3. Inspect and lubricate (if necessary) all emergency exits, including windows and doors.
4. Inspection of heating unit and water heater for visual integrity.

Home appliance estimated life spans:

1.Dishwasher water valves: 3-7 years
2.Range and oven: 18-20 years
3.Garbage disposal: 10 years
4.Microwave: 10 years
5.Refrigerator: 18-20 years
6.Laundry washer: 14 years
7.Laundry drier: 14 years
8.Refrigerator/Freezer: 18-20 years
9.Central air conditioner system: 15 years
10.Window mounted air conditioning system: 8 years
11.Bathtub/Sink: 50 years
12.Garage door opener: 10 years
13.Laundry water fill hoses: 3-5 years
14.Trash compactor: 10 years

Energy saving web-sites:

Perhaps you never thought of your home as a likely place to save you a lot of money, but it is. Most homes are far from being energy-efficient. That means if you are using more energy than you have to, you are also paying higher monthly bills than necessary. By checking out the following energy saving web-sites, you will be able to gain some wise energy saving ideas that you will be able to put to use right away. You can do many of them yourself, others may require the services of a licensed contractor:

http://www.dom.com/customer/efficiency/res/home/indoor
http://www.eere.energy.gov/buildings/building_america
http://www.aceee.org/consumerguide
http://www.efficientwindows.org

Thanks for using:

Granite Peak Inspection, Inc.
Bradley E Gotham, President
Licensed home inspector
License No. 554
WSDA Structural Pest Inspector
License No. 78889

(509)684-5827