Website: http://www.reporthost.com/aplushome
Email: wkinley@bellsouth.net
Phone: (678) 546-7072
FAX: (770) 932-8138
161 Oakwood Hills Drive 
Suwanee, Georgia 30024
Inspector: Walter Kinley

Home Inspection Report
Client(s): John Doe
Property address: 1234 Main St.
Anywhere,USA
Inspection date: Wednesday, March 01, 2006
This report published on 3/8/2006 4:26:55 PM EST

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This report is the exclusive property of this inspection company and the client(s) listed in the report title. Use of this report by any unauthorized persons is prohibited.


How to Read this Report
This report is organized by the property's functional areas. Within each functional area, descriptive information is listed first and shown in bold type. Items of concern follow descriptive information and are shown as follows:
SafetyPoses a risk of injury or death 
Major defectCorrection likely involves a significant expense 
Repair/ReplaceRecommend repairing or replacing 
Repair/MaintainRecommend repair and/or maintenance 
Minor defectCorrection likely involves only a minor expense 
MaintainRecommend ongoing maintenance 
EvaluateRecommend evaluation by a specialist 
MonitorRecommend monitoring in the future 
CommentFor your information 
Concern items are sorted by the types listed above.  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

Table of Contents
General information
Exterior
Roof
Garage
Attic
Electric service
Water heater
Heating and cooling
Plumbing and laundry
Crawl space
Basement
Kitchen
Bathrooms
Interior rooms


General information Return to table of contents  
Report number: 001-00
Type of building: Single familyTri-level
Age of building: 19
Time started: 1:00
Time finished: 3:00
Inspection Fee: 300
Payment method: Check
Present during inspection: Client(s)
Occupied: No
Weather conditions: Clear
Temperature: Warm
Ground condition: Dry
Front of structure faces: South
Main entrance faces: South
Foundation type: Finished basement
1) This property has one or more fuel burning appliances, and no carbon monoxide alarms are visible. This is a safety hazard. Recommend installing one or more carbon monoxide alarms as necessary and as per the manufacturer's instructions. For more information, visit http://www.cpsc.gov/CPSCPUB/PREREL/prhtml05/05017.html
 
Exterior Return to table of contents  
Footing material: Poured in place concrete
Foundation material: Concrete block
Apparent wall structure: Wood frame
Wall covering: Composition wood clapboard
Driveway material: Poured in place concrete
Sidewalk material: Poured in place concrete
Exterior door material: Metal clad with wood inserts
2) Receptacle in car port has no waterproof cover or GFI protection. This is a safety hazard due to the risk of shock and fire. Repairs should be made as necessary, and by a qualified electrician if necessary, so all exterior receptacles are waterproof as per standard building practices.
3) The exterior finish over the entire structure is failing. A qualified painting contractor should prep (pressure wash, scrape, sand, prime caulk, etc.) and repaint or restain the entire structure as per standard building practices.
4) One or more outside faucets appeared to be inoperable. No water came out of the faucet(s) when turned on. This may be due to a (winterizing) shut-off valve being turned off. As per the NACHI and ASHI Standards of Practice, the inspector did not attempt to turn on or off any water supply shut-off valves. Recommend that the client(s) ask the seller about outside faucets with no water, and/or have a qualified plumber evaluate and repair faucet(s) as necessary.
5) The finish on the deck(s) is worn and/or deteriorated. Recommend cleaning and refinishing as necessary. Replacement of decking boards should be evaluated.
6) The finish on the deck(s) is worn and/or deteriorated. Recommend cleaning and refinishing as necessary. Replacement of decking boards should be evaluated.
7) Siding is damaged and/or deteriorated in one or more areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate and make repairs and/or replace siding as necessary to prevent water and vermin intrusion.

Photo 2  
 
8) Soffit boards are damaged or deteriorated in one or more areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate and make repairs as necessary.
9) Fascia boards are damaged or deteriorated in one or more areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate and make repairs as necessary.
10) Gaps exist at one or more openings around the exterior, such as those where outside faucets, refrigerant lines, and/or gas supply pipes penetrate the exterior. Gaps should be sealed as necessary to prevent moisture intrusion and entry by vermin.

Photo 3  
 
11) Caulk is missing or deteriorated in some areas and should be replaced and/or applied where necessary. For more information on caulking, visit The Ins and Outs of Caulking.
12) One or more light fixtures appear to be inoperable. Recommend further evaluation by replacing bulb(s) and/or consulting with the property owner(s). Repairs or replacement of the light fixture(s) by a qualified electrician may be necessary.
13) One or more outside faucets did not have anti-siphon devices installed on them.
14) 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.
15) Vegetation such as trees, shrubs and/or vines are in contact with or less than one foot from the structure's exterior. Vegetation can serve as a conduit for wood destroying insects and may retain moisture against the exterior after it rains. Vegetation should be pruned and/or removed as necessary to maintain a one foot clearance between it and the structure's exterior.

Photo 7  
 
16) Gutters in one or more areas are significantly clogged up with pine needles. Cleaning is recommended.
17) One or more wooden deck support posts 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.
18) Trees and/or shrubs are in contact with or are close to the roof edge(s) in one or more areas. Damage to the roof may result, especially during high winds. Vegetation can also act as a conduit for wood destroying insects. Vegetation should be pruned back and/or removed as necessary to prevent damage and infestation by wood destroying insects.
 
Roof Return to table of contents  
Roof inspection method: Viewed from ground with binoculars
Roof type: Gable
Estimated age of roof: Fairly new
Gutter & downspout material: Steel
Roof ventilation: Adequate
19) Debris has accumulated in one or more gutters. This is a conducive condition for wood destroying insects since gutters may overflow and cause water to come in contact with the structure's exterior or make water accumulate around the foundation. Gutters should be cleaned now and as necessary in the future.
20) Trees are overhanging roof and are within 10 feet of roof vertically. This is a conducive condition for wood destroying insects and organisms since organic debris such as leaves or needles are more likely to accumulate on the roof surface. Accumulated debris may cause water to enter gaps in the roof surface and leak into attic and/or interior spaces. Trees should be pruned so they are at least 10 feet above roof, or don't overhang the roof.
 
Garage Return to table of contents  
21) Electrical outlet at carport has no GFCI protection.
22) There is only a carport attached to this house.
 
Attic Return to table of contents  
Roof structure type: Trusses
Ceiling structure: Trusses
Insulation material: Mineral wool loose fill
Insulation depth: 8"
Electric service Return to table of contents  
Primary service type: Overhead
Primary service overload protection type: Circuit breakers
Service amperage (amps): 150
Service voltage (volts): 120/240
Location of main service switch: Meter located on east side of house
Location of main disconnect: Breaker at top of main service panel
Service entrance conductor material: Aluminum
System ground: Leaves box but cannot trace from there.
Branch circuit wiring type: Non-metallic sheathed
Solid strand aluminum branch circuit wiring present: No
Smoke detectors present: Yes-Not functioning
23) The service drop wires are in contact with trees or vegetation. Recommend having a qualified tree service company or arborist prune or remove trees as necessary to prevent straining or abrading the service drop wires.
24) The legend for overcurrent protection devices (breakers or fuses) in the main service panel is missing, unreadable or incomplete. Recommend installing, updating or correcting the legend as necessary so it's accurate. Evaluation by a qualified electrician may be necessary.
 
Water heater Return to table of contents  
Estimated age: 8
Type: Tank
Energy source: Natural gas
Capacity (in gallons): 40
Manufacturer: Rheem
Model: 41V40S
Water temperature (degrees Fahrenheit): 120
25) The estimated useful life for most water heaters is 8 to 12 years. This water heater appears to be at this age or older and may need replacing at any time. Recommend budgeting for a replacement in the near future.
 
Heating and cooling Return to table of contents  
Primary heat system type: Forced air
Primary A/C energy source: Natural Gas
Primary Air conditioning type: Split system
Distribution system: Flexible ducts
Manufacturer: Bryant
Model: RT30ACO
Filter location: At the base of the furnace
Last service date: Unknown
26) The estimated useful life for air conditioning compressors is 8 to 15 years. This unit appears to have exceeded this age and may need replacing at any time. Recommend budgeting for a replacement in the near future.
27) System functioned normally. Output temperature at ducts were 120 degrees. Thermostat did not appear to have AC controls so AC was not tested.
28) The outside condensing unit is not level. Damage may occur if it is more than ten degrees off from level. A qualified contractor should evaluate and make repairs as necessary, such as replacing the pad that the condensing unit is installed on.

Photo 1  
 
29) The air handler's filter(s) are loose or not securely installed. As a result, unfiltered air will flow through the system. The heating/cooling equipment service life and the indoor air quality may be reduced. A qualified contractor should make repairs as necessary, such as repairing or installing guides or retaining devices so filter(s) are securely installed with minimal gaps at edges.
30) The last service date of this system appears to be more than one year ago, or the inspector was unable to determine the last service date. The client(s) should ask the property owner(s) 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. This servicing should be performed annually in the future.
31) The air handler's filter(s) are damaged and/or deteriorated and should be replaced.
 
Plumbing and laundry Return to table of contents  
Water pressure (psi): 100
Location of main water shut-off valve: Crawlspace
Location of main water meter: Front Yard
Water service: Public
Service pipe material: Not visible
Supply pipe material: Copper
Vent pipe material: Plastic
Drain pipe material: Plastic
Waste pipe material: Plastic
32) Toilet in master bath does not shut off. It was shut off at the valve and inspector tested it. Water supply shutoff mechanism in tank needs maintenance.
33) Recommend having the septic tank inspected. Recommend having the tank pumped if it was last pumped more than 3 years ago.
34) Supply pressure was taken at hose bibb at front of house. It was in excess of 100#. Apparently the hose bibb is connected to the main line before the pressure reducing valve. The house pressure seemed to be set at an adequate rate.
 
Crawl space Return to table of contents  
Inspection method: Viewed from hatch
Insulation material underneath floor above: Fiberglass roll or batt
Beam material: Solid wood
Floor structure above: Solid wood joists
Vapor barrier present: Yes
Basement Return to table of contents  
Insulation material underneath floor above: Fiberglass roll or batt
Beam material: Solid wood
Floor structure above: Solid wood joists
35) Floor has a low spot in middle of basement. Although there is a very fine crack in the area of the sag it appears that the condition was a result of poor installation of the floor. If this was a settlement problem there would be a much more pronounced crack in the floor. This is strictly the inspectors opinion on this situation. If owner wants a more defined evaluation of this condition a structural specialist should be consulted.
 
Kitchen Return to table of contents  
36) Stove is showing signs of age. Replacement of unit is probably going to be needed.
37) Outlets have no GFI protection. During testing it was noted that inserting plugs into the oultets was difficult at some locations.
38) Vinyl flooring is damaged and/or deteriorated in one or more areas. A qualified contractor should replace or repair the damaged flooring.
39) One or more light fixtures appear to be inoperable. Recommend further evaluation by replacing bulb(s) and/or consulting with the property owner(s). Repairs or replacement of the light fixture(s) by a qualified electrician may be necessary.
 
Bathrooms Return to table of contents  
40) 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.
41) No GFI protection is installed at receptacles.
42) One or more exhaust fans is inoperable or provides inadequate air flow. Moisture may accumulate as a result. A qualified contractor should evaluate and replace the fan or make repairs as necessary.
43) Toilet in master bath does not shut off.
44) Caulk is missing or deteriorated along the base of one or more bathtubs, where flooring meets the tub. It should be replaced where deteriorated and/or applied where missing to prevent water intrusion and damage to the floor structure.
45) Shower head is missing in master bath.
46) Jetted tub does not function properly.
47) The enamel coating on one or more sinks is damaged and/or deteriorated. For example, chipped or worn, and/or rust on some exposed steel. However, no leaks were found due to the deterioration. The client(s) should evaluate to determine if the sinks should be replaced.
 
Interior rooms Return to table of contents  
48) One or more electric receptacles have burn or scorch marks on them. 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.
49) One or more smoke alarms are damaged, deteriorated and/or missing from their mounting brackets. Damaged and/or missing smoke alarms should be replaced 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
50) Cover plate(s) are missing from one or more electric boxes, such as for receptacles, switches and/or junction boxes. They are intended to contain fire and prevent electric shock from exposed wires. This is a safety hazard due to the risk of fire and shock. Cover plates should be installed where missing.
51) The doorbell appears to be inoperable. Recommend having a qualified electrician evaluate and repair as necessary.
52) One or more electric receptacles appear to have no power. Recommend asking the property owner(s) about this. Switches may need to be operated to make some receptacles energized. If necessary, a qualified electrician should evaluate and make repairs as necessary.
53) Screen(s) in one or more windows are damaged.

Photo 5  
 
54) One or more air supply registers are damaged and should be replaced where necessary.
55) The doorbell button is loose or damaged. It should be repaired or replaced as necessary, and by a qualified contractor if necessary.
56) One or more interior doors are damaged and/or deteriorated and should be repaired or replaced by a qualified contractor.
57) One or more doors have no lockset installed. Locksets should be installed where missing.
58) Screen in outside door is missing.

Photo 6  
 
59) Vinyl flooring is damaged and/or deteriorated in one or more areas. A qualified contractor should replace or repair the damaged flooring.
60) Carpeting in one or more rooms is soiled and/or stained. Recommend having carpeting professionally cleaned as necessary.
61) One or more light fixtures appear to be inoperable. Recommend further evaluation by replacing bulb(s) and/or consulting with the property owner(s). Repairs or replacement of the light fixture(s) by a qualified electrician may be necessary.
62) One or more ceiling fans appear to be inoperable. Recommend asking the property owner(s) about this, and if necessary, having a qualified electrician evaluate and repair as necessary.
63) Stains were found in one or more ceiling areas. However, no elevated levels of moisture were found. The stain(s) may be due to past roof and/or plumbing leaks. Recommend asking the property owner(s) about this, and monitoring the stained area(s) in the future, especially after heavy or prolonged rain. If elevated moisture is found in the future, a qualified contractor should evaluate and repair as necessary.
64) Minor cracks were found in ceilings in one or more areas. They do not appear to be a structural concern, but the client(s) may wish to repair these for aesthetic reasons.
65) Minor cracks were found in walls in one or more areas. They do not appear to be a structural concern, but the client(s) may wish to repair these for aesthetic reasons.

Photo 4  
 
 
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