Website: http://www.cambridgehomeinspection.com
Email: mikedaws@frontiernet.net
Phone: (845) 227-4790 · (845) 702-8414
FAX: (845) 227-2386
24 Cambridge Court 
Wappingers Falls, NY 12590
Inspector: Michael Dawson

 

Sample Home Inspection Report
Client(s): A. Client
Property address: 123 Somewhere'n
Dutchess Cty, NY
Inspection date: Monday, October 23, 2006
This report published on 12/4/2006 10:08:23 PM EST

View summary page

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
Crawl space
Basement
Kitchen
1st floor Bathroom
Master Bathroom
Interior rooms


General information Return to table of contents  
Report number: 1
Structures inspected: 1
Type of building: Single family townhouse
Age of building: 25
Property owner's name: Mr & Mrs Client
Time started: 1:30
Time finished: 4:30
Inspection Fee: n/a
Payment method:
Present during inspection: Property owner(s)
Occupied: Yes
Weather conditions: Partly cloudy
Temperature: Cold
Ground condition: Damp
Front of structure faces: West
Main entrance faces: West
Foundation type: Finished basement
Exterior Return to table of contents  
Footing material: Not visible
Foundation material: Concrete block
Apparent wall structure: Wood frame
Wall covering: Vinyl
Driveway material: Asphalt
Sidewalk material: N/A
Exterior door material: Solid core steel
Driveway condition: Good
Exterior foundation exposure: approx 2'
1) Driveway retaining wall leaning toward the driveway. Recommend monitoring.

Photo 5  
 
2) Walking path has steps of 6'x6" lumber and pavers. lumber has deteriorated and it is a trip hazard. Recommend a qualified contractor replace with new materials.

Photo 6  

Photo 7  

Photo 8  

Photo 9  
3)

Photo 10  
Walking path has raised patio blocks that create a trip hazard. Recommend making patio blocks flush with surrounding earth.

Photo 11  
Walking path has raised patio blocks that create a trip hazard. Recommend making patio blocks flush with surrounding earth.

Photo 50  
Stained pressure treated upper deck in good condition.

Photo 51  
Stained pressure treated lower deck in good condition.
4) The front steps have a cavity (missing concrete) on the right side. Recommend this hole be filled with a cement to seal to prevent further deterioration.

Photo 14  
 
5) Downspout in front of house to the left of the steps should have extension on leader to prevent water from backing up near the house.

Photo 13  
 
6) Aluminum fascia section is missing in front of house. Unprotected wood exposed to the weather will rot over time and potentially lead to other problems. Recommend having a qualified contractor replace.

Photo 15  
 
7) One or more minor cracks (1/8 inch or less) were found in the foundation. These don't appear to be a structural concern, but recommend sealing them to prevent water infiltration and monitoring them in the future. Numerous products exist to seal such cracks including:
  • Hydraulic cement. Requires chiseling a channel in the crack to apply. See http://www.quickrete.com/catalog/HydraulicWater-StopCement.html for an example.
  • Resilient caulks (easy to apply). See http://www.quickrete.com/catalog/GrayConcreteRepair.html for an example.
  • Epoxy sealants (both a waterproof and structural repair). See http://www.mountaingrout.com/ for examples of these products.

    Photo 2  

    Photo 3  
  • 8) Vegetation such as trees, shrubs and/or vines are in contact with or less than one foot from the structure 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 12  
     
    9) Driveway in good condition. No cracks or holes. Recommend resealing asphalt driveway.

    Photo 4  
     
     
    Roof Return to table of contents  
    Roof inspection method: Viewed from ground with binoculars
    Roof type: Gable
    Roof covering: Asphalt or fiberglass composition shingles
    Estimated age of roof: mid life
    Gutter & downspout material: Aluminum
    Roof ventilation: Unable to determine (no access to attic spaces)
    Layers noted: Single layer
    Defects observed: None
    Roof requires: No action
    Roof penetrations: Vent pipe
    10) 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.

    Photo 16  
     
    11) 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  
    # of Bays: One
    Visibility limited by: stored items
    Floor: Concrete
    Floor condition: small cracks
    Walls: Dry wall covered
    Walls: Wood frame
    Electric garage door opener: Yes
    Operated: Yes
    Reverse sensor: Yes. Needs adjustment. Excessive force required to reverse mechanism .
    Photo electric device: Yes and functional
    Interior door: Metal
    Windows: None
    Condition of windows: n/a
    12) The auto-reverse mechanism on the vehicle door opener is inoperable or requires too much force to activate. This is a safety hazard, especially for small children. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair as necessary. For more information on garage door safety issues, visit: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/523.html or http://www.ohdstl.com/safety.html
    13) Non-metallic sheathed wiring is routed in one or more areas so it is subject to damage, such as on wall or ceiling surfaces. The insulation can be damaged by objects coming in contact with it and/or it being repeatedly moved. This is a safety hazard due to the risk of shock and fire. A qualified electrician should evaluate and repair as necessary. For example, rewire using conduit, or re-routing through wall cavities.

    Photo 19  
     
    14) The garage-house door isn't equipped with an automatic closing device such as sprung hinges. This door should close and latch automatically to prevent vehicle fumes from entering living spaces and/or to slow the spread of fire from the garage to living spaces. A qualified contractor should install automatic closing device(s) as necessary, and as per standard building practices, so this door closes and latches automatically.

    Photo 17  
     
    15) Garage ceiling is low. Ladder support attached to ceiling hangs down lower below 6' from floor creating a safety hazard for one hitting head into. Recommend removing.

    Photo 18  
     
     
    Attic Return to table of contents  
    Inspection method: Traversed
    Roof structure type: Rafters
    Ceiling structure: Not visible
    Insulation material: Fiberglas roll or batt
    Insulation depth: 6"
    16) Attic access is through master bedroom closet wall. This accessible area has no ventilation means visible yet, the attic has no moisture issues resulting from that. Floor and wall insulation is present and adequate.

    Photo 20  

    Photo 21  

    Photo 22  
     
     
    Electric service Return to table of contents  
    Primary service type: Underground
    Primary service overload protection type: Circuit breakers
    Service amperage (amps): 100
    Service voltage (volts): 120/240
    Location of main service switch: Service panel
    Location of main disconnect: Breaker at top of main service panel
    Service entrance conductor material: Aluminum
    System ground: Concrete encased electrode
    Branch circuit wiring type: Non-metallic sheathed, (BX) Armor clad
    Solid strand aluminum branch circuit wiring present: No
    Smoke detectors present: Yes
    If grounded to water main, is meter jumped: Yes
      17)

    Photo 23  

    Photo 24  

    Photo 25  
     
     
    Water heater Return to table of contents  
    Estimated age: 12 yrs.
    Type: Tank
    Energy source: Natural gas
    Capacity (in gallons): 40
    Manufacturer: Reliance
    Model: Sta Clean 805
    Safety extension: Was noted
    Supply shut-off valve: Yes
    Rust or corrosion: none noted
    Tested hot water: hot water was received at faucets
    18) The estimated useful life for most water heaters is 8 to 12 years. This water heater was manufactured in 6/1994 and may need replacing at any time. Recommend budgeting for a replacement in the near future.

    Photo 27  
     
     
    Heating and cooling Return to table of contents  
    Estimated age: 25 yrs.
    Primary heating system energy source: Natural gas
    Primary heat system type: Baseboard
    Primary A/C energy source: Electric
    Primary Air conditioning type: N/A
    Model: Peerless 85,000 BTU
    When thermostats were turned on: fired or gave heat
    Flue pipes: noted
    Distribution system: circulating hot water
      19)

    Photo 28  
     
     
    Plumbing Return to table of contents  
    Location of main water shut-off valve: Crawl space
    Location of main water meter: Outside of house
    Location of main fuel shut-off: Boiler room
    Water service: Public
    Service pipe material: Copper
    Supply pipe material: Copper
    Vent pipe material: Not visible
    Drain pipe material: Plastic
    Waste pipe material: Plastic
    Functional flow: Tested
    With multiple fixtures running: Minimal decrease in flow
    Vent pipe observed on roof: Yes
    Vent pipe connection to plumbing observed: No
    20) The clothes dryer exhaust duct appears to need cleaning. Significant amounts of lint build up was found. This is a safety hazard due to the risk of fire from decreased air flow. This duct should be cleaned now and annually, or more often if necessary in the future. Some chimney sweeps or heating/cooling duct cleaners perform this service. For more information, visit http://www.cpsc.gov/CPSCPUB/PUBS/5022.html or http://chimneykeepers.com/dryerclean.html
    21)

    Photo 29  
    Water main shut-off

    Photo 30  
    Main sewer drain.
     
    Crawl space Return to table of contents  
    Inspection method: Traversed
    Insulation material underneath floor above: Rigid panel
    Pier or support post material: Steel
    Beam material: Solid wood
    Floor structure above: Not visible
    Vapor barrier present: Yes
    22) Extension cord to light fixture (trouble light) is lying on floor. This is an electrocution safety hazard in case of flooding. Raise extension cord off of floor.

    Photo 31  
     
      23) Crawl space accessed from basement wall.

    Photo 32  
     
     
    Basement Return to table of contents  
    Insulation material underneath floor above: None visible
    Pier or support post material: Bearing wall
    Basement: Readily accessible
    Type: partial
    Foundation walls: Finished paneling throughout. Walls unobservable.
    Ceiling framing: Finished ceiling.
    Basement floor: Carpeting over concrete.
    Water stains observed: None noted
    General area dampness: None
    Ventilation: Windows
    Floor drainage: None noted
    Sump pump: none
    Floor structure above: Solid wood joists
    Insulation material underneath floor above: Fiberglas roll or batt
    Beam material: Solid wood
    Window material: metal frame
    24) Ceiling shows signs of previous water damage that was corrected and repatched.

    Photo 35  
     
      25) Basement

    Photo 26  

    Photo 33  

    Photo 34  
     
     
    Kitchen Return to table of contents  
    Cabinets: wooden
    Doors and drawers: functional
    Cabintes secured: yes
    Counter tops: Formica
    Securely fastened: yes
    Kitchen floor covering: ceramic tiles
    Floor condition: good
    Dishwasher: GE
    Operated dishwasher: yes
    Dishwasher age: mid life
    Kitchen sink: stainless steel
    Ran water and found: no leaks
    Disposal: none
    Refridgerator: GE
    Refridgerator age: mid life
    Range: GE
    Range type: Electric
    Range age: mid life
    Operated and found: all burners working
    Oven: part of stove
    Ventilation: built-in to microwave, inside circulation
    Number of GFCI outlets in Kitchen: none
    Washing machine: Located off kitchen
    Observed: connections for water and drain
    Dryer: Located off kitchen
    Vented: to exterior
    Power: electric
    26) No GFI circuits in Kitchen area. Recommend a qualified electrician install.

    Photo 37  
     
      27)

    Photo 36  
     
      28) Under sink plumbing sound and clear of leakage or corrosion.

    Photo 38  
     
     
    1st floor Bathroom Return to table of contents  
    Bathroom 1: 1/2 bath
    Sink type: pedestal
    Sink #: one
    Toilet: flushed
    Toilet condition: good
    Floor covering: vinyl
    Floor condition: good
    Leaks: none noted
    Caulking appears: intact
    Number of outlets: one
    Ground fault interupter: yes
    Ventilation: ceiling fan
      29) Has working GFI. Has ceiling vent. No plumbing issues.

    Photo 39  

    Photo 40  

    Photo 41  
     
     
    Master Bathroom Return to table of contents  
    Main Bathroom: full
    Shower: stall
    Surround: ceramic tile
    Surround condition: good
    Number of Sinks: one
    Sink type: vanity
    Toilet: flushed
    Toilet condition: good
    Floor covering: ceramic tile
    Floor condition: good
    Leaks: noe noted
    Caulking appears: intact
    Ventilation: window
    Outlets: one
    Ground fault interupter: yes
    30)

    Photo 46  
     
     
    Interior rooms Return to table of contents  
    Ceilings appear to be made of: Drywall
    Ceiling style: flat
    Ceiling condition: good
    Major defects: None noted
    Mostly walls appear to made of: Drywall
    Wall condition: good
    Major defects: none noted
    Floor coverings are mostly: wall to wall carpet
    When bounced on: a normal amount of bounce was noted
    Generally floors feel: level
    Mostly the doors are the following type: hollow core
    General door condition: good condition
    Windows were mostly observed to be: sliders
    Windows double pane glass: yes
    Window frame construction: metal
    Random tested: yes
    Stairs between living levels: yes
    Stairs condition: good
    31) Living room ceiling has drywall joint crack. Crack is not structural but, should be retaped and plastered.

    Photo 49  
     
      32) Family room.

    Photo 42  
     
      33) Dining room

    Photo 43  

    Photo 44  
      34)

    Photo 45  
    Living room. Sheetrock walls are straight and free of cracks. Skylight shows no signs of leaks.

    Photo 47  
    Bedroom walls & ceilings are straight and free of cracks.

    Photo 48  
    Bedroom walls & ceilings are straight and free of cracks.
     
     
    This home inspection is a visual non-intrusive inspection that is in accordance with the current Standards of Practice of the National Association of Certified Home Inspectors posted at http://www.nachi.org/sop.htm