This report published on Monday, October 29, 2018 1:24:41 PM CDT
This report is the exclusive property of Cornerstone Home Inspection and the client(s) listed in the report title. Use of this report by any unauthorized persons is prohibited.
"VIEW SUMMARY". ON YOUR COMPUTER THIS WILL LIST THE MOST SIGNIFICANT ISSUES WHICH ARE TAKEN FROM THE MAIN REPORT BASED ON PRIORITY. THE SUMMARY LEAVES CONCERNS NUMBERED AS THEY WERE IN THE FULL REPORT, SO THEY ARE EASY TO LOCATE IN THE BODY OF THE REPORT. FOR THIS REASON, THE SUMMARY WILL 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:
Safety
Poses a safety hazard
Major Defect
Correction likely involves a significant expense
Repair/Replace
Recommend repairing or replacing
Repair/Maintain
Recommend repair and/or maintenance
Minor Defect
Correction likely involves only a minor expense
Maintain
Recommend ongoing maintenance
Evaluate
Recommend evaluation by a specialist
Serviceable
Item or component is in serviceable condition
Comment
For your information
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 https://www.reporthost.com/glossary.asp
Client present for discussion at end of inspection: No
Weather conditions during inspection: Sunny
Temperature during inspection: Cool, 62
Inspection fee: 450
Payment method: Credit card
Story: 1 Story
Buildings inspected: One house
Number of residential units inspected: 1
Age of main building: 1998
Source for main building age: Realtor
Occupied: Yes
1) There is a pool on the property. Some insurance companies require a fence. The pool was not included in the inspection.
Photo 1-1
Photo 1-2
2) Many areas and items at this property were obscured by furniture and/or stored items. This often includes but is not limited to walls, floors, windows, inside and under cabinets, under sinks, on counter tops, in closets, behind window coverings, under rugs or carpets, and under or behind furniture. Areas around the exterior, under the structure, in the garage and in the attic may also be obscured by stored items. The inspector in general does not move personal belongings, furnishings, carpets or appliances. When furnishings, stored items or debris are present, all areas or items that are obscured, concealed or not readily accessible are excluded from the inspection. The client should be aware that when furnishings, stored items or debris are eventually moved, damage or problems that were not noted during the inspection may be found.
Limitations: Unless specifically included in the inspection, the following items and any related equipment, controls, electric systems and/or plumbing systems are excluded from this inspection: detached buildings or structures; fences and gates; retaining walls; underground drainage systems, catch basins or concealed sump pumps; swimming pools and related safety equipment, spas, hot tubs or saunas; whether deck, balcony and/or stair membranes are watertight; trees, landscaping, properties of soil, soil stability, erosion and erosion control; ponds, water features, irrigation or yard sprinkler systems; sport courts, playground, recreation or leisure equipment; areas below the exterior structures with less than 3 feet of vertical clearance; invisible fencing; sea walls, docks and boathouses; retractable awnings. Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only.
Condition of driveway: Appeared serviceable
Driveway material: Poured in place concrete, Gravel
Site profile: Moderate slope
Condition of sidewalks and/or patios: Appeared serviceable
Sidewalk material: Poured in place concrete
Condition of deck, patio and/or porch covers: Appeared serviceable
Deck, patio, porch cover material and type: Covered (Refer to Roof section)
Condition of decks, porches and/or balconies: Appeared serviceable
Condition of stairs, handrails and guardrails: Required repairs, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
3) Handrails at one or more flights of stairs were missing. This is a potential fall hazard. Handrails should be installed at stairs with four or more risers or where stairs are greater than 30 inches high. Recommend that a qualified contractor install handrails where missing and per standard building practices.
Photo 3-1
4) Guardrails at one or more locations with drop-offs higher than 30 inches were missing. This poses a fall hazard. Guardrails should be installed where walking surfaces are more than 30 inches above the surrounding grade or surfaces below. Recommend that a qualified contractor install guardrails where missing and per standard building practices.
Photo 4-1
Photo 4-2
Photo 4-3
5) Gutters should be replaced on the shop/garage.
Photo 5-1
6) Minor deterioration (e.g. cracks, holes, settlement, heaving) was found in the driveway, but no trip hazards were found. The client may wish to have repairs made for cosmetic reasons.
Photo 6-1
7) Minor deterioration (e.g. cracks, holes, settlement, heaving) was found in sidewalks or patios, but no trip hazards were found. The client may wish to have repairs made for cosmetic reasons.
Limitations: The inspector performs a visual inspection of accessible components or systems at the exterior. Items excluded from this inspection include below-grade foundation walls and footings; foundations, exterior surfaces or components obscured by vegetation, stored items or debris; wall structures obscured by coverings such as siding or trim. Some items such as siding, trim, soffits, vents and windows are often high off the ground, and may be viewed using binoculars from the ground or from a ladder. This may limit a full evaluation. Regarding foundations, some amount of cracking is normal in concrete slabs and foundation walls due to shrinkage and drying. Note that the inspector does not determine the adequacy of seismic reinforcement.
Wall inspection method: Viewed from ground, from a ladder
Condition of wall exterior covering: Required repairs, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Apparent wall structure: Framed
Wall covering: Vinyl, Brick veneer, Metal
Condition of foundation and footings: Appeared serviceable
Apparent foundation type: Concrete slab on grade
Foundation/stem wall material: Concrete block
Footing material (under foundation stem wall): Poured in place concrete
9) Soil was in contact with or less than 6 inches from siding or trim. Regardless of what material is used for siding, it should not be in contact with the soil. If made of wood, siding or trim will eventually rot. For other materials, ground or surface water can infiltrate siding or trim and cause damage to the wall structure. Wood-destroying insects are likely to infest and damage the wall structure. This is a conducive condition for wood-destroying organisms. Recommend grading or removing soil as necessary to maintain a 6-inch clearance. Note that damage from fungal rot and/or insects may be found when soil is removed, and repairs may be necessary.
Shop only
Photo 9-1
Photo 9-2
10) Vegetation such as trees, shrubs and/or vines was in contact with or close to the building exterior. Vegetation can serve as a pathway for wood-destroying insects and can retain moisture against the exterior after it rains. This is a conducive condition for wood-destroying organisms. Recommend pruning, moving or removing vegetation as necessary to maintain at least 6 inches of space between it and the building exterior. A 1-foot clearance is better.
Limitations: The following items or areas are not included in this inspection: areas that could not be traversed or viewed clearly due to lack of access; solar roofing components. Any comments made regarding these items are made as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not provide an estimate of remaining life on the roof surface material, nor guarantee that leaks have not occurred in the roof surface, skylights or roof penetrations in the past. Regarding roof leaks, only active leaks, visible evidence of possible sources of leaks, and evidence of past leaks observed during the inspection are reported on as part of this inspection. The inspector does not guarantee or warrant that leaks will not occur in the future. Complete access to all roof and attic spaces during all seasons and during prolonged periods of all types of weather conditions (e.g. high wind and rain, melting snow) would be needed to do so. Regarding the roof drainage system, unless the inspection was conducted during and after prolonged periods of heavy rain, the inspector was unable to determine if gutters, downspouts and extensions performed adequately or were leak-free.
Roof inspection method: Traversed
Condition of roof surface material: Appeared serviceable
Roof surface material: Asphalt or fiberglass composition shingles
Roof type: Hipped
Apparent number of layers of roof surface material: One
Condition of exposed flashings: Appeared serviceable
Condition of gutters, downspouts and extensions: Appeared serviceable
11) The roof is serviceable. However, there are areas that are loosing granules, but not enough to be concerned at this time.
Photo 11-1
Photo 11-2
12) If the chimney is removed in the future, consider adding a dormer to replace it.
Limitations: The following items or areas are not included in this inspection: areas that could not be traversed or viewed clearly due to lack of access; areas and components obscured by insulation. Any comments made regarding these items are made as a courtesy only. The inspector does not determine the adequacy of the attic ventilation system. Complete access to all roof and attic spaces during all seasons and during prolonged periods of all types of weather conditions (e.g. high/low temperatures, high/low humidity, high wind and rain, melting snow) would be needed to do so. The inspector is not a licensed engineer and does not determine the adequacy of roof structure components such as trusses, rafters or ceiling beams, or their spacing or sizing.
Attic inspection method: Traversed
Condition of roof structure: Appeared serviceable
Roof structure type: Rafters
Ceiling structure: Ceiling joists
Condition of insulation in attic (ceiling, skylight chase, etc.): Appeared serviceable
Ceiling insulation material: Fiberglass loose fill, Fiberglass roll or batt
Approximate attic insulation R value (may vary in areas): R-30, R-38
Vermiculite insulation present: None visible
Vapor retarder: None visible
Condition of roof ventilation: Appeared serviceable
Roof ventilation type: Ridge vent(s), Open soffit vents
Limitations: Evaluation of and determining the adequacy or completeness of the following items are not included in this inspection: water recirculation pumps; solar water heating systems; Energy Smart or energy saver controls; catch pan drains. Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not provide an estimate of remaining life on water heaters, does not determine if water heaters are appropriately sized, or perform any evaluations that require a pilot light to be lit or a shut-off valve to be operated.
Condition of water heater: Required repair, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below), Near, at or beyond service life
Type: Tank
Energy source: Electricity
Estimated age: 1997
Capacity (in gallons): 80
Location of water heater: Garage
Hot water temperature tested: Yes
Water temperature (degrees Fahrenheit): 130+
15) The hot water temperature was greater than 120 degrees Fahrenheit. 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. If the water heater is powered by electricity, a qualified person should perform the adjustment, since covers that expose energized equipment normally need to be removed. For more information on scalding dangers, visit: http://www.reporthost.com/?SCALD
Photo 15-1
16) The estimated useful life for most water heaters is 8-12 years. This water heater appeared to be beyond this age and/or its useful lifespan and may need replacing at any time. Recommend budgeting for a replacement in the near future, or considering replacement now before any leaks occur. The client should be aware that significant flooding can occur if the water heater fails. If not replaced now, consider having a qualified person install a catch pan and drain or a water alarm to help prevent damage if water does leak.
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: generator systems, transfer switches, surge suppressors, inaccessible or concealed wiring; underground utilities and systems; low-voltage lighting or lighting on timers or sensors. Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not determine the adequacy of grounding or bonding, if this system has an adequate capacity for the client's specific or anticipated needs, or if this system has any reserve capacity for additions or expansion. The inspector does not operate circuit breakers as part of the inspection, and does not install or change light bulbs. The inspector does not evaluate every wall switch or receptacle, but instead tests a representative number of them per various standards of practice. When furnishings, stored items or child-protective caps are present some receptacles are usually inaccessible and are not tested; these are excluded from this inspection. Receptacles that are not of standard 110 volt configuration, including 240-volt dryer receptacles, are not tested and are excluded. The functionality of, power source for and placement of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms is not determined as part of this inspection. Upon taking occupancy, proper operating and placement of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms should be verified and batteries should be changed. These devices have a limited lifespan and should be replaced every 10 years. The inspector attempts to locate and evaluate all main and sub-panels. However, panels are often concealed. If panels are found after the inspection, a qualified electrician should evaluate and repair if necessary. The inspector attempts to determine the overall electrical service size, but such estimates are not guaranteed because the overall capacity may be diminished by lesser-rated components in the system. Any repairs recommended should be made by a licensed electrician.
Electric service condition: Appeared serviceable
Primary service type: Underground
Number of service conductors: 3
Service voltage (volts): 120-240
Estimated service amperage: 200
Primary service overload protection type: Circuit breakers
Service entrance conductor material: Stranded aluminum
Main disconnect rating (amps): 200
System ground: Ground rod(s) in soil
Condition of main service panel: Appeared serviceable
Condition of sub-panel(s): Appeared serviceable
Location of main service panel #A: Utility room
Location of main service panel #B: Utility room
Location of sub-panel #C: Garage
Location of main disconnect: Breaker at top of main service panel
Condition of branch circuit wiring: Required repair, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) protection present: No
Smoke alarms installed: Yes, but not tested
Carbon monoxide alarms installed: Yes, but not tested
17) One or more electric receptacles (outlets) at the kitchen, exterior and/or jetted tub had no visible ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection, or the inspector was unable to determine if GFCI protection was present. If not GFCI-protected, receptacles in wet areas pose a shock hazard. Recommend that a qualified electrician evaluate and install GFCI protection if necessary and per standard building practices. General guidelines for GFCI-protected receptacles include the following locations:
Outdoors (since 1973)
Bathrooms (since 1975)
Garages (since 1978)
Kitchens (since 1987)
Crawl spaces and unfinished basements (since 1990)
18) Wire splices were exposed and were not contained in a covered junction box. This is a potential shock or fire hazard. Recommend that a qualified electrician repair per standard building practices. For example, by installing permanently mounted junction boxes with cover plates where needed to contain wiring splices.
Photo 18-1
19) One or more modern, 3-slot electric receptacles (outlets) were found with an open ground. This is a shock hazard when appliances that require a ground are used with these receptacles. Examples of such appliances include computers and related hardware, refrigerators, freezers, portable air conditioners, clothes washers, aquarium pumps, and electrically operated gardening tools. Recommend that a qualified electrician repair as necessary so all receptacles are grounded per standard building practices.
Shop
Photo 19-1
Photo 19-2
Photo 19-3
20) One or more sections of outdoor wiring were exposed and not rated for exterior use. This is a potential shock hazard. Recommend that a qualified electrician repair per standard building practices. For example, by installing conduit, re-routing wires or replacing wiring.
Shop
Photo 20-1
Photo 20-2
21) Smoke alarms were missing from one or more bedrooms and/or in the attached garage. Additional smoke alarms should be installed as necessary so a functioning alarm exists in each hallway leading to bedrooms, in each bedroom, on each level and in any attached garage. For more information, visit: http://www.reporthost.com/?SMKALRM
Photo 21-1
Photo 21-2
22) One or more cover plates for switches, receptacles (outlets) or junction boxes were missing or broken. These plates are intended to contain fire and prevent electric shock from occurring due to exposed wires. Recommend that a qualified person install cover plates where necessary.
Photo 22-1
23) Based on the age of this structure and the appearance of existing smoke alarms, the alarms may have been installed more than 10 years ago. According to National Fire Protection Association, aging smoke alarms don't operate as efficiently and often are the source for nuisance alarms. Older smoke alarms are estimated to have a 30% probability of failure within the first 10 years. Newer smoke alarms do better, but should be replaced after 10 years. Unless you know that the smoke alarms are new, replacing them when moving into a new residence is also recommended by NFPA. For more information, visit: http://www.reporthost.com/?SMKALRMLS
Photo 23-1
24) The inspector was unable to open and evaluate panel(s) #A and B because items were blocking access. These panel(s) are excluded from this inspection. Recommend that repairs, modifications and/or cleanup should be made as necessary so panels can be opened and fully evaluated.
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: household appliances such as stoves, ovens, cook tops, ranges, warming ovens, griddles, broilers, dishwashers, trash compactors, refrigerators, freezers, ice makers, hot water dispensers and water filters; appliance timers, clocks, cook functions, self and/or continuous cleaning operations, thermostat or temperature control accuracy, and lights. Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not provide an estimate of the remaining life of appliances, and does not determine the adequacy of operation of appliances. The inspector does not note appliance manufacturers, models or serial numbers and does not determine if appliances are subject to recalls. Areas and components behind and obscured by appliances are inaccessible and excluded from this inspection.
Condition of counters: Appeared serviceable
Condition of sinks and related plumbing: Appeared serviceable
Condition of under-sink food disposal: Appeared serviceable
Condition of dishwasher: Appeared serviceable
Condition of range, cooktop or oven: Near, at or beyond service life
Range, cooktop or oven type: Electric
Type of ventilation: Down draft exhaust
Condition of refrigerator: Appeared serviceable
Condition of built-in microwave oven: Appeared serviceable
26) One or more cabinet drawers were difficult to open or close. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary.
Photo 26-1
Photo 26-2
27) The estimated useful life for most kitchen appliances is 10-15 years. One or more appliances (dishwasher, refrigerator, range and/or microwave) appeared to be near, at or beyond their service life. Even if operable, recommend budgeting for replacements in the near future.
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: private/shared wells and related equipment; private sewage disposal systems; hot tubs or spas; main, side and lateral sewer lines; gray water systems; pressure boosting systems; trap primers; incinerating or composting toilets; fire suppression systems; water softeners, conditioners or filtering systems; plumbing components concealed within the foundation or building structure, or in inaccessible areas such as below tubs; underground utilities and systems; overflow drains for tubs and sinks; backflow prevention devices. Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not operate water supply or shut-off valves due to the possibility of valves leaking or breaking when operated. The inspector does not test for lead in the water supply, the water pipes or solder, does not determine if plumbing and fuel lines are adequately sized, and does not determine the existence or condition of underground or above-ground fuel tanks.
Condition of service and main line: Appeared serviceable
Water service: Public
Location of main water shut-off: Building exterior
Condition of supply lines: Appeared serviceable
Supply pipe material: Copper, PEX plastic
Condition of drain pipes: Appeared serviceable
Drain pipe material: Plastic
Condition of waste lines: Appeared serviceable
Waste pipe material: Plastic
Vent pipe condition: Appeared serviceable
Vent pipe material: Plastic
Sump pump installed: None visible
Sewage ejector pump installed: None visible
Condition of fuel system: Appeared serviceable
Visible fuel storage systems: propane tank
Location of main fuel shut-off valve: At propane tank
28) Based on visible equipment or information provided to the inspector, this property appeared to have a yard irrigation (sprinkler) system. These are specialty systems and are excluded from this inspection. Comments in this report related to this system are made as a courtesy only and are not meant to be a substitute for a full evaluation by a qualified specialist. When this system is operated, recommend verifying that water is not directed at building exteriors, or directed so water accumulates around building foundations. Sprinkler heads may need to be adjusted, replaced or disabled. Recommend that a qualified plumber verify that a backflow prevention device is installed per standard building practices to prevent cross-contamination of gray water and potable water, and install an expansion tank at the water heater if missing and necessary. Recommend that a qualified specialist evaluate the irrigation system for other defects (e.g. leaks, damaged or malfunctioning sprinkler heads) and repair if necessary.
Photo 28-1
29) Based on visible components or information provided to the inspector, this property appeared to have a private sewage disposal (septic) system. These are specialty systems and are excluded from this inspection. Comments in this report related to this system are made as a courtesy only and are not meant to be a substitute for a full evaluation by a qualified specialist. Generally, septic tanks should be pumped and inspected every 3 years. Depending on the type of system and municipal regulations, inspection and maintenance may be required more frequently, often annually. Recommend the following:
Consult with the property owner about this system's maintenance and repair history
Review any documentation available for this system
Review inspection and maintenance requirements for this system
That a qualified specialist evaluate, perform maintenance and make repairs if necessary
30) A water filtration system was installed on the premises. These are specialty systems and are excluded from this inspection. Comments in this report related to this system are made as a courtesy only and are not meant to be a substitute for a full evaluation by a qualified specialist. Filter cartridges typically need replacing periodically. Cleaning and other maintenance may also be needed. Recommend consulting with the property owner about this system to determine its condition, required maintenance, age, expected remaining life, etc. For more information, visit: http://www.reporthost.com/?WTRFLTR
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: humidifiers, dehumidifiers, electronic air filters; solar, coal or wood-fired heat systems; thermostat or temperature control accuracy and timed functions; heating components concealed within the building structure or in inaccessible areas; underground utilities and systems; safety devices and controls (due to automatic operation). Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not provide an estimate of remaining life on heating or cooling system components, does not determine if heating or cooling systems are appropriately sized, does not test coolant pressure, or perform any evaluations that require a pilot light to be lit, a shut-off valve to be operated, a circuit breaker to be turned "on" or a serviceman's or oil emergency switch to be operated. It is beyond the scope of this inspection to determine if furnace heat exchangers are intact and free of leaks. Condensation pans and drain lines may clog or leak at any time and should be monitored while in operation in the future. Where buildings contain furnishings or stored items, the inspector may not be able to verify that a heat source is present in all "liveable" rooms (e.g. bedrooms, kitchens and living/dining rooms).
General heating system type(s): Heat pump
General heating distribution type(s): Ducts and registers
Condition of furnace filters: Appeared serviceable
Location for forced air filter(s): Behind return air grill(s)
Condition of forced air ducts and registers: Appeared serviceable
Condition of cooling system and/or heat pump: Near, at or beyond service life
Cooling system and/or heat pump fuel type: Electric
Location: Attic / closet
Type: Split system, Heat pump
Condition of controls: Appeared serviceable
Condition: Near, At or Beyond Life Span
Brand: American Standard
Model #: 6H2036A100A3 & 4TWB3030C1000AA
Approximate Age: 1997 & 2014
Proper Clearance (Air Flow): Yes
Outside Disconnect: Yes
Level: Yes
31) The estimated useful life for most heat pumps and air conditioning condensing units is 10-15 years. This unit appeared to be beyond this age and/or its useful lifespan and may need replacing or significant repairs at any time. Recommend budgeting for a replacement in the near future.
Photo 31-1
Photo 31-2
Photo 31-3
Photo 31-4
32) The last service date of the forced air heating/cooling system appeared to be more than 1 year ago, or the inspector was unable to determine the last service date. 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 1 year ago, recommend that a qualified HVAC contractor service this system and make repairs if necessary. Because this system has a compressor and refrigerant system, this servicing should be performed annually in the future. Any needed repairs noted in this report should be brought to the attention of the contractor when it's serviced.
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: coal stoves, gas logs, chimney flues (except where visible). Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not determine the adequacy of drafting or sizing in fireplace and stove flues, and also does not determine if prefabricated or zero-clearance fireplaces are installed in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications. The inspector does not perform any evaluations that require a pilot light to be lit, and does not light fires. The inspector provides a basic visual examination of a chimney and any associated wood burning device. The National Fire Protection Association has stated that an in-depth Level 2 chimney inspection should be part of every sale or transfer of property with a wood-burning device. Such an inspection may reveal defects that are not apparent to the home inspector who is a generalist.
Condition of gas-fired fireplaces or stoves: Required repair, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Gas fireplace or stove type: Metal pre-fab fireplace
Condition of chimneys and flues: Required repair, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Gas-fired flue type: B-vent
34) A fireplace was equipped with a gas burner and the chimney damper could close. This is a safety hazard due to the possibility of burner or pilot light exhaust gases entering living spaces. Modifications should be made to prevent the damper from ever closing to prevent this. A qualified contractor should repair per standard building practices so the damper cannot close.
Photo 34-1
35) The gas fireplace or stove was not fully evaluated because the pilot light was off. The inspector only operates normal controls (e.g. on/off switch or thermostat) and does not light pilot lights or operate gas shut-off valves. Recommend that the client review all documentation for such gas appliances and familiarize themselves with the lighting procedure. If necessary, a qualified specialist should assist in lighting such appliances, and make any needed repairs.
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: overflow drains for tubs and sinks; heated towel racks, saunas, steam generators, clothes washers, clothes dryers. Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not determine the adequacy of washing machine drain lines, washing machine catch pan drain lines, or clothes dryer exhaust ducts. The inspector does not operate water supply or shut-off valves for sinks, toilets, bidets, clothes washers, etc. due to the possibility of valves leaking or breaking when operated. The inspector does not determine if shower pans or tub and shower enclosures are water tight, or determine the completeness or operability of any gas piping to laundry appliances.
Location #1: Full bath, Master bath
Location #2: Full bath
Location #3: Half bath
Location #4: Laundry room/area
Condition of counters: Appeared serviceable
Condition of cabinets: Appeared serviceable
Condition of flooring: Appeared serviceable
Condition of sinks and related plumbing: Required repair, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Condition of toilets: Required repair, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Condition of bathtubs and related plumbing: Required repair, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Condition of shower(s) and related plumbing: Required repair, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Condition of ventilation systems: Appeared serviceable
Bathroom and laundry ventilation type: with individual ducts
Gas supply for laundry equipment present: No
240 volt receptacle for laundry equipment present: Yes
36) The toilet at location(s) #3 was loose where it attached to the floor. Leaks can occur. Flooring, the sub-floor or areas below may get damaged. Sewer gases can enter living spaces. Recommend that a qualified contractor remove the toilet(s) for further evaluation and repair if necessary. A new wax ring should be installed and toilet(s) should be securely anchored to the floor to prevent movement and leaking.
Photo 36-1
37) Gaps, no caulk, or substandard caulking were found between the shower enclosure and the floor and/or walls at location(s) #1. Water can penetrate these areas and cause damage. Recommend that a qualified person re-caulk or install caulking as necessary.
Photo 37-1
38) The bathtub drain stopper mechanism at location(s) #1 was inoperable. Recommend that a qualified person repair or replace as necessary.
Photo 38-1
39) Bathroom faucet aerator was missing/dirty.
Photo 39-1
40) Drain grill is slightly off center. Be aware of the edge and stubbing a toe.
Limitations: The following items are not included in this inspection: security, intercom and sound systems; communications wiring; central vacuum systems; elevators and stair lifts; cosmetic deficiencies such as nail-pops, scuff marks, dents, dings, blemishes or issues due to normal wear and tear in wall, floor and ceiling surfaces and coverings, or in equipment; deficiencies relating to interior decorating; low voltage and gas lighting systems. Any comments made regarding these items are as a courtesy only. Note that the inspector does not evaluate any areas or items which require moving stored items, furnishings, debris, equipment, floor coverings, insulation or similar materials. The inspector does not test for asbestos, lead, radon, mold, hazardous waste, urea formaldehyde urethane, or any other toxic substance. Some items such as window, drawer, cabinet door or closet door operability are tested on a sampled basis. The client should be aware that paint may obscure wall and ceiling defects, floor coverings may obscure floor defects, and furnishings may obscure wall, floor and floor covering defects. If furnishings were present during the inspection, recommend a full evaluation of walls, floors and ceilings that were previously obscured when possible. Determining the cause and/or source of odors is not within the scope of this inspection.
Condition of exterior entry doors: Required repair, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Exterior door material: Metal, Glass panel
Condition of interior doors: Required repair, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Condition of windows and skylights: Appeared serviceable
Type(s) of windows: Vinyl, Multi-pane, Single-hung
Condition of walls and ceilings: Required repairs, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Wall type or covering: Drywall
Ceiling type or covering: Drywall
Condition of flooring: Required repairs, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Condition of concrete slab floor(s): Required repairs, replacement and/or evaluation (see comments below)
Flooring type or covering: Laminate, Tile
41) One or more exterior doors had double-cylinder deadbolts installed, where a key is required to open them from both sides. This can be a safety hazard in the event of an emergency because egress can be obstructed or delayed. Recommend replacing double-cylinder deadbolts with single-cylinder deadbolts where a handle is installed on the interior side.
Photo 41-1
Photo 41-2
42) One or more walls had substandard repairs. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary.
Photo 42-1
43) Hardware on interior closet was missing/damaged.
Photo 43-1
Photo 43-2
44) Transition piece missing.
Photo 44-1
45) Laminate flooring is showing minor signs of swelling. Probably due to using a wet mop to clean.
Photo 45-1
Photo 45-2
46) Recommend cleaning and sealing grout in tile or stone flooring now and in the future as necessary to prevent staining and to improve waterproofing.
Dining room.
Photo 46-1
Cornerstone Home Inspection would like to provide you with the following information to assist you with keeping your home in the best possible working order...
Home appliance estimated design life: 1. Gas furnace: 15-20 years 2. Gas boiler: 17-24 years 3. Oil furnace: 18-25 years 4. Electric furnace: 18-25 years 5. Heat pump: 15 years 6. Central air conditioning: 15 years 7. Water heater (tank): 8-12 years 8. Water heater (tankless): 20+ years 9. Range and oven: 18-20 years 10. Refrigerator/Freezer: 18-20 years 11. Dishwasher: 9-11 years 12. Microwave oven: 10 years 13. Range hood and fan: 14 years 14. Food disposal: 10-12 years 15. Garage door opener: 10 years 16. Laundry washing machine: 14 years 17. Laundry dryer: 14 years 18. Bathtub/Sink: 10-30 years 19. Smoke or CO detector: 8-10 years 20. Exhaust fans: 10 years
Home Maintenance Check List
Monthly: 1. Clean any removable dishwasher filters. 2. Purge food disposal by filling the kitchen sink with clean water, then turn on the device until the water drains through. 3. Wash refrigerator/freezer interior walls and door gaskets with a solution of one quart of warm water to two tablespoons of baking soda and wipe dry. 4. Vacuum and clean "return" air ducts/grills. 5. Inspect lighting fixtures and replace any burned-out bulbs. 6. Clean clothes dryer lint trap and/or duct for better energy efficiency and to decrease the risk of fire.
Quarterly: 1. Inspect and service doors by cleaning and lubricating latches, hinges or replacing weatherstrippings as might be required. 2. Inspect and repair, if necessary, exterior caulking and finish around windows, doors, and siding. 3. Replace/clean, at least quarterly, furnace, heating and cooling system filters. 4. Re-tighten knobs and pulls on cabinets. Clean and lubricate drawer tracks and guides.
Semi-annually: 1. Inspect and test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Replace backup batteries as might be required. 2. Test (GFCI) ground fault circuit interrupters and (AFCI) arc fault breakers. 3. Inspect and maintain/clean gutters and downspouts. Runoff water must be directed away from the home. 4. Inspect attics and substructure areas for rodent droppings or other signs of pests or leaks/standing water, etc. 5. Prior to the beginning of the rainy season, test sump pumps for adequacy and function. 6. Look for moisture or decay, outside and inside the house, where flat surface decks and landings attach to the home. This is especially important if the landings do not have proper flashings. 7. Clean range hood fan grills and housings. 8. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust on coils behind the refrigerator/freezer.
Annually: 1. Licensed contractor to inspect and service heating and air conditioning systems. 2. Professional contractor to inspect and service wood burning appliances and chimneys. 3. Seal any foundation cracks. 4. Inspect, clean and lubricate garage vehicle door tracks and test auto-reverse functions. 5. Clean and lubricate sliding glass door and window tracks. 6. Inspect exterior paint for cracking and wear. Repaint, caulk and seal as needed. 7. Reseal, as required, wood decks and landings. 8. Inspect, for water damage, pests or rot, any substructure and attic areas. 9. Inspect roof flashings, chimney caps, shingles. 10. Inspect outside electrical service lines for damage, exposed wires or proximity to tree limbs. 11. Inspect all supply hoses at sinks, toilets and washing machines. 12. Clean and repair caulking or grout in bathrooms or kitchens. 13. Clean bathroom exhaust fan blades and grills. 14. Inspect all electric cords and replace as needed. 15. Change water filters and have fresh water systems professionally serviced.
Tips for keeping drains clear: 1. Pour a pot of hot water down the drain once a week to help clear away fat or grease that may have built-up in the drain line or the P-trap. 2. If a drain is clogged, try pouring 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 water down the drain.
General safety tips: Ensure that you know where the following items are located: 1. Emergency contact telephone numbers. 2. Fire extinguishers and water hose pipes. 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.
