1) Masonry steps have settled, and cracks were found. Recommend that a qualified contractor repair or replace steps as necessary.

2) The vapor barrier in the crawl space was substandard and loose. Soil was exposed as a result and will allow water from the soil to evaporate up into the structure. This is a conducive condition for wood-destroying organisms. A 6 mil black plastic sheet should be placed over all exposed soil with seams overlapped to 24 inches, and not in contact with any wood structural components. The sheeting should be held in place with bricks or stones, not wood. Recommend that a qualified person replace or repair the vapor barrier where necessary and per standard building practices.

The average cost to install a new vapor to get it to standard building practices is between $1,500-$2,500.


Cost estimate: $1,500-2500

4) Electrical panel damaged. This is a potential shock and fire hazard. Recommend that a qualified electrician evaluate and repair as necessary.

5) Panel A is located in the bedroom. One or more slots where circuit breakers are normally installed were open in panel A. Recommend that a qualified person install closure covers where missing.

Missing two breakers

6) No permanently installed carbon monoxide alarms were found. This is a potential safety hazard. Some states and/or municipalities require CO alarms to be installed for new construction and/or for homes being sold. Recommend installing approved CO alarms outside of each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms on each level and in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.

7) Carbon monoxide alarms were missing from one or more sleeping areas. This is a potential safety hazard. Some states and/or municipalities require CO alarms to be installed in the vicinity of each sleeping area, on each level and in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. Recommend installing additional carbon monoxide alarms per these standards.

8) The electric service to this property appeared to be rated at substantially less than 200 amps and may be inadequate. Depending on the client's needs, recommend consulting with a qualified electrician about upgrading to a 200 amp service. Note that the electric service's rating is based on the lowest rating for the meter base, the service conductors, the main service panel and the main disconnect switch. One or more of these components may need replacing to upgrade.

9) The metal roof is observed to be in good condition at the time of inspection. Roofing panels are securely fastened, with no visible signs of rust, corrosion, damage, or active leaks. Flashing appears to be properly installed and intact around penetrations and roof edges. The finish is in satisfactory condition with no significant deterioration noted. Continued routine maintenance is recommended to preserve the roof’s longevity.

10) Attic entrance is located in the hall bathroom.

The pull-down attic stairs were not insulated

13) The estimated useful life for most forced air furnaces is 15-20 years. This furnace appeared to be near 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.

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