This report published on Thursday, November 4, 2021 3:48:57 PM EDT
This report is the exclusive property of Photo Inspection, LLC 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 is shown in bold type. Items of concern follow descriptive information.
Concerns are shown and sorted according to these types:
Safety
Poses a risk of injury or death
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
Monitor
Recommend monitoring in the future
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
Foundation type: Unfinished basement, Some areas finished
Buyer's Email: Joesample@gmail.com
Buyer's Agent Email: Billsample@gmail.com
Buyer's Agent Phone: 000-000-0000
1) CT State Regulations pertaining to Home Inspections do not require hydrological assessment of homes (water intrusion into basements or crawl spaces). There are many factors that contribute to these conditions, and many homes may experience water intrusion at one time or another, particularly during highly unusual weather or seasonal changes, which can affect the water table. Future water intrusion cannot be predicted, and the inspection does not include historical research. As a visual inspection, the inspector will note any current conditions and visual evidence, and give recommendations to help eliminate or minimize water intrusion in the future. The home owner should maintain the property through maintaining grade slopes away from the home, cleaning gutters, and extending downspouts. Consult with the seller on any problems experienced in the past, or knowledge of any problems experienced in the past.
2) This inspection report provides you with a good assessment of the condition of your prospective purchase on the day of the inspection. Helping to protect your investment will be very important, and you can find further information about maintenance of your home at our website: www.photoinspect.com
3) It is the goal of the inspection to put a home-buyer in a better position to make a buying decision. This inspection report provides you with a good assessment of the condition of your prospective purchase on the day of the inspection. Not all improvements will be identified during this inspection. Unexpected repairs should still be anticipated. Consultation with professionals, when recommended, should be done prior to closing, so your decision is based on the most accurate information. The inspection is not to be considered a guarantee or warranty of any kind. This inspection is visual only. A representative sampling of building components is viewed in areas that are accessible at the time of the inspection. Furniture and storage, when present, limit accessibility to inspect some areas. As per State of Connecticut Home Inspection Regulations, no destructive testing or dismantling of building components is performed. Furniture is not moved and main valves are not turned on.
4) The inspection does not include components such as:
5) Concrete on exterior stairs is in need of localized repointing or patching. Loose areas can become a trip hazard. Consult with a mason for repairs.
6) Stone or brick exposed foundation needs re-pointing of the joints. Consult with a mason for repairs.
7) Sewer cap is broken or loose and should be repaired. Consult with a plumber.
8) The exterior of some of the windows is worn and/or broken. Upgrading these units will likely be most cost effective solution.
9) One or more downspouts do not have extensions, or have extensions that are ineffective. This can result in water accumulating around the structure's foundation, or in basements and crawl spaces if they exist. 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. It's recommended that repairs be made as necessary such as repair to or installation of splash blocks or tie-ins to underground drain lines, so that rain water is carried at least several feet away from the structure to soil that slopes down and away from the structure.
10) One or more gutters are missing. This can result in water accumulating around the structure's foundation, or in basements and crawl spaces if they exist. 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. It's recommended that a qualified contractor install gutters and downspouts where missing, as well as extensions such as splashblocks or tie-ins to underground drain lines where necessary so that rainwater is carried away from the house.
11) Typical wear was noted on the driveway surface, including small cracks and worn areas. Cracks should be sealed and the surface coated for protection. This can be completed by a driveway contractor, although products are available for homeowner applications.
12) Storm windows are missing, deteriorated or damaged. Repairs should be made on an as needed basis. Consult with window contractor or glass company for repairs.
13) Vegetation (trees, shrubs and/or vines) is in contact with the structure's exterior. This is a conducive condition for wood destroying insects and organisms. Vegetation can serve as a conduit for insects and may retain moisture against the exterior after rainfall. The pruning or removal of said vegetation is recommended so that there's at least a one foot gap between all vegetation and the structure's exterior.
14) Wood basement window(s) need typical repairs, including reglazing, repairing cracked or broken glass, or painting of the sash. It's recommended that repairs be made as necessary.
Roof inspection method: Viewed from ground with binoculars
Roof type: Gable
Roof covering: Asphalt or fiberglass composition shingles
Estimated age of roof: 6 to 10 yrs. old
Chimney flashing material: Metal
Gutter & downspout material: Aluminum
Roof ventilation: Adequate
15) Architectural shingles, such as these, are heavier shingles that can last up to 25 to 35 years. This covering is estimated about 5 years old and shows typical wear and tear for a roof of that age. Roof longevity or life cycle can be affected by several conditions, including:
weather
number of layers of roofing
attic ventilation
organic growth on surface
sunlight
yearly maintenance (or lack of)
The more ideal the conditions, the longer the life expectancy of the roof materials.
16) Composition tabbed shingles are installed on one or more roof sections with a slope less than 3/12 (3 inch rise for every 12 inch run). Most shingle manufacturers won't warranty their shingles if used on a roof with a slope less than 3/12. The installation of a different roofing material such as a "torch down" or "built up" roof surface is recommended when the roof surface is replaced. Alternatively, if composition shingles will be used for the next roof covering, the roof should be modified by a qualified contractor to have a slope of at least 3/12.
17) Not all of the underside of the roof sheathing is inspected for evidence of leaks. Evidence of prior leaks may be disguised by interior or exterior finishes. Estimates of remaining roof life are approximations only and do not preclude the possibility of leakage. Leakage can develop at any time and may depend on rain intensity, wind direction, ice buildup and other factors. Roof inspection may be limited by access, height, steepness, condition, weather, or other safety concerns. All roof coverings, new and old, require ongoing monitoring and maintenance. Seasonal inspections are advised to prevent leaks. The inspector is not required to determine the number of layers, nor to "walk the roof", especially when safety or roof condition is a concern. If further evaluation is recommended, a drone service may be contracted at an additional cost.
18) Mud tubes were visible at the inspection, which is an indication of the presence of subterranean termites. An exterminator should be consulted.
19) The wood boring inspection is visual only. Insulation and stored items are not moved. These stored items and other items may prevent inspection of all areas of framing members. Recommend standard prevention measures, such as avoiding wood/soil contact, reducing moisture levels in basements and crawl spaces, and annual inspections by an exterminator.
20) The wood boring inspection is visual only, insulation is not moved, storage of furniture and other items may prevent inspection of all areas of framing members. Recommend standard prevention measures, such as avoiding wood/soil contact, reducing moisture levels in basements and crawl spaces, and annual inspections by an exterminator.
Roof inspection method: Viewed from ground with binoculars
Roof type: Gable
Roof covering: Asphalt or fiberglass composition shingles
Overhead Door: Wood
Automatic Door Opener: None
Floor: Poured concrete
21) Low pitch roof that was built off of the garage is shingled and rafters were twisted. Recommend having a licensed builder support this section of roof more adequately, especially for snow loads.
22) The plywood behind the siding is moldy and rotted at the bottom and should be repaired or replaced by a licensed builder.
23) One or more garage vehicle doors is deteriorated or damaged beyond cost-effective repair. It's recommended that a qualified garage door contractor replace vehicle door(s) as necessary.
24) Cracks (1/8" to 1/2") are present in the foundation. Sealing the cracks to prevent water infiltration is recommended. Numerous products exist to seal such cracks including:
Insulation material underneath floor above: None visible
Beam material: Solid wood
Floor structure above: Solid wood joists
Evidence of basement leakage: Efflorescence (white deposits on wall/slab) was noted at the time of the inspection, Water seepage was noted in various areas
Basement inspection limitations: Insulation limited the ability to inspect all areas of the basement, Finished surfaces (ceiling, walls, floor) limited the ability to visually inspect all areas of the basement
25) Non-metallic sheathed wiring is unsupported or inadequately supported. This type of wiring should be attached to runners or to solid backing with fasteners at intervals of 4.5 feet or less. It's recommended that a qualified electrician evaluate and make repairs as necessary.
26) Basement room that appeared to be used as a bedroom at one time doesn’t have proper fire egress. The bathroom was in very poor condition.
27) One or more receptacles are loose, broken or damaged. A licensed electrician should resecure or replace them as necessary.
28) Cover plate(s), which are intended to contain fire and prevent electric shock from exposed wires, are missing from one or more electric receptacle, switch and/or junction boxes. This is a safety hazard and poses a risk of both fire and shock. It's recommended that a cover plate be installed over those boxes that are missing one.
29) Evidence of moisture penetration was visible in the basement at the time of the inspection in the form of:
water stains
wet areas of sheet rock and insulation
efflorescence
It should be understood that it is impossible to predict whether moisture penetration will pose a problem in the future. The vast majority of basement leakage problems are the result of insufficient control of storm water at the surface. The ground around the house should be sloped to encourage water to flow away from the foundation. Gutters and downspouts should act to collect roof water and drain the water at least five feet from the foundation, or into a functional storm sewer. Downspouts that are clogged or broken below grade level, or that discharge too close to the foundation, are the most common source of basement leakage. Please refer to the Roofing and Exterior sections of the report for issues in those areas that may affect leakage into the basement. In the event that basement leakage problems are experienced, lot and drainage improvements should be undertaken as a first step. Your plans for using the basement may influence the approach taken to resolving any dampness that is experienced.
30) The support beam should be evaluated by a qualified builder due to one side of beam dropped down and no longer supporting many of the floor joists. Recommend having this beam jacked back up into place so it supports floor joists.
31) Typical flaws were noted in the support beam, which include:
Primary service overload protection type: Circuit breakers
Service amperage (amps): 100 (4)
Location of main service panel: Basement
Sub panels: Not present
Location of main disconnect: Breaker at top of main service panel
Service conductor material: Copper
Service ground: Water pipe connection
Main disconnect rating (amps): 100 (4)
Branch circuit wiring type: Non-metallic sheathed
Solid strand aluminum branch circuit wiring present: No
Smoke detectors present: Yes
32) One or more smoke detectors is damaged or missing. Recommend replacing inoperable smoke detectors as necessary so a functioning one exists in each hallway leading to bedrooms, and in each bedroom. For more information on smoke detectors visit http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/5077.html
33) The seal around the entry wire where it meets meter socket is worn. This can allow water intrusion into electrical components. The seal should be repaired to prevent water intrusion and damage. Consult with a licensed electrician.
34) The main electrical panel boxes were in good condition the day of inspection.
35) The boiler is old and nearing the end of the anticipated life-span of this type of unit (20-25 years). It may be more prone to repairs. It is recommended that you budget for replacement of the unit. For the short term recommend extending relief valve discharge tube.
36) No heat responded to thermostat. It appears the seller shut off valve at circulating pump, which may cause the pump(s) to fail. Recommend boiler be shut off properly for summer months. Consult with a heating technician.
37) Baseboard covers are damaged or missing. Repair or replacement may be needed.
38) Some of the fittings on the supply piping are corroded, or there is evidence of current and or past leakage. They will likely need repair or replacement at any time. Recommend consulting with a licensed plumber.
39) Knowing the location of your main water shut-off is important, as it is used when servicing plumbing and also used to shut off all water in an emergency. This is your main valve.
40) The water heater was 7 years old and they typically last 10-12 years. Due to a valve above the water heater leaking, it has significantly deteriorated the outside of the unit.
41) No ceiling insulation is installed in the attic. A qualified contractor should install insulation for better energy efficiency and as per standard building practices with at an R rating recommended for this area.
42) No insulation is installed over the attic access hatch. Recommend installing insulation above hatch for better energy efficiency.
Washer hookups: Throw valve, Multi port - supply and drain in enclosed water tight port, Dedicated outlet, 110 volt grounded outlet, Wall drain
Dryer hookups: 220 volt outlet, Rigid or flex metal vent pipe
Drain tray under washing machine: Not present
Washer present at inspection?: Yes
Dryer present at inspection?: Yes
43) Laundry overview. The lint vent should be replaced and attached. The 110 outlet for washer was loose and should be secured as noted in basement section.
Smoke detectors: Some missing, Advise more smoke detectors to be installed
Ceilings: Drywall, Tiles
Walls: Drywall, Paneling
Interior Doors: Wood, Flaws
Windows: Thermopane windows, Some single storms
Light Fixtures: Operated as designed
Outlets: Flaws
Floors: Wood
Heat Source: Baseboard
Stairs: Hand rails present
53) 3rd floor electrical system should be further evaluated by a licensed electrician, as it appears some of the circuits are tied to the second floor unit. The power was off to second floor unit and several areas were dead at the third floor.
54) Exposed wiring is loose and/or damaged. Consult with a licensed electrician.
55) Wiring to fixture in second floor back hall is loose and/or damaged. Consult with a licensed electrician.
56) One or more receptacles are loose, broken or damaged. A licensed electrician should resecure or replace them as necessary.
57) Loose wiring is evident. A licensed electrician should secure and repair.
58) Cover plate(s), which are intended to contain fire and prevent electric shock from exposed wires, are missing from one or more electric receptacle, switch and/or junction boxes. This is a safety hazard and poses a risk of both fire and shock. It's recommended that a cover plate be installed over those boxes that are missing one.
59) One or more light fixtures are inoperable. Recommend having a licensed electrician evaluate and repair or replace fixture(s) as necessary.
60) Windows are broken or loose at the third floor. Recommend repairs.
61) The hardware on the window(s) is damaged or broken and needs repair or replacement. Window hardware should be repaired so that windows easily open and close and are able to be locked.
62) Screen(s) missing in one or more windows. Window(s) may not provide ventilation during months when insects are active. Recommend installing screens.
63) One or more doors don't latch when closed. Recommend making repairs as necessary such as adjusting latch plates or lockset mechanisms.
64) One or more doors have no lockset installed. Recommend installing locksets in doors where missing.
65) One or more locksets are damaged or in disrepair. Recommend repairing or replacing locksets as necessary.
66) One or more doors is damaged and needs repair or replacement. Recommend repairing or replacing doors as necessary.
67) Wood flooring in one or more rooms is worn or damaged. The client may want to have this flooring refinished and/or repaired.
68) Poison ivy is growing on the side of building extending up to second floor.
69) Window(s) cracked or broken. Recommend replacing glass.
70) The walls/ceilings in one or more rooms displayed typical flaws which may include some of the following:
minor cracks
minor stains
popped nails
loose or dried out taping seams
small, cosmetic holes that may need filling
limited areas of peeling paint
These are considered regular maintenance issues and can be addressed upon occupying home.
71) Floor settlement was evident at the front bump out. It is likely the footing below the posts at the front are undersized. This area may need eventual re-supporting. The inspector did not observe recent movement, however if cracks develop, repairs may be needed.
Stairs, steps, railings: Basement, Interior, Hand rails, Guard rails
72) Window is low to stairway and sashes are loose. Recommend installing a safety approved window here to help prevent children or adults from falling out or through unit.
73) As typical in older homes, the configuration of the stairs does not conform to the standard of practices today, and as such, you should proceed with caution. As this is a rental property, insurance companies, fire marshal, etc., may require some modifications or upgrades. Consult with proper authorities.
74) The railing on the stairs and the guard rail at the top of the stairs is lower than the standard practice of today, which is a safety concern, as someone could tumble over.
75) Evidence of mold was present. It is recommended that air/swab testing be performed to confirm and to determine the type of mold. Because of the extent of the mold, and the indication that moisture issues are also present, it is recommended that a specialist be consulted to address mold removal. Mold can be a health hazard to some individuals with sensitivity. In addition, if the moisture penetration issues are not immediately addressed, the mold will continue to grow and become a bigger problem. Air and swab testing can be done by our company; please contact our office for more information.
76) This home was built before 1978, when laws were enacted in the US preventing the use of lead paint in residential structures.
The paint found in and around this structure appeared to be intact and and most likely encapsulated by more recent layers of paint that's not lead-based.
New laws have just been enacted on renovation, removal and repair when lead paint is present. Please visit this website to make sure you are compliant: http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm
Lead paint may be present, and is a known safety hazard, especially to children but also to adults. It may cause brain damage and retarded mental and physical development, among other things.
As part of this inspection, the client is given a copy of the State of Connecticut Regulations pertaining to Home Inspections, as well as an Inspection Agreement, that explains what is covered, and what is not covered in this Home Inspection. An inspection of the sewage system is outside the scope of this inspection, unless specifically contracted for prior to the inspection date. An inspection of the pool is outside the scope of this inspection. A representative sampling of components was inspected rather than every occurrence of components. The inspection does not include an assessment of geological, geotechnical, or hydrological conditions, or environmental hazards. Screening, shutters, awnings, or similar seasonal accessories, fences, recreational facilities, outbuildings, seawalls, break-walls, docks, erosion control and earth stabilization measures are not inspected. Photo Inspection does not test for Indoor Air Quality and does not test for mold as part of this inspection. This service is available for an additional fee.