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Specquest LLC Home Inspection

http://www.specquestpro.com
specquest@icloud.com
(707) 408-4234

Summary

Client(s):  Valuable Customer
Property address:  123 New Home Way
My Town, USA 12345
Inspection date:  Thursday, January 10, 2019

This report published on Saturday, March 2, 2019 12:40:33 PM PST



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

This report has been produced in accordance with our signed contract (pre-inspection agreement) and is subject to the terms and conditions agreed upon therein. All printed comments and the opinions expressed herein are those of Specquest LLC.

InterNACHI click to verify

Concerns are shown and sorted according to these types:
SafetyPoses a safety hazard
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
ServiceableItem or component is in serviceable condition
CommentFor your information
Attachments
SampleCoverLetter.pdf


Grounds
1) Safety, Repair/Replace - Flashing appeared to be missing from above one or more deck or porch ledger boards, or could not be verified. Missing flashing at this location can cause moisture to accumulate between the ledger boards and the building. Fungal rot may occur in this area and cause the ledger board fasteners to fail. The deck may separate from the building in this event. This is a potential safety hazard. Recommend that a qualified contractor install flashing above ledger boards per standard building practices.
2) Repair/Replace, Evaluate - Fungal rot was found in decking boards and/or support posts at one or more decks or porches. Conducive conditions for this such as wood-soil contact should be corrected. Recommend that a qualified contractor evaluate and repair as necessary. All rotten wood should be replaced.
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Photo 2-1 
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Photo 2-2 
3) Repair/Replace - One or more deck or porch beams were not positively secured to the support posts below. Deck or porch beams are commonly connected to support posts by "toenailing," which is inadequate. Decks and porches are subject to movement under live loads and require a positive connection between their support posts and beams. Recommend that a qualified contractor repair per standard building practices. For example, by installing metal plates, plywood gussets or dimensional lumber to connect posts and beams.
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Photo 3-1 
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Photo 3-2 
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Photo 3-3 
4) Repair/Replace - Fasteners for the deck, porch or balcony support post brackets and/or tie plates were missing. Approved fasteners such as Teco nails should be installed in every nail hole in such hardware. Recommend that a qualified person install approved fasteners where necessary.
5) Repair/Maintain, Evaluate - A hot tub was installed. Hot tubs, related equipment and supply hookups 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. Regular maintenance is required, and safety issues may exist. Recommend that a qualified specialist evaluate and, if needed, maintain or repair.
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Photo 5-1 
6) Repair/Maintain, Monitor - Significant amounts of standing water or evidence of past accumulated water were found at one or more locations in the yard or landscaped areas, and no drain was visible. If evidence of past water was found (e.g. silt accumulation or staining), monitor these areas in the future during periods of heavy rain. If standing water exists, recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary. For example, installing one or more drains, or grading soil.
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Photo 6-1 Bottom of deck stairs
7) Repair/Maintain - One or more Fence posts were damaged or deteriorated and need repair.
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Photo 7-1 
8) Repair/Maintain - Wooden support posts for the deck or porch were resting directly on concrete piers or footings below. Water may wick up into the support post ends and result in elevated levels of moisture in the wooden support post ends. This is a conducive condition for wood-destroying organisms. Support posts should rest in metal brackets above concrete piers or footings, or should be separated from the concrete below by impervious membranes such as composition shingle scraps. Even if posts are made of treated wood the cut ends may not have been field-treated, leaving little or no preservative at the post center. Recommend that a qualified contractor repair per standard building practices. For example, by installing composition shingle scraps between the posts and the concrete below.
10) Evaluate - One or more deck members were loose and in need of repair. Suggest a licensed contractor to evaluate whole structure further and make necessary repairs.
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Photo 10-1 

Exterior and Foundation
16) Repair/Replace - Fungal rot was found at one or more sections of siding or trim. Conducive conditions for rot should be corrected (e.g. wood-soil contact, reverse perimeter slope). Recommend that a qualified contractor repair as necessary. All rotten wood should be replaced.
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Photo 16-1 Back patio, right of main door
17) Repair/Maintain - "Honeycombing" was found in one or more sections of the concrete foundation. This occurs when aggregate and sand in the concrete mixture bunches into clusters and fails to mix with the cement paste. This can be caused because the concrete mix was too stiff, by inadequate consolidation (insufficient use of a mechanical concrete vibrator) and/or pouring the concrete from too high of an elevation. In many cases honeycombing is only a cosmetic issue, but it does make concrete susceptible to water infiltration. Where honeycombing is accessible, recommend that a qualified person fill voids with an approved material such as hydraulic cement or non-shrinking grout.

The client should be aware that when honeycombing is visible, it may also exist in hidden areas. Honeycombing can result in mold growth in absorbent flooring materials (e.g. carpeting and mortar joints), and can cause rigid flooring materials to warp and buckle.
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Photo 17-1 Left side of home

Roof
20) Repair/Replace - Kick-out flashing was missing at one or more locations. Such flashing should be located at the bottom of slopes where roof surfaces intersect with exterior walls above. It directs rainwater away from exterior walls and into gutters so that rainwater is less likely to run down the front surfaces of siding or flow behind siding. Recommend that a qualified contractor install kickout flashings where missing and per standard building practices.
21) Repair/Replace - Extensions such as splash blocks or drain pipes for one or more downspouts were missing. Water can accumulate around the building foundation or inside crawl spaces or basements as a result. Recommend that a qualified person install, replace or repair extensions as necessary so rainwater drains away from the structure.
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Photo 21-1 
22) Repair/Maintain - The junction of two or more roof planes intersecting at the downslope is frequently called a valley. Debris/moss was accumulated in one or more valleys and this is conducive to leaks under the roof shingles/tiles because water does not flow freely to the gutters or drainage system and may collect under the shingles/tiles causing roof sheathing damage. Suggest a qualified roofing contractor evaluate and clean out as necessary which may require the removal of tiles before cleaning. For more information:

http://www.homeadviceguide.com/unblocking-a-roof-valley-repair-cost/
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Photo 22-1 
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Photo 22-2 
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Photo 22-3 
23) Repair/Maintain - Gaps were found in or around roof soffits and can allow birds or vermin to enter the attic. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary to eliminate gaps.
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Photo 23-1 Above garage
24) Repair/Maintain - Some concrete roof ridge tiles had gaps. Leaks may occur as a result. This is a conducive condition for wood-destroying organisms. Recommend that a qualified person replace tiles, add sealant or make repairs as necessary.
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Photo 24-1 
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Photo 24-2 
25) Repair/Maintain - One or more roof flashings were corroded. Leaks can occur as a result. This is a conducive condition for wood-destroying organisms. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary.
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Photo 25-1 
26) Repair/Maintain - One or more rubber or neoprene pipe flashings were loose or lifting or unsecure. Leaks can result from windblown rain. This is a conducive condition for wood-destroying organisms. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary to prevent leaks. For example, by nailing flashings down and sealing as necessary.
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Photo 26-1 

Garage or Carport
33) Safety, Repair/Replace - The door between the garage and the house has been modified with a pet door, and is no longer fire-resistant. This is a potential safety hazard. House to garage doors, to prevent fire and fumes from spreading from the garage into interior living space, should be constructed of fire-resistant materials. Doors, generally considered to be suitable for the purpose, are solid core wood, steel, honeycomb steel or a door that has been factory labeled as fire rated. Recommend that a qualified contractor replace or repair the door and, at that time, make any other corrections that might be required to provide suitable fire resistance between the garage and the dwelling per standard building practices.

Door off bathroom
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Photo 33-1 
34) Safety, Repair/Maintain - The self-closing device on the door between the garage and the house didn't close and latch the door. These devices are installed to keep the door closed to prevent possible fire and fumes from the garage from spreading to the house. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary. Bathroom door.
35) Safety, Repair/Maintain - One or more garage vehicle doors had an automatic opener installed, and the manual lock mechanism on the door hadn't been permanently disabled. The automatic opener can be damaged, or injury can occur if the automatic door opener is operated with the manual lock engaged. A qualified person should disable or remove the lock mechanism per standard building practices.
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Photo 35-1 
36) Safety, Repair/Maintain - The wall-mounted control for one or more automatic garage vehicle door openers was less than 5 feet off the floor, or within reach of children. This is a safety hazard. Children should not be able to operate automatic garage vehicle door openers. A qualified person should relocate controls for door openers so they are at least 5 feet above floors and/or out of reach of children.
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Photo 36-1 Approximately 42”
37) Safety, Repair/Maintain - The step(s) installed below the door between the garage and the house were substandard. This is a fall or trip hazard. A qualified person should repair as necessary.

No railing and varying riser height
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Photo 37-1 

Electric
40) Safety, Repair/Replace, Evaluate - Panel(s) #AC Unit used older style, "Edison" base fuses. This type of fuse allows anyone to install incorrectly rated fuses, possibly resulting in damage to wiring. Recommend that a qualified electrician evaluate this panel and the wiring to determine if damage has occurred, and repair or replace components and/or wiring as necessary.
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Photo 40-1 Disconnect for AC unit
41) Safety, Repair/Replace, Evaluate - One or more electric receptacles at the kitchen, garage and/or exterior 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)
  • Wet bar sinks (since 1993)
  • Laundry and utility sinks (since 2005)
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Photo 41-1 All exterior outlets
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Photo 41-2 Garage
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Photo 41-3 Kitchen
42) Safety, Repair/Replace, Evaluate - One or more electric receptacles at the bedroom(s), kitchen, family room, dining room and/or laundry area had no visible arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) protection, or the inspector was unable to determine if AFCI protection was present. This is a potential safety hazard. Recommend that a qualified electrician evaluate and install AFCI protection if necessary and per standard building practices. General guidelines for AFCI-protected receptacles include the following locations:
  • Bedrooms (since 1999)
  • Kitchens, laundry areas, family rooms, dining rooms, living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens and recreation rooms, sunrooms, closets and hallways (since 2014)
43) Safety, Repair/Replace - Panel(s) #D were located in a closet. This is not an approved location for electric panels. Recommend that a qualified electrician move the panel(s) or make repairs per standard building practices.
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Photo 43-1 Front bedroom
44) Safety, Repair/Replace - One or more circuit breakers in panel(s) #AC Unit Disconnect were "double tapped," where two or more wires were installed in the breaker's lug. Most breakers are designed for only one wire to be connected. This is a safety hazard since the lug bolt can tighten securely against one wire but leave other(s) loose. Arcing, sparks and fires can result. Recommend that a qualified electrician repair as necessary.
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Photo 44-1 AC disconnect
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Photo 44-2 
45) Safety, Repair/Replace - Non-metallic sheathed wiring in the attic was routed on surfaces within 6 feet of one or more access hatches or doors, and was subject to damage. Wiring can be damaged when hatches are lifted and set aside, when stored items are moved into or out of the attic, etc. This is a potential shock and/or fire hazard. Recommend that a qualified electrician repair per standard building practices.
46) Safety, Repair/Replace - Extension cords were being used as permanent wiring at one or more locations. They should only be used for portable equipment on a temporary basis. Using extension cords as permanent wiring is a potential fire and shock hazard, and indicates that wiring is inadequate and needs updating. Extension cords may be undersized. Connections may not be secure resulting in power fluctuations, damage to equipment, overheating and sparks that could start a fire. Recommend that a qualified electrician repair per standard building practices and eliminate extension cords for permanently installed equipment.
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Photo 46-1 
47) Safety, Repair/Replace - One or more receptacles were broken, damaged or not properly attached. This is a potential shock or fire hazard. Recommend that a qualified electrician replace such receptacles as necessary.
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Photo 47-1 Front bedroom closet
48) Safety, Repair/Replace - A 3-slot receptacle was installed for the clothes dryer. Most modern clothes dryers use both 120 and 240 volts (120 for timers and motors, and 240 for heating elements) and either require or are more safely installed with a 4-slot receptacle. With 3-conductor wiring, the ground wire rather than a neutral wire is used to carry the return current back for the 120 volt leg. The clothes dryer's metal frame can become energized if the neutral wire becomes loose at the receptacle or panel. While 3-wire clothes dryer circuits were allowed prior to 1996 and are commonly found, they are considered unsafe due to the risk of shock. Recommend that a qualified electrician convert this to a 4-wire circuit. Note that this may require installing a new circuit wire from the panel to the clothes dryer location.
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Photo 48-1 
49) Safety, Repair/Replace - Light fixtures with fully or partially exposed incandescent bulbs were installed in one or more closets. This is a fire hazard. Flammable stored items can come into contact with hot bulbs, or hot fragments from broken bulbs can fall on combustible materials. Closet lighting should use fluorescent light fixtures or fully enclosed incandescent fixtures. Installing a compact fluorescent lamp in a lamp holder is not an acceptable practice. If globes or covers are missing, they should be replaced. Otherwise recommend that a qualified electrician replace closet lights per standard building practices.
50) Safety, Repair/Replace - One or more cover plates installed outside were loose and/or missing components. This is a potential shock and/or fire hazard. Recommend that a qualified electrician repair as necessary.

Spa controls
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Photo 50-1 
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Photo 50-2 Cover is loose and has gaps
51) Safety, Repair/Replace - Smoke alarms were missing from one or more bedrooms. 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.
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Photo 51-1 Back right bedroom
52) Safety, Repair/Maintain - One or more bushings were missing or loose from where wires enter holes in panel(s) #C. This is a potential safety hazard because the wiring insulation can be cut or abraded on the metal edge of the hole(s). Recommend that a qualified electrician install or repair bushings where necessary.
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Photo 52-1 
53) Safety, Repair/Maintain - One or more wires inside panel(s) #D were loose, and were not terminated. This poses a safety hazard for shock and/or fire. Recommend that a qualified electrician remove any abandoned wiring or repair as necessary. For example, by trimming wires to length and installing wire nuts.
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Photo 53-1 
54) Safety, Repair/Maintain - One or more cover plates for switches, receptacles 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.
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Photo 54-1 Garage
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Photo 54-2 Garage ceiling
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Photo 54-3 Above stove
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Photo 54-4 Back right bedroom
55) Safety, Repair/Maintain - 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.
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Photo 55-1 
56) Safety, Comment - Light fixtures with fully or partially exposed fluorescent bulbs were installed in one or more closets. This is a safety hazard. Recommend that protective sleeves be installed on such bulbs to prevent breakage.
57) Repair/Replace - The inspector was unable to open and evaluate panel(s) #C because . 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.
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Photo 57-1 
58) Repair/Replace - One or more receptacles had a prong from a plug broken off in a slot, or slot(s) were clogged with foreign objects. Recommend that a qualified electrician replace such receptacles as necessary.
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Photo 58-1 Master bedroom back corner near closet
59) Repair/Replace - One or more globes or covers for light fixtures were missing or damaged. Recommend replacing as necessary to avoid exposed bulbs. With closet lighting or where flammable stored objects are near light fixtures, missing or broken covers can be a fire hazard. Master closet area
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Photo 59-1 Master closet area
60) Repair/Maintain, Evaluate - The legend for circuit breakers or fuses in panel(s) #C and D was missing, incomplete, illegible or confusing. This is a potential shock or fire hazard in the event of an emergency when power needs to be turned off. Recommend correcting the legend so it's accurate, complete and legible. Evaluation by a qualified electrician may be necessary.
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Photo 60-1 
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Photo 60-2 
61) Evaluate - A photovoltaic solar energy system was installed. Evaluating these systems is beyond the scope of a home inspection. Its condition is unknown, and it is excluded from this inspection. Recommend that a qualified electrician review this system and make repairs if necessary.
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Photo 61-1 
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Photo 61-2 
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Photo 61-3 
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Photo 61-4 
62) Evaluate - 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.
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Photo 62-1 
63) Evaluate - One or more light fixtures were inoperable (didn't turn on when nearby switches were operated). Recommend further evaluation by replacing bulbs and/or consulting with the property owner. If replacing bulbs doesn't work and/or no other switch(es) can be found, then recommend that a qualified electrician evaluate and repair or replace light fixtures as necessary.
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Photo 63-1 
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Photo 63-2 

Plumbing / Fuel Systems
71) Safety, Repair/Replace, Evaluate - One or more sections of gas supply piping and/or fittings were corroded. This is a potential explosion and/or fire hazard. Recommend that a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
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Photo 71-1 Spa heater
72) Safety, Repair/Maintain - One or more propane or natural gas supply terminations were unused (no appliance connected) and no cap was installed on the gas shut-off valve(s). Gas can flow directly out of the termination with the shut-off valve is opened. This is a potential fire hazard. Recommend that a qualified person install caps where missing per standard building practices.
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Photo 72-1 Dryer connection
73) Safety, Minor Defect - One or more hose bibs were missing backflow prevention devices. These devices reduce the likelihood of gray water entering the potable water supply. Recommend installing backflow prevention devices on all hose bibs where missing. They are available at most home improvement stores and are easily installed.
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Photo 73-1 
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Photo 73-2 
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Photo 73-3 
74) Repair/Replace, Evaluate - Water was discolored when bathtubs or sinks were filled, or when showers were operated. This can be caused by water stagnating in water supply pipes, rust accumulating in pipes or in the water heater, or sediment being present in the water supply. Recommend flushing the water supply piping and the water heater. If that fails to resolve the issue, then have a qualified plumber evaluate and repair as necessary.
75) Repair/Replace, Evaluate - Low flow was found at one or more showers when multiple fixtures were operated at the same time. Water supply pipes may be clogged or corroded, filters may be clogged or need new cartridges, or fixtures may be clogged. Recommend that a qualified plumber evaluate and repair as necessary.
76) Repair/Replace - No sediment trap was installed in the gas supply line at the furnace. Sediment traps prevent damage to gas-fired appliances by trapping oil, scale, water condensation and/or debris. Recommend that a qualified contractor install a sediment trap per standard building practices.
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Photo 76-1 
77) Repair/Maintain, Evaluate - 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. Consider having a qualified plumber verify that a backflow prevention device is installed per standard building practices to prevent cross-contamination of potable water. Recommend that a qualified specialist evaluate the irrigation system for other defects (e.g. leaks, damaged or malfunctioning sprinkler heads) and repair if necessary.
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Photo 77-1 
78) Maintain, Evaluate - 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
79) Evaluate - Based on visible equipment or information provided to the inspector, the water supply to this property appeared to be from a private well. Private well water supplies 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. The inspector does not test private well water for contamination or pollutants, determine if the supply and/or flow are adequate, or provide an estimate for remaining life of well pumps, pressure tanks or equipment. Only visible and accessible components are evaluated. Recommend the following:
  • That a qualified well contractor fully evaluate the well, including a pump/flow test
  • That the well water be tested per the client's concerns (coliforms, pH, contaminants, etc.)
  • Research the well's history (how/when constructed, how/when maintained or repaired, past performance, past health issues)
  • Document the current well capacity and water quality for future reference
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Photo 79-1 Pressure tank and valve room - Locked
80) Evaluate - 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.
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Photo 80-1 

Heating, Ventilation and Air Condition (HVAC)
86) Safety, Repair/Maintain, Evaluate - The last service date of the gas or oil-fired forced air furnace 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 inspect, clean, and service this system, and make repairs if necessary. For safety reasons, and because this system is fueled by gas or oil, this servicing should be performed annually in the future. Any needed repairs noted in this report should be brought to the attention of the HVAC contractor when it's serviced.
87) Major Defect, Comment - The estimated useful life for most heat pumps and air conditioning condensing units is 10-15 years. This unit appeared to be at 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.
88) Repair/Replace - One or more heating or cooling ducts in an unconditioned space (e.g. crawl space, attic, basement or garage) were not insulated, or the insulation was damaged or deteriorated. This can result in reduced energy efficiency, moisture inside heating ducts, and/or "sweating" on cooling ducts. Recommend that a qualified person repair per standard building practices. For example, by wrapping ducts in insulation with an R-value of R-8.
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Photo 88-1 Above blower unit on furnace
89) Repair/Maintain - One or more sections of flex duct used for heating or cooling were sagging or had substandard support. Energy efficiency can be reduced due to restricted flow. Manufacturers typically recommend that flex duct be supported with the following guidelines:
  • Ducts should not sag more than 1/2 inch every foot between supports
  • Support straps should be spaced no farther apart than 5 feet
  • Support straps should be soft, webbed nylon and at least 1 1/2 inches wide
Recommend that a qualified person repair per the manufacturer's specifications.
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Photo 89-1 

Fireplaces, Stoves, Chimneys and Flues
93) Safety, Repair/Maintain, Evaluate - One or more wood-burning fireplaces or stoves were found at the property. When such devices are used, they should be professionally inspected and cleaned annually to prevent creosote build-up and to determine if repairs are needed. The National Fire Protection Association states that a "Level 2" chimney inspection should be performed with every sale or transfer of property with a wood-burning device. Recommend consulting with the property owner about recent and past servicing and repairs to all wood-burning devices and chimneys or flues at this property. Recommend that a qualified specialist evaluate all wood-burning devices and chimneys, and clean and repair as necessary. Note that if a wood stove insert is installed, it may need to be removed for such an evaluation. For more information, search for "chimney inspection" at:
https://www.reporthost.com/?CSIA
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Photo 93-1 
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Photo 93-2 
94) Repair/Maintain - The gasket for the wood stove door was deteriorated, damaged or missing. The door may leak and efficiency can be reduced. Recommend that a qualified person replace the gasket.
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Photo 94-1 

Kitchen
95) Safety, Repair/Replace - The oven door handle was loose. Recommend that a qualified person repair or replace as necessary.

The door itself was malfunctioning
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Photo 95-1 
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Photo 95-2 
96) Repair/Replace, Evaluate - The exhaust fan over the range recirculated the exhaust air back into the kitchen. This may be due to no duct being installed, baffles not being installed, or problems with duct work. This can be a nuisance for odor and grease accumulation. Where a gas-fired range or cook top is installed, carbon monoxide and excessive levels of moisture can accumulate in living spaces. Recommend that a qualified contractor evaluate and repair as necessary so exhaust air is ducted outdoors.
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Photo 96-1 
97) Repair/Replace - 1 cooktop burner(s) were inoperable. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary.
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Photo 97-1 
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Photo 97-2 
98) Repair/Maintain - Water was leaking at the sink faucet base or handles. Recommend that a qualified plumber repair as necessary.
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Photo 98-1 
99) Minor Defect - The oven light was inoperable. Recommend replacing bulb or that repairs are made, if necessary, by a qualified person.

Bathrooms, Laundry and Sinks
101) Safety, Maintain - The clothes dryer exhaust duct appeared to need cleaning. Significant amounts of lint build-up were visible and may reduce air flow. This is a fire hazard. Recommend that a qualified person clean this duct now and as necessary in the future. Some chimney sweeps or heating/cooling duct cleaners perform this service. For more information, visit:
https://www.reporthost.com/?DRYER
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Photo 101-1 
102) Repair/Replace - Vinyl flooring in the bathroom at location(s) #A and B was loose and/or curling. Water can damage the sub-floor as a result. Recommend that a qualified contractor replace or repair flooring as necessary.
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Photo 102-1 
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Photo 102-2 
103) Repair/Replace - The toilet at location(s) #A, B and C appeared to be old, and may use excessive amounts of water. Modern low-flush toilets use only 1.6 gallons (6 liters) of water per flush, where as many pre-1980 toilets use 7 or 6 gallons per flush (GPF). Consider having a qualified plumber replace old toilets as necessary with modern, good quality toilets for better water conservation.
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Photo 103-1 
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Photo 103-2 
104) Repair/Replace - The shower head at location(s) #A was missing. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary.
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Photo 104-1 
105) Repair/Replace - The bathroom with a shower or bathtub at location(s) #A, B and C didn't have an exhaust fan installed. Moisture can accumulate and result in mold, bacteria or fungal growth. Even if the bathroom has a window that opens, it may not provide adequate ventilation, especially during cold weather when windows are closed or when wind blows air into the bathroom. Recommend that a qualified contractor install exhaust fans per standard building practices where missing in bathrooms with showers or bathtubs.
106) Repair/Replace - The laundry room didn't have an exhaust fan installed. Moisture can accumulate and result in mold, bacteria or fungal growth. Recommend that a qualified contractor install an exhaust fan per standard building practices.
107) Repair/Maintain - Caulk around the base of the toilet at location(s) #B and C was missing, substandard and/or deteriorated. Modern standards require caulk to be installed around the entire toilet base where it meets the floor for sanitary reasons. Without it, soiled water can soak into flooring and sub-floor materials if the toilet overflows. Condensation from the toilet can also soak into the flooring. Recommend that a qualified person caulk around toilet bases per standard building practices.
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Photo 107-1 
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Photo 107-2 
108) Repair/Maintain - Caulk was missing around the base of the bathtub spout, or there was a gap behind it, at location(s) #C. Water may enter the wall structure behind the bathtub. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary to eliminate the gap. For example, by installing or replacing caulk if the gap is small enough. For larger gaps, a shorter spout nipple or an escutcheon plate can be installed.
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Photo 108-1 

Interior, Doors and Windows
109) Safety, Repair/Replace - Openings at stair risers were greater than 4 inches. This is a potential safety hazard for children (e.g. falling through, getting stuck in gaps). Recommend that a qualified contractor repair per standard building practices. For example, by enclosing stair risers.
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Photo 109-1 
110) Repair/Replace, Evaluate - Condensation or staining was visible between multi-pane glass in one or more . This usually indicates that the seal between the panes of glass has failed or that the desiccant material that absorbs moisture is saturated. As a result, the view through the window may be obscured, the window's R-value will be reduced, and accumulated condensation may leak into the wall structure below. Recommend that a qualified contractor evaluate and repair windows as necessary. Usually, this means replacing the glass in window frames.

Be aware that evidence of failed seals or desiccant may be more or less visible depending on the temperature, humidity, sunlight, etc. Windows or glass-paneled doors other than those that the inspector identified may also have failed seals and need glass replaced. It is beyond the scope of this inspection to identify every window with failed seals or desiccant.
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Photo 110-1 Loft area
111) Repair/Replace, Evaluate - Stains and elevated levels of moisture were found in one or more ceiling areas. The stains appear to be due to an active roof leak. Recommend that a qualified contractor evaluate and repair as necessary.
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Photo 111-1 Master bedroom ceiling
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Photo 111-2 
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Photo 111-3 
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Photo 111-4 Master bedroom wall
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Photo 111-5 Dining room ceiling
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Photo 111-6 
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Photo 111-7 
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Photo 111-8 Front bedroom ceiling
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Photo 111-9 
112) Repair/Replace, Evaluate - Floors in one or more areas were sagging or springy. This can be caused by over-spanned, undersized or too few joists or beams, or too few support posts. Recommend that a qualified contractor and/or engineer evaluate further. Repairs should be performed by a qualified contractor. In kitchen.
113) Repair/Replace - One or more exterior doors were sticking. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary.

Bottom sweep significantly rubbed on threshold
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Photo 113-1 
114) Repair/Replace - Some interior door hardware (locksets and/or Strike plate) were missing. Recommend that a qualified person repair or replace as necessary.
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Photo 114-1 Back right bathroom door
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Photo 114-2 Front bedroom door
115) Repair/Replace - One or more window screens were damaged or deteriorated. These window(s) may not provide ventilation during months when insects are active. Recommend replacing window screens as necessary.
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Photo 115-1 Master bedroom
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Photo 115-2 Master bedroom patio door
116) Repair/Maintain - Weatherstripping around one or more exterior doors was damaged. Water may enter the building, or energy efficiency may be reduced. Recommend that a qualified person repair or replace weatherstripping as necessary.
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Photo 116-1 Front bedroom entrance
117) Repair/Maintain - One or more interior doors wouldn't latch or were difficult to latch. Recommend that a qualified person repair as necessary. For example, by adjusting latch plates or locksets.
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Photo 117-1 Back right bathroom door
118) Minor Defect - Floor guides were missing or not attached at one or more sliding closet doors.
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Photo 118-1 Front bedroom closet
119) Minor Defect - Minor cracks, nail pops and/or blemishes were found in walls and/or ceilings in one or more areas. Cracks and nail pops are common, are often caused by lumber shrinkage or minor settlement, and can be more or less noticeable depending on changes in humidity. They did not appear to be a structural concern, but the client may wish to repair these for aesthetic reasons. For recurring cracks, consider using an elastic crack covering product:
https://www.reporthost.com/?ECC

Attic and Interior Roof Structure
121) Repair/Replace, Evaluate - The roof structure was substandard when compared with current building standards. For example, collar ties were missing. This may result in the roof structure spreading or sagging. Recommend that a qualified contractor evaluate and repair if necessary.
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Photo 121-1 
122) Repair/Replace, Evaluate - The roof structure in the attic was wet, and/or dripping water was found at one or more locations. There appeared to be one or more active leaks in the roof. Recommend that a qualified contractor evaluate and repair as necessary. Above staining visible in bedroom on left.
123) Repair/Maintain - One or more attic access hatches or doors were not insulated, or had substandard insulation. Weatherstripping was also missing or substandard. Recommend installing weatherstripping and insulation per current standards at hatches or doors for better energy efficiency.
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Photo 123-1 
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Photo 123-2 
124) Repair/Maintain - One or more attic or roof vent screens were missing, deteriorated or substandard. Recommend that a qualified person replace or repair screens as necessary to prevent birds or vermin from entering the attic.
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Photo 124-1 Above garage

Crawl Space
127) Repair/Replace, Evaluate, Monitor - Evidence of prior water intrusion or accumulation was found in one or more sections of the crawl space. For example, sediment stains on the vapor barrier or foundation, and/or efflorescence on the foundation. Accumulated water is a conducive condition for wood-destroying organisms and should not be present in the crawl space. Recommend that the client review any disclosure statements available and ask the property owner about past accumulation of water in the crawl space. The crawl space should be monitored in the future for accumulated water, especially after heavy and/or prolonged periods of rain. If water is found to accumulate, then recommend that a qualified contractor who specializes in drainage issues evaluate and repair as necessary. Typical repairs for preventing water from accumulating in crawl spaces include:
  • Repairing, installing or improving rain run-off systems (gutters, downspouts and extensions or drain lines)
  • Improving perimeter grading
  • Repairing, installing or improving underground footing and/or curtain drains
Ideally, water should not enter crawl spaces, but if water must be controlled after it enters the crawl space, then typical repairs include installing trenches, gravity drains and/or sump pump(s) in the crawl space.
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Photo 127-1 
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Photo 127-2 
128) Repair/Replace - One or more support posts were not positively secured to the beam above. While this is common in older homes, current standards require positive connections between support posts and beams above for earthquake reinforcement. Recommend that a qualified contractor repair per standard building practices. For example, by installing metal plates, plywood gussets or dimensional lumber connecting posts and beams.
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Photo 128-1 
129) Repair/Replace - No vapor barrier was installed in the crawl space. This is a conducive condition for wood-destroying organisms due to the likelihood of water evaporating from the soil below up into the structure. 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 contractor install a vapor barrier per standard building practices.
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Photo 129-1 
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Photo 129-2 
130) Repair/Replace - One or more crawl space vent screens were clogged with debris or paint. This restricts ventilation in the crawl space and can result in increased levels of moisture inside. Screens should be cleaned or replaced with 1/8-inch to 1/4-inch wire mesh as necessary.
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Photo 130-1 
131) Repair/Maintain - Under-floor insulation was falling down in some areas. This may result in reduced energy efficiency. Recommend that a qualified person repair or replace insulation as necessary.
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Photo 131-1 
132) Repair/Maintain - The screens for one or more crawl space vents were loose. Vermin or pets can enter the crawl space and nest, die and/or leave feces and urine. Vermin often damage under-floor insulation too. Recommend that a qualified person install or replace screens where necessary using 1/8-inch to 1/4-inch wire mesh.
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Photo 132-1