Roof
Attic, Insulation and Ventilation
Exterior
Attached Garage
Interior, Doors, Windows
Kitchen
Laundry
Bathroom
Bathroom 2
Bathroom 3
Electrical
Plumbing
Water Heating Equipment
Cooling
Heating
Structural Basement
Structural Crawlspace
Mold Inspection
Premier Partners
The roof covering material was damaged/deteriorated in some areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate, then repair or replace as advised prior to the inspection objection deadline.
The roof covering appeared to be at or near the end of its serviceable life. A qualified contractor should evaluate, then repair or replace as advised prior to the inspection objection deadline.
The valley flashing/shingles, used to protect areas of the roof from moisture intrusion, had a build up of debris. This condition could trap moisture and damage the roof covering. A qualified roofing contractor should evaluate, then repair or replace as advised prior to the inspection objection deadline.
A plumbing vent did not extend far enough above the roof. A plumbing vent should extend a minimum of 10″. A qualified contractor should evaluate, then repair or replace as advised prior to the inspection objection deadline.
The chimney had deteriorated mortar joints at the time of inspection and may require repairs such as “tuck-pointing” or “re-pointing”. This is a common maintenance task for masonry. A qualified contractor should evaluate, then repair or replace as advised prior to the inspection objection deadline.
Gutters were bent and/or damaged at the time of the inspection.
This condition may cause problems by introducing excessive amounts of moisture to the soil beneath the foundation. Excessive moisture in soil supporting the foundation can affect its ability to support the weight of the structure above and may cause foundation damage from soil movement. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
Gutters had moderate general corrosion visible. Corrosion is generally a sign of poor sloping or drainage, and continued corrosion will eventually result in leaking gutters.
This condition may cause problems by introducing excessive amounts of moisture to the soil beneath the foundation. Excessive moisture in soil supporting the foundation can affect its ability to support the weight of the structure above and may cause foundation damage from soil movement. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
Gutters were full of debris or granules in areas and need to be cleaned. The debris in gutters can clog drainage, or be a sign gutters are sloped improperly – Either of which may cause problems by overflowing to introduce excessive amounts of moisture to the soil beneath the foundation. Excessive moisture in soil supporting the foundation can affect its ability to support the weight of the structure above and may cause foundation damage from soil movement.
Debris in gutters can also conceal rust, deterioration or leaks that are not visible until cleaned.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
Gutters were leaking and need maintenance such as the application of an appropriate sealant at the time of the inspection. This condition may cause problems by introducing excessive amounts of moisture to the soil beneath the foundation. Excessive moisture in soil supporting the foundation can affect its ability to support the weight of the structure above and may cause foundation damage from soil movement. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
Attic hatch not finished at time of inspection. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate further once hatch is installed.
Minor cracking was visible on the driveway in areas. Monitoring is the minimum recommendation. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
The concrete driveway was moderately cracked. Cracks that progress to a separation of 1/4″ and more would be an indication of settlement, heaving, or structural problems. Cracks may present a tripping hazard. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair as necessary.
The driveway showed signs of heaving and/or settling in areas. Heaving is often caused by soil that has expanded in volume due to increased moisture content, or by wet soil which has expanded as it became frozen. Settlement is when the soil below a concrete slab is loose, or it can no longer support the weight causing it to sink or crack. This condition could potentially cause a trip hazard.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
The driveway surface was spalling in areas. This condition will continue to degrade if not corrected. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Peeling paint was present in areas.
Recommend a qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as needed.
There were signs of previously repaired damage. Recommend inquiring with current homeowners for any further information. Should repairs be significant or failing, we recommend a qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as needed.
The siding/trim had a swollen appearance due to moisture intrusion.
Recommend a qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as needed.
The eaves had gaps at the edges between soffit panels or roof sheathing which allows insects to enter the attic.
Recommend a qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
Components of the eaves, facia, and/or soffit was warped, swollen, or had peeling paint which are signs of water damage. The materials will eventually begin to rot if left untreated or cause has not been corrected.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The paint was peeling or cracking in one or more areas of the eaves.
Recommend a qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
An exterior entry door had an opening that was too wide leaving a gap or daylight around the door. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
An exterior electrical outlet was loose in the wall. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
Window wells had accumulated soil, leaves, and other debris which should be cleared to encourage proper drainage and minimize the retaining of moisture near the foundation and moisture intrusion and damage through the window area. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary according to current standards.
Window Well(s) lacked covers and may represent a danger to small children and may trap pests. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The walkway(s) showed signs of heaving and/or settling in areas. Heaving is often caused by soil that has expanded in volume due to increased moisture content, or by wet soil which has expanded as it became frozen. Settlement is when the soil below a concrete slab is loose or it can no longer support the weight causing it to sink or crack.
- This causes cracks in the concrete.
- This creates trip hazards that could result in injury.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
Dense vegetation was present around the house in areas. This condition limited and restricted my visual inspection. Dense vegetation and landscaping up against or near the house foundation and exterior walls may be prone to water penetration and insect infestation. Trimming, pruning and some landscaping is recommended by a qualified contractor
Consideration should be given to trimming or even removing large tree(s) located close to the structure. We suggest consultation with a tree specialist. Evaluating trees lies beyond the scope of the general property inspection.
Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The property had areas of neutral or negative drainage, which will route runoff from precipitation to the foundation. Excessive moisture content in soil supporting the foundation can cause foundation and other structural damage from undermining, heaving or settling, depending on soil composition, moisture content and other conditions.The ground around the property should slope away from all sides, ideally 6 inches for the first 10 feet from the house foundation perimeter. Downspouts, surface gutters and drains should also be directing water away from the foundation. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair as necessary according to current standards.
Large trees near the house have branches which overhang the property. Falling branches due to conditions such as wood decay, high winds or heavy snow loads may cause injury, death or damage. Significant weakening of large branches by conditions such as core decay may not be visible by persons without special training. Consider having these trees evaluated by a qualified arborist. Evaluating trees lies beyond the scope of the general property inspection.
Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Vegetation growing on siding should be removed and kept away from eaves, woodwork, doors, chimneys, or other building components. They hold moisture against the wall, hide rot and other problems and are conducive conditions for termites, carpenter ants, etc. The growth does not allow full inspection of the siding and can hide potential defects underneath.
Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The lawn sprinkler system supply valves appeared to be corroded and/or leaking at time of inspection. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair/replace as necessary according to current standards.
One or more down spout extensions were too short. Recommend installing 6-8ft long (or greater as needed) extensions to divert rainwater runoff away from the property.
Downspout(s) are missing the proper 6 ft. extensions. This condition may cause problems by introducing excessive amounts of moisture to the soil beneath the foundation. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
The inspector was unable to verify that the door was fire rated . This may be considered a fire safety hazard. The door between the garage and the house should be a solid wood door at least 1-3/8 inches thick, a solid or honeycomb-core steel door at least 1-3/8 inches thick, or a 20-minute fire-rated door. This means that should a fire occur in garage, the occupant door does not afford protection until firemen arrive. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Garage ceiling showed signs of current or past moisture intrusion. Moisture intrusion is visibly noted by the presence of water stains or efflorescence but can not tell whether the issue is active without further water testing.
Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate, and if active, make repairs as necessary to prevent further damage and/or mold.
Walls and/or ceilings had signs of repairs at the time of inspection. Recommend asking current home owners for more information. Should repairs appear to be poorly done, we recommend having a qualified contractor evaluate further for any further repairs.
The concrete floor in the garage was cracked. Due to expansive soils, minor cracks are to be expected in the slabs or control joints. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace as needed.
The garage door was hard to lift or the spring(s) did not support the weight of the door when tested.
Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
An extension cord was being used to power the garage door operator. Extension cords are for temporary use only, and the operator should be plugged into a dedicated outlet. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and update to current building standards as necessary.
The garage door opener had a light bulb that was not working. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace as needed.
Garage windows appear to be single pane aluminum frame windows which are not as energy and efficient as current standards.
The ceilings showed signs of minor damage and wear. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
There were “nail pops” visible on the interior ceilings. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The property had tiles that may contain asbestos. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary. Flooring, including sheet vinyl, vinyl or asphalt floor tiles and any associated paper-like backing, mastic, adhesive or glue, may contain asbestos. In the past, asbestos fibers were added during the production of flooring materials to strengthen the flooring and to increase its durability. Flooring that contains asbestos, when intact and in good condition, is generally considered non-friable and is not hazardous. Heat, water, weathering or aging can weaken flooring to the point where it is considered friable. Friable material includes any material containing more than 1 percent asbestos that can be crumbled, pulverized or reduced to powder with hand pressure. This includes previously non-friable material which has been damaged to the extent that it may be crumbled, pulverized or reduced to powder by hand pressure and can also be made friable during its removal. Friable materials can release asbestos fibers into the air. Once in the air, asbestos fibers present a health hazard to people who inhale those fibers.
The carpet was loose or baggy and may need to be restretched. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The tile floor had missing or damaged grout. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The floors showed signs of minor damage and wear, particularly in high-traffic areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The sliding/folding door would fall off the track when operated. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
At the time of the inspection, the property did not have emergency escape and rescue openings which met generally-accepted current standards. Egress opening requirements:
For safety reasons, all sleeping room and basements greater than 200 square feet and new properties should meet the generally-accepted current standards for emergency escape and rescue openings, which include the following requirements:
1. Sill height shall not exceed 44 inches above the floor.
2. Minimum net clear opening shall be 5.7 square feet; exception – grade level windows
may have a minimum clear opening of 5 square feet.
3. Minimum net clear opening height shall be 24 inches.
4. Minimum net clear opening width shall be 20 inches.
One or more electrical outlets were not grounded. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Although the 3-prong outlets installed in this property typically indicate a property with grounded branch wiring, this property had no grounding system installed to protect devices such as switches and electrical outlets. Although this condition may have been commonly considered safe or acceptable at the time the property was originally constructed, as general knowledge of safe building practices has improved with the passage of time, building standards have changed to reflect current understanding. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
A GFCI outlet was not grounded and did not trip when tested. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The light fixture used an extension cord to power the light. Extension cords re mot meant for permanent wiring.
A light fixture was missing. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The ceiling fan did not work. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
At the interior stairs, the handrail had a railing end that did not return to the wall or post. A fall could occur if something (purse, backpack etc.) caught the end of the railing when descending. A fall or injury could occur if not corrected. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The smoke detector did not work when tested. A qualified person should repair or replace as needed. The existing smoke detectors were tested if present, but they are only noted as to presence and operation as of date of inspection. Smoke detectors may work today but not work when you need them to work. This is why it is important for you to test them on a regular basis, monthly at least. Smoke detectors are recommended by the U.S. Product Safety Commission to be installed inside each bedroom and adjoining hallway and on each living level of the property and basement level.
Baseboard trim was missing in areas of the interior walls at the time of inspection. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as needed.
The drywall wall, ceiling, and/or trim was not finished properly. This may be one or more of the following: loose sections, missing pieces, missing caulking and/or paint, or poor application of any of the wall, ceiling, finishing components. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The ceilings had signs of previous repair. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The floors showed signs of minor damage and wear – particularly in high traffic areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The counter top needs caulking with silicone along the back splash. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The kitchen area cabinetry was missing a kick plate at one or more areas. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace as needed.
The sink drain line had a flex pipe used as part of the drain line. Flexible drain lines can smell, clog, leak or fail. Flex lines design includes multiple folds in which moisture may become trapped and mold may grow. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The dishwasher kickplate was loose. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
A cook top element was not working at the time of inspection. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The oven was not working at the time of inspection. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The oven only insert was not completely mounted and left a gap of exposed wiring. to just a qualify contractor complete the installation.
Although outside the scope of a general home inspection, the inspector noted the refrigerator ice and/or water dispenser was not working. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The bathroom exhaust fan was very dirty and possibly clogged. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
No ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection was provided for the bathroom electrical outlets. Although GFCI protection of bathroom circuits may not have been required at the time of in which this property was built, as general knowledge of safe building practices has improved with the passage of time building standards have changed to reflect current understanding. The inspector recommends updating the existing bathroom electrical circuits to provide GFCI protection. This can be achieved by:
1. Replacing the current standard outlets with GFCI outlets.
2. Replacing the first circuit outlet located closest to the main electrical service panel with the GFCI outlet
3. Replacing the breaker currently protecting the electrical circuit that contains these outlets with the GFCI breaker.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
A GFCI outlet was not grounded and did not trip when tested. A GFCI requires a ground wire to route electricity when tripped. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The counter top needs caulking with silicone along the back splash. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The water supply valve was corroded at the time of inspection. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The toilet was slow to fill when flushed. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Tiles on the wall in the bath/shower area had missing or damaged grout. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The hot water in the shower did not get over 100 degrees whereas the nearby faucets did. This may indicate that either the mixing valve (safety feature to limit potential scalding) or control cartridge needs adjustment to achieve a hot shower. There may be a more significant issue, that only further evaluation can reveal.
Hot and cold supply was installed correctly and the property’s overall hot water temperature was within an acceptable range.
Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The bathroom exhaust fan was loose and/or hanging. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The paint was peeling in areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The tile floor had missing or damaged grout. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
No ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection was provided for the bathroom electrical outlets. Although GFCI protection of bathroom circuits may not have been required at the time of in which this property was built, as general knowledge of safe building practices has improved with the passage of time building standards have changed to reflect current understanding. The inspector recommends updating the existing bathroom electrical circuits to provide GFCI protection. This can be achieved by:
1. Replacing the current standard outlets with GFCI outlets.
2. Replacing the first circuit outlet located closest to the main electrical service panel with the GFCI outlet
3. Replacing the breaker currently protecting the electrical circuit that contains these outlets with the GFCI breaker.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
A GFCI outlet was not grounded and did not trip when tested. A GFCI requires a ground wire to route electricity when tripped. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Wood cabinetry had a finish that was worn or peeling. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace as needed.
The toilet was loose at the floor. This condition typically is caused by loose bolts or nuts and/or missing floor seals. Loose toilet can result in leaks, water damage, and mold, as well as damage to the toilet, water supply lines, bolts, and drainage pipes. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The tub/shower area had deteriorated or missing sealant (caulking or grout) where the shower wall rests on the tub and/or at the inside corners. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The hot water in the shower did not get over 100 degrees whereas the nearby faucets did. This may indicate that either the mixing valve (safety feature to limit potential scalding) or control cartridge needs adjustment to achieve a hot shower. There may be a more significant issue, that only further evaluation can reveal.
Hot and cold supply was installed correctly and the property’s overall hot water temperature was within an acceptable range.
Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The floors showed signs of minor damage and wear – particularly in high traffic areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
No ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection was provided for the bathroom electrical outlets. Although GFCI protection of bathroom circuits may not have been required at the time of in which this property was built, as general knowledge of safe building practices has improved with the passage of time building standards have changed to reflect current understanding. The inspector recommends updating the existing bathroom electrical circuits to provide GFCI protection. This can be achieved by:
1. Replacing the current standard outlets with GFCI outlets.
2. Replacing the first circuit outlet located closest to the main electrical service panel with the GFCI outlet
3. Replacing the breaker currently protecting the electrical circuit that contains these outlets with the GFCI breaker.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
A GFCI outlet was not grounded and did not trip when tested. A GFCI requires a ground wire to route electricity when tripped. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
An electrical outlet had a missing faceplate. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Wood cabinetry had a finish that was worn or peeling. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace as needed.
The basement toilet flange was missing at the time of the inspection. this was discovered by the sewer scope Tech. she just a qualify contractor repair replaced by adding a toilet flange.
The circuit labels were missing, partial, or illegible at the electrical distribution panel. The circuit labels provide information describing the locations each individual circuit breaker provides power too.
Recommend a qualified contractor verify the breakers and accuracy of any existing labeling as necessary.
The main water shutoff valve was corroded.
The valve is not and was not operated during the scope of a home inspection.
Recommend a qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The main water supply line material is considered what enters the home from the city or well.
Excessive surface corrosion was present at the time of inspection. Corrosion or rust will lead to a leak or pipe burst if not corrected. There could be leaks not visible, or within the ground.
Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace as needed.
The water heater was at or beyond its warranty and/or expected life expectancy.
The water heater age was determined by the photo included in this report. According to the U.S. Department of energy, these major appliances are intended to run for between 8 and 12 years. Be advised that every water heater will age differently relative to the following life span factors: water quality, mineral buildup, frequency of flushing, the volume of water utilized, size of the tank, brand, and quality of water heater. Although it was operating at the time of the inspection, the inspector can not determine the remaining life of the water heater.
Pipe fittings at the water heating equipment were corroded. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
The TPRV pipe did not conspicuously terminate within 6 inches of the floor. This may allow high pressure hot water to cause unnecessary damage. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The water heating equipment was rusted/corroded showing signs of previously leaking. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The water heater burn chamber had rust/corrosion visible. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The water temperature was below the suggested range of 120-130 degrees. Recommend adjusting the water heater thermostat first. If water does not reach the acceptable range then a qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Based on the age of the cooling system it is recommended that it be cleaned and serviced and certified (if possible) by an HVAC professional.
The air-conditioner refrigerant suction line (large, insulated) has damaged or missing insulation in areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair/replace as necessary.
The air-conditioner refrigerant suction line (large, insulated) exterior wall penetration should be sealed to prevent moisture and insect intrusion. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair/replace as necessary.
Due to the current conditions at the time of inspection, the air conditioner is recommended to be cleaned, evaluated, and serviced by a qualified contractor. Consult with your real estate agent for your available options prior to closing.
Based on the age of the heating system it is recommended that it be cleaned and serviced and certified (if possible) by an HVAC professional.
Air supply ducts were not sealed. Ideally all ducts are sealed with mastic in order to be more energy-efficient. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair as necessary.
The heating system did fire and appeared to be in serviceable condition at the time of the inspection. However, the interior of the cabinet was dirty. Cleaning, servicing and/or certification of the HVAC system by a qualified contractor is recommended and repaired or replaced as necessary.
The foundation wall has signs of repairs. Recommend asking the current homeowner for more information. Recommend further evaluation from a qualified contractor should the repairs be excessive or of visibly poor quality.
Vegetation was present in the crawlspace at the time of inspection. This may indicate a moisture condition that is contributing to the growth of vegetation. An opening in the non-visible portions of the foundation may also be contributing to the vegetation growth. Recommend further evaluation by a qualified contractor.
No soil cover was installed at the time of the inspection. Soil covers help reduce humidity levels in crawlspaces by limiting moisture evaporation into the air from soil. Reducing humidity levels can help reduce the chances for mold growth and deterioration of structural components. A qualified contractor should evaluate and install a soil cover as necessary.
Water damage was visible in the crawlspace floor structure around plumbing lines. There may be a past or current leak in the nearby drain or supply lines that could further stain or rot wood if not corrected.
Wooden structural components were in contact with soil or in close proximity with soil. This condition is prone to water penetration into the structural materials resulting in water damage. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
There were several cracks in the crawlspace foundation wall. These cracks should be sealed to prevent moisture intrusion, and monitored for further movement. Further analysis by a licensed structural engineer is recommended. Axium recommends our premier partner – Level Engineering. They can be contacted at 720-706-8540 or online at www.axiuminspections.com/structural-engineer.
There is no insulation on the crawlspace exterior walls or floor system. Heat loss can occur more on this property than one that is properly insulated. A qualified contractor should evaluate and install as necessary.
