General Information

# Of Stories:
2
Cooling System:
Central
Foundation Design:
Basement
Ground Conditions:
Dry
Heating System:
Boiler, Radiant Heat, Heat Pump
House Faces:
North
Location Of Attic Entrance:
Bedroom
Method To Inspect Attic:
On ladder
Method To Inspect Roof:
On roof, From ground, Inside attic
Occupancy:
Occupied
Present During Inspection:
Buyer, Buyer's agent, Seller's agent
Sewer System:
Septic system
Square Footage:
3900
Style Of Home:
Contemporary
Temperature:
55
Water Source:
Well-Private
Weather Conditions:
Sunny
Year Built:
1998

Summary

This summary represents the full list of observations made at the time of the inspection. This section is provided as a convenience to help navigation to more detailed information found in the body of the report. It is organized to indicate the significance of the observation.

Property Summary

Significant Concerns
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Safety Concerns
  1. Balcony, Deck or Porch: The boards have deteriorated and were braced incorrectly. 
  2. Balcony, Deck or Porch: Railing is loose
  3. Balcony, Deck or Porch: Guardrail is climbable
  4. Stair: Handrail is not graspable/ missing
  5. Window: Windows do not have stoppers
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Items Not Operating
None
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Major Concerns
None
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Moderate Concerns
  1. Dryer: Vent is damaged
  2. Balcony, Deck or Porch: Boards are deteriorated
  3. Eave: Wood is showing rotting
  4. Eave: Wood is rotted as well as the rafter tail
  5. Siding: Stucco appears to be below grade
  6. Roof Sheathing: Shows sign of mildew
  7. Electric Service Panel: Crowded with excess wiring
  8. Chimney / Flue: The metal chimney cap is rusted/ damaged
  9. Fireplace: Flue has creosote buildup
  10. Insulation: Appears to have small burrow holes suggesting existence of rodents
  11. Patio and walkway: Paver or brick has significant settling
  12. Hose Bibb: Not winterized
  13. Stand-alone Shower: Caulking is defective
  14. Roof Flashing: Missing cricket flashing around chimney
  15. Ceiling: Drywall tape at seam or joint has separation
  16. Exterior door: Does not open
  17. Screen: Some missing Screens
  18. Stair: Open Risers
  19. Wall: Drywall tape is delaminated
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Minor Concerns
  1. Oven/Range: In need of cleaning
  2. Balcony, Deck or Porch: Decking is showing wear
  3. Electric Service Panel: Has no available circuit breaker spaces
  4. Air Conditioner: There is not enough clearance in the attic to service the unit. 
  5. Furnace: Last service date appears to be more than 1 year ago or is undeterminable
  6. Insulation: Thermal imaging shows minor inconsistencies in the thermal barrier
  7. Shower / Tub: Shower head is clogged
  8. Attic Entry: Less than 22 x 30  inches
  9. Exterior door: Damaged
  10. Garage door opener: Missing safety chain
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Budget to Replace
  1. CO Alarm: CO alarms were present at the inspection, however they seemed to be older. I suggest testing/ replacement of each unit.
  2. Smoke Alarm: Recommend replacing all smoke alarms
  3. Air Conditioner: Unit appears to be original to the house
  4. Furnace: Nearing the end of its useful life
  5. Roof Material: Nearing the end of its useful life
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Needs Further Evaluation
  1. Column / Pier: Wooden piers supporting the deck appear to be deteriorating.
  2. Roof Material: Mechanical damage on some spots
  3. Interior Door: Missing Tag 
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Items to Monitor
  1. Gutter: Appears to be in good condition, however possible leaks could not be tested, as the weather was dry.
  2. Foundation Wall: Foundation walls appear to be in good condition
  3. Air Conditioner: No pan under unit
  4. Toilet: All toilets in the house appeared to work correctly at the time of the inspection. 
  5. Water Heater: Age could not be determined
  6. Well: The system appeared to be in working condition, although at some locations around the house, low pressure was noted
  7. Cabinet: Kitchen Cabinets appeared to be in good condition
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Maintenance Items
  1. Exterior door: Delaminating
  2. Floor: Flooring was in good condition in general.
Scope of Inspection
  • An inspection does not determine the advisability or inadvisability of the purchase of the inspected property.
  • An inspection does not determine the life expectancy of the property or any components or systems therein.
  • An inspection is not technically exhaustive.
  • An inspection will not identify concealed or latent defects.
  • Mechanical and electrical systems can fail at any time, very often with no advance warning. Therefore, this report deals only with the condition of such systems at the time of inspection, and is not to be considered a guarantee or warranty as to future performance.
  • Seasonal changes such as wind-driven rain, ice, and humidity may bring some defects to light that were not noted during your home inspection. Basements and attics that were dry at the time of the inspection can be damp or leak in later weeks or months.
  • The condition of the premises may change after the date of inspection due to many factors such as weather, moisture, leaks, actions taken by the owner or others, or the passage of time. This report reflects the condition of the premises at the time of the inspection.
  • The inspection is performed in good faith and is a 'snapshot in time'; it does NOT constitute a prediction that the home will perform adequately in the future.
  • This home inspection is being conducted in accordance with the InterNACHI guidelines.
  • This home inspection is being conducted in accordance with the state Standard of Practice guidelines.
  • This is not a code compliance inspection. The local municipality should be contacted for any questions or concerns in relation to local building code.
Definitions
 Each item has been assigned a quality rating based on the observations recorded by the inspector. The quality ratings are automatically assigned based on the observations made. 
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Not working
Was not working at the time of the inspection.
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Safety Hazard
Has conditions that make operation of the item unsafe and is in need of prompt attention.
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Poor
Is operating, but has at least one major concern with its operation.
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Marginal
The item is working, but has at least one concern that is beyond cosmetic.
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Satisfactory
No material issues have been found. One or more cosmetic issues may have been observed.
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Not Inspected
Was not inspected. The reason is typically indicated.
1.  Appliances 
Descriptions
Dishwasher
Manufacturer Name
GE
Dryer
Energy Source
Electric
Manufacturer Name
GE
Venting Location
Wall
Garbage Disposal
Manufacturer Name
Insinkerator
Oven/Range
Energy Source
Gas
Manufacturer Name
GE
Refrigerator
Manufacturer Name
GE
Washer
Energy Source
Electric
Manufacturer Name
GE
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Dishwasher
Kitchen
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Dryer
Laundry Room / Mudroom
Vent is damaged
Impact
A damaged vent may cause the dryer vent to clog which means your appliance is not operating at its peak efficiency.  It also could pose a safety risk
Suggested Action
Replace the vent to allow for an optimum air flow
Photos
  
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Garbage Disposal
Kitchen
Unit is in good condition
Photos
  
  
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Oven/Range
Kitchen
In need of cleaning
Suggested Action
Thoroughly clean as needed
Photos
  
  
  
Unit is in good condition
Photos
  
  
  
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Refrigerator
Kitchen
Unit is in good condition
Photos
  
  
  
  
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Washer
Laundry Room / Mudroom
Disclaimers
Evaluation of the washer is beyond the scope of the standard home inspection.
2.  Balconies, Decks and Porches 
Descriptions
Balcony, Deck or Porch
Material
Wood
Type
Deck
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Balcony, Deck or Porch
Exterior: Ground View
The boards have deteriorated and were braced incorrectly. 
Impact
The splintering diminishes the structural integrity of the planking. 
Suggested Action
Replace the deteriorating boards
Photos
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Railing is loose
Impact
The stability of the railing is significantly reduced
Suggested Action
Repair or replace the railing
Photos
  
  
Guardrail is climbable
Impact
A guardrail that is climbable becomes a falling hazard for children
Suggested Action
Repair or replace the guardrail to meet the modern code
Other Information
A guardrail is the barrier that prevents you from falling off a deck, porch, mezzanine, or the side of stairs
Photos
  
Boards are deteriorated
Impact
The splintering dimishes the structural integrity of the planking
Suggested Action
Replace the deteriorating boards
Photos
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Decking is showing wear
Impact
If not protected from the elements, the decking may prematurely wear
Suggested Action
Paint, stain and/or seal with a weatherproof product
3.  Building Exterior 
Descriptions
Downspout
Drainage Location
Below grade
Material
Aluminum
Eave
Fascia Material
Wood
Soffit Material
Wood
Gutter
Material
Aluminum
Type
Eave Mounted
Siding
Material
EIFS
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Downspout
Exterior: Ground View
Appears to be in good condition
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Eave
Exterior: Ground View
Wood is showing rotting
Impact
The rotted areas lacks protection from insects, animals and the elements and the supporting structure for the fascia board is lacking
Suggested Action
Have the damaged area(s) replaced by a roofing contractor
Wood is rotted as well as the rafter tail
Impact
The rotted areas lacks protection from insects, animals and the elements and the supporting structure for the fascia board is lacking
Suggested Action
Have the damaged area(s) replaced by a roofing contractor
Photos
  
  
  
  
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Exhaust Vent
Exterior: Ground View
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Gutter
Exterior: Ground View
Appears to be in good condition, however possible leaks could not be tested, as the weather was dry.
Suggested Action
Monitor the condition and repair/ replace as necessary
Photos
  
  
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Siding
Exterior: Ground View
Stucco appears to be below grade
Impact
When the stucco is below grade it wicks moisture and exposes the siding to insect infiltration. 
Suggested Action
Have a certified stucco contractor check/ repair the affected areas
Photos
  
4.  Building Structure 
Descriptions
Beam
Material
Wood
Column / Pier
Material
Steel, Wood
Foundation Wall
Material
Poured Concrete
Joist
Material
Wood
Type
Solid board
Roof Sheathing
Flashing Material
Composite
Material
Gypsum Board
Roof Structure
Framing Type
Rafter
Roof Pitch
Medium
Roof Style
Gable
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Beam
Attic
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Column / Pier
Basement
Wooden piers supporting the deck appear to be deteriorating.
Suggested Action
I suggest monitoring and repairing/replacing as necessary by a qualified contractor
Photos
  
Metal columns holding up the deck appear to be in good condition
Photos
  
  
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Foundation Wall
Exterior: Ground View
Disclaimers
Some parts of the foundation walls were not visible and could not be inspected.
Foundation walls appear to be in good condition
Suggested Action
I suggest monitoring 
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Joist
Attic
Disclaimers
The attic is very tight and some areas are inaccessible. I could not inspect the entire attic.
Appeared to be in good condition
Photos
  
  
  
  
  
  
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Rafter
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Rafter Tail
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Roof Sheathing
Exterior: Roof View
Shows sign of mildew
Impact
May lead to microbial growth potentially causing damage to roof decking
Suggested Action
Add additional ventilation to allow moisture to evaporate and clean mildew as needed.  Monitor to ensure mildew does not reoccur
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Roof Structure
Exterior: Roof View
5.  Electrical 
Descriptions
Electric Service Panel
# of 110 Volt Circuits
1
Manufacturer Name
Thomas & Betts
Panel Rating
200 Amp
Panel Type
Circuit breakers
Wiring Type - Distribution
Copper
Electrical service
Location Of Main Disconnect
Basement
Rating
200 amps
Service Entry Style
Underground
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AFCI
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CO Alarm
CO alarms were present at the inspection, however they seemed to be older. I suggest testing/ replacement of each unit.
Photos
  
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Ceiling Fan
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Door Bell
Exterior: Ground View
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Electric Service Panel
Crowded with excess wiring
Impact
A crowded panel makes it difficult to work on the panel
Suggested Action
Have improved by a qualified electrician
Has no available circuit breaker spaces
Impact
With a full panel, adding more circuits is impossible without adding a sub-panel or a larger service panel
Suggested Action
Add sub-panel or larger service panel if you need to add more circuits
Photos
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
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Electrical service
Exterior: Ground View
Disclaimers
The ground rod is apparently below grade and was not visible at the time of this inspection.
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GFCI
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Light Fixture
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Outlet
Appears to be in good working order
Photos
  
  
  
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Security System
Disclaimers
Security systems are not included in a home inspection
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Smoke Alarm
Recommend replacing all smoke alarms
Photos
  
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Switch
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Whole House Fan
Attic
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Wiring
6.  Fireplace and Chimney 
Descriptions
Chimney / Flue
Chimney Chase Material
Metal Undersiding
Flue Material
Metal
Location Inspected Chimney
Exterior
Viewed From
From Roof
Fireplace
Energy Source
Wood
Firebox Material
Metal Insert
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Chimney / Flue
The metal chimney cap is rusted/ damaged
Impact
This may allow water or moisture to enter the chimney chase causing damage to the brick and mortar
Suggested Action
Have repaired by a qualified contractor.  Repairs may include caulking and sealing to prevent moisture intrusion and /or further degradation
Other Information
Chimney cap is designed to cover the chimney chase and surround the flue(s) with a weather-tight seal
Photos
  
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Fireplace
Disclaimers
It is always advisable to have your chimney/ fireplace evaluated and cleaned yearly by a licensed chimney sweep.
Flue has creosote buildup
Impact
With too much creosote, the chimney could ignite
Suggested Action
Have cleaned by a chimney sweep
Photos
  
  
  
  
  
7.  HVAC 
Descriptions
AC-Condenser
Capacity
5 Ton
Energy Source
Electric
Manufacturer
Ameristar
Maximum Fuse / Breaker Rating
30
Serial Number
155210348M
Type
Cased
Year Built
2015
Air Conditioner
Air Conditioner Type
Packaged
Air Distribution Method
Ducts
Capacity
1.5 Ton
Condensing Type
Air
Energy Source
Electric
Installed Fuse Breaker
60
Manufacturer Name
York
Model Number
n-ahc1606a
Type
Cased
Year Built
1998
Furnace
Efficiency
Mid-efficiency
Energy Source
Oil
Heat Distribution Type
Forced Air, Hydronic
Manufacturer Name
Burnham
Model Number
PV75WT
Year Built
1998
HVAC Venting
Material
Metal
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AC-Condenser
Exterior: Ground View
Disclaimers
AC Not tested as temperature was below 65 degrees Fahrenheit
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AC-Evaporator Coil
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Air Conditioner
Attic
Disclaimers
The air conditioner could not be tested because the temperature was below 65 when it it unsafe to run the air conditioner.
Unit appears to be original to the house
Suggested Action
Budget for replacement
There is not enough clearance in the attic to service the unit. 
Photos
  
  
No pan under unit
Impact
If the unit leaks, it could cause damage to the drywall and decking below. 
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Ductwork
Attic
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Furnace
Last service date appears to be more than 1 year ago or is undeterminable
Impact
Without regular servicing, the furnace may not operate as efficiently as possible
Suggested Action
Ask the property owners when the furnace was last serviced.   If it was more than a year ago, have inspected, cleaned and serviced by an HVAC professional and schedule annual servicing in the future
Nearing the end of its useful life
Suggested Action
Budget for a newer unit.  In the interim, a higher level of maintenance can be expected
Photos
  
  
  
  
  
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HVAC Venting
Attic
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Register / Return
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Thermostat
8.  Insulation and Ventilation 
Descriptions
Attic Ventilation
Type
Soffit, Ridge
Insulation
Insulation Style
Fiberglass batting
R-value
about 4.3 per inch
Kitchen / Bath Exhaust
Type
Vented
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Attic Ventilation
Attic
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Basement / Crawl Space Ventilation
Basement
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Insulation
Attic
Disclaimers
The insulation behind finished walls could not be inspected.
Appears to have small burrow holes suggesting existence of rodents
Impact
The holes reduce insulation effectiveness and may get worse if the rodents are still present
Suggested Action
Have a pest control company evaluate for treatment
Thermal imaging shows minor inconsistencies in the thermal barrier
Impact
The heat loss and cost of energy is reduced with inadequate insulation
Suggested Action
Have a contractor evaluate the areas where the insulation is reduced and recommend improvements
Other Information
Thermal imaging highlights areas that are warmer or colder than the surrounding areas showing potential gaps in the thermal barrier of the home
Photos
  
  
  
  
  
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Kitchen / Bath Exhaust
Attic
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Power Vent
Exterior: Ground View
9.  Landscaping and Hardscaping 
Descriptions
Driveway
Material
Asphalt
Patio and walkway
Material
Pavers
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Drainage and Grading
Exterior: Ground View
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Driveway
Exterior: Ground View
Appears to be in good condition
Photos
  
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Patio and walkway
Exterior: Ground View
Paver or brick has significant settling
Impact
The settling may allow moisture intrusion further damaging surrounding material
Suggested Action
Remove the pavers, repair the base and reinstall the pavers
Photos
  
  
10.  Plumbing 
Descriptions
Fuel Lines
Material
Copper
Main fuel supply
Location fuel filler
Next to Garage
Main water valve
Main Water Supply Valve Location
Basement
Shutoff Location
Basement
Static Water Pressure Reading
Low water pressure
Water Meter Location
Basement
Septic System
Leach Field Location
Next to house
Shower / Tub
Material
Cast Polymer
Type
Drop-in
Sink
Mounting
Top-mounted
Number Of Bowls
Double Bowl
Type (Bathroom)
Vanity Mount
Water Heater
Capacity
40 gal
Energy Source
Fuel oil
Type
Recovery
Water Pipe
Water Distribution Piping Material
Copper
Well
Pump Type
Jet Pump
Storage Equipment Type
Metal tanks
Well Cap Type
Sanitary
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Cleanout
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Ejector pump
Basement
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Floor drain
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Foundation drainage system
Basement
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Fuel Lines
Disclaimers
Fuel lines were behind finished walls and could not be fully inspected. They appeared to be in working order.
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Fuel Storage Tank
Exterior: Ground View
Disclaimers
The tank is an underground, buried oil tank; it could not be tested. 
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Hose Bibb
Exterior: Ground View
Not winterized
Impact
Non freeze-resistant hose bibbs should be winterized or they could freeze and cause the pipes to break
Suggested Action
Turn off all water to the bibb and disconnect any garden hoses
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Main fuel supply
Exterior: Ground View
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Main water valve
Exterior: Ground View
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Plumbing Vent
Exterior: Roof View
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Septic System
Exterior: Ground View
Disclaimers
Testing the septic system is not part of a home inspection.
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Shower / Tub
Bathroom
Shower head is clogged
Impact
The clog is restricting the water flow
Suggested Action
Clean with a calcium removing product such as CLR or replace the shower head
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Sink
In good working order
Photos
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
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Stand-alone Shower
Bathroom
Caulking is defective
Impact
Water could get behind the pan and cause damage
Suggested Action
I suggest recaulking by a qualified contractor
Photos
  
  
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Toilet
Bathroom
All toilets in the house appeared to work correctly at the time of the inspection. 
Photos
  
  
  
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Waste Discharge Pipe
Disclaimers
The waste discharge pipe was not inspected because it was not visible.
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Water Heater
Disclaimers
The age and manufacturer of the unit could not be determined, as it was covered with an insulating sleeve. 
Age could not be determined
Suggested Action
Ask the sellers when it was replaced, or if it is original to the house. Budget for replacement
Photos
  
  
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Water Pipe
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Well
Exterior: Ground View
The system appeared to be in working condition, although at some locations around the house, low pressure was noted
Photos
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
11.  Roof 
Descriptions
Roof Material
Approximate Age
20+ years
Roof Material
Asphalt (Architectural)
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Roof Flashing
Exterior: Roof View
Missing cricket flashing around chimney
Impact
The decking is at risk of premature aging due to exposure to the elements and may cause roof leaking
Suggested Action
Consult with a roofing professional for suggested improvement
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Roof Material
Exterior: Roof View
Mechanical damage on some spots
Impact
Water can seep through the damaged areas and cause further damage below.
Suggested Action
Have a roofing contractor evaluate the damage and repair/ replace as necessary
Photos
  
  
Nearing the end of its useful life
Suggested Action
Budget for a newer unit.  In the interim, a higher level of maintenance can be expected
12.  Room Components 
Descriptions
Cabinet
Cabinet Construction
Metal Brackets
Material
Laminate
Ceiling
Material
Drywall
Countertop
Material
Granite
Exterior door
Materials
Glass, Wood
Floor
Floor Cover
Carpet, Tile, Hardwood
Sub Floor Material
Plywood
Garage door opener
Manufacturer
Liftmaster
Type
Chain Drive
Interior Door
Materials
Metal
Style
Flush
Overhead Door
Material
Aluminum
Screen
Material
Vinyl
Stair
Rail Material
Iron, Wood
Stair Covering
Wood
Wall
Material
Drywall
Window
Window Frame Type
Vinyl
Window Glass Type
Double pane
Window Type
Casement
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Attic Entry
Less than 22 x 30  inches
Impact
The smaller size makes access to the attic more difficult
Suggested Action
Enlarging the access should the  size become an issue
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Cabinet
Kitchen Cabinets appeared to be in good condition
Photos
  
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Ceiling
Drywall tape at seam or joint has separation
Impact
With separation, the wall lacks astethic appeal
Suggested Action
Remove the drywall tape, reapply new tape and drywall compound.  Once repaired, manage the humidity levels in the home such that moisture levels are in the range of 35% to 50%
Photos
  
  
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Countertop
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Exterior door
Exterior: Ground View
Does not open
Impact
A faulty exterior door removes a possible exit in case of an emergency
Suggested Action
Repair or replace the door depending on your preference
Damaged
Suggested Action
Repair the damage or replace the door depending on your preference
Photos
  
  
Delaminating
Impact
The delamination reduces the asthetic appeal of the door
Suggested Action
Replace the door
Other Information
Delamination is the loss of coating adhesion to a surface or between coating layers.  Delamination tends to destroy the strength and durability of the coating, as well as the aesthetic appearance
Photos
  
  
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Floor
Flooring was in good condition in general.
Suggested Action
I suggest cleaning/ replacing the carpets in the bedrooms prior to moving in.
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Garage door opener
Garage
Missing safety chain
Photos
  
  
  
  
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Interior Door
Missing Tag 
Impact
The door is self-closing and appears to be fire-rated, however, the tag is missing so it can not be determined if it is in fact, fire-rated
Suggested Action
Replace with fire-rated door
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Overhead Door
Garage
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Screen
Some missing Screens
Impact
Should the window be open, lacks protection from insects
Suggested Action
Consult with seller to identify if screens exist.  If they do not, install screens as needed
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Stair
Open Risers
Impact
Open risers are a safety concern, as a small child could fall through
Suggested Action
Replace the staircase with one, that does not have open risers.
Photos
  
  
Handrail is not graspable/ missing
Impact
A missing/ non-graspable handrail could hinder the stair user an opportunity to stop or reduce the extent of a fall
Suggested Action
Install a graspable handrail
Photos
  
  
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Vanity
Bathroom
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Wall
Drywall tape is delaminated
Impact
The delamination may continue requiring the drywall tape to be replaced
Suggested Action
Remove and retape the damaged areas
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Window
Windows do not have stoppers
Impact
A person (especially a child) could open the window and climb onto the roof, or fall out.
Suggested Action
Install window stoppers to prevent falls.
Photos