|
The purpose of the house inspection is to report the general condition of visible portions of the house for further evaluation and analysis. Time on-site is approximately 3-4 hours. A good faith effort is made to determine the condition of the property.
Safety items are noted throughout the report that are missing and should be present or working, included in construction as a bonus, and suggested to upgrade the structure to present standards of safety if desired.
The following is an overview is an overview of how each system is inspected.
Fence: The fence is inspected for strength and general serviceability. Gates are checked for operation and serviceability of hardware.
Landscaping: Landscaping is inspected in relation to the house; that is for whether plantings are blocking foundation vents, trees are interfering with the roof or foundation systems, etc.
Drainage: The review of the surface drainage consists of a visual inspection to determine if roof water discharge and foundation grading are away from the structure. The slope of the lot will be reviewed for areas that slope toward the structure and/or where water may pond.
Crawl Space: The accessible areas of the substructure are inspected to determine the condition of the structural components, electrical, plumbing, heat ducts, adequate ventilation, and for obvious signs of settlement.
Interior: The review of the interior includes inspection of the condition of the walls, ceilings, floors, steps, stairways, railings, and trim work. These items are visually examined for signs of excessive wear and general state of repair.
Doors: A random number of interior, exterior, and garage doors are inspected for operation, condition of hardware, weatherstripping, safety glazing, signs of water penetration, and applicable fire ratings.
Windows: A representative number of windows are inspected for operation, signs of moisture penetration, and safety glazing.
Exterior: Examination of the exterior includes the finished surfaces and siding, trim, flashing, fascia, eaves, soffits, railings, driveways, patios, steps, porches, walkways, decks, and balconies. These items are visually examined for proper installation, excessive or unusual wear, and overall general condition.
Roof: Evaluation of the condition of the roof components is made by visually inspecting the surface materials, roof penetrations, and drainage (gutters and downspouts).
Attic: The attic refers to the space between the roof framing and ceiling. The attic is visually inspected for roof leakage, venting, and mechanical components. Structural components are examined for excessive deflection, damage, and proper installation. Extension of flues, vents, and fans to the exterior is confirmed.
Chimney & Fireplace: A visual inspection of the fireplace, chimney, and flue is performed with special attention to safety and settling conditions. The damper and gas log lighter are checked for proper operation.
Plumbing System: The visual condition of supply pipes and drain lines is inspected in the crawlspace and under the sink and basins. Water is run through the accessible fixtures to determine the functional flow conditions of supply and waste lines.
Bathrooms: The bathroom inspection includes the condition of grout, adequacy of caulking, condition of tile, condition of fixtures, condition of flooring, signs of excessive moisture, and tightness of shower doors/tracks.
Electrical System: The electrical system consists of the service capacity, distribution wiring and panels, switches, receptacles, and lights. Examination of the electrical system includes visible conductors, branch circuitry, panels, over current protection devices, and a random sampling of the receptacles and switches.
Water Heater-Furnace-Air Conditioner: The inspection of the water heater includes the tank, water and gas connections, venting (flue), safety valve, and seismic restraint.
The heating system is inspected for proper operation, safety controls, venting (flue), availability of combustion air, and means of distribution. When accessible, the furnace heat exchanger is examined for moisture-related conditions and the presence of cracks.
The air conditioner is checked for proper installation and is operated if weather conditions allow.
Appliances: Appliances are operated and checked for proper installation. Sinks, counters, and cabinets are checked for general condition.
Insulation. The presence or absence of insulation is noted in the attics, walls, and floors where visible. The type and amount of insulation is also noted.
Wood Deterioration: Earth-to-wood contacts, wood deterioration, and improper grading of soil are noted.
Materials: The quality of rough framing and materials used is noted. This company is not an asbestos contractor; however, when suspicious materials are present, the suspect area is noted and the condition of the material is noted, whether or not it is damaged or "friable".
|