ClientJoe and Mary Jones19 New Home Drive Ballston Lake, NY 12019 HIN™: 120190493 Email: CRHIAny@gmail.com Inspection Date: 12-09-2011
InspectorCapital Region Home Inspection Associates LLCPeter Smiel 5 Hudson Ct. Ballston Lake, NY 12019 Phone: 518-424-0784 E-Mail: CRHIAny@gmail.com
Welcome and thank you for choosing Capital Region Home Inspection Associates LLC. Table of Contents
General Information
Attic
Kitchen
Plumbing System
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| 12/09/2011 | It was noted several areas of siding (on the North side of the house) which contain a visible apparent mold growth. During the summer and autumn months, mold spores flourish and multiply along susceptible areas of the houses vinyl siding. A humid climate, lack of direct sunlight and dying vegetation encourage mold spore growth. Because a single mold spore can multiply into a million spores in a matter of days, prompt removal is important. Recommend qualified contractor evaluate and remove using appropriate cleaning solutions. More information is available on www.vinyl siding.org/about vinyl siding/caring for vinyl siding/cleaning. |
| 12/09/2011 | Noted that a deck railing baluster is missing which causes the balusters in that area to be more than four inches apart. This is a safety concern; small children could fall through or get stuck between the balusters. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair as needed. |
| 12/09/2011 | No ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) devices (outlets or circuit breakers) are visible for the kitchen. GFCI devices help prevent electric shocks in areas that may have water present. Recommend having a qualified, licensed electrician install GFCI protection for outlets, over counter tops and around sinks. |
| 12/09/2011 | No ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) devices (outlets or circuit breakers) are visible for the bathroom. GFCI devices help prevent electric shocks in areas that may have water present. Recommend having a qualified, licensed electrician install GFCI protection for outlets, over counter tops and around sinks. |
| 12/09/2011 | Noted two electrical boxes that were uncovered with exposed wiring showing. This is a safety hazard due to the potential for personnel shock.Recommend qualified electrician evaluate and properly cover these boxes. |
| 01/17/2016 | The hot and cold water faucet to the shower is reversed. This is a safety issue due to the potential for scalding. The placement of hot water at the left side of a faucet has become a matter of convention. It is the arrangement to which we are all accustomed. When we adjust water temperature, we typically do so as a matter of habit, rather than consciously considering which faucet is hot and which is cold. With a shower rim faucet, a person standing outside the shower is not likely to be scalded if the wrong handle is turned. The risk of scalding is more likely to affect someone inside the shower. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair as needed. |
| 12/09/2011 | Only one working carbon monoxide detector was noted. The leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in North America is Carbon Monoxide (CO). It is an odorless, tasteless and invisible gas produced by incomplete combustion (for example by a malfunctioning fuel burning device such as a furnace, boiler, generator, water heater, space heater, blocked chimney, or running a car inside a garage). The only safe way to know if CO is present is to install CO detectors on every level of your home and in sleeping areas. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and install additional carbon monoxide detectors as needed. |
| 12/09/2011 | Garage-house door isn't auto-closing. Recommend installing hinges with springs or an automatic door closing device so door closes automatically to prevent vehicle fumes from entering building. |
| 12/09/2011 | Fireplace hearth is less than 18" deep. This is a fire hazard. Recommend installing a hearth pad or extending hearth to at least 18" deep. |
| 12/09/2011 | Smoke detectors were checked and were found to be working. It appears that none are hard wired into the electrical system and are battery operated. Smoke alarms that are properly installed and maintained play a vital role in reducing fire deaths and injuries. Having a working smoke alarm cuts the chances of dying in a fire in half. Ideally there should be smoke detectors installed on every floor, including the basement and the attic space, inside every bedroom, and in the hallway outside the bedrooms. The detectors should be hard-wired with battery back-up. Keep your smoke detector properly maintained. Test them once a week to ensure the detector is working properly and replace batteries once every year. Smoke alarms have a useful life of about ten years. At that age they should be replaced, even if they seem to be working. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace smoke detectors as needed. |
| 06/13/2014 | Arc Fault Circuit Interruption: Understanding the difference between GFCI (ground fault circuit interruption) and AFCI (arc fault circuit interruption) is very confusing for most homeowners. Basically, Ground fault protection keeps people from being electrocuted: Arc fault protection keeps your house from burning down. In electrical systems arching is a discharge of electrical current crossing a gap between two wires. Arching can involve temperatures of several thousand degrees Celsius. An unintentional discharge is called an arc fault, which can cause a fire in your home. Arcing is associated with loose connections or damage to a single wire. For example where a staple got driven into the cable and is causing an arc between the hot and neutral wires. The National Electric Code (NEC) initially required that an AFCI breaker be installed in bedroom branch circuits and has recently (2008) expanded that requirement to include branch circuits to all rooms that supply outlets or fixtures in newly constructed homes. The electrical system in this building does not include AFCIs for 15 and 20 amp branch circuits. Note that we consider AFCIs an important safety feature especially if a dwelling has older wiring. Although the cost of the AFCI is higher than standard circuit breakers consideration should be given to upgrading the circuits regardless of the regulatory requirements in effect at the time of construction. |
| 12/09/2011 | Noted that the chimney did not contain spark arrestors (rain cap). These caps are probably the most inexpensive preventive measure that a homeowner can employ to prevent water penetration and damage to the chimney. Chimneys have one or more large openings (flues) at the top that collect rainwater and funnel it directly to the chimney interior. A strong, well designed cap not only keeps this water out, but will also prevent birds and animals from entering and nesting in the chimney. Caps also function as spark arrestors, preventing sparks from landing on the roof or other nearby combustible material. Recommend qualified contractor install chimney cap. |
| 12/09/2011 | A minor crack was noted in foundation. It is not of any structural concern. Recommend sealing any visible cracks to prevent moisture infiltration, which, in the freeze thaw cycle of this area may lead to further damage. Consult qualified mason for evaluation and remedy. |
| 12/09/2011 | Areas of driveway in need of repair. This could lead to further damage if left as is. Recommend having a qualified contractor patch asphalt driveway where necessary and resealing. |
| 12/09/2011 | Cracks were noted in patio. This does not appear to be of any structural concern. Recommend repair and sealing any visible cracks to prevent moisture infiltration, which, in the freeze thaw cycle of this area may lead to further damage. Consult qualified mason for evaluation and remedy. |
| 12/09/2011 | Spalling was noted on the garage floor. Spalling is a result of water entering brick, concrete or natural stone and forcing the surface to peel, pop out or flake off. In concrete, especially, moisture and often salt, too, pushes outward from the inside. Eventually, spalling can cause crumbling and destruction of a structure. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair as needed. |
| 12/09/2011 | Noted bathroom sink drains slow. Recommend conservative measures be taken to unclog drain (liquid drain cleaner), if problem persist, recommend qualified plumber evaluate and repair as needed. |
| 12/09/2011 | Noted that there was no insulation in the rafter bays above the sill plate. This area is a large source of heat loss. Recommend qualified contractor install insulation in each rafter bay for better energy efficiency. |
| 01/17/2016 | Toilet appears to be loose. This may be from a loose anchor bolt or damage to the sub floor from a leak. Loose toilets may cause water infiltration into the substructure causing rot, mold and mildew. Recommend a qualified contractor repair as needed. |
| 01/17/2016 | Toilet appears to be loose. This may be from a loose anchor bolt or damage to sub floor from a leak. Recommend a qualified contractor repair as necessary. |
| 01/17/2016 | Noted shower drains very slow. Recommend conservative measures be taken to unclog drain (liquid drain cleaner), if problem persist, recommend a qualified plumber evaluate and repair as needed. |
| 12/09/2011 | Ventilation is substandard in the attic . The installed ridge vent is the only ventilation present (solid soffit vents and no gable vents). Inadequate attic ventilation may result in high attic and roof surface temperatures; reduce the life of the roof covering materials and increase cooling costs. High levels of moisture are also likely, and can be a conducive condition for wood destroying insects and organisms. For this particular dwelling, no moisture or mold or insect infestation was noted in the attic. Standard building practices require one square foot of vent area for 150 to 200 square feet of attic space. Vents should be evenly distributed between soffits, ridges and at corners to promote air circulation. A qualified contractor should evaluate and install vents as per standard building practices. |
| 12/09/2011 | Two of the wooden support columns for the porch are rotted at the base. This is a structural concern. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair & replaced as needed. |
| 01/17/2016 | Operated the trip lever on the bathtub the plunger/stopper did not function. Recommend a qualified plumber evaluate and repair or replace as needed. |
| 12/09/2011 | We are not certified chimney professionals. Only a level two inspection performed by a certified chimney sweep can determine the condition of the flue and whether the fireplace is safe to use. We recommend a cleaning and level two inspection of the fireplaces and chimney recommended upon the sale or transfer of a property. The inspection should be conducted during the contingency period to determine the condition of the flue. More information about fireplaces and chimneys can be obtained at www.csia.com. |
Full Report
Overview: Quiet residential neighborhood
Report Number: 3726
Inspector: Peter Smiel
Inspector: Dominick Luciano
NYS License Number: NYS License # 16000050837
Start time: 9:00 AM
End time: 1:00PM
Present at inspection: Owner
House is: Occupied
Age of house: 40 Years Old
Type of house: 1 family house
Weather condition: Clear
Temperature: Cold
Ground Condition: Wet
Foundation: Basement
Excluded from inspection: Irrigation system
Excluded from inspection: Security system
House Number: Clearly seen from street
| 12/09/2011 | Numerous wall, floor and other surfaces were obscured by furniture and/or stored items, preventing a full evaluation of some areas. |
| 06/13/2014 | Recommendation: After moving into the house I strongly recommend that you change the locks. Over the years, previous owners may have distributed keys to family and friends. A new set of keys would insure privacy and security. If there is a remote garage door opener, the remote code access should also be changed. |
| 06/13/2014 | This inspection does not determine property boundaries, title, zoning issues, easements, covenants etc. Nor does it determine whether appropriate permits for additions or improvements had been obtained. |
| 01/17/2016 | Concerning mold in a home / building. Mold is a fungus that is found everywhere. It can grow in carpets, walls, wall-ceiling joists, and surfaces that are prone to condensation. Mold may be present in a home even if there are no visible signs or conditions indicating mold growth such as water infiltration, a common indicator of the presence of mold. Exposure to certain molds and mold spores may cause adverse health effects in certain individuals. The presence of mold and mold spores can also deteriorate building materials resulting in structural damage to a house. While we will report any substance that is visibly apparent mold, the only true way to determine if mold is present is to have a mold company/specialist test for mold. Capital Region Home Inspection Associates does not perform mold testing. Any mention of mold in this report should be considered a recommendation to bring in a mold specialist to test for the presence mold. If you have a specific concern regarding mold, consult a specialized industrial hygienist for advice. |
| 01/17/2016 | Please take note of any item that we listed as a material defect. This means we believe these repairs MAY be of a cost of $1,500.00 or more. Also note that we are not professional contractors and do not guarantee the cost of any repair and there may be repairs that we did not list as a material defect where the cost of the repair or replacement may be $1,500.00 or more and vice versa. The only true way to determine the cost of any repair that we point out is to have a professional evaluate and provide a written quote. We recommend this be done before closing. |
| 01/17/2016 | This is not a code compliance inspection the local municipality should be contacted for any questions or concerns in relation to local building code. |
Roof Inspection Method: Traversed
Roof Inspection Method: From eaves
Roof Inspection Method: From ground
Roof Type: Gable
Roof covering: Asphalt Shingle
Roof covering: Architectural Shingle
Roof approximate age: Midlife
Defects observed: None
Roof penetrations: Chimney
Gutter material: Aluminum
Downspout material: Aluminum
Chimney appears to be built: Interior
Spark arrester/rain cap: Not noted
Chimney made of: Stone
Flue noted: Noted at top of chimney
Roof ventilation: Ridge vent
Gutter extensions: Noted and good length
Chimney Crown: Installed
Crown condition: could not inspect (unsafe access)
Roof requires: Monitoring
| 12/09/2011 | Ventilation is substandard in the attic . The installed ridge vent is the only ventilation present (solid soffit vents and no gable vents). Inadequate attic ventilation may result in high attic and roof surface temperatures; reduce the life of the roof covering materials and increase cooling costs. High levels of moisture are also likely, and can be a conducive condition for wood destroying insects and organisms. For this particular dwelling, no moisture or mold or insect infestation was noted in the attic. Standard building practices require one square foot of vent area for 150 to 200 square feet of attic space. Vents should be evenly distributed between soffits, ridges and at corners to promote air circulation. A qualified contractor should evaluate and install vents as per standard building practices. |
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| 12/09/2011 | Noted that the chimney did not contain spark arrestors (rain cap). These caps are probably the most inexpensive preventive measure that a homeowner can employ to prevent water penetration and damage to the chimney. Chimneys have one or more large openings (flues) at the top that collect rainwater and funnel it directly to the chimney interior. A strong, well designed cap not only keeps this water out, but will also prevent birds and animals from entering and nesting in the chimney. Caps also function as spark arrestors, preventing sparks from landing on the roof or other nearby combustible material. Recommend qualified contractor install chimney cap. |
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| 12/09/2011 | General comment to homeowner: The roof is comprised of architectural fiberglass or asphalt shingles. Asphalt or fiberglass roofing shingles generally have a service life of 15 to 18 years in this area of the country. Heavy duty shingles will often last 20 to 25 years before replacement is needed.Early signs of aging include brittleness,minor curling,and loss of material granules, while signs of advanced aging are severe curling, broken or split shingles,and exposed felts.The useful life of a roof can be extended by patching and coating eroded or worn areas as they become evident. As a roof approaches the end of it's economic life expectancy, patching becomes increasingly necessary due to an increased likelihood of leakage in the last few years of roof life. |
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| 12/09/2011 | General photos of roof and ventilation. |
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Wall structure: Wood frame
Wall covering material: Vinyl
Wall covering material: Stone
Condition of wall: Good
Condition of wall: Some areas need cleaning
Trim: Vinyl
Trim condition: Good
Door material: Wood with glass
Door material: Wood
Windows: Storms attached
Windows: Screens attached
Windows: Vinyl windows
Electrical service type: Overhead
Overhead wires threatened: No
Drip loop present: Yes
Service size: 150 Amp
Voltage: 120/240 volts
Meter caulking intact: Sealed
High Efficiency Piping: 3 Ft. above grade
High Efficiency Piping: Oriented properly
Main Entry Porch : Concrete
Porch steps down : One
Porch roof : Part of home
Meter amperage: 200 amps
| 12/09/2011 | It was noted several areas of siding (on the North side of the house) which contain a visible apparent mold growth. During the summer and autumn months, mold spores flourish and multiply along susceptible areas of the houses vinyl siding. A humid climate, lack of direct sunlight and dying vegetation encourage mold spore growth. Because a single mold spore can multiply into a million spores in a matter of days, prompt removal is important. Recommend qualified contractor evaluate and remove using appropriate cleaning solutions. More information is available on www.vinyl siding.org/about vinyl siding/caring for vinyl siding/cleaning. |
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| 12/09/2011 | General Exterior Wall,window and door Photos. |
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Exterior of foundation walls: Concrete
Exterior foundation exposure: Approximately 6 inches
Exterior foundation observed: Good condition
Window wells: Metal
Window well condition: Good condition
Grading within 6 foot of house: Slopes away/slighty
Grading beyond 6 foot of house: Slopes away
Walkway to front entry: Concrete
Walkway condition: Good
Patio: Concrete
Patio location: Rear of house
Patio condition: Small cracks
Trees & shrubs too close to house: No
Deck location: In the rear of the house
Deck material: Wood
Deck steps to grade: Three or more
Visibility under deck: 5 foot or more and clear view
Support columns under deck: Wood
Guardrail condition: Good
Support column condition: Good
Handrail condition: Secure
Driveway: Asphalt
Driveway Condition: Depressions or holes
Driveway Condition: Small cracks
Enclosed Porch: In the rear of the house
Porch material: Wood
Deck Beam Supports: Joist hangers
Porch Handrail: Noted
| 12/09/2011 | Noted that a deck railing baluster is missing which causes the balusters in that area to be more than four inches apart. This is a safety concern; small children could fall through or get stuck between the balusters. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair as needed. |
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| 12/09/2011 | Two of the wooden support columns for the porch are rotted at the base. This is a structural concern. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair & replaced as needed. |
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| 12/09/2011 | A minor crack was noted in foundation. It is not of any structural concern. Recommend sealing any visible cracks to prevent moisture infiltration, which, in the freeze thaw cycle of this area may lead to further damage. Consult qualified mason for evaluation and remedy. |
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| 12/09/2011 | Areas of driveway in need of repair. This could lead to further damage if left as is. Recommend having a qualified contractor patch asphalt driveway where necessary and resealing. |
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| 12/09/2011 | Cracks were noted in patio. This does not appear to be of any structural concern. Recommend repair and sealing any visible cracks to prevent moisture infiltration, which, in the freeze thaw cycle of this area may lead to further damage. Consult qualified mason for evaluation and remedy. |
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| 12/09/2011 | General Exterior Photos |
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Number of Bays: Two
Visibility limited by: Parked cars
Floor: Concrete
Floor condition: Spalling
Walls: Masonry and wood frame
Framing of walls: Wood frame drywall coverd
Automobile doors: Two
Style of Automobile doors: Overhead
Lift cable condition: Good
Springs condition: Good
# of electric openers: Two
Operated electric openers: Yes
Operated door and applied resistance: Door stopped and reversed
Non-automobile doors: One
Interior door : Did not self close
Interior door material: Solid core
Garage windows: Random tested
Window condition: Good
Doors operated: Easily
Photo electric device: Worked
Door release rope: Noted
| 12/09/2011 | Garage-house door isn't auto-closing. Recommend installing hinges with springs or an automatic door closing device so door closes automatically to prevent vehicle fumes from entering building. |
| 12/09/2011 | Spalling was noted on the garage floor. Spalling is a result of water entering brick, concrete or natural stone and forcing the surface to peel, pop out or flake off. In concrete, especially, moisture and often salt, too, pushes outward from the inside. Eventually, spalling can cause crumbling and destruction of a structure. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair as needed. |
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| 12/09/2011 | Attached Garage General Photos |
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| 01/17/2016 | Garage door maintenance: Automatic garage door openers are installed in millions of households. Proper installation, operation, maintenance and testing of the garage door and automatic opener are necessary to provide a safe, trouble-free product. An improperly adjusted garage door opener can exert deadly force when it closes. This could lead to serious injury or death from being hit by a closing garage door or from becoming trapped under the door. There are routine steps that you should follow once a month. Review your owner?s manual for both your garage door and door opener. If you don?t have the owner?s manuals, contact the manufacturer(s) and request a copy for your specific model(s). Look for the opener model number on the back of the power unit. Look at the garage door springs, cables, rollers, pulleys and other door hardware for signs of wear. |
| 01/17/2016 | Garage door maintenance (continued): If you suspect any problems, have a qualified contractor make repairs. The springs and related hardware are under high tension and can cause severe injury when handled improperly. WARNING: Springs are under high tension only qualified contractors should adjust them. Rollers and hinges of the garage door require periodic lubrication. Use a spray silicone or light weight household oil according to the instructions in your owner?s manual. Periodically test the balance of your garage door. Start with the door closed. Disconnect the garage door opener release mechanism so you can operate the garage door by hand. You should be able to lift the door smoothly and with little resistance. It should stay open around three to four feet above the floor. If it does not, it is out of balance. Have it adjusted by a qualified contractor. |
Attic access: Hatch
How observed: Limited viewing due to lack of safe access.
Roof system: Rafters
Rafters inches apart: 16 inches on center
Roof decking: Plywood
Moisture penetration: None noted
Attic floor framing: Wood
Attic floor system: No flooring
Ventilation: Ridge vent
Soffit baffle vents installed: Yes but solid exterior soffits exist
Insulation location: Floor
Insulation material: Fiberglass roll/batt
Bathroom vent duckwork : Noted and goes outside
Additional Insulation: Not needed
Vapor barrier present: Yes
Insulation installed correctly: Yes
Are vents open: Yes (ridge vents)
Plumbing Vents discharge to attic: No
Substandard Wiring Observed: No
Joist & Trust Components: Satisfactory
| 12/09/2011 | Note to Homeowner: Noted that ridge vents and soffit baffles are in place however exterior soffits are solid and are not working.(See roof and ventilation for corrective actions). |
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| 12/09/2011 | General photos of attic. |
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Tub: None
Bathroom: Single sink
Sink type: Vanity
Toilet: Flushed
Toilet condition: Good
Leaks: None
Flooring: Ceramic tile
Floor condition: Good
Caulking: Intact
Ventilation: Window & Fan
Outlets: One
GFI outlets: Yes, and working
Functional Flow Test: Acceptable drop in pressure
Surround: Plastic
Surround condition: Good
Shower: Stall
| 01/17/2016 | The hot and cold water faucet to the shower is reversed. This is a safety issue due to the potential for scalding. The placement of hot water at the left side of a faucet has become a matter of convention. It is the arrangement to which we are all accustomed. When we adjust water temperature, we typically do so as a matter of habit, rather than consciously considering which faucet is hot and which is cold. With a shower rim faucet, a person standing outside the shower is not likely to be scalded if the wrong handle is turned. The risk of scalding is more likely to affect someone inside the shower. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair as needed. |
| 01/17/2016 | Toilet appears to be loose. This may be from a loose anchor bolt or damage to the sub floor from a leak. Loose toilets may cause water infiltration into the substructure causing rot, mold and mildew. Recommend a qualified contractor repair as needed. |
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| 12/09/2011 | General Master Bathroom Photos: |
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Bathroom location: Second floor hallway
Shower: With tub
Tub: Built in
Surround: Ceramic tile
Surround condition: Good
Number of sinks: Two
Sink type: Vanity
Toilet: Flushed
Toilet condition: Good
Floor: Ceramic tile
Floor condition: Good
Leaks: None noted
Caulking : Intact
Ventilation: Window
Outlets: One
Functional Flow Test: Acceptable drop in pressure
GFCI outlets: No
| 12/09/2011 | No ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) devices (outlets or circuit breakers) are visible for the bathroom. GFCI devices help prevent electric shocks in areas that may have water present. Recommend having a qualified, licensed electrician install GFCI protection for outlets, over counter tops and around sinks. |
| 01/17/2016 | Operated the trip lever on the bathtub the plunger/stopper did not function. Recommend a qualified plumber evaluate and repair or replace as needed. |
| 12/09/2011 | Noted bathroom sink drains slow. Recommend conservative measures be taken to unclog drain (liquid drain cleaner), if problem persist, recommend qualified plumber evaluate and repair as needed. |
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| 12/09/2011 | Both sink drain lines are metal. Consider having them replaced with plastic. |
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| 12/09/2011 | General Main Bathroom Photos: |
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Fireplace material: Stone
Fireplace Location: Family room
Inspected: Level 1 Inspection
Damper: Operated and performed as designed
Flu liner: Noted and appeared in good condition
Depth of fireplace hearth: 13 inches
| 12/09/2011 | Fireplace hearth is less than 18" deep. This is a fire hazard. Recommend installing a hearth pad or extending hearth to at least 18" deep. |
| 12/09/2011 | We are not certified chimney professionals. Only a level two inspection performed by a certified chimney sweep can determine the condition of the flue and whether the fireplace is safe to use. We recommend a cleaning and level two inspection of the fireplaces and chimney recommended upon the sale or transfer of a property. The inspection should be conducted during the contingency period to determine the condition of the flue. More information about fireplaces and chimneys can be obtained at www.csia.com. |
| 01/17/2016 | All solid fuel burning appliances (wood stoves and fireplaces) should be inspected annually by a qualified chimney service contractor, cleaned and repaired as necessary. |
| 01/17/2016 | Fireplace General Photos: |
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Ceilings: Mostly Drywall
Ceiling style: Flat
Ceiling condition: Good
Walls appear to be made of : Drywall
Condition of walls: Good
Floor coverings: Wall to wall
When bounced on: A normal amount of bounce
Generally floors feel: Level
Mostly doors are following type: Wood
Condition of doors: Good
Windows were mostly: Double hung
Insulated glazing noted in : Most
Windows appear made of: Wood
Stairs : Between living levels
Stairs condition: Good
Outlets: Three pronged
Smoke detectors: Noted on each floor
Carbon Monoxide Detector: Noted on first floor
| 12/09/2011 | General Interior Photos |
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| 01/17/2016 | General Interior Note - We check only a representative number of doors and windows. We are not required to inspect the paint, wallpaper, the carpeting, the window treatments and screens. We do not move furniture, lift carpets or rugs, empty closets or cabinets, and we do not comment on cosmetic deficiencies. We may not comment on the cracks that appear around windows and doors, or which follow the lines of framing members and the seams of drywall and plasterboard. These cracks are usually a consequence of movement, such as wood shrinkage and common settling, and will often reappear. We do not report on odors from pets and cigarette smoke. |
Cabinets: Wooden
Opened and closed and found: Seemed to function
Cabinets are secure: Yes
Counter tops: Plastic Laminate (Formica)
Counter tops securely fastened: Yes
Kitchen floor: Sheet goods
Dishwasher: Asko
Dishwasher age: Midlife
Kitchen sink: Stainless steel
Ran water and found: No leaks
Disposal: General Electric
Refrigerator: Whirlpool
Refrigerator age: Midlife
Range: Decor
Range type: Gas with electric oven
Range age: Midlife
Operated range and found: All burners working
Oven: Part of stove
Operated oven and found: Gave off heat
Ventilation: Fan vented outside
Number of GFCI outlets: Zero
Number of regular outlets: Six
Stove anti-tipping bracket: Unable to determine
Microwave: Worked as designed
| 12/09/2011 | No ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) devices (outlets or circuit breakers) are visible for the kitchen. GFCI devices help prevent electric shocks in areas that may have water present. Recommend having a qualified, licensed electrician install GFCI protection for outlets, over counter tops and around sinks. |
| 12/09/2011 | General Kitchen Photos |
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| 12/09/2011 | Whirlpool Refrigerator: Model # G55HGXL5C1 Serial # SP0540028 GE Microwave: Model # JEM31SF001 Serial # VD901784B Asko Dishwasher: Serial # 052701249933 General Electric Garbage Disposal: Model # GFC530F |
Location: Near kitchen
Washing machine: Miele
Washing machine age: Midlife
Connections from water, drain & electric: Noted
Dryer: Miele
Dryer age: Midlife
Dryer power: Electric
Vented to: Exterior
Dryer vent material: Flexible ribbed metal
| 01/17/2016 | Check hoses regularly for bulging, cracks, fraying, and leaks around hose ends. Replace the hose if a problem is found or every 4 years as part of a proactive maintenance program. To help ensure the hose doesn't kink, leave at least 4 inches between the water connection and the back of the washing machine. |
| 12/09/2011 | General Laundry Photos |
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Brand name: Prestige Triangle tube
Apparent age of unit: Newer
Heating system type: Forced hot water
Energy source: Natural Gas
Combustion air supply: Exterior
Thermostat was turned on, the system: Fired or gave heat
Emergency shut off: Noted above the unit
Flue pipes: Noted, pitch up
Boiler safety relief valve: Noted
Safety extension: Noted
Distribution: Baseboard convectors in most rooms
System location: Basement
Abandoned oil tank: None visible
Condensate Pump: Noted
Supplemental heating system: No
| 12/09/2011 | The furnace area and gas supply lines were checked for combustible gasses and carbon monoxide utilizing the appropriate gas analyzers during the operation of the boiler. All results were normal. The following are general heating system photos. |
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Manufacturer: Rinnai
Type: Instantaneous
Energy source: Natural gas
Estimated age: Newer
Safety relief valve: Was noted
Safety extension: Was noted
Supply valve: Was noted
TPRV Drain discharge to: Floor
Rust or corrosion: Was not noted
Tested hot water: Hot water was received at faucet
Location: Garage
Flue piping: Noted and does pitch up
| 12/09/2011 | General Water Heater Photos. |
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Location of main panel: Basement
Location of sub panel: None noted
Location of main disconnect: Top of panel
Type of protection: Circuit breakers
Service conductor material: Aluminum
Main disconnect rating: 150 amp breaker
Type of branch circuit wiring: NM sheathed (Romex)
Aluminum branch wiring present: No
Double tapped breakers: No
Additional room: Yes
Missing covers: No
15 amp breaker: 14 Guage wire
20 amp breaker: 12 Guage wire
30 amp breaker: 10 Guage wire
Grounding observed to : Exterior ground rod
Grounding connection feels: Secure
| 12/09/2011 | General photos of electrical system. |
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| 01/17/2016 | Generator Comment - Equipment for a generator system was found. Generators, transfer switches and any associated wiring are excluded from this inspection. Recommend that the client consult with the property owner or review documentation to familiarize themselves with the operation of this system. |
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Water service type: Public
Main entry pipe: Copper
Location of main water meter: Basement
Location of main water shut-off: Next to meter
Interior supply pipes: Copper
Interior supply pipes: PEX
With multiple fixtures running: Minimum decrease in flow
Waste system pipes: Plastic
Main waste line cleanouts: Noted
Vent pipe observed: On roof
House trap: Not noted
| 12/09/2011 | General Plumbing Photos |
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Basement access: Door from garage
Basement access: Door from exterior
Foundation walls: Some exposed to view
Foundation walls: Some hidden from view by drywall
Ceiling framing: Some exposed some hidden from view
Foundation walls made of: Poured concrete
Basement floor: Poured concrete slab
Water stains observed on: None noted
General area dampness: None noted
Ventilation: Windows
Ventilation: Doors
Pier/support post material: Steel
Support column condition: Appears intact
Floor drainage: French drain
Sump pump: None noted
Floor structure above: Wood joists
Insulation material: None
Beam material: Steel
Windows: Wood
Chimney in basement: None noted
| 12/09/2011 | Noted two electrical boxes that were uncovered with exposed wiring showing. This is a safety hazard due to the potential for personnel shock.Recommend qualified electrician evaluate and properly cover these boxes. |
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| 12/09/2011 | Noted that there was no insulation in the rafter bays above the sill plate. This area is a large source of heat loss. Recommend qualified contractor install insulation in each rafter bay for better energy efficiency. |
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| 12/09/2011 | We ran a gas detection device along the accessible portions of the gas line. We did not note any readings above normal levels at the time of our inspection. |
| 12/09/2011 | Noted that the basement is structurally sound. The main beams of the dwelling are straight and supported properly along their entirety, including the saddles. Approximately 50% of the sill plates were evaluated. Particular attention was paid to the areas beneath the outside entry doors. The following are general photos of the basement. |
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Outlets were tested for GFI: Using a testing plug
Smoke detectors installed: On ceiling
Carbon Monoxide detectors noted : Yes
Location of Smoke Detectors: On each floor
Location of Carbon Monoxide Detectors: 1st floor
| 12/09/2011 | Only one working carbon monoxide detector was noted. The leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in North America is Carbon Monoxide (CO). It is an odorless, tasteless and invisible gas produced by incomplete combustion (for example by a malfunctioning fuel burning device such as a furnace, boiler, generator, water heater, space heater, blocked chimney, or running a car inside a garage). The only safe way to know if CO is present is to install CO detectors on every level of your home and in sleeping areas. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and install additional carbon monoxide detectors as needed. |
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| 06/13/2014 | Arc Fault Circuit Interruption: Understanding the difference between GFCI (ground fault circuit interruption) and AFCI (arc fault circuit interruption) is very confusing for most homeowners. Basically, Ground fault protection keeps people from being electrocuted: Arc fault protection keeps your house from burning down. In electrical systems arching is a discharge of electrical current crossing a gap between two wires. Arching can involve temperatures of several thousand degrees Celsius. An unintentional discharge is called an arc fault, which can cause a fire in your home. Arcing is associated with loose connections or damage to a single wire. For example where a staple got driven into the cable and is causing an arc between the hot and neutral wires. The National Electric Code (NEC) initially required that an AFCI breaker be installed in bedroom branch circuits and has recently (2008) expanded that requirement to include branch circuits to all rooms that supply outlets or fixtures in newly constructed homes. The electrical system in this building does not include AFCIs for 15 and 20 amp branch circuits. Note that we consider AFCIs an important safety feature especially if a dwelling has older wiring. Although the cost of the AFCI is higher than standard circuit breakers consideration should be given to upgrading the circuits regardless of the regulatory requirements in effect at the time of construction. |
| 12/09/2011 | Smoke detectors were checked and were found to be working. It appears that none are hard wired into the electrical system and are battery operated. Smoke alarms that are properly installed and maintained play a vital role in reducing fire deaths and injuries. Having a working smoke alarm cuts the chances of dying in a fire in half. Ideally there should be smoke detectors installed on every floor, including the basement and the attic space, inside every bedroom, and in the hallway outside the bedrooms. The detectors should be hard-wired with battery back-up. Keep your smoke detector properly maintained. Test them once a week to ensure the detector is working properly and replace batteries once every year. Smoke alarms have a useful life of about ten years. At that age they should be replaced, even if they seem to be working. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace smoke detectors as needed. |
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| 12/09/2011 | A representative sample of electrical outlets and GFCI was conducted using a test plug. |
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| 06/13/2014 | Approximately three-quarters of the homes built before 1978 contain some lead-based paint. It may be found on any surface but is most commonly found on exterior-painted surfaces, interior woodwork, doors, and windows. Heavily-leaded paint was used in most homes built before the 1950s, with lower levels of lead used until 1977. In 1978, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the use of lead-based paint in housing; Federal regulations require that home sellers provide lead disclosures to home buyers who are purchasing a home built before that year. When properly maintained and managed, this paint poses little risk, however friction surfaces (windows and window sills, doors and door frames, and stairs and railings) are a concern. Lead-based paint that peels or deteriorates is especially risky. Harmful exposures to lead can be created when lead-based paint is improperly removed from surfaces by dry scraping, sanding, or open-flame burning. Take precautions to avoid exposure to lead dust when remodeling or renovating (call 1-800-424-LEAD for guidelines) or contact a lead professional to test for lead hazards. To find a lead professional go to epa.gov/lead. |
Infestation evidence noted: None noted
Type of Infestation: None noted
Damaged wood: None noted
Conditions are conducive to WDI: No
Bathroom location: First floor off bedrooms
Shower: Stall
Tub: None
Surround: Plastic
Surround condition: Good
Number of sinks: One
Sink type: Vanity
Toilet: Flushed
Toilet condition: Good
Floor: Ceramic tile
Floor condition: Good
Leaks: None noted
Caulking : Intact
Ventilation: Window and Fan
Outlets: One
Functional Flow Test: Acceptable drop in pressure
GFCI outlets: Yes and working
| 01/17/2016 | Toilet appears to be loose. This may be from a loose anchor bolt or damage to sub floor from a leak. Recommend a qualified contractor repair as necessary. |
| 01/17/2016 | Noted shower drains very slow. Recommend conservative measures be taken to unclog drain (liquid drain cleaner), if problem persist, recommend a qualified plumber evaluate and repair as needed. |
| 12/09/2011 | First Floor Bath General Photos: |
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This home inspection is a visual non-intrusive inspection that is in accordance with the current Standards of Practice of the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors posted at http://www.nachi.org/sop.htm and New York State Title 19 NYCRR Sub parts 197-4 and 197-5 and article 12B of the Real Property Law.
