All Rights Reserved.
Inspection Report
Informational
Copyright © 2005
EZ-INSPECT.COM
All Rights Reserved.
(What
Can I Expect From An EZ-INSPECT Inspection Report)
Site, Grounds, Grading
This inspection is not intended to address or include any geological conditions
or site stability information. For information concerning these conditions,
a geologist or soils engineer should be consulted. Any reference to grade is
limited to only areas around the exterior of the exposed foundation or exterior
walls. This inspection is visual in nature and does not attempt to determine
drainage performance of the site or the condition of any underground piping,
including municipal water and sewer service piping or septic systems. When decks
and porches are built close to the ground where no viewing or access is possible,
we cannot make accurate opinions. These areas as well as others that are too
low to enter, or in some other manner not accessible, are excluded from the
inspection and are not addressed in this report. We routinely recommend that
inquiry be made with the seller about knowledge of conditions.
Exterior & Structure
Our inspection of the Exterior grounds includes the surface drainage, grading,
some fencing, gates, sidewalks, patios, driveways, and retaining walls adjacent
to the structure. The inspection of the exterior of the building includes the
cladding, trim, eaves, fascias, decks, porches, downspouts, railings, doors,
windows and flashings. Areas hidden from view by finished walls or stored items
cannot be judged and are not a part of this inspection. Minor cracks are typical
in many foundations and most do not represent a structural problem. If major
cracks present along with rotation, we routinely recommend further evaluation
be made by a qualified professional structural engineer. The grading of the
soil should allow for surface and roof water to flow away from the foundation.
All concrete slabs experience some degree of cracking due to shrinkage in the
drying process or minor settlement. All items listed are inspected for their
proper function, poor installation, excessive wear and general state of repair.
Where deck carpeting, stacked firewood, excessive vegetation, soil and other
coverings are installed over decking and patio surfaces, the materials or their
nature of construction and condition of the underneath these coverings cannot
be determined.
Roof Components
The inspection of the roof system includes a visual examination of the surface
materials, connections, penetrations and roof drainage systems. We examine the
roofing material for damage and deterioration. We examine the roof system for
possible leaks, damage and conditions that suggest limited remaining service
life. We may offer opinions concerning repair and/or replacement if warranted.
Opinions stated herein concerning the roofing material are based on the general
condition of the roof system as evidence by our visual inspection. These do
not constitute a warranty that the roof is or will remain, free of leaks. All
roofing systems require annual maintenance. Failure to perform routine maintenance
will usually result in leaks and accelerated deterioration of the roof covering
and flashings. When provided, our estimates of the roof's life expectancy are
based on the assumption that the roof will be properly maintained during that
period. The only way to determine whether a roof is absolutely watertight is
to observe it during a prolonged rainfall. Many times, this situation is not
present during the inspection and we cannot confirm this condition. We suggest
that an annual inspection of the Attic area be performed where accessible to
identify if any leaks are evident.
Plumbing Systems
Our Inspection of the plumbing system includes a visual examination of the exposed
portions of the domestic water supply, drain waste, vent, gas lines, faucets,
fixtures, valves, drains, traps, exposed pipes and fittings. These items are
examined for proper function, excessive or unusual wear, leakage and general
state of repair. The hidden nature of piping prevents inspection of every pipe
and joint connection, especially in walls, floors and ceiling voids. A sewer
lateral test is necessary to determine the condition of the underground sewer
lines. This type of test is beyond the scope of this inspection. Our review
of the plumbing system does not include landscape irrigation systems, water
wells, on site and/or private water supply systems, off site community water
supply systems, or private (septic) waste disposal systems unless specifically
noted. A qualified specialist prior to the closing of escrow can perform review
of these systems. Our inspection of the water heater includes a visual examination
of the accessible portions of the tank, gas, electrical and/or water connections,
venting and safety valves. These items are examined for proper function, excessive
or unusual wear, leakage and general state of repair.
Electrical Systems
Our examination of the electrical system includes a visual examination of the
exposed and accessible branch circuits, wiring, service panel, over current
protection devices, lighting fixtures, switches, and receptacles. Service equipment,
proper grounding, wiring methods and bonding are focal points. We inspect for
adverse conditions such as lack of grounding and bonding, over-fusing, exposed
wiring, open-air wire splices, reverse polarity and defective GFCI's. The hidden
nature of the electrical wiring prevents inspection of every length of wire
or their connections. Telephone, video, cable, audio, security systems and other
low voltage systems were not included in this inspection unless specifically
noted. We recommend you have the seller or a specialist demonstrate the serviceability
or locations of these systems to you if necessary. Any electrical repairs attempted
by anyone other than a licensed electrician should be approached with caution.
The power to the entire house should be turned off prior to beginning any repair
efforts, no matter how trivial the repair may seem. Aluminum wiring requires
periodic inspection and maintenance by a licensed electrician. Operation of
time clock motors is not verified. Inoperative light fixtures often lack bulbs
or have dead bulbs installed. Light bulbs are not changed during the inspection,
due to time constraints. Smoke Alarms should be installed within 15 feet of
all Bedroom doors and in Bedrooms. These units should be tested monthly.
Attic Inspection
Our inspection of the Attic includes a visual examination of the roof framing,
plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems. There are often heating ducts,
bathroom vent ducts, electrical wiring, chimneys and appliance vents in the
Attic. We examined these systems and components for proper function, unusual
wear and general state of repair, leakage, venting and unusual or improper improvements.
When low clearances and deep insulation prohibits walking in an unfinished Attic,
inspection will be from the access opening only. Vaulted ceilings cannot be
inspected.
Interior Components
Our inspection of the Interior includes a visual inspection of the readily accessible
portions of the walls, ceilings, floors, doors, cabinetry, countertops, steps,
stairways, balconies and railings. Please note that a representative sample
of the accessible windows and electrical receptacles are inspected. These features
are examined for proper function, excessive wear and general state of repair.
In some cases, all or portions of these components may not be visible because
of furnishings and personal items. In these cases some of the items may not
be inspected. The condition of walls behind wall coverings, paneling and furnishings
cannot be judged. Only the general condition of visible portions of floors is
included in this inspection. As a general rule, cosmetic deficiencies are considered
normal wear and tear and are not reported. Determining the source of odors or
like conditions is not a part of this inspection. Floor covering damage or stains
may be hidden by furniture. The condition of floors underlying floor coverings
is not inspected. Determining the condition of insulated glass windows is not
always possible due to temperature, weather and lighting conditions. Check with
owners for further information. All fireplaces should be cleaned and inspected
on a regular basis to make sure that no cracks have developed. Large fires in
the firebox can overheat the firebox and flue liners, sometimes resulting in
internal damage.
Bathrooms and Kitchen
Our inspection of the bathrooms included a visual examination of the readily
accessible portions of the floors, walls, ceilings, cabinets, countertops and
plumbing fixtures. Bathrooms are inspected for water drainage, damage, deterioration
to floor and walls, proper function of components, active leakage, unusual wear
and general state of repair. Bathroom fixtures are run simultaneously to check
for adequate water flow and pressure. Fixtures are tested using normal operating
controls. Vent fans and their ductwork are tested for their proper operation
and examined where visible. Shower pans are visually checked for leakage, but
leaks often do not show except when the shower is in actual use. Determining
whether shower pans, tub/shower surrounds are watertight is beyond the scope
of this inspection. It is very important to maintain all grout and caulking
in the bath areas. Very minor imperfections can allow water to get into the
wall or floor areas and cause damage. Proper ongoing maintenance will be required
in the future. Inspection of standalone refrigerators, freezers and built-in
icemakers are outside the scope of the inspection. No opinion is offered as
to the adequacy of dishwasher operation. Ovens, self or continuous cleaning
operations, cooking functions, clocks, timing devices, lights and thermostat
accuracy are not tested during this inspection. Appliances are not moved during
the inspection to inspect below or behind them. Portable dishwashers are not
inspected, as they require connection to facilitate testing and are sometimes
not left with the home.
Basement & Crawlspace
Many of the building's structural elements and portions of its mechanical systems
are visible inside the Crawlspace. These include the foundation, portions of
the structural framing, distribution systems for electricity, plumbing, and
heating. Each accessible and visible component and system was examined for proper
function, excessive wear or abnormal deterioration and general state of repair.
It is not unusual to find occasional moisture and dampness in the Crawl Spaces
and we advise annual inspections of this area. Significant or frequent water
accumulation can affect the structures foundation and support system and would
indicate the need for further evaluation by professional drainage contractor.
We advise to monitor your Crawlspace during the rainy season.
Heating System
Our examination of the heating system includes a visual examination of the exposed
and accessible heating equipment, thermostat, safety controls, venting and the
means of air distribution. Our inspection of the heating system includes activating
the heating system via the thermostat and a visual examination of the accessible
components listed below. These items are examined for proper function, excessive
or unusual wear and general state of repair. Heat exchangers are inaccessible
by design, and are not part of the ASHI standards of practice. They must be
completely removed from the furnace to be fully evaluated. Our inspection does
not include disassembly of the furnace. The inspector cannot light pilot lights
due to the liability. The inspector does not test safety devices. To obtain
maximum efficiency and reliability from your heating system, we recommend annual
servicing and inspections by a qualified heating specialist. Determining the
condition of oil tanks, whether exposed or buried, is beyond the scope of this
inspection. Leaking oil tanks represent an environmental hazard, which is sometimes
a costly condition to address.
Air Conditioning
This
is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following
conditions:[list]
The Garage is inspected as best as possible, but can be limited due to parked
cars or personal stored items. Due to this area be cluttered or areas being
inaccessible, it is common for sections that cannot not be fully inspected
or items identified during our limited inspection. We suggest that a walk-through
be performed once the home is vacant. If this is a new construction inspection
or vacant home this area will be inspected thoroughly. Determining the heat
resistance rating of firewalls and doors is beyond the scope of this inspection.
Flammable materials should not be stored within the Garage area if possible.