| ALLSAFE Home Inspection Service, Inc. | ||
| 800-636-7170 | ENCYCLOPEDIA OF STANDARD PARAGRAPHS | (508) 378-7170 |
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Bob Mulloy - Massachusetts Home Inspector License #32 Telephone
800-636-7170 |
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1. Monitor the outside compressor unit for levelness. The compressor may not function properly if tilted more than 5 degrees. 2. Keep shrubbery or vegetation several feet away from the compressor unit for proper cooling. 3. The air coming from the outside compressor unit should be slightly warmer than the ambient air temperature. 4. The cool air coming from the registers in each room should have a 15-18 degree F. differential as compared to the air at the return register. This indicates proper function. 5. If the supply & return temperature differential is 25 degrees F. or more, then it should be checked by a technician. 6. Keep male dogs away from the compressor as urine can rot out the cooling coils. Monitor the compressor for salt spray corrosion if the property is near the ocean. 7. Be careful not to bump the compressor cooling coils when mowing the lawn. 8. Monitor the insulation on the larger refrigerant line and replace as needed. 9. Monitor the end of the condensate drain line. It should drip water indicating proper function. 10. Monitor the plenum (large supply duct) at the furnace for signs of rust or leakage. 11. Keep the evaporator coil unit within the furnace plenum clean by replacing or cleaning the furnace filter monthly. 12. Cover the outside compressor unit when shut-down for the winter, and shut-off the electrical disconnect next to the compressor.
13. Have the entire central air
conditioning system inspected and serviced annually by a licensed HVAC
technician. 1. Remove the sink stopper. 2. Turn on the cold water to a good steady flow & leave it on during complete disposer operation. Failure to turn the water on before turning on the disposer can result in blockages. 3. Turn the electrical switch (usually on the wall) to the on position and slowly feed food waste into the disposer while it is running. (Note: Avoid bones, fruit pits and fibrous material like corn husks.) 4. To prevent drain line blockages, allow the water to run a minimum of 15 seconds after grinding to flush all waste away.
5. Replace the sink stopper. 1. Odors - odors are usually the result of a failure to properly flush the disposer after grinding. Small bits of food remain and cause the odors. Flush the disposer with a near boiling solution of 3 to 4 cups of water mixed with 1/2 cup of mixed-in and dissolved baking soda. 2. Stains inside - normal surface discoloration only. 3. Loud noises - metal accidentally dropped inside disposer. Turn off disposer and investigate by reaching inside with tongs. 4. Motor stops - over-loaded disposer. Shut it off. Clear obstructions with tongs. (Some models use a self-service wrench to free obstructions. The wrench is placed in the center hole at the bottom of the disposer and worked back and forth. Remove the wrench. Wait 3-4 minutes for motor to cool. With the wall switch in the off position, push the small red re-set button on bottom of disposer. If still inoperative, check electrical service panel.
5. Water drains slowly -
clogged drain or trap needs cleaning with a drain auger. Note: A clogged
drain may cause food waste to back-up into the dishwasher. Brittle shingles Worn granules Missing shingles
Eroded and perforated vertical slots between shingle tabs
Observation: As seen with my head through the attic hatch, the readily accessible parts of the attic exhibited signs of active frost on the nails that penetrate the roof decking on the north side of the home. Analysis: In my opinion, the frost is an indication that the home has a moisture / ventilation imbalance. I suspect that moisture is escaping from the living spaces into the attic where it condenses on the cooler north side of the attic, resulting in the frost as described above. Be advised that if the source of this problem is not further identified and corrected, long-term continuation could result in mold and / or decay of the roof structure. Recommendation: You should play detective and try to identify problems with the attic ventilation system, the moisture generators (people, cooking, bathing, laundry, heating, etc.) and the insulation and vapor barriers in the home. Your objective should be to keep the attic cool and well ventilated while retarding heat loss from the living space and moisture migration into the attic. Starting with the ventilation system, a modern ridge vent system is best for passive ventilation of the attic space, but there are often problems that prevent its proper function. Check that a 1-inch slot was properly cut on each side of the ridge board, that continuous soffit vents are present, that the soffit vents are not blocked by insulation at the eves, etc. If a ridge vent has been added as an upgrade, then any prior louver vents at the gable ends of the home should be sealed or they will degrade air movement and ridge vent function. As for moisture generators, make sure that the bathroom fan, the dryer and all other sources of moisture discharge outside and NOT into the attic. Think of the home as one big Christmas present that needs to be wrapped in insulation plus a continuous vapor barrier surrounding the living spaces only. Any openings in the insulation and vapor barrier will allow moisture to migrate to the attic, as the attic is under lower pressure than the living spaces. When the amount of moisture within the attic exceeds the ability of the home to safely ventilate the moisture, an imbalance occurs; resulting in high moisture content in the roof frame and the attic atmosphere. Typical problem areas to further investigate include:
I advise that you investigate the home and identify and correct any of the above listed deficiencies, and that you monitor the attic space to determine if your efforts corrected the attic ventilation / moisture imbalance. If you are not capable of performing the above investigations and corrections, then I advise that you hire an insulation / ventilation specialist to help as elected.
Observation: As seen where readily accessible above grade and from the basement, a thin hairline crack is visible in the left side of the concrete foundation. Analysis: In my opinion, such thin cracks are not of a critical nature and are typically categorized as “shrinkage cracks” caused by the introduction of water during the mixing and pouring of the concrete. Cracks of this type usually occur during the first year of construction and pose no significant risk to the structure. Be advised that hairline cracks are still candidates for low priority repairs as they pose a risk of allowing water infiltration, radon gas entry or inspect access. There is a potential that additional cracks may exist behind storage in the basement or finished surfaces. Recommendation: I advise that you hire a professional concrete repair company to fix all foundation cracks by epoxy injection and that you seek a written warranty. Once repaired, the cracks should be monitored for unpredictable future movement as cracks are time related.
Observation: A white colored mineral insulation was observed on heating pipes in the readily accessible portions of the unfinished basement. Analysis: DISCLAIMER: THE IDENTIFICATION OF ASBESTOS IS EXCLUDED FROM THIS REPORT PER CONTRACT, AS IT REQUIRES MICROSCOPIC EXAMINATION THAT IS BEYOND THE SCOPE OF THIS LIMITED VISUAL HOME INSPECTION. If the material is asbestos and is damaged, the fibers can be released and can mix with the dust and remain in the basement area for an indefinite period of time. In most cases the type of material observed on heating pipes such as these is identified as containing asbestos. The Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A.) reports that asbestos represents a health hazard if "friable" (damaged, crumbling, or in any state that allows the release of fibers). Further guidance is available from the Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A.). Due to the age of construction, there may be other materials within the home that contain asbestos but are not identified by this inspection report. If asbestos fibers are inhaled or swallowed, they can have serious effects on your health, which may not appear until 15 or more years later. Asbestos can cause asbestosis, a scarring of the lungs that leads to breathing problems and heart failure. It can also cause cancer of the lungs and mesothelioma, a rare cancer of the chest or abdomen lining. Special regulations exist for the removal and disposal of asbestos. Recommendation: The Company recommends that the Client obtain the booklet "Asbestos in the Home" published by the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission. The EPA # is 800-368-5888 http://www.epa.gov/iaq/asbestos.html Prior to commitment, you should ask a licensed asbestos abatement contractor to make a precise determination of the suspected asbestos materials, and to provide removal estimates if applicable. Be advised that professional removal and disposal of asbestos materials can quickly involve significant expense. Additional asbestos-containing materials may be present in materials that are currently covered by newer finish materials. If you are considering renovation of the structure, then you become familiar with the asbestos issue. Please see related information available through the U.S. EPA.
GENERAL INFORMATION ON ASBESTOS:
WHAT IS ASBESTOS? Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is mined from rocks and has valuable insulating and fire resistant qualities.
WHY IS ASBESTOS IN THE HOME A CONCERN? Asbestos fibers can cause cancer if inhaled. The Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) banned the sale of consumer patching compounds that contain asbestos in 1978. The CPSC has maintained that asbestos fibers released from consumer products may pose unique problems for households. The household environment may harbor asbestos fibers for long periods which repeatedly recirculate after they have settled to the surface. Asbestos is a health risk when the product is soft, torn, crumbling or when the asbestos fibers are released from the material to the air that people breathe. Such a condition is called "friable" or capable of becoming air born. There is no safe exposure level to friable asbestos fibers. The fibers are so tiny that they can not be seen without a microscope, and once inhaled they stay in the lungs for many years causing future mesothelioma. The asbestos fibers are resistant to natural degradation.
WHERE IS ASBESTOS LIKELY TO BE FOUND IN THE HOME? Usually only older homes have or once may have had asbestos materials. The asbestos is most often associated with insulation on old steam boilers & steam pipes, fireshields, asbestos cement siding, asbestos cement roofing shingles, old floor tiles, wall board, stove gaskets and furnace insulation.
HOW CAN ASBESTOS BE IDENTIFIED? True asbestos identification can only be done by microscopic examination and should be done by licensed professionals. The home inspector can NOT visually identify asbestos with certainty and such inspection is EXCLUDED from this report. If asbestos is suspected on the property, then you should ask a licensed asbestos contractor to reappraise the areas of concern prior to commitment, requesting a site evaluation and estimate for removal of asbestos if present.
IS ASBESTOS REMOVAL COSTLY? Yes! Even small amounts of asbestos can be very costly to have removed and properly disposed of at EPA approved sites. Asbestos removal should only be done by licensed asbestos abatement contractors who follow EPA & OSHA regulations. Such experts take enormous steps to protect themselves, the site and the environment from contamination.
IF ASBESTOS IS PRESENT, WHAT OPTIONS ARE POSSIBLE?
1. Enclosure - constructing an air tight barrier around the asbestos. 2. Encapsulation - wrapping the asbestos material with EPA approved materials. 3. Removal - following EPA & OSHA regulations.
SOURCES OF FURTHER INFORMATION: 1. Consumer Products Safety Commission 800-638-CPSC 2. Mass. Cancer Information Service 800-952-7420 3. Mass. Dept. of Public Health 617-727-2660 4. EPA Region 1, Asbestos Coordinator's Office Air & Hazardous Materials Division 617-223-0585
Observation: The flat roof does not appear to have a “positive pitch.” This problem was evidenced by: [x] Evaporation rings on the flat roof [x] Ponding water on the flat roof [x] Sagging in the flat roof structure Analysis: The National Roofing and Waterproofing Manual, Fifth Edition (NRCA) “recommends all roofs be designed and built to have positive drainage. NRCA defines positive drainage as the drainage condition in which consideration has been made during design for all loading deflections of a deck, and additional roof slope has been provided to ensure drainage of a roof area within 48 hours following rainfall under conditions conducive to drying.” Providing proper slope to aid in timely drainage is an important consideration when designing and installing, low-slope membrane roof assemblies for the following reasons: · Ponding water is detrimental to most low-slope roof membranes · Ponding water will result in premature roof surfacing and membrane deterioration · Ponding water can cause deck deflection and structural deformations · Ponding water can cause ice formation resulting in membrane degradation or damage tensile splitting. · Ponding water makes repairs difficult in the event of leakage into the building · Debris accumulation · Vegetation & fungal growth can result in membrane deterioration Recommendation: You should ask if engineering documentation is available proving that the roof structure has been designed to ensure adequate stiffness to preclude progressive deflection (instability) during snow or rain loads. If no such documentation is available, then you should consider hiring a structural engineer to further investigate the building and to design specifications for correction in accordance with the requirements of the building code. Consult a tradesman for a bid on the cost of renovations and be advised that significant expenses may be involved that warrant your research prior to commitment.
Observation: As viewed from the basement, there is an open “chase” in the floor frame at the following location(s): [ ] Below the bathtub [ ] Adjacent to plumbing waste or vent pipes [ ] Adjacent to pipes [ ] At an abandoned heating duct [ ] At an open floor register with no duct [ ] At an abandoned opening in the subfloor [ ] At a laundry chute [ ] At the sill / exterior wall area Analysis: **** UNSAFE – this is a FIRE HAZARD. URGENT but simple repair is needed. An open chase is an opening in the floor frame that may allow the rapid spread of fire from the basement to other parts of the home. Fire will actually chase the draft upward. Open chases are often found next to chimneys, at plumbing vent pipes, at abandoned heating ducts, floor registers and other areas where the floor frame has been altered and abandoned. Obsolete balloon framing is notorious for having open chases in the exterior walls extending from basement to roof. Recommendation: For fire safety, I advise that all open chases be sealed off with appropriate firestopping.
Observation: Fixed skirting along the edges of the deck or porch prevented the inspector from entering the crawl space beneath the structure. Analysis: As the crawl space was NOT readily accessible and was NOT entered, conditions beneath the structure are undetermined. There is a potential for concealed problems; further investigation is needed. Recommendation: I advise that an access hatch to the space be installed for inspection, maintenance and repair purposes. You should inspect the space beneath the deck or porch for the following: · Proper foundation piers · Post attachment to piers · Post alignment and signs of rodents · Decay, pest damage · Girder spacing and support · Size, span and condition of joists · Bridging · Floor boards · Ledger attachment and flashing · Joist attachment · Cantilever · Hidden wiring or plumbing · Vegetation that was not removed · Debris or stored goods not removed · Ventilation, insulation and vapor barrier (if applicable)
Observation: YES, the overhead door opener was tested and was operational, but it lacks modern electric eye sensors. Analysis: **** UNSAFE. While the older garage door opener may be typical for a home of this age, it does not have an up-to-date external entrapment system that utilizes a fast enough response time to prevent personal injury. “According to reports received by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), approximately 60 children between the ages of 2 and 14 have been trapped and killed under automatic garage doors since March 1982. This is approximately 4 such deaths per year. Other children have suffered brain damage or serious injuries when the closing door contacted them, and failed to stop and reverse its direction.” As explained by the Consumer Products Safety Commission, Document #523: “Beginning in January 1993, all new garage door openers must be equipped with an electric eye, a door edge sensor, or any other device that provides equivalent protection. If an electric eye is used, it should be installed at a height of 4 to 6 inches above the floor.” Recommendation: I advise that you consider the optional updating of the garage door opener NOW, by installing electric eye sensors. Consult an overhead door company for a cost estimate. Resource: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/523.html
Observation: A new replacement window is located in a hazardous location, such as above a tub fixture, near a swinging door or close to a floor.
Analysis: Be advised that unless the glass is "safety tempered glass," the condition is unsafe as there is a potential for serious personal injury. Each pane of glazing installed in hazardous locations should be provided with a manufacturer's or installer's label, designating the type and thickness of glass and the safety glazing standard with which it complies, which is visible in the final installation. The label should be acid etched, sandblasted, ceramic-fired, embossed mark, or should be of a type which once applied cannot be removed without being destroyed. Further investigation is needed. Recommendation: You should ask the builder or owner to certify that the glass is safety tempered glass. If no such certification is provided or no labeling can be identified on the glass, then you should seek a cost estimate for urgent glass replacement.
Observation: Inspection of the roof covering revealed areas of staining or dark streaks of discoloration – creating the appearance of a dirty roof. Analysis: In my opinion, the discoloration is a cosmetic problem and repair is optional. The streaks and discoloration are caused by airborne algae that forms on the surface of the roof shingles and should not be confused with soot, dirt or tree droppings. Algae stains cause cosmetic discoloration of asphalt roof coverings, but do not cause any problems with the roof covering itself, nor reduce service life. The algae growth may not be present below any of the metal flashings or fixtures on the roof (such as the chimney flashing or the plumbing vent pipe flashings), because each time it rains, the metal oxidizes and washes down the roof’s surface eliminating the algae. (Note: On a wood roof the algae growth can lead to decay caused by increased moisture retention. If applicable, maintenance cleaning & treatment are needed now and at five year intervals). Recommendation: If you wish to remove or reduce the amount of algae growth on the roof, there are options for present and future consideration. If the roof is shaded by trees, you might consult a certified arborist and request a cost estimate for elected pruning or tree removals. Increased sunlight and drying will retard the algae growth. Algae growth on the roof can be temporarily removed or lightened by spraying a mild solution of bleach, trisodium phosphate and water on the roof with a garden sprayer of a power washer. However, cleaning the roof is best left to a professional, as the granules or the shingles themselves may be dislodged by improper high pressure power washing – thereby reducing the life of the shingles. For the do-it-yourselfer, solutions range from one cup TSP, one gallon bleach and four gallons of water, to one cup TSP and 2.5 gallons each of bleach and water. The solution should be rinsed from the roof after 10 to 15 minutes. Do not climb on the wet slippery roof, and do not scrub. Scrubbing will loosen and remove granules. After spraying, be sure to thoroughly flush the roof and the greenery around the home (grass, bushes and shrubs) with water. The effectiveness of this type of cleaning may only be temporary, and the discoloration may recur. Another option to keep the shingles free of algae is to install metal strips along the peak of the roof. There are manufacturers who supply strips of zinc to be used on wood roofs to prevent algae and mold formation. The zinc strips can be installed at the ridge of any existing or new roof, or nailed under existing high elevation shingles. Rain water ionized by runoff from the zinc kills algae and mold. The zinc strips can be installed by roofing contractors or can be purchased at the local building supply store or ordered online. On-line resources include: For your future consideration, roof shingle manufacturers have recognized that airborne algae has been spreading northward each year, resulting in consumer complaints. Research performed by the manufacturers has shown that small bits of copper or zinc mixed in with the color granules produce new algae-resistant shingles. They are specifically designed to inhibit algae growth for the life of the shingle and are backed by product warranties available to homeowners. When the present roof covering needs age replacement, you should specify that the new shingles are algae-resistant.
Observation: Inspection of the exterior paint on the old home revealed numerous deep minute cracks. Analysis: "The unsightly reptilian appearance of the paint indicates a problem called "alligatoring." Alligatoring is an advanced case of crazing where the paint film fractures into myriad rectangles that resemble the skin of the reptile. Alligatoring is common on old houses because it results from paint that has become brittle due to age. The expansion and contraction of the wood underneath puts the paint under tremendous stress, and since the film is no longer elastic to move with the wood, it fractures repeatedly to relieve the stress – often down to bare wood. Alligatoring is particularly prevalent and severe where there's thick paint buildup. Many quick-and-dirty painters simply brush right over alligatoring, and while a speedy recoat won't obliterate the cracks, it will mask the problem – for a while anyway. The problem is, as soon as the wood moves again in a few weeks, the cracks will return in the same locations, this time even deeper due to the additional coat of paint. Filling the cracks is also only cosmetic and does not prevent the alligatoring from reoccurring." Recommendation: You should consult a painter and request a cost estimate for the removal of the alligatoring paint down to bare wood by a proper method, such as chemical or mechanical stripping – taking care to observe lead paint precautions. The removal of the old paint and the preparation of a bare surface will eliminate the alligatoring for good by creating a smoother surface for paint adhesion and elasticity. [1] [1] Source: Old House Journal, August 2004 page 24 www.oldhousejournal.com
Observation: Inspection of the home revealed evidence of substandard workmanship, or suspected structural or mechanical system modifications that may have been done without a permit. Analysis: WARNING –Be advised that when workmanship does not conform to uniform standards, manufacturer's specifications or codes, and there is no assurance that the repairs are adequate, safe, or that a reasonable service life is expected. Generally, local building, wiring or plumbing permits are required when changes to the property exceed simply repair. Alterations of such items as plumbing, wiring, structure, decks, porches, wood stoves, etc., require that the owner obtain a permit and that municipal inspections and certificate of occupancy indicating approval be obtained. Be advised that work done without permit and inspections may be in violation of local ordinances, and the owner could be subject to fines, problems with the building department, problems with the insurance company in the event of a loss, and problems selling the house. The purpose of the permit process is “to provide minimum requirements to safeguard the public safety, health and general welfare, through affordability, structural strength, means of egress facilities, stability, sanitation, light and ventilation, energy conservation, and safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment.” DISCLAIMER: THIS INSPECTION IS NOT A CODE COMPLIANCE INSPECTION. Recommendation: YOU should ask the owner if a required permit was obtained and if local inspections were completed for the suspected renovations to the home. YOU should also visit the local building department and perform a “permit search.” Describe your concerns and ask about the entire history of the home NOW, prior to commitment. If no permit history for the renovations is on file at the building department, then you should discuss this problem with your attorney, as purchase of the home may involve assumed risk. I advise that YOU ask the owner to provide evidence of a building permit for the area of concern. If no permit is verified, then you should give careful consideration to your purchase decisions. If repairs are needed, then you should ask that the repairs be done in accordance with the requirements of the building code, and that the owner provide copies of the specifications, permit and “certificate of occupancy.”
Observation: Charred or burnt wood is present in the readily accessible parts of the basement or attic. Analysis: The above observation indicates that the home suffered previous fire damage. It is important that you research the history of the fire, as the true extent of fire damage is undetermined. There is a potential for concealed damage. Be advised that wood that has been subjected to high heat has a lower flash or ignition point (a condition known as Pyrolysis). Wood that is not charred is considered to have full strength. Determining if fire-damaged wood still retains full strength should only be done by a structural engineer. Building fires can affect the load-bearing capacity of structural elements in a number of ways. Besides charring there can be permanent loss of strength in the remaining materials, and thermal expansion may cause damage in structural components not directly affected by the fire. Fire restoration contractors spray paint over wood that is determined to be sound, but just painting the wood does nothing other than cover the charred areas and the smoke smell. Be further advised that rewiring is usually required after a building fire. There should be a documented history regarding the fire that you can research at the local fire department and building department, as fire investigations and building inspections should have been completed. Further investigation is needed NOW. DISCLAIMER: Determining the structural integrity of wood that has been damaged by heat of fire is beyond the scope of this limited inspection. The condition of wood that has been burned and painted is undetermined as it is not accessible for visual inspection. Recommendations: Prior to commitment, YOU should seek answers to the following questions from the owner, and local fire and building officials. Depending on the results of your research, you may be wise to hire your own structural engineer to further evaluate the building. Ask:
Observation: Areas of reversed grading are present along the perimeter of the foundation. Analysis: Reversed drainage grade means that the slope or pitch of the ground along the foundation directs surface water and the water from downspouts towards the home rather than away from it. When excessive water is allowed to soak into the ground near the home, it builds up in pressure (called hydrostatic water pressure) and can overcome the resistance of the foundation, resulting in possible wet basement problems. Be advised that any source of water infiltration can cause interior damage and / or mold. In my opinion, landscaping and water management corrections are needed for proper drainage control. The grade should be elevated so that water will drain away from the home by gravity flow. (As a performance benchmark: The ground immediately adjacent to the foundation should be sloped away from the building at a slope not less than 1:12 for a distance of not less than eight feet). When it is not feasible to elevate the grade along the foundation without contacting the siding, trim or basement windows; it may be necessary to lower the grade and pitch the soil away to remove surface water, or to install a buried perimeter "French drain" around the foundation or a "swale" in the yard.
Recommendation: You should consult a landscape contractor or an engineer prior to commitment, and request a cost estimate for the establishment of an exterior water management system as repairs may involve significant expense.
Observation: As viewed from on the roof, there are hairline width cracks in the mortar wash at the top of the chimney. Analysis: The mortar wash is the coating at the very top of the chimney. Its function is to divert water from entering the flue opening and the interior of the chimney. A mortar wash is continually subjected to the elements and temperature differentials, resulting in eventual deterioration and the need to perform maintenance repairs. If the mortar wash is cracked, eroded or otherwise defective, then water may infiltrate the top of the chimney, resulting in progressive erosion of mortar joints and frost damage to the chimney itself. Therefore, preventative maintenance repairs are needed at this time. (See illustration)
(Illustration from The Illustrated Home by Carson Dunlop) Recommendation: You should ask a mason to provide a cost estimate for the simple repair or replacement of the mortar wash at the top of the chimney. (Notice: On-roof inspection or repair by a mason may reveal additional chimney problems not documented in this report.)
Observation: The roof covering was 100% covered by SNOW at the time of inspection. Analysis: The true condition of the roof covering is undetermined as it was not readily accessible for inspection. Further investigation is needed to determine if there are concealed defects. Recommendation: As I was unable to determine the condition of the roof, a professional roof inspection and certification are advised prior to the close of escrow. The condition of the roof covering requires further research now and also during the first thaw. You should ask the owner the following disclosure questions:
You should discuss the unknown condition of the roof covering with your attorney NOW, prior to commitment. If the owner is not willing to provide assurance that there are no problems, then perhaps an agreed upon sum of money can be retained in escrow until inspection is possible. Furthermore, you should visit the local building department and perform a “permit search” to determine the last date of roof covering replacement on file. Be advised that roof coverings are NOT designed to last the life of the home. All roof coverings eventually require age replacement at significant expense - such expenses should be budgeted. (Note: Be advised that most 3-tab asphalt / fiberglass shingle roof coverings have a design life of 15-20 years, roll roofing design life = 8-10 years.) If you have great concerns or your research reveals suspicions of problems, you may want the home inspector to return and evaluate the roof when the roof is bare and weather permits. A MINIMUM TRAVEL FEE AND MINIMUM HOURLY RATE WILL BE CHARGED. Exact pricing and scheduling arrangements can be made by contacting this office.
Observation: Testing of the electrical outlets by random sampling (1 / room) revealed a condition known as “reversed polarity.” Analysis: **** UNSAFE - The outlet in question is UNSAFE and should NOT be used until repaired as there is a risk of injury. Reversed polarity is a common defect which means that the outlet was wired incorrectly and may allow the chassis of an appliance to be live when the appliance is off, or may damage the appliance or electronic device connected to the outlet. Be informed that as the home inspector is not required to move furniture and stored goods, and not required to test all outlets, other electrical defects may exist that were not found during the home inspection. Recommendation: URGENT repair and further investigation are needed. While repair is usually a simple matter of swapping the hot & neutral wires at the outlet, electrical repairs can pose shock hazards to the amateur; therefore, I advise that you hire a licensed electrician prior to commitment to reappraise the electrical system, including all outlets and to repair all such outlets found with defective wiring. All repairs should be done in accordance with the requirements of the electrical code.
Observation: Where readily accessible, I observed breaches in “firestops” where the metal flue passes from floor to floor to the roof. Analysis: **** UNSAFE. With a mechanical firebox, a firestop must be installed at each ceiling level where the flue passes on its way to the roof. Firestops work the same way fire- blocking does to prevent fire from traveling from floor to floor, as in balloon framing. Specialty subcontractors often install fireboxes and firestops, and sometimes the installation goes into an opening that was not properly framed. Instead of calling for the framer to reframe the opening, which would cost the fireplace installer and the framer time and money, the sub often completes the installation anyway, thinking that unless there is a fire, no one is likely to ever know of the improper installation. Gaps in firestops are a definite life safety issue. URGENT repair is needed. Recommendation: You should hire a contractor to correct this safety problem NOW, in accordance with the requirements of the building code.
Observation: As seen within the gas fireplace, the gas line is not sealed where it penetrates the firebox. Analysis: **** UNSAFE. Mechanical fireboxes are very common in residential construction. An unsealed gas line penetration at the mechanical firebox is unsafe because fire that is supposed to be contained within the mechanical firebox could spread to the wood framing behind or adjacent to the box. URGENT safety repair is needed. Recommendation: Prior to using the gas fireplace, you should hire a contractor to apply fireproof grout to seal around the pipe penetration.
You have now reviewed only a tiny sample of the THOUSANDS of files in this data base of boiler-plated text. The total and breadth of the files will burn out your Mag-light®. The ENCYCLOPEDIA OF STANDARD PARAGRAPHS is just what the inspector dreamed of for narrative report writing. Just imagine, combining this data base with your own and editing and saving new additional files to suit your inspection philosophy. You will have a wealth of information to draw from, and your living boiler-plated text files will continue to grow and evolve as mine do.
COMPUTERIZATION IS HERE. DON'T BE A DINOSAUR!
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Bob Mulloy - Massachusetts Home Inspector License #32 Telephone 800-636-7170