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TABLE of CONTENTS...................... 2
GENERAL INFORMATION................ 3
Inspection Address.............................. 3
Client Information............................... 3
Inspection Details................................ 3
Building Details.................................... 3
PURPOSE AND SCOPE.................... 4
GENERAL COMMENTS.................... 4
EXTERIOR.................................... 5
Building Exterior.................................. 5
Windows and Doors............................ 5
Eaves, Soffits, and Fascias.................. 5
Driveway and sidewalks..................... 5
Exterior Comments............................. 5
LANDSCAPE AND SITE DRAINAGE... 8
Slope and Drainage............................. 8
Landscape Comments......................... 8
ROOF SYSTEM.............................. 9
Roof Covering...................................... 9
Flashing................................................ 9
Chimneys............................................. 9
Gutters and Downspouts.................... 9
Skylights.............................................. 9
Other Penetrations.............................. 9
Roof Ventilation................................... 9
Attic...................................................... 9
Roof Comments................................. 10
STRUCTURAL SYSTEM.................. 13
Foundation......................................... 13
Floor Structure.................................. 13
Wall Structure................................... 13
Columns and Supports...................... 13
Comments:........................................ 13
BASEMENT AND CRAWLSPACE...... 14
Basement Comments:...................... 14
PLUMBING SYSTEM..................... 16
Drain, Waste, and Venting................ 16
Water supply..................................... 16
Fuel.................................................... 16
Hot Water Heater.............................. 16
Sump Pump....................................... 16
Plumbing Comments:....................... 16
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM................... 19
Service Entry..................................... 19
Main Disconnect................................ 19
Main Panel......................................... 19
Distribution Wiring............................ 19
Sub Panel........................................... 19
Smoke Alarm Detectors.................... 19
Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) 19
Electrical system Comments........... 19
HEATING SYSTEM....................... 24
Heating Systems............................... 24
Furnace.............................................. 24
Heating system Comments.............. 24
AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS....... 25
System Description........................... 25
Air conditioning comments:............. 25
INTERIOR LIVING SPACE.............. 26
General interior comments.............. 26
Kitchen............................................... 28
Kitchen Comments:.......................... 28
Bedrooms1-4.................................... 28
Room Interior – living/dinning room 28
BATHROOMS AND LAUNDRY......... 29
Bathrooms......................................... 29
Bathroom 1........................................ 29
Bathroom 2........................................ 29
Laundry Area..................................... 30
FIREPLACES AND SOLID FUEL BURNING APPLIANCES 30
GARAGE..................................... 31
Condition Comments........................ 31
SHEDS AND OUT BUILDINGS......... 33
Condition Comments........................ 33
PORCHES, DECKS, STAIRS, AND RAILINGS 33
Condition Comments........................ 33
Inspection Address |
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Street: |
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City: |
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State: |
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Zip: |
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Client Information |
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Name: |
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Address: |
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City: |
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State: |
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Zip: |
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Home#: |
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Cell#: |
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Email: |
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Release: |
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Additional |
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Delivery: |
e-mail PDF and CD by mail |
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Inspection Details |
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Inspection Date: |
07-03-06 |
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Start time: |
12:30 pm |
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Finish time: |
3:30 pm |
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Temperature: |
80’s |
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Weather Conditions: |
Overcast |
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Report Delivered: |
07-04-06 |
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Fee Paid: |
$365 Paid in full with check #1455 |
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Parties present: |
Buyer’s and sellers agent |
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Building Details |
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Style: |
Single family 2 story |
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Approximate Age: |
38+years |
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Bedrooms: |
4 |
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Bathrooms: |
1.5 |
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Basement: |
Partial/ crawl, unfinished |
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Outbuildings: |
Shed |
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Approximate Sq Ft: |
2100 per realtor |
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Sale Price: |
232,700 |
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MLS# |
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Occupied: |
Yes |
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Entrance Faces: |
West |
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Building Exterior |
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Siding Material: |
Painted aluminum |
Wall Trim: |
Aluminum/ wood |
Windows and Doors |
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Window type: |
Single pane with storm/screen |
Material: |
Aluminum/wood |
Door Type: |
panel |
Material: |
Wood |
Eaves, Soffits, and Fascias |
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Type: |
Unvented |
Material: |
Aluminum |
Driveway and sidewalks |
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Driveway Material: |
Asphalt and concrete |
Sidewalk Material: |
Concrete |
Flatwork Material: |
Na |
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Cracks in concrete drive |
Fading siding, chalking paint |
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Example of caulking needed |
Large picture window sill, caulk and paint deteriorated. |
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Ungrounded outlet, needs GFCI protection |
Example of shutter condition |
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Basement windows deteriorated |
Wood rot evident in basement windows |
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Solar heating panels damaged near window |
Several panes cracked |
Slope and Drainage |
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Direction of Lot Slope: |
Relatively flat around the home |
Downspouts Drain: |
Into drain pipes that exit onto grade away from the home |
Swales/Ditches: |
NA |
Retaining walls: |
NA |
1. Landscaping and lot topography can have a significant impact on the building structure. It is important that surface runoff water is adequately diverted away from the building, especially in areas that have expansive soil characteristics. Low spots or depressions in the topography can result in ponding water that may exert hydrostatic pressure against the foundation. This pressure can cause a variety of effects on the building. A similar impact can result from tree roots growing against the foundation and causing cracking or movement of the structure. It is a standard recommendation that the lot grading slopes away from the building. Grading should fall a minimum of one inch every foot for a distance of six feet around the perimeter of the building. It is also important that tree branches are not permitted to overhang the roof and that all landscaping is kept well pruned and not permitted to grow up against any part of the building. This will help prevent the development of pest and insect problems.
2. The sump drain discharge line connects to an underground pipe but the exit point was not verified.
3. There is raised flower bed in the yard that appears to have been added around mature trees. This suffocates the roots of the trees and they appear stressed and will likely need to be removed in the next few years.
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Flower bed, trees stressed |
Sump discharge line |
Roof Covering |
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Roof Inspected: |
Walked on surface |
Roofing Materials: |
Composite asphalt |
Estimated life: |
End of useful life |
Flashing |
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Flashing Type: |
Galvanized, aluminum |
Flashing Locations: |
Drip edge, gable end |
Chimneys |
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Chimneys Type: |
Masonry |
Flue type: |
Clay tile |
Flashing: |
Galvanized |
Gutters and Downspouts |
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Type: |
Aluminum |
Skylights |
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Type: |
NA |
Location: |
Na |
Flashing: |
Na |
Other Penetrations |
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Type: |
Plumbing vent |
Location: |
Main gable |
Roof Ventilation |
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Type: |
Power vent gable end vent |
Location: |
Main upper gable and garage |
Attic |
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Access Locations: |
Hallway scuttle, garage |
Observation: |
Entered attic |
Insulation Type: |
Fiberglass |
Insulation Measure: |
+/- 6” |
Approximate R-Value: |
R19 |
Ventilation Type: |
Power vent |
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Multiple layers |
Deteriorated shingles |
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Deteriorated shingles |
Remove wood strips |
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Deteriorated shingles |
Deteriorated shingles |
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Deteriorated shingles |
Gutters improper slope and granules |
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Chimney needs minor repairs and cap |
Power vent hood |
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Attic vent fan in garage |
Solar ducting in attic |
Foundation |
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Type: |
Concrete block |
Floor Structure |
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Floor framing: |
2x10 16” O.C. |
Sheathing: |
Plywood |
Wall Structure |
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Wall framing: |
2x4” |
Sheathing: |
Not visible |
Columns and Supports |
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Material: |
Steel |
Location: |
Center support in basement |
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Horizontal cracks in wall |
Bowing visible in peg board area |
Full/ unfinished crawlspace |
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Ventilation: |
Na |
Access: |
Stairs from interior |
Wall coverings: |
Unfinished concrete block, some panel |
Floor coverings: |
Concrete |
Drainage: |
Yes floor drain near furnace |
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Vent and water stains on untreated wood |
Exposed rebar |
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Untreated wood in contact with masonry |
Flood light for crawl space is fire hazard |
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Step settlement cracks under chimney, fireplace |
Old crack repair |
Drain, Waste, and Venting |
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Drain Material: |
PVC, copper, cast-iron |
Septic type: |
Municipal |
Cleanout: |
Yes |
Water supply |
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Supply material: |
Copper |
Source: |
Municipal |
Main shut off: |
Yes |
Storage Tank: |
No |
Fuel |
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Supply material: |
Black pipe |
Source: |
Municipal |
Main shut off: |
Yes at meter |
Storage: |
No |
Hot Water Heater |
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Type: |
Insulated Tank |
Energy source: |
Natural gas |
Capacity: |
40 Gallons |
Venting: |
Galvanized flue into chimney |
Approx. Age: |
Unknown |
Sump Pump |
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Type: |
Open crock |
Tested: |
Yes |
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Hallway utility sink unvented |
Improper dishwasher drain |
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Improper drain, poor connections |
Washer and utility sink supply |
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Hoses supply utility sink |
Improper drain and joist notching weakens joist |
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Unsupported pipe |
Needs better support |
Service Entry |
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Drop Type: |
Overhead |
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Entry Conductor: |
Copper |
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Voltage/Amperage: |
220v 60 amp |
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Meter Location: |
North side of home |
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Ground Conductor: |
Copper |
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Ground Location: |
rod not visible, water pipe |
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Main Disconnect |
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Type: |
Meter |
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Amperage Rating: |
60 amp |
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Location: |
North side of home |
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Main Panel |
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Location: |
Basement |
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Panel Style: |
breaker |
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Amperage Rating: |
100 amp |
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Voltage Rating: |
220v |
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Distribution Wiring |
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Wiring Type: |
Shielded copper, conduit |
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Sub Panel |
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Location: |
NA |
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Amperage Rating: |
Na |
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Smoke Alarm Detectors |
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Smoke Alarms: |
Yes |
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Carbon monoxide: |
No |
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Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI)
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Kitchen, Bathrooms, Basement, Laundry, Garage, Exterior, moist areas |
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Found Locations: |
Kitchen, bathrooms, exterior |
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1. The home is supplied by a 60 amp service. The meter socket and service drop appear to be rated for 60 amp service. The main breaker panel is 100 amps. It is common to see the panel changed but the service drop not upgraded. Have an electrician evaluate the service and determine recommended service size by doing a load calculation for the homes demands. 60 amp service is not considered adequate for a modern household.
2. Testing a sample amount of outlets revealed an inconsistent voltage drop under load. When a 15-amp load was applied to the circuit the line voltage dropped 8-11.5% any voltage drops over 5% are considered out of acceptable range per manufactures standards. The most common causes for this are excessive length of the wire in the circuit or poor connections. The connections most often responsible are push-in type receptacles. This wiring method (also called speed wiring) is acceptable by NEC code, but often results in poor connections. The solution to this is using the screw type terminals for a better connection. This condition needs to be further evaluated by a qualified electrician to determine the quality of connections.
3. The conduit to the whirlpool tub circuit is not supported or secured adequately. The circuit is rated for 20 amps but the panel label indicates it serves lighting also. Since the wiring appears amateur I suspect the wire size was not configured properly in lighting circuit. Have an electrician evaluate circuit.
4. The main panel had an aluminum circuit wire this could be one a singe circuit or it could be present in other locations not visible. The problem with aluminum wiring is the connections corrode and can cause resistance and heat. Aluminum wiring has been the cause of numerous fires and needs to be evaluated by an electrician to determine its condition or replace as needed.
5. The AC circuit disconnects are in need of repair. The disconnects are redundant and they lack a continuous ground. The panel interior cover was broken. Have an electrician repair AC circuit as needed.
6. The ½ bath GFCI failed. The exterior GFCI on the deck was not operational, and the exterior outlet on the front of the home lacked a ground and GFCI.
7. The water pipes, gas pipes, and duct work lack proper electrical bonding to ground. This is done by using a wire to connect the metal components to a good ground whenever isolated by a non-conductive union. The water heater would be a place where the pipes should be bonded to ground. Ask and electrician to verify and install proper bonding.
8. I always recommend addition of carbon monoxide detectors be placed near furnace and other fossil fuel burning appliances and near living and sleeping areas. Carbon monoxide is a by product of combustion of fossil fuels. It is normally vented out of the structure via the chimney etc. but if the system fails it can cause severe illness or death to the occupant of the home.
9. I always recommend outlets located in moist areas be changed to GFCI type. They are require in Kitchen, Bathrooms, Basement, Laundry, Garage, Exterior, and moist areas. They are a relatively inexpensive safety feature meant to disconnect power with the slightest current drain in milliseconds. If they are already installed I recommend periodic testing as it is common that a small percentage of these devices fail with time.
10. Another similar safety upgrade would be the use of AFCI protected circuits. These are similar to GFCI outlets but protect against an arc from an electrical short that can cause fires. AFCI or Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters are now required in new construction in all bedrooms.
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Service drop appears to be 60 amp |
60 amp meter socket |
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GFCI outlet not operational |
Ungrounded AC disconnect |
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Voltage drop 11.5% in living room |
Dimmer feature not operational |
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Improperly wired lamp |
Open junction and unsupported wires in attic |
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Improper wiring to attic fan thermostat |
Cellar outlet, lighting, needs GFCI, damp location |
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Small wire acting as ground |
Knockouts missing |
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Loose outlet box |
Ungrounded Disconnect |
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Aluminum wiring present |
Poor connection, sloppy wiring |
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Poor conduit support, wire to whirlpool tub |
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Heating Systems |
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Type of Heating System: |
Natural gas forced air |
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Heating System Location: |
Basement |
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Venting: |
Direct vent PVC |
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Ducting, Supply Air: |
Galvanized metal |
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Ducting, Return Air: |
Galvanized metal |
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Controls: |
Thermostat |
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Fuel Source, Location: |
Municipal |
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Fuel Piping: |
Black pipe |
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Furnace |
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Make: |
Carrier |
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Model: |
58SXA080-gg |
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BTU: |
88,000 |
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Serial: |
3491A06008 |
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Approximate age: |
1991 |
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Last Service Date: |
2004 |
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Filtration: |
Pleated Filter |
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1. The furnace appears to be operating normally but this type of inspection is limited and I always recommend having the furnace tested by a HVAC technician prior to close of escrow. A technician can disassemble and test using specialized tools and methods to determine if the furnace is operating safely. The furnace should also be cleaned and serviced at this time and then serviced regularly. There was some gas odor briefly during startup phase that can indicate a minor leak from gas valve. The top of furnace had some water stains that could be from leaking condensate. The furnace was dirty inside the cabinet and should be serviced.
System Description |
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Energy source: |
Electric |
Approximate age: |
1991 |
Disconnect: |
Adjacent to unit |
Location: |
East side of home |
Controls: |
Thermostat |
Make: |
Carrier |
Model: |
38TKB036300 |
Serial: |
2891E28239 |
1. The air-conditioning operated as normal but I always recommend having the system fully inspected by a qualified HVAC technician prior to close of escrow. They can test refrigerant levels and inspect component only visible when disassembled using specialized tools and equipment. The equipment should also be cleaned and serviced at this time and then on a regular basis to keep it operating efficiently.
2. The electrical service has some concerns noted in electrical section.
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Blister in corner of dinning room |
Crack under window |
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Solar air vent, possible moisture leakage |
Drips on couch beneath vent |
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Deteriorated finish on wood floors |
Open bulb in closet |
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Minor defects in floor |
Typical fan, several rooms, wobbles and vibrates |
Kitchen |
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Wall covering: |
Painted drywall, wood |
Floor covering: |
Linoleum |
Ceiling covering: |
Painted drywall |
Countertops: |
Laminate |
Cabinetry: |
Wood, plywood |
Plumbing fixture: |
Cast-iron |
Heat source: |
Noted |
Ventilation: |
Windows |
Lighting: |
General |
GFCIs: |
Yes |
Smoke alarm: |
In hall |
1. The dimmer switch didn’t operate.
2. the dishwasher drain was improper and will need to be repaired
Bedrooms1-4 |
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Wall Coverings: |
Painted drywall |
Floor Coverings: |
Wood |
Ceiling Covering: |
Painted drywall |
Doors: |
Wood hollow core |
Windows: |
Wood single pane double hung |
Smoke Alarm: |
In hall |
Heat Source: |
Noted |
Bedrooms1-4 Comments:
1. No additional concerns noted.
Room Interior – living/dinning room |
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Wall Coverings: |
Painted drywall |
Floor Coverings: |
Carpet |
Ceiling Covering: |
Painted drywall |
Doors: |
Wood hollow core |
Windows: |
Wood single pane double hung |
Smoke Alarm: |
No |
Heat Source: |
Noted |
Comments:
1. It appears that the ductwork for solar heat leaks. The couch under had a water and rust stain. This may not be related but appears to be from duct above. Water vapors can condense in ductwork and drip. This could indicate a condition where the solar panels are creating a moisture concern as noted above.
2. There were some minor blisters and blemishes to the paint in these rooms. None were consistent enough to determine exact cause.
3. No additional concerns noted.
Bathrooms |
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Number of Bathrooms: |
1.5 |
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Bathroom 1 |
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Location: |
2nd floor main |
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Ventilation: |
Vent fan |
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Wall covering: |
Painted drywall |
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Floor covering: |
Tile |
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GFCIs: |
Yes |
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Shower material: |
Tile |
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Tub Material: |
Fiberglass whirlpool |
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Sink and counter: |
Wood cabinet laminate top, porcelain bowls |
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Heat source: |
Noted |
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Bathroom 1 Comments:
1. The closet door lacked knob latch.
2. The hand held shower head diverter didn’t function and had no holder.
Bathroom 2 |
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Location: |
1st floor half |
Ventilation: |
Vent fan |
Wall covering: |
Painted drywall |
Floor covering: |
Parquet wood |
GFCI’s: |
Failed to trip |
Shower material: |
NA |
Tub Material: |
NA |
Sink and counter: |
Pedestal |
Heat source: |
Noted |
Bathroom 1 Comments:
1. The floor was slightly damaged under toilet. The tank was sweating and is the likely cause but the toilet seal at base or other source of leak may have caused water damage. The tank is large and uses several gallons per flush. I recommend upgrading to a more efficient model with an insulated tank to prevent sweating.
2. The GFCI failed to trip when tested and will need to be replaced.
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Water damage to floor |
Failed to trip |
Laundry Area |
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Location: |
Basement |
Ventilation: |
Na |
Wall covering: |
Unfinished |
Floor covering: |
Concrete |
GFCIs: |
No |
Sink and counter: |
Double bowl cast tub |
Heat source: |
No |
Laundry Comments:
1. No concerns.
Fireplace Type: |
Full insert in masonry chimney |
Location: |
Living room |
Fuel Type: |
Wood |
Air supply: |
Interior air |
Exhaust Venting: |
Conventional chimney, not visible (see Roof/Chimney section) |
Fireplace Comments
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Cord for blower |
Firebrick deteriorated |
Attached 2 car |
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Electrical service: |
Supplied by house |
GFCIs: |
No |
Foundation: |
Concrete slab |
Siding: |
Same as house |
Windows: |
Fixed |
Lighting: |
General |
Roof: |
Asphalt shingle |
Drainage: |
No |
Interior walls: |
Open framing |
Interior ceiling: |
Open frame |
Floor: |
Concrete |
Insulation: |
Not visible |
Fire Wall: |
Yes |
Fire Door: |
Yes |
Service door: |
yes |
Overhead door: |
Yes composite panel |
Opener: |
Yes with optical reverse |
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Storage area, inadequate framing |
Garage track misaligned |
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Door not aligned well needs adjustment |
Splices above beam, roof rafters |
Structure: |
Tool shed |
Location: |
Corner of lot |
Type: |
Wood deck |
Material: |
Pressure treated and stained wood |
Location: |
Back of home |