Inspection Report provided by: Delaware Property Inspection Inspector: Richard Hiddemen (302)355-1748 ASHI # 243377 DPR #H4-0000018 DDA #06-444 Delaware 1992105842 Wilmington #03857 New Castle #2010-845 Licensed and Insured rick@weseeit4u.com Property Address: Sample Report
Report Information Client Information Property Description Ranch, Single family detached Property Information Year Built Square Footage 1525 1953, The use of lead based paints is possible on houses built before 1978. Testing may be necessary to determine if lead based paint was used on this property Number of Bedroom 3 Number of Bath 2 Vacancy Status Vacant Inspection Information Weather Conditions 80 to 90 degrees, Recently Rained Disclaimer WITHIN THE SCOPE OF THE INSPECTION The scope of this inspection and report is limited to a visual inspection of the systems and components as listed below, in order to identify those, if any, which may need replacement or repair. See ASHI Standards of Practice for a detailed description of the scope of inspection. (www.ashi.org.) Exterior: Landscaping, Retaining Walls, Gutters, Downspouts, Sidewalks and Driveways (both the condition of and as they affect foundation drainage,) Roof, Chimney, Flashing, and Valleys, (for evidence of water penetration and a description of materials,) Siding, Fascia, Soffit, Walls, Widows, Doors, Foundation, Attached Porches/ Decks/ Balconies/ Patios/ Garages (both structural and condition of.) Interior: Plumbing System: Water Supply/Drains/Vents/Water Heaters/Fixtures, and Locating (But Not Testing) Shut Off Valves; Electrical System: Service Drop, Service Panel, Ground Wire, GFCI Plugs, Switches, Receptacles, Installed Fixtures, and Smoke Detectors; Heating/Cooling System: Permanent Systems, Operating Controls/Filters/Ducts, Insulation, Vapor Barrier, and Ventilation; Bathrooms/Kitchen/Other Rooms: Doors/Windows/Walls/Floors (as to general condition), Cabinets, Counter tops, and Installed Fixtures; Structure: Ceilings/Walls/Floors, Stairs/Basements/Attic/Crawl Spaces (if readily accessible)(as to evidence of water damage and general condition.) - The scope of the inspection is limited to the description and the general condition of the above systems. OUTSIDE THE SCOPE OF THE INSPECTION Any area which is not exposed to view or is inaccessible because of soil, walls, floors, carpets, ceilings, furnishings, lack of access or crawl spaces or any major system (water or electrical systems, heating system, or air conditioner) that is not currently functional is not included in this inspection. The inspection does not include any destructive testing or dismantling. Client agrees to assume all the Page 2 of 29
risk for all conditions which are concealed from view at the time of the inspection. This is not a home warranty, guarantee, insurance policy, or substitute for real estate disclosures which may be required by law. Whether or not they are concealed, the following are outside the scope of the inspection; - Building code or zoning ordinance violations - Thermostatic or time clock controls or Low Voltage wiring systems - Geological stability or soils conditions - Water softener or water purifier systems or solar heating systems - Structural stability or engineering analysis - Saunas, steam baths, or fixtures and equipment - Building value appraisal or cost estimates - Pools or spa bodies or sprinkler systems and underground piping - Radio-controlled devices, automatic gates, elevators, lifts, and dumbwaiters - Furnace heat exchanger, freestanding appliances, security alarms or personal property - Specific components noted as being excluded on the individual system inspection form - Adequacy or efficiency of any system or component - Prediction of life expectancy of any item. - The Inspector is a home inspection generalist and is not acting as an engineer or expert in any craft or trade. If the Inspector recommends consulting other specialized experts, Clients do so at Client s expense. CONFIDENTIAL REPORT The written report to be prepared by the Inspector shall be considered the final and exclusive findings of the Inspector/Inspection Company regarding the home inspection at the Inspection Address. The inspection report to be prepared for the Client is solely and exclusively for the Client s own information and may not be relied upon by any other person. Client agrees to maintain the confidentiality of the inspection report and agrees not to disclose any part of it to any other person with the exception of the seller and/or the real estate agents directly involved in this transaction. Client(s) or the inspector may distribute copies of the inspection report to the seller and real estate agents directly involved in this transaction, but neither the seller nor the real estate agent are intended beneficiaries of this Agreement or the inspection report. Client agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold the Inspector/inspection Company harmless from any third party claims arising out of the Client's or Inspectors distribution of the inspection report. DISPUTES Client understands and agrees that the Inspector/Inspection Company is not an insurer, that the price paid for the subject inspection and report is based solely on the service provided. Client also agrees that any claim of failure in the accuracy of the report shall be reported to the Inspector/Inspection Company within five business days of discovery and that failure to notify the inspector within that time period shall constitute a waiver of any and all claims. The Inspector/Inspection Company shall have five business days to respond to the claim. If the Inspector/Inspection Company fails to satisfy the claim, liability shall be limited to a refund of the price paid for the Inspection and Report. Definition of Conditions AS = Appears Serviceable: The item appeared to be in working or usable condition with no major discrepancies noted. R = Repair: The item was at or near the end of its useful lifespan. A certified professional should be contacted for further evaluation and repair. MI = Maintenance or improvement. Deferred maintenance and improvement issues. S = Safety Issue: The item is considered a safety hazard and can cause harm to people or property. These items need to be repaired as soon as possible. NI = Not Inspected: The item was not inspected during the inspection. FI = Further investigation by specialized contractor needed To submit a review please go to https://plus.google.com/106216025680177383704/about? gl=uk&hl=en#106216025680177383704/about Page 3 of 29
REPORT SUMMARY PAGE Most significant material defects that will impact the value of this property To submit a review please go to https://plus.google.com/106216025680177383704/about? gl=uk&hl=en#106216025680177383704/about Wilmington, Delaware, 19808 Section Condition# Comment Heating - Air 15 Heating - Air 17 Electrical 20 Electrical 22 Evidence of deferred maintenance was observed. The clay liner in the burn chamber is disintegrated. The unit is leaking in various areas. The pressure guage needs replacement.this unit needs to be evaluated and determine if overhauling the unit is possible. Contact a HVAC contractor for evaluation and repair. Minor leaks at two radiator supply lines in the front bedroom and first floor bathroom. All the radiators need to be cleaned. Deterioration was observed to the exterior service wire insulation. Replacement of this wire is needed. Recommend further evaluation by a licensed electrical contractor or utility company prior to close. The service panel has standing water in it that is coming through the damaged service entrance cable. Some of the circuit breakers might be damaged. One 30 amp breaker is not installed properly.it is suggested that a "Licensed Electrical Contractor" be contacted for further evaluation and repair. Roofing and Attic 63 Minimal ventilation was provided to the attic area. This may not be sufficient to move air through the attic properly. Recommend installing additional vents. The roof edge vent system installed on the rear roof does not appear to have an opening in the roof for air to flow through. We see no opening from the attic. Due to minimum soffit areas we recommend that the roof edge vent system be properly installed wherever possible.it is suggested that a "Licensed Roofing Contractor" be contacted for further evaluation and repair. Page 4 of 29
1 Basement 1 Basement Walls - Ceilings - Floors Foundation Type Concrete block 1) Foundation Wall Conditions NI Foundation walls were partially not accessible for inspection due to wall coverings. 2) Wall Conditions R Stains were observed at basement paneled walls. Active leaks, Recommend further evaluation and repair as needed by a qualified / licensed contractor. Please refer to limitations of inspection regarding mold / moisture related conditions. 3) Basement Floor Conditions FI Material similar to the 9" X 9" floor tiles has been known to contain asbestos. Asbestos was commonly used in older floor tiles. Determining the presence of asbestos can only be performed by laboratory testing and is beyond the scope of this inspection. Contact a abatement specialist for further evaluation and repair. Page 5 of 29
1 Basement 4) Basement Ceiling Conditions R The fiber ceiling tiles in the basement ceiling are damaged and missing. We recommend this entire ceiling system be replaced. Structure Type The wood floor framing system is 2 X 10 floor joists. 8 x 10 wood support beams 5) FloorJoist Framing Conditions MI Moisture staining was found on first floor joists. Recommend gutter downspouts be extended and routed away from the building for proper drainage. Water seepage into crawl spaces, basements and under foundations can be caused by inadequate removal of rainwater from the perimeter of the house. 6) Exposed Sub Floor Conditions FI Evidence of fungus and suspected mold was observed. A mold inspection or testing was not performed as part of this general home inspection. Client is advised to consult a qualified mold testing company prior to closing. Page 6 of 29
1 Basement Other Conditions Drain Line Level Drain line is at the basement floor level 7) Sump Pump Conditions MI No sump pump system present.a sump pump system may be needed to reduce moisture infiltration. 8) Pest Condition AS 2 Foundation - Crawl Space Foundation Foundation Material Concrete block 9) Foundation Conditions MI Excessive amounts of moisture were observed in the crawl space area. Recommend gutter downspouts be extended and routed away from the building for proper drainage. Water seepage into crawl spaces, basements and under foundations can be caused by inadequate removal of rainwater from the perimeter of the house. Page 7 of 29
2 Foundation - Crawl Space Crawl Space Conditioned Space The crawlspace is using conditioned air 10) Ventilation Condition MI We recommend that the crawlspace areas be sealed from interior spaces and properly insulated and ventilated. Flooring Support Type The wood framing floor system was constructed of 2 X 10 floor joists. 11) Flooring Support Conditions NI The inspector was unable to fully inspect the floor joists and sub flooring due to the insulation installed. Areas behind the fiberglass insulation were concealed and were not visible or accessible for inspection. Crawl Space Floor Concrete slab Page 8 of 29
2 Foundation - Crawl Space 12) Conditions AS Insulation Type and Depth Fiberglass batt insulation 13) Condition R First floor crawlspace insulation appears to contain surface mold. We recommend reducing interior moisture levels. Contact a abatement specialist for further evaluation and repair. 3 Heating - Air Heating Location-Type of Unit Weil McLane Hot Water Low pressure boiler 1997 Energy Source Oil 14) Energy Condition R There is a leak at the oil tank fill line that appears to leak when the tank is overfilled. Page 9 of 29
3 Heating - Air 15) Unit Conditions R Evidence of deferred maintenance was observed. The clay liner in the burn chamber is disintegrated. The unit is leaking in various areas. The pressure guage needs replacement.this unit needs to be evaluated and determine if overhauling the unit is possible. Contact a HVAC contractor for evaluation and repair. Page 10 of 29
3 Heating - Air 16) Exhaust Flue Conditions MI A metal flue liner is present, this flue pipe needs to be cleaned. The flue pipe seal as it enters the chimney needs to be replaced. Contact a HVAC contractor for evaluation and repair. Page 11 of 29
3 Heating - Air Distribution Type The visible areas of the heat distribution system is piping with radiators. 17) Distribution Conditions MI Minor leaks at two radiator supply lines in the front bedroom and first floor bathroom. All the radiators need to be cleaned. 18) Ventilation Conditions AS 19) Thermostat Condition AS Air Condition - Cooling Type of Cooling System No air conditioning service is present. 4 Electrical Page 12 of 29
4 Electrical Service Drop - Weatherhead Electrical Service Type Electrical Service Material Number of Conductors The electrical service is overhead. Aluminum Three 20) Electrical Service Conditions R Deterioration was observed to the exterior service wire insulation. Replacement of this wire is needed. Recommend further evaluation by a licensed electrical contractor or utility company prior to close. Main Electrical Panel Main Disconnect Location Panel Amperage-Volt Rating Basement 200 Amp service Circuit Protection Type Arc Protection Device Circuit Breakers Not present. We recommend that they be installed for additional fire protection. 21) Wiring Methods AS The main power cable is aluminum. The branch cables are copper. 22) Electrical Panel Conditions R The service panel has standing water in it that is coming through the damaged service entrance cable. Some of the circuit breakers might be damaged. One 30 amp breaker is not installed properly.it is suggested that a "Licensed Page 13 of 29
4 Electrical Electrical Contractor" be contacted for further evaluation and repair. 23) Electrical Grounding AS Wiring- Conductors-Devices 24) Device and Fixture Condition R Older/ original switches are present. Several switches and recepticals are painted over. There is an open wire connection in attic. GFIC (Ground Fault Interrupter Circuit) receptacles (a safety device for outlets near water) are recommended at all bathroom(s), kitchen, exterior, and garage (if present). It is suggested that a "Licensed Electrical Contractor" be contacted for further evaluation and repair. Page 14 of 29
5 Plumbing Water Main Line 5 Plumbing Meter Main Shutoff Location Main Line Material The main valve is located at the basement. The visible material of the main line / pipe appears to be copper. 25) Meter Conditions AS Water Supply Lines Supply Line Material and Location The visible material used for the supply lines is copper. 26) Supply Line Conditions MI Supply line in the crawl space need to be secured. 27) Device and Valve Condition MI The rear hose bibb is installed too close to the grade. We recommend that a small window well be added in order to operate this hose bibb. Page 15 of 29
5 Plumbing 28) Total Disolved Solids AS 168 see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/total_dissolved_solids Drain - Waste Lines Drain Line Material The visible portions of the waste lines are cast iron. The visible portions of the waste lines are plastic. 29) Drain Line Conditions MI Minor leak at basement drain line. The drain line in the crawlspace appears to be improperly pitched. This pitch may allow blockage of this pipe. There is an abandoned drain line in the crawlspace. There is an uncapped drain in the laundry closet area. It is suggested that a "Licensed Plumbing Contractor" be contacted for further evaluation and repair. Page 16 of 29
5 Plumbing 30) Venting Conditions AS Water Heater(s) Water Heater Type and Age Low pressure boiler. 31) Water Heater Conditions MI The water temperature set point was too high (136 degrees at bath faucet). This condition can cause scalding. Recommend lowering temperature of the hot water. The hot water temperature should not exceed 125 degrees. Contact a HVAC contractor for evaluation and repair. 32) Water Heater Flue MI See heater flue conditions 6 Interiors Walls - Ceilings - Floors 33) Wall Conditions AS 34) Ceiling Conditions AS 35) Floor Conditions AS 36) Stair Conditions AS Page 17 of 29
6 Interiors Windows - Doors 37) Interior Window Conditions MI The basement window units appear to be nearing the end of life expectancy. Client should consider replacement with a modern unit conforming to higher efficiency standards. The casement windows in the kitchen are missing screens. 38) Interior Door Conditions MI We recommend that the exterior door in the kitchen be updated to improve security. Basement exterior door is difficult to operate. It is suggested that a "Licensed General Contractor" be contacted for further evaluation and repair. Electrical Conditions 39) Ceiling Fan Conditions AS 40) Smoke Detector Conditions S The smoke detectors are not set in the correct location or position. Refer to the operating instructions of the smoke detector. 41) Carbon Monoxide Detectors S No carbine monoxide detectors are present.we recommend that carbon monoxide detectors be installed. Fireplace Fireplace Location A fireplace is located at the living room. Fireplace materials Brick 42) Fireplace Conditions AS 43) Flue and Damper AS 7 Kitchen Kitchen Sink - Counter tops - Cabinets 44) Counter Conditions AS The kitchen counters showed evidence of moderate wear. Page 18 of 29
7 Kitchen 45) Cabinet Conditions AS The kitchen cabinets had a moderate amount of wear observed. 46) Sink Plumbing Conditions MI Low water pressure at kitchen sink. The remaining faucets have good pressure Appliances Stove - Range Type The oven is electric. The range is electric. 47) Stove - Range Condition AS General Electric 2000 48) Exhaust Fan Conditions AS Vented to the exterior. There is an abandoned vent assembly on the side wall. 8 Bath(s) Walls - Ceilings - Floors 49) Wall Conditions R Some ceramic tiles on basement bathroom wall do not match color. 50) Ceiling Conditions R The fiber ceiling tiles in the basement bathroom are loose and stained. Replacement is recommended. Page 19 of 29
8 Bath(s) 51) Floor Conditions AS Basement bathroom floor is excessively pitched towards the drain. Electrical Conditions 52) Ventilation Fan Conditions MI Basement and first floor bathrooms have no exhaust fan. We recommend that exhaust fans be installed in both bathrooms. Bathroom Sink 53) Counter - Cabinet Conditions AS All cabinets and countertops have moderate/heavy wear. 54) Sink Conditions AS Basement and first floor bathroom sinks need repairs to the pop of drain valve. Page 20 of 29
8 Bath(s) Shower - Tub - Toilet 55) Shower - Tub Conditions MI The bathtub in the basement drain runs slow. 56) Toilet Conditions R Toilet in basement is old,outdated,and stained. Replacement is recommended. First floor bathroom toilet is not installed. The toilet flange is damaged. 9 Garage - Laundry Walls - Ceilings - Floors Garage Type Carport 10 Roofing and Attic Roof Covering Method of Inspection Roof Style Roof Covering Material Number of Layers The roof was inspected by walking the safe and accessible areas. Gable Architectural grade asphalt shingles One layer 57) Roof Covering Condition AS Page 21 of 29
10 Roofing and Attic 58) Flashing Conditions AS 59) Roof Drainage System R The gutter drains were blocked at the time of the inspection. Recommend clearing. This condition can cause water penetration in areas not readily visible or accessible. Recommend gutter downspouts be extended and routed away from the building and off of the roof for proper drainage. 60) Roof Penetrations AS Attic Area Method of Inspection Attic Access Entered attic areas. Hatch Page 22 of 29
10 Roofing and Attic Roof Frame Type The roof framing is constructed with rafter framing. 61) Roof Framing Conditions AS Some moisture staining from a previous leak were found. Area appears to be inactive. 62) Attic Conditions AS Attic Ventilation Type Ridge Vents Gable Vents, power vent fan 63) Attic Ventilation Condition R Minimal ventilation was provided to the attic area. This may not be sufficient to move air through the attic properly. Recommend installing additional vents. The roof edge vent system installed on the rear roof does not appear to have an opening in the roof for air to flow through. We see no opening from the attic. Due to minimum soffit areas we recommend that the roof edge vent system be properly installed wherever possible.it is suggested that a "Licensed Roofing Contractor" be contacted for further evaluation and repair. Page 23 of 29
10 Roofing and Attic Attic Insulation Type Batt Insulation 64) Attic Insulation Conditions AS 11 Exterior Front - Back Entrance Front Entrance Type Covered Porch 65) Front Entrance Conditions MI The front porch appears to have settled on the left side facing from front. This appears to be caused by water undercutting the slab.recommend gutter downspouts be extended and routed away from the building for proper drainage. Back Entrance Type Basement door 66) front porch ceiling conditions R The tongue and groove porch ceiling needs repair in some areas. It is suggested that a "Licensed General Contractor" be contacted for further evaluation and repair. 67) Back Entrance Conditions S The steps to the basement door need a handrail. Exterior Walls Structure Type Wood framing and brick veneer Page 24 of 29
11 Exterior 68) Exterior Wall Conditions MI Mortar joints at exterior walls needs minor repairs. Trim Soffits and Eaves Exterior Trim Type Wood wrapped with metal trim 69) Trim Conditions MI Some gaps in exterior trim. Some painting as needed on the garage valance. Page 25 of 29
11 Exterior Soffit and Overhangs Minimal soffit 70) Conditions MI Soffit panel needs minor repair at front porch 71) Flashing Conditions AS Exterior Windows - Doors Window Type Double hung insulated vinyl replacement windows. 2004 72) Window Conditions MI All exterior window metal trim needs to be sealed with caulk. 73) Exterior Door Conditions MI Storm door at the exterior basement entrance is heavily rusted and needs replacement. Page 26 of 29
11 Exterior Chimney Chimney Type and Material The fireplace/utility chimney material is brick 74) Chimney Conditions AS 75) Chimney Cap Conditions AS 76) Flue Cap Conditions AS 12 Grounds Grading Grading Slope The site is slightly sloped. 77) Grading Conditions MI Poor site drainage or grading was observed. 78) Vegetation Conditions AS 79) Ground Drainage System NI No underground piping system appears to be installed. 80) exterior window well condition MI We recommend that all window wells be modified to be above current grade and covered to prevent water infiltration. Page 27 of 29
12 Grounds Driveways - Sidewalks - Walkways Driveway Material Concrete 81) Driveway Conditions MI There some damage at the end of the driveway. Sidewalk or PatioType Concrete sidewalk 82) Sidewalk Conditions MI The sidewalk is spalling and cracked in some locations. Spalling concrete is an indicator of premature failure. Retaining Wall Retaining Wall Material Concrete Block Page 28 of 29
12 Grounds 83) Retaining Wall Conditions MI Retaining wall is cracking but does not appear to have shifted. We recommend this wall be repaired to prevent water infiltration. 13 Permit Status Permit Information Utility Permits Electrical upgrade 84) Permit Condition FI No record of permits by local jurisdiction were found for the electrical upgrades. We recommend that all work history be examined and a licensed contractor be contacted for evaluation and repair. Page 29 of 29