premier home inspection report - structure & site...monitor: the downspouts that discharge below...

Premier Home Inspection Report

For Sample Review

Inspection Date:

Prepared For: Valued Client

Prepared By:

Structure & Site Inspection Services, LLC

www.structureandsite.com

Report Number:

1804.29.03

Inspector: Certified Master Inspector

[email protected]

Phone: 248.645.5522

© 2018 S & S

Premier Home Inspection

Sample Report

Pages 2 of 39

This confidential report is prepared exclusively for Sample Review

Table of Contents

REPORT OVERVIEW 3

STRUCTURE 7

ROOFING 9

EXTERIOR 15

ELECTRICAL 18

HEATING 21

COOLING 23

INSULATION / VENTILATION 25

PLUMBING 29

INTERIOR 31

APPLIANCES 33

MOLD INSPECTION 34

COST SUMMARY 36

MAINTENANCE ADVICE 38

APPENDIX #1 RADON GAS REPORT

Pages 3 of 39


Report Overview THE HOUSE IN PERSPECTIVE

The overall condition of the home is in generally good condition. As with all homes, ongoing maintenance is required and improvements to the systems of the home will be needed over time. The improvements that are recommended in this report are not considered unusual for a home of this age and location.

CONVENTIONS USED IN THIS REPORT

For your convenience, the following conventions have been used in this report.

Major Concern: a system or component which is considered significantly deficient or is unsafe. Significant

deficiencies need to be corrected and, except for some safety items, are likely to involve significant expense.

Quotes for repairs should be obtained prior to the end of the inspection period to better understand the scope of

costs involved with the repairs and the impact of cost of ownership.

Safety Issue: denotes a condition that is unsafe and in need of prompt attention. Quotes for repairs should be

obtained prior to the end of the inspection period to better understand the scope of costs involved with the repairs

and the impact of cost of ownership.

Repair: denotes a system or component which is missing or which needs corrective action to assure proper and

reliable function. Quotes for repairs should be obtained prior to the end of the inspection period to better

understand the scope of costs involved with the repairs and the impact of cost of ownership.

Improve: denotes improvements which are recommended but not required.

Monitor: denotes a system or component needing further investigation and/or monitoring in order to determine

if repairs are necessary.

Deferred Cost: denotes items that have reached or are reaching their normal life expectancy or show indications

that they may require repair or replacement anytime during the next five (5) years. Quotes for repairs should be

obtained prior to the end of the inspection period to better understand the scope of costs involved with the repairs

and the impact of cost of ownership.

Reported: denotes information received from a person or persons with intimate and reliable knowledge of the

property.

Good - Component or system is sound and performing its function. Although it may show signs of normal wear and tear, some minor rehabilitation work may be required;

Fair – Component or system is performing adequately at this time but exhibits deferred maintenance, evidence of previous repairs, workmanship not in compliance with commonly accepted standards, is obsolete, or is approaching the end of its typical useful expected life. Repair or replacement is required to prevent further deterioration, restore it to good condition, prevent premature failure, or to prolong its useful expected life;

Poor – Component or system has either failed or cannot be relied upon to continue performing its original function as a result of having exceeded its typical expected useful life, excessive deferred maintenance, or state of disrepair. Present condition could contribute or cause the deterioration of other adjoining elements or systems. Repair or replacement is required.

THE SCOPE OF THE INSPECTION

All components designated for inspection in the NACHI (National Association of Certified Home Inspector) Standards of Practice are inspected, except as may be noted in the “Limitations of Inspection” sections within this report. NACHI is the largest home inspection authority in the United States and certifies members for ethical and diligent inspection services.

Visit www.NACHI.org for complete details.

It is the goal of the inspection to put a home buyer in a better position to make a buying decision. Not all improvements will be identified during this inspection. Unexpected repairs should still be anticipated. The inspection should not be considered a guarantee or warranty of any kind.

Please refer to the pre-inspection contract for a full explanation of the scope of the inspection.

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CLIENT ON-SITE Yes

BUYERS AGENT Valued Agent

WEATHER CONDITIONS Dry weather conditions prevailed at the time of the inspection. The estimated outside temperature was 53 degrees F.

RECENT WEATHER CONDITIONS Winter weather has been experienced in the days leading up to the inspection.

ELEVATION VIEWS

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Structure DESCRIPTION OF STRUCTURE

Foundation: Basement Configuration

Roof Structure: Rafter

STRUCTURE OBSERVATIONS

General Comments The construction of the home is good quality. The materials and workmanship, where visible, are good. The inspection did not discover evidence of substantial structural movement.

RECOMMENDATIONS / OBSERVATIONS

Foundation

Monitor: Settlement cracks were observed in the foundation walls. This implies that some structural movement of the building has occurred. Cracks of this type should be watched for any sign of additional movement.

Monitor: Finished basement conceals majority of foundation and floor framing materials.

View of structural materials and construction methodology.

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LIMITATIONS OF STRUCTURE INSPECTION

As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions:

Structural components concealed behind finished surfaces could not be inspected.

Only a representative sampling of visible structural components were inspected.

Furniture and/or storage restricted access to some structural components.

Engineering or architectural services such as calculation of structural capacities, adequacy, or integrity are not part of a home inspection.

Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection.

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Roofing DESCRIPTION OF ROOFING

Roof Covering: Asphalt Shingle Estimated Age = 12+ Years

Roof Flashings: Metal

Chimneys: Masonry x2

Roof Drainage System: Metal Downspouts discharge above and below grade

Method of Inspection: Walked Lower Roof

ROOFING OBSERVATIONS

General Comments This quality of asphalt shingle roof material has a typical lifespan of 20 - 25 years. Many factors influence the longevity of roofs including; weather, quality of shingle and installation method, proximity of tree limbs, degree of slope and amount of rooftop ventilation. Roofs with multiple layers of cover typically have a shorter life span and require additional costs for removal when re-roofing becomes necessary. Sloped roofs usually last longer than flat roofs. The configuration of the roofing system is susceptible to ice damming and related leaks. The potential for ice dams varies with the severity of the winter and depending on insulation and ventilation under the roof. Severe ice dams can result in leaks, typically near the eaves. Solutions include better attic insulation and ventilation, eave protection below the roof coverings, or as a stop-gap measure, the installation of heating cables on the roof.


Sloped Roofing

Repair: The roofing is in fair condition. Repairs to the roof are needed. Loose and/or missing surface materials should be repaired. All roof penetrations, exposed nails and flashings should be examined and sealed as necessary. Debris and organic growth should be removed from the surface material. Roofs are, by their nature, a high maintenance component. Annual inspection and repair should be anticipated. In addition, the older flashings should be monitored. In some cases, a deteriorated flashing can result in expensive repairs, because sections of the roofing have to be removed. As a rule of thumb, replacement of the entire roof covering may be logical if more than ten percent of the roof requires repair.

Gutters & Downspouts

Repair: The downspout(s) should discharge water at least five (5) feet from the house. Storm water should be encouraged to flow away from the building at the point of discharge.

Repair: The gutters require cleaning to avoid spilling roof runoff around the building – a potential source of water entry or water damage.

Repair: Loose or damaged downspouts should be repaired promptly.

Monitor: The downspouts that discharge below grade level should be monitored. If they are ever suspected to be clogged or disconnected below grade, they should be redirected to discharge at least five (5) feet from the building. Foundation leakage adjacent to a downspout is an indication of a problem below grade.

Chimneys

Repair: The cap of the masonry chimney should be replaced and the chimney flue should be checked for damage. Damaged flues can be unsafe.

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View of lower slope of roof.

View of rear slope.

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Close up view of shingle.

Weak decking and recessed shingle above front porch.

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Gutter system.

Downspout configuration.

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View of west chimney.

East chimney.

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Damaged rain cap.

LIMITATIONS OF ROOFING INSPECTION


Not all of the underside of the roof sheathing is inspected for evidence of leaks.

Evidence of prior leaks may be disguised by interior finishes.

Estimates of remaining roof life are approximations only and do not preclude the possibility of leakage. Leakage can develop at any time and may depend on rain intensity, wind direction, ice build up, and other factors.

Antennae, chimney/flue interiors which are not readily accessible are not inspected and could require repair.

Roof inspection may be limited by access, condition, weather, or other safety concerns. Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection.

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Exterior DESCRIPTION OF EXTERIOR

Wall Covering: Brick Metal

Window/Door Frames and Trim: Wood Metal

EXTERIOR OBSERVATIONS

General Comments The exterior of the home is in good condition.


Exterior Walls

Repair: The metal siding should be painted.

Repair: Caulk at dissimilar materials, example brick to siding to reduce moisture and pest infiltration.

Repair: Vegetation growing on or near exterior materials should be kept trimmed away from siding, window trims, and the eaves to reduce risk of insect and water damage.

Exterior Eaves

Repair: Tree branches should be trimmed away from the house.

Windows

Repair: The windows require caulking.

Driveway

Repair: The driveway surface is in a deteriorated condition. Resurfacing is necessary to correct this condition.

View of asphalt serving driveway.

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Window frames and sill material in good condition.

Overhanging tree limbs.

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Peeling paint at siding.

LIMITATIONS OF EXTERIOR INSPECTION


A representative sample of exterior components was inspected rather than every occurrence of components.

The inspection does not include an assessment of geological, geotechnical, or hydrological conditions, or environmental hazards.

Screening, shutters, awnings, or similar seasonal accessories, fences, recreational facilities, outbuildings, seawalls, break-walls, docks, erosion control and earth stabilization measures are not inspected unless specifically agreed-upon and documented in this report.


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Electrical DESCRIPTION OF ELECTRICAL

Size of Electrical Service: 120/240 Volt Main Service

Service Drop: Overhead

Service Entrance Conductors: Aluminum Service Equipment &

Main Disconnects: Main Service Rating 100 Amps Breakers

Service Grounding: None Observed

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters: Present

Smoke Detectors: Present

ELECTRICAL OBSERVATIONS

General Comments Generally speaking, the electrical system is in good order. The distribution of electricity within the home is good. Dedicated 220 volt circuits have been provided for all 220 volt appliances within the home.


Distribution Wiring

Repair: Improper electrical connections should be repaired. All electrical connections should be made inside junction boxes fitted with cover plates.

Safety Issue: All junction boxes should be fitted with cover plates, in order to protect the wire connections.

Outlets / Switches

Repair: Missing outlet and switch cover plates should be replaced to avoid a shock hazard.

Main panel.

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Improper connections in basement.

Exposed wires at outlets and junction boxes.

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LIMITATIONS OF ELECTRICAL INSPECTION


Electrical components concealed behind finished surfaces are not inspected.

Only a representative sampling of outlets and light fixtures were tested.

Furniture and/or storage restricted access to some electrical components which may not be inspected.

The inspection does not include remote control devices, alarm systems and components, low voltage wiring, systems, and components, ancillary wiring, systems, and other components which are not part of the primary electrical power distribution system.


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Heating DESCRIPTION OF HEATING

Energy Source: Gas

Heating System Type: Forced Air Furnace Estimated Age – 8 Years

Vents, Flues, Chimneys: Metal-Single Wall

Heat Distribution Methods: Ductwork

Other Components: Humidifier

HEATING OBSERVATIONS

General Comments The furnace responded properly to controls.

RECOMMENDATIONS / OBSERVATIONS Repair: The heating system requires service. Soot buildup at heat exchanger indicates an improper mix of gas and air

through the fuel regulator. Recommend having the unit serviced by a professional. Furnace systems have a typical life span of 20 years if properly maintained. Units over 5 years old risk cracked heat exchangers and should be routinely checked by a professional heating technician. A heat exchanger is mostly concealed, requires partial disassembly of furnace components for full viewing and is beyond the scope of a home inspection. Annual maintenance is recommended to assure safe, reliable heat. It is highly recommended that a carbon monoxide detector is installed within the home.

Repair: The humidifier filter should be replaced. Watch out for humidifier leaks into the furnace where costly (and hidden) damage can occur.

Improve: The dirty air filter should be replaced.

Chimney

Major Concern, Safety Issue: The chimney serving the gas fired heating system does not appear to be lined. Unlined flues risk unsafe system operation, blockage, gas leaks, or fire.

View of furnace unit.

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Chimney needs liner for exhaust pipes.

LIMITATIONS OF HEATING INSPECTION


The adequacy of heat supply or distribution balance is not inspected.

The interior of flues or chimneys which are not readily accessible are not inspected.

The furnace heat exchanger, humidifier, or dehumidifier, and electronic air filters are not inspected.

Solar space heating equipment/systems are not inspected. Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection.

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Cooling DESCRIPTION OF COOLING

Energy Source: Electricity Estimated Age = 9 Years

Central System Type: Air Cooled Central Air Conditioning

COOLING OBSERVATIONS

Note – Air conditioning systems have a typical life span of 15 - 20 years if properly maintained.

General Comments

The air conditioning system could not be tested as the outdoor temperature was at or below 65 degrees F.


Central Air Conditioning

Improve: The outdoor unit of the air conditioning system requires cleaning.

Improve: Recommend covering the exterior A/C unit during the winter months. Also, turn breaker off at electrical panel to ensure that the unit is not accidentally turned on during the winter months, which can cause significant damage.

Exterior A/C unit.

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LIMITATIONS OF COOLINGINSPECTION


Window mounted air conditioning units are not inspected.

The cooling supply adequacy or distribution balance are not inspected. Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection.

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Insulation / Ventilation DESCRIPTION OF INSULATION / VENTILATION

Attic Insulation: Fiberglass Estimated Coverage = 8”

Roof Ventilation: Ridge Vents Gable Vents

INSULATION / VENTILATION OBSERVATIONS

General Comments Insulation levels are typical for a home of this age and construction. Caulking and weather-stripping around doors, windows and other exterior wall openings will help to maintain weather tightness and reduce energy costs.

RECOMMENDATIONS / ENERGY SAVING SUGGESTIONS

Attic / Roof

Repair: There is evidence of bird nest activity. A pest control specialist should be consulted in this regard.

Repair: Insulation should be provided on exhaust vent pipes.

Repair: Exhaust vent pipes from the bathroom(s) should be vented to the building exterior.

Repair: While investigating the roof structure, outside light was visible. Any openings in the roof should be repaired to avoid leaks.

Repair: The attic fan is inoperative.

Repair: Gable vents should be screened to prevent insect and vermin entry.

View of attic cavity, insulation levels and roof structure.

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Birds nest at gable vent. Note damaged screen at gable vent.

Vent pipes should be insulated and discharged to exterior.

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Gaps in attic framing should be sealed.

Attic fan inoperative.

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LIMITATIONS OF INSULATION / VENTILATION INSPECTION


Insulation/ventilation type and levels in concealed areas are not inspected. Insulation and vapor barriers are not disturbed and no destructive tests (such as cutting openings in walls to look for insulation) are performed.

Potentially hazardous materials such as Asbestos and Urea Formaldehyde Foam Insulation (UFFI) cannot be positively identified without a detailed inspection and laboratory analysis. This is beyond the scope of the inspection.

An analysis of indoor air quality is not part of our inspection unless explicitly contracted-for and discussed in this or a separate report.

Any estimates of insulation R values or depths are rough average values. Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection.

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Plumbing DESCRIPTION OF PLUMBING

Water Supply Source: Public Water Supply

Service Pipe to House: Copper

Main Water Valve Location: Basement

Interior Supply Piping: Copper

Waste System: Public Sewer System

Water Heater: Gas Estimated Age - 1 Year

Other Components: Sump

PLUMBING OBSERVATIONS

General Comments The piping system within the home, for both supply and waste, is a good quality system. The water pressure supplied to the fixtures is typical. Only a slight drop in flow was experienced when two fixtures were operated simultaneously.


Water Heater

Safety Issue: Damaged vent stack serving hot water tank – replacement needed..

Fixtures

Repair: Cracked, deteriorated and/or missing shower stall and bathtub grout and caulk should be replaced.

Sump

Repair: Recommend installing a pump within the sump.

Damaged vent stack serving hot water tank.

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Recommend installing pump within sump.

LIMITATIONS OF PLUMBING INSPECTION


Portions of the plumbing system concealed by finishes and/or storage (below sinks, etc.), below the structure, or beneath the ground surface are not inspected.

Water quantity and water quality are not tested unless explicitly contracted-for and discussed in this or a separate report.

Clothes washing machine connections are not inspected.

Interiors of flues or chimneys which are not readily accessible are not inspected.

Water conditioning systems, solar water heaters, fire and lawn sprinkler systems, and private waste disposal systems are not inspected unless explicitly contracted-for and discussed in this or a separate report.


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Interior

INTERIOR OBSERVATIONS

General Condition of Interior Finishes On the whole, the interior finishes of the home are in average condition. Typical flaws were observed in some areas.

General Condition of Windows and Doors The majority of the doors and windows are good quality.

General Condition of Floors The floors of the home are relatively level and walls are relatively plumb.


Walls/Ceilings

Monitor: Water staining was noted in the basement. Recommend consulting with the current owners for additional information prior to closing. If the leak is still active, we recommend repair/replace as needed to remedy the leak.

Basement Leakage

Monitor: The basement shows evidence of moisture penetration. It should be understood that it is impossible to

predict the severity or frequency of moisture penetration on a one-time visit to a home. Virtually all basements exhibit signs of moisture penetration and virtually all basements will indeed leak at some point in time. The visible evidence is not unusual for a home of this age, construction and location. Further monitoring of the foundation will be required to determine what improvements, if any, will be required. Basement leakage rarely affects the structural integrity of a home. The vast majority of basement leakage problems are the result of insufficient control of storm water at the surface. The ground around the house should be sloped to encourage water to flow away from the foundations. Gutters and downspouts should act to collect roof water and drain the water at least five (5) feet from the foundation or into a functional storm sewer. Downspouts that are clogged or broken below grade level, or that discharge too close to the foundation are the most common source of basement leakage. Please refer to the Roofing and Exterior sections of the report for more information. In the event that basement leakage problems are experienced, lot and roof drainage improvements should be undertaken as a first step. Please beware of contractors who recommend expensive solutions. Excavation, damp-proofing and/or the installation of drainage tiles should be a last resort. In some cases, however, it is necessary. Your plans for using the basement may also influence the approach taken to curing any dampness that is experienced.

Environmental Issues

Monitor: Lead based paint was in use until approximately 1978. According to the Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development, a lead hazard can be present in a house of this age. This can only be confirmed by laboratory analysis. An evaluation of lead in paint is beyond the scope of this inspection. For more information, consult the Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A.) for further guidance and a list of testing labs in your area.

Monitor: It would be wise to install of carbon monoxide detectors within the home. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can result from a faulty fuel burning furnace, range, water heater, space heater or wood stove. Proper maintenance of these appliances is the best way to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. For more information, consult the Consumer Product Safety Commission at 1-800-638-2772 (C.P.S.C.) or http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/5010.html for further guidance.

Pages 32 of 39


Finish materials treated for mold growth in basement.

LIMITATIONS OF INTERIOR INSPECTION

As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions

Furniture, storage, appliances and/or wall hangings are not moved to permit inspection and may block defects.

Carpeting, window treatments, central vacuum systems, household appliances, recreational facilities, paint, wallpaper, and other finish treatments are not inspected.


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Appliances DESCRIPTION OF APPLIANCES

Appliances Tested: Electric Range Dishwasher Waste Disposer Refrigerator

Laundry Facility: 220-Volt for Dryer Dryer Vented to Building Exterior

Other Components Tested: Door Bell

APPLIANCES OBSERVATIONS

General Comments The appliances are middle aged. As such, they will become slightly more prone to breakdowns; however, several years of serviceable life should remain. All appliances that were tested responded satisfactorily.


Clothes Dryer

Repair: The dryer discharge pipe should be hard piped and insulated within the attic – evidence of leakage in the laundry closet.

Leakage at dryer vent.

LIMITATIONS OF APPLIANCES INSPECTION

As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions

Thermostats, timers and other specialized features and controls are not tested.

The temperature calibration, functionality of timers, effectiveness, efficiency and overall performance of appliances is outside the scope of this inspection.

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Mold Inspection DESCRIPTION OF MOLD INSPECTION

Mold is found everywhere inside and outside and can grow on almost any substance when moisture is present. Molds reproduce by releasing mold spores which can be carried long distances by air currents. When these spores land on a moist surface that is suitable for life, they begin to grow. Molds are essential to the natural breakdown of organic materials in the environment and are normally found indoors at levels that do not affect most healthy individuals. When moisture is present, common building materials such as plywood, drywall, furring strips, carpets, and carpet padding can support mold growth. Some molds produce mycotoxins that can pose serious health risks, neurological problems and even death. The term toxic mold refers to molds that produce mycotoxins, such as Stachybotrys chartarum, and not to all molds in general.


Wall / Ceiling Finishes

Repair: Mold growth was observed in the basement drywall. Mold growth is a reaction to sustained moisture at an organic material. Mold growth can be detrimental to the health of the building inhabitants. It is recommended that a certified mold professional evaluate the issue and provide a suitable solution for the mold growth and associated water infiltration. More info here http://structureandsite.com/mold.html

Mold growth observed throughout the basement finish materials.

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LIMITATIONS OF MOLD INSPECTION

As prescribed in the pre-inspection contract, this is a visual inspection only. The inspection was limited by (but not restricted to) the following conditions:

Components concealed behind finished surfaces could not be inspected. Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection.

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Cost Summary INTRODUCTION

The following cost figures are order of magnitude estimates only. They pertain to some of the observations made in this report. This is not an all-inclusive list of future repair costs, nor does it address general annual maintenance. It is recommended that a budget of roughly one percent of the value of the home be set aside annually to cover unexpected repairs and annual maintenance.

It is further recommended that qualified, reputable contractors be consulted for specific quotations. You may find that contractor estimates vary dramatically from these figures, and from each other. Contractors may also uncover defects not apparent at the time of the inspection, resulting in additional costs. Please proceed cautiously.

Should you have any questions regarding contractor opinions or quotations, please contact our office. Any work performed by the homeowner will dramatically reduce costs.

These approximate costs are not intended to represent or influence, in any way, the value of a property.

APPROXIMATE IMPROVEMENT COSTS

Description of Repair – Roof Overall

Condition

Short Term /Immediate

Repair Cost

Time Frame

Roof repairs / maintenance Fair – Good $750+ Immediate Need

Description of Repair – Exterior Overall

Condition


Repair Cost

Time Frame

Repair & paint siding Fair $2,500+ 1st Year

Replace asphalt Poor

Costs based on replacement of approximately 1,500 square feet of asphalt @ $2.50 per

square foot = $3,750

1st Year

Trim tree limbs $500+ Immediate Need

Description of Repair – Heating Overall

Condition


Repair Cost

Time Frame

Line chimney flue $500+ Immediate Need

Description of Repair – Plumbing Overall

Condition


Repair Cost

Time Frame

Replace hot water tank vent stack Poor $400+ Immediate Need

Install pump within sump crock $500+ Immediate Need

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Description of Repair – Mold Abatement Overall

Condition


Repair Cost

Time Frame

Remove and replace contaminated material $2,000+ Immediate Need

Description of Repair – Electrical Overall

Condition


Repair Cost

Time Frame

Repairs as described Good $500+ Immediate Need

Description of Repair – Appliances Overall

Condition


Repair Cost

Time Frame

Dryer vent replacement Poor $300+ Immediate Need

Description of Repair – Attic Overall

Condition


Repair Cost

Time Frame

Repairs as described Good $500+ Immediate Need

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Maintenance Advice UPON TAKING OWNERSHIP

After taking possession of a new home, there are some maintenance and safety issues that should be addressed immediately. The following checklist should help you undertake these improvements:

Change the locks on all exterior entrances, for improved security.

Check that all windows and doors are secure. Improve window hardware as necessary. Security rods can be added to sliding windows and doors. Consideration could also be given to a security system.

Install smoke detectors on each level of the home. Ensure that there is a smoke detector outside all sleeping areas. Replace batteries on any existing smoke detectors and test them. Make a note to replace batteries again in one year.

Create a plan of action in the event of a fire in your home. Ensure that there is an operable window or door in every room of the house. Consult with your local fire department regarding fire safety issues and what to do in the event of fire.

Examine driveways and walkways for trip hazards. Undertake repairs where necessary.

Examine the interior of the home for trip hazards. Loose or torn carpeting and flooring should be repaired.

Undertake improvements to all stairways, decks, porches and landings where there is a risk of falling or stumbling.

Review your home inspection report for any items that require immediate improvement or further investigation. Address these areas as required.

Install rain caps and vermin screens on all chimney flues, as necessary.

Investigate the location of the main shut-offs for the plumbing, heating and electrical systems. If you attended the home inspection, these items would have been pointed out to you.

REGULAR MAINTENANCE

EVERY MONTH

Check that fire extinguisher(s) are fully charged. Re-charge if necessary.

Examine heating/cooling air filters and replace or clean as necessary.

Inspect and clean humidifiers and electronic air cleaners.

If the house has hot water heating, bleed radiator valves.

Clean gutters and downspouts. Ensure that downspouts are secure, and that the discharge of the downspouts is appropriate. Remove debris from window wells.

Carefully inspect the condition of shower enclosures. Repair or replace deteriorated grout and caulk. Ensure that water is not escaping the enclosure during showering. Check below all plumbing fixtures for evidence of leakage.

Repair or replace leaking faucets or shower heads.

Secure loose toilets, or repair flush mechanisms that become troublesome.

SPRING AND FALL

Examine the roof for evidence of damage to roof coverings, flashings and chimneys.

Look in the attic (if accessible) to ensure that roof vents are not obstructed. Check for evidence of leakage, condensation or vermin activity. Level out insulation if needed.

Trim back tree branches and shrubs to ensure that they are not in contact with the house.

Inspect the exterior walls and foundation for evidence of damage, cracking or movement. Watch for bird nests or other vermin or insect activity.

Survey the basement and/or crawl space walls for evidence of moisture seepage.

Look at overhead wires coming to the house. They should be secure and clear of trees or other obstructions.

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Ensure that the grade of the land around the house encourages water to flow away from the foundation.

Inspect all driveways, walkways, decks, porches, and landscape components for evidence of deterioration, movement or safety hazards.

Clean windows and test their operation. Improve caulking and weather-stripping as necessary. Watch for evidence of rot in wood window frames. Paint and repair window sills and frames as necessary.

Test all ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) devices, as identified in the inspection report.

Shut off isolating valves for exterior hose bibs in the fall, if below freezing temperatures are anticipated.

Test the Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR) Valve on water heaters.

Inspect for evidence of wood boring insect activity. Eliminate any wood/soil contact around the perimeter of the home.

Test the overhead garage door opener, to ensure that the auto-reverse mechanism is responding properly. Clean and lubricate hinges, rollers and tracks on overhead doors.

Replace or clean exhaust hood filters.

Clean, inspect and/or service all appliances as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.

ANNUALLY

Replace smoke detector batteries.

Have the heating, cooling and water heater systems cleaned and serviced.

Have chimneys inspected and cleaned. Ensure that rain caps and vermin screens are secure.

Examine the electrical panels, wiring and electrical components for evidence of overheating. Ensure that all components are secure. Flip the breakers on and off to ensure that they are not sticky.

If the house utilizes a well, check and service the pump and holding tank. Have the water quality tested. If the property has a septic system, have the tank inspected (and pumped as needed).

If your home is in an area prone to wood destroying insects (termites, carpenter ants, etc.), have the home inspected by a licensed specialist. Preventative treatments may be recommended in some cases.

PREVENTION IS THE BEST APPROACH

Although we’ve heard it many times, nothing could be more true than the old cliché “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Preventative maintenance is the best way to keep your house in great shape. It also reduces the risk of unexpected repairs and improves the odds of selling your house at fair market value, when the time comes.

Please feel free to contact our office should you have any questions regarding the operation or maintenance of your home. Enjoy your home!

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