Foundation & Structure

Our inspector will:

A. Inspect:
1. The structural components including visible portions of the foundation, walls, posts, beams, columns, joists, trusses, and framing.
2. By probing of structural components where deterioration is suspected or where clear indications of possible deterioration exist.  Probing is NOT required when, in the opinion of the inspector, probing would only further damage any area already identified as defective or where no deterioration is visible.
3. The exterior grade and drainage including water runoff management components such as gutters and downspouts.
4. The vegetation, grading, surface drainage, and the retaining walls on the property when any of these are likely to adversely affect the building.
5. The interior doors and windows, and their operating mechanisms, locks  and latches.
6. The exterior wall cladding, flashing and trim.
7. All exterior doors.
8. Attached decks, balconies, stoops, steps, porches, and their associated railings.
9. Walkways, patios, and driveways leading to the dwelling entrances.
10. Interior walls, ceilings, and floors.
11. Steps, stairways, and railings.
12. Countertops and installed cabinets.
13. Garage doors and garage door operators.
14. The insulation and vapor retarders in unfinished spaces.
15. The ventilation of attics and foundation areas.
16. The mechanical ventilation systems.

B. Describe:
1. The foundation and report the methods used to inspect the under-floor crawl space, if present.
2. The methods used to inspect the attic space, if present.  Entry into and traversing of the under-floor crawl space and the attic are at the discretion of the inspector.
3. The floor structure.
4. The wall structure.
5. The ceiling structure.
6. The roof structure and report the methods used to inspect the attic.
7. The insulation in unfinished spaces.

C. Report:
1. Evidence of failed of structural components.
2. Deterioration of structural components.
3. The absence of insulation in unfinished spaces at conditioned surfaces.
4. Windows with broken or cracked glass, obvious signs of failed seals in dual paned windows, inoperable locks or latches or defective balance springs or operating mechanisms.
5. Conditions that require professional engineering services or additional professional engineer evaluation to determine structural adequacy of a component.

  Inspected once, inspected right!