The Scope and Purpose of an Inspection

Purchasing property involves risk

The purpose of an inspection is to help reduce the risks associated with purchasing a property by providing a professional evaluation of its general condition. It's important to understand that an inspection is limited to a visual assessment and cannot eliminate all risks. Some properties naturally present more potential issues than others, which may be beyond the scope of the inspection. Our goal is to inform and educate you—not only about what we can observe, but also about the limitations of what may not be visible during the inspection. These subtleties can be difficult to convey fully in writing, which is why we highly recommend that clients attend the inspection whenever possible.

A inspection is not an insurance policy or warranty.

This report is not a substitute for, nor should it be interpreted as, a warranty or guarantee. Warranties are separate products that may be purchased through third-party providers who specialize in that type of coverage.

The purpose of this report is not to offer any assurance—express or implied—regarding the current or future performance or adequacy of the structure, its systems, or their components. It does not serve as a warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose and should not be relied upon as such.

Any opinions offered regarding the adequacy, capacity, or expected lifespan of components are general estimates based on typical performance of similar systems or materials. Actual results may vary significantly, and it is not uncommon for real-world performance to differ from these projections.

A inspection is visual only and not destructive.

The findings and descriptions in this report are based on a visual inspection of the property. Our assessment is limited to components that are readily accessible and visible, without the need for disassembly, damage, or alteration of the structure, and without moving furniture or personal belongings. Any areas that are concealed, obstructed, or inaccessible are excluded from the inspection. In some cases, specific systems or components are not tested if doing so could risk damage—such as bathtub overflow drains, which are typically not tested to avoid potential water damage to finished areas. This inspection is non-invasive and non-destructive by nature, which places inherent limitations on its scope.

This is not an inspection for code compliance.

This inspection and report are not intended to determine compliance with local, state, or federal building codes. Code compliance is typically assessed by municipal inspectors during the construction phase, when framing and other structural elements are fully exposed and accessible. In contrast, inspections of finished structures are limited, as framing and other components are concealed. It’s also important to note that building codes are updated regularly—typically every three years—across various disciplines. Municipalities adopt and implement these updates on their own schedules. As a result, nearly all homes fall out of full code compliance over time. However, there is generally no requirement to bring older homes up to current code unless major renovations are undertaken.

This is just our opinion.

Construction methods and standards can vary widely—there is no single way to construct a building or install a system. The observations in this report reflect the professional judgment of the inspector. It's normal for other inspectors or contractors to have differing opinions. We encourage you to seek additional input from other qualified professionals if you wish. This report is intended only as a general guide to help the client make their own evaluation of the overall condition of the property, and is not intended to reflect the value of the premises, nor make any representation as to the advisability of sale/purchase.

The scope of this inspection

This inspection will cover the following systems: exterior, roof, structure, drainage, foundation, attic, interior, plumbing, electrical, and heating. The evaluation is based on limited observations that are primarily visual and non-invasive. No disassembly of equipment, opening of walls, moving of furniture, appliances or stored items, or excavation was performed. It is not intended to be a technically exhaustive assessment.

Photographic Documentation

Photographic documentation is included throughout the report, accompanied by written narratives to help convey key information. The photos are representative of conditions observed during the inspection but may not capture every instance of those conditions present on the property.

Your expectations

The primary goal of an inspection is to help ensure your expectations align with the condition of the property you are planning to buy, sell or maintain. Our role is to assist in this process by identifying and documenting visible observations during the inspection. However, this should not be mistaken for a technically exhaustive evaluation intended to uncover every possible defect. While more in-depth inspections are available, they are typically cost-prohibitive for most buyers or sellers.

Statement of Confidentiality

This Confidential Inspection Report is subject to the terms, conditions, and disclaimers of the contract. This report is only valid as of the date and time it was conducted and may be relied upon by the contracted parties. Each report section herein contains a listing of deficiencies observed at the time of inspection and a classification of the type and degree of each deficiency.

Statement of Limitations

All components and conditions which by the nature of their location are concealed, camouflaged or difficult to inspect are excluded from the report. The inspection is performed in compliance with the current versions of the following Standards of Practice as applicable to the property:

New York State Standards of Practice for Home Inspectors (NYS SOP), a copy of which is available at the following website: NYS Standards of Practice

InterNACHI Home Inspections Standards of Practice, a copy of which is available at the following website: InterNACHI SOP

Certified Commercial Property Inspectors Association Standards of Practice, a copy of which is available at the following website: CCPIA SOP

Systems and conditions which are not within the scope of the inspection include, but are not limited to: formaldehyde, lead paint, asbestos, mold or methamphetamine contamination, toxic or flammable materials, and other environmental hazards; pest infestation, playground equipment, efficiency measurement of insulation or heating and cooling equipment, internal or underground drainage or plumbing, any systems which are shut down or otherwise secured; water wells (water quality and quantity) zoning ordinances; intercoms; security systems; heat sensors; cosmetics or building code conformity. Any general comments about these systems and conditions are informational only and do not represent an inspection.

Statement of Non-Collusion

We hereby certify that this inspection report has been prepared independently and without any collusion, influence, or involvement from any third party with a financial interest in the sale, purchase, or financing of the property. No party has offered, requested, or received any form of compensation, inducement, or special consideration that would compromise the objectivity, accuracy, or impartiality of this inspection.

This report reflects the unbiased findings and professional judgment of the inspector, based solely on the conditions observed at the time of the inspection.

Statement of Liability

A thorough effort was made to identify all visible defects on your behalf; however, in the event of an oversight, the maximum liability shall be limited to the amount of the inspection fee paid. Any disputes or disagreements arising from this inspection or report shall be resolved through binding, non-appealable arbitration, conducted by the American Arbitration Association in accordance with its then-current Construction Industry Arbitration Rules, unless otherwise mutually agreed by the parties.

In the event of a claim, the client agrees to provide the inspection company with the opportunity to inspect the issue prior to any repairs being made. Failure to do so may result in the waiver of the claim. The client also agrees not to alter, repair, or remove any conditions or items that may serve as evidence in relation to the complaint, except in the case of an emergency.

Your participation is requested.

We strongly encourage our clients to be present during the inspection. A written report cannot fully capture all the insights and information that can be communicated through shared, real-time visual observations of the property's condition.

Authorizing Agent.

Inspected by: Jason Coe, State of New York License #: 16000158429.

Inspector Jason Coe, Duly Authorized agent of JBC Home Inspections, LLC.

How to Read This Report

Getting the Information to You

This report is intended to present important technical information in a format that is clear and accessible to all readers. If you're short on time, the "Summary Page” provides a quick overview of key findings to support prompt decision-making. However, we strongly recommend reviewing the full Report, which includes detailed descriptions, digital photos, captions, diagrams, videos, and links to additional resources for a more comprehensive understanding.

The most effective way to access the full depth of information in this report is by reading it online. This format allows you to explore and expand your understanding of the property. You’ll notice certain words or phrases highlighted in blue and underlined—clicking on these links will take you to additional resources and further details.

This report can also be saved as a PDF file and printed on paper if preferred.

Key Definitions

Serviceable – At the time of inspection, the component or system was observed to be performing its intended function without any visible evidence of significant defect, damage, or unsafe condition. “Serviceable” does not imply new condition or guarantee continued performance, nor does it serve as a warranty. The designation is based on a limited visual inspection and is not a prediction of future reliability.

Oil Canning – A visible waviness or buckling effect in flat or slightly curved metal surfaces, often seen in roofing, siding, or metal panels. It is usually caused by thermal expansion, improper installation, uneven fastening, or residual stresses in the metal during manufacturing. Oil canning is generally a cosmetic condition and does not necessarily indicate structural failure, but in some cases it may be a sign of installation or fastening issues that could warrant further evaluation.

Spalling - The deterioration and breakdown of a concrete surface, characterized by cracking, chipping, or peeling away. This can expose the underlying aggregate or even the reinforcement bars within the concrete. Spalling can be caused by a variety of factors, including moisture, temperature changes, and corrosion of the steel reinforcement. 

Efflorescence - the process where water carries dissolved mineral salts to the surface of porous building materials such as concrete and masonry. This process leaves behind a white, powdery, or crystalline residue after the water evaporates. This generally signifies that a moisture problem is present and can lead to more significant structural problems, mold growth or other damage if not addressed.

Swale - a shallow, vegetated channel or depression designed to collect, convey, and filter stormwater runoff by slowing its velocity and allowing it to infiltrate the soil, thereby reducing erosion and pollution.

Qualified - For the purposes of this inspection report, the term qualified in reference to contractors refers to an individual or firm that is properly trained, experienced, licensed where required, and insured to perform evaluation, repair, or replacement of the specific system or component referenced. Selection, verification of credentials, and oversight of any contractor are the responsibility of the client.

Chapters and Sections

This report is organized into chapters that divide the building into logical inspection areas. Each chapter is further broken down into sections focused on specific systems or components of the building. You can easily navigate between chapters using the buttons located in the left-side margin.

Most sections include descriptive information in black text. Observation narratives, highlighted in colored boxes, are provided when a system or component is found to have significant deficiencies or when we want to offer additional useful details about the system or the scope of our inspection. If a system or component is considered to be in satisfactory or serviceable condition, that section may have no observation comments and may simply state “tested” or “inspected.”

Observation Labels

All narrative observations are color-coded, numbered, and labeled to help you easily locate, reference, and understand the severity of each issue. The observation colors and labels used in this report are:

• MAJOR CONCERN/ SAFETY :
  A significant defect or condition that may pose safety concerns, impact the habitability of the building, or involve costly repairs. These items often require immediate attention, further evaluation by a specialist, and professional-level corrective action to prevent further damage or to eliminate potential safety hazards. Examples of major concerns might be displaced foundation walls, active roof leaks, outdated or unsafe electrical panels and components.
• MODERATE REPAIR:
  A condition that requires corrective action in the near future. While not considered an immediate safety hazard, it goes beyond routine maintenance and, if left unaddressed, could result in further deterioration, increased repair costs, or possible safety concerns. Typically, moderate repairs may require the skills of a qualified contractor but are generally not major structural or system-wide issues. Examples of moderate repair items may be repointing masonry mortar, replacing damaged siding, or correcting sagging gutters.
• MINOR REPAIR/MAINTENANCE ITEMS:
  A defect or condition that requires correction but is typically inexpensive or straightforward to repair. These repairs are often non-urgent and can be handled by a handyman or homeowner with basic skills. Examples of minor repair items bay be minor surface cracking in the driveway, loose doorknob, or a dripping faucet.
• DEFERRED MAINTENANCE:
  A routine upkeep task or condition that should be addressed to preserve the building’s systems or finishes. These items are not considered defects but are part of normal homeownership responsibilities. Examples of deferred maintenance may be cleaning the gutters, changing the air filters in the furnace, or caulking around windows and doors.
• COSMETIC REPAIR:
  A condition that affects the appearance of a system or component but does not impact its function, safety, or performance. Cosmetic repairs are optional and generally considered aesthetic in nature. Examples of cosmetic repairs might be paint touch-ups, drywall scuffs, or worn floor finishes.
• DUE DILIGENCE:
  Observation such as a buried oil tank that may require further investigation to determine the severity and / or urgency of repair.
• RECOMMENDED DISCLOSURE ITEMS:
  These are observations for which we recommend that sellers disclose more information to buyers so that buyers can better understand recent servicing, repairs or maintenance or even construction history or building and site design.
• IMPROVE OR UPGRADE:
  Observations that are not necessarily defects, but which could be improved for safety, efficiency, or reliability reasons. These are often items which reflect changes in building codes or standards.
• INSPECTION NOTES:
  Aside information and /or comments elaborating on descriptions of systems in the building that might be useful in the purchase/selling decisions or home ownership. .
• LIMITATIONS:
  Conditions present at the time of inspection which limited the scope of this visual inspection

Summary Page

The Summary Page offers a bulleted outline of the key observations made during the inspection. While this summary can be a helpful reference, it is not a substitute for reading the complete inspection report. To gain a full understanding of the findings, the entire report should be reviewed, as the Summary Page does not contain supporting photographs or their associated captions.