Company Information

Clever Inspections

(201) 308-3809
Inspected By:

Andrew Merriweather, NJ State License #24GI00200600
ICN# 73

Wood Destroying Organisms

This report includes a structural pest inspection embedded within the report. All observations in this report that begin with WDO are a part of a NJ State Pest Inspection. Clever Inspections employs Andrew Merriweather, Licensed Structural Pest Inspector ##NJ 62718B. Please note that most WDO observations are related to high moisture conditions that could be conducive to mold-like substances. Clever Inspections is not a mold specialist and recommends consulting with an industrial hygienist or other mold remediation expert if concerned about mold or indoor air quality.

Summary

Marginal Defects

  • G-4 Grounds:

    The grade of the yard is slopping toward the building - see east side. Standards recommend a quarter inch / foot slope away from the building or better to prevent water draining toward the house. Over time, negative grading, as this is often called, can lead to moisture and even structural problems with the house. Have this repaired as feasible by a qualified contractor. Often, a swale is used to create a low point away from the house into which water can be diverted away from and around the building.

  • G-15 Grounds:

    The railroad ties used for garden planter perimeters are rotting, creating a condition conducive to wood destroying insects - see west side and the rear of the upper yard. Removal is recommended to eliminate a condition conducive to wood destroying organisms. Consult with a contractor for removal and, if desired, replacement options.

  • ED-5 Exteriors and Decks:

    Incomplete flashing detail and missing caulking was noted on the west rear bay window. The gap could allow moisture and pest intrusion. Have the gap sealed as needed by a qualified professional.

  • ED-13 Exteriors and Decks:

    Damage was noted to the exterior of the sun room windows. This could allow moisture or pest intrusion. Have the windows evaluated and repaired as needed by a qualified professional.

  • RCG-12 Roof, Chimney, and Gutters:

    Missing kick-out flashings were noted between the roof and wall junctures at the two location indicated below. These are important to divert water away from the siding and onto the roof to prevent water from running behind the siding. No signs of water damage were found during inspection, so repair may not be urgent, but problems at roof to wall junctures can cause serious water damage if they develop. Contact the company that installed your roof to have them install the kickout flashings.

Improves

  • RCG-11 Roof, Chimney, and Gutters:

    One or more of the downspouts on the upper gutter system are terminating onto the lower roof. This is industry standard practice but it will prematurely deteriorate the roofing shingles in these locations and increases the risk of moisture intrusion. I recommend extending the downspouts into lower gutters to better protect the roof.

  • L-4 Laundry:

    A moisture alarm with water shut-off features is recommended under the washing machine to protect against accidental leaks in the supply hoses. Pans can be effective when there is a drain, but even these will not protect against a burst supply connector. A moisture alarm with automatic shut-off will. Watts is a brand I have seen installed: Link.