Repairs

• EWGCE-1 EXTERIOR WALLS< GROUNDS, CHIMNEYS. ETC:

  The rear stair/deck assembly does not conform to any standards and the following deficiencies were observed:

  
  

  Stair/deck deficiencies

  • Handrails non-graspable
  • Handrails do not adequately resist lateral force
  • Stair stringers single rail
  • Foundation/s improper
  • Bracing missing
  • Step heights uneven

  
  

  In order to reduce the potential for injury it is recommended that a qualified deck installation contractor evaluate and repair or replace the stairs/deck(s) as needed.

  
  

  While local codes always govern, as a reference for proper construction practices that meet or exceed local building codes, here is a link to deck construction guidelines from the American Wood Council:  Prescriptive Residential Wood Deck Construction Guide

• EWGCE-2 EXTERIOR WALLS< GROUNDS, CHIMNEYS. ETC:

  The existing bushes, trees and landscaping installations are overgrown and/or dead and in need of trimming and/or removal.  For proper appearance of the home the vegetation in the yard should be evaluated by a qualified arborist and/or landscaping contractor and be addressed as needed.

• EWGCE-3 EXTERIOR WALLS< GROUNDS, CHIMNEYS. ETC:

  The masonry landscaping wall on the front of the home has stones that are loose and unstable. In order to reduce the potential for injury, It is recommended that a qualified landscaping contractor and/or masonry evaluate and repair the walls as needed.

  
  

  NOTE: The walls do not have a foundation and are prone to movement and future deterioration from freeze/thaw movement in the ground. Rather than repair the walls via mortared joints, replacing the walls with segmented block walls that are intended for this purpose is recommended.

• EWGCE-4 EXTERIOR WALLS< GROUNDS, CHIMNEYS. ETC:

  Cracking was noted in the masonry joints between dissimilar materials, stone features and stone coping on the structure. All dissimilar elements on the exterior walls of the structure such as: brick-to-stone; brick-to-concrete block; concrete block-to-glass block, all interior corners and all construction joints should be joined one to the other and sealed against moisture through the use of backer rod and urethane caulk or its equivalent. These elements have either differing coefficients of expansion and contraction in relation to temperature and moisture and/or are subject to movement which can lead to cracking of the cladding material and/or of the mortar joints. In order to reduce the potential for moisture related damage, the existing cement mortar joints should be ground out and replaced with the appropriate backer rod and ASTM approved caulking by a qualified masonry repair contractor.

  
  

  This procedure is in keeping with the standards set forth by the Brick Industry Association. Further information is available at the following link: Accommodating Expansion of Brickwork

• EWGCE-5 EXTERIOR WALLS< GROUNDS, CHIMNEYS. ETC:

  The existing caulking around the perimeter of the structure is cracked, old and missing.  Exterior sealant performance is directly related to the joint preparation and application.   For increased service life, performance and aesthetics, the exterior of the structure should be carefully examined and old deteriorated and/or improper caulking should be removed and the exterior of the structure caulked via appropriate means and materials. Proper joint preparation and the use of compliant exterior rated sealants of good quality is recommended . 

   

  All caulk joints should then be inspected annually and be repaired as needed.  ALL exterior wall penetrations such as: piping, conduit, vent caps, exterior light fixtures and receptacles should be sealed against moisture intrusion through the use of the appropriate caulking methods and materials.  An intentional opening/gap at the base of electrical fixtures should remain open to allow any moisture penetration an avenue of escape.

  
  

  Several sources regarding caulking preparation can be found online, here is a link to one source:  Caulking Basics

• EWGCE-6 EXTERIOR WALLS< GROUNDS, CHIMNEYS. ETC:

  In order to reduce the potential for moisture related damage, all exterior wall penetrations such as; piping, conduit, vent caps, etc. should be sealed against moisture intrusion, drafts, and energy losses through the use of the appropriate caulking methods and materials.

• EWGCE-7 EXTERIOR WALLS< GROUNDS, CHIMNEYS. ETC:

  Some of the painted wood surfaces have flaking paint or are exposed.  In order to prolong the life of materials on the exterior of the home, all exposed wood surfaces should be professionally primed and painted by a qualified painting contractor or handyman.

• EWGCE-8 EXTERIOR WALLS< GROUNDS, CHIMNEYS. ETC:

  Cracked glazing blocks were noted on the perimeter of some of the mortared glass block window installations.  Mortar can transfer the stresses inherent in large masonry walls directly to the glass block which can lead to cracking of the glass block. Caulk, not mortar, should be used to seal the areas between the glass block windows and the brick walls. The broken glazing blocks should be removed and replaced and the existing mortar joints should be raked out and replaced with backer rod and urethane caulk or equivalent by a qualified masonry contractor.

• EWGCE-9 EXTERIOR WALLS< GROUNDS, CHIMNEYS. ETC:

  Asphalt shingles have been used for siding on a portion of the home.  These materials are generally not designed to have the full weight of the shingle hanging on the fasteners and if shingles are installed in this way additional fasteners must be added.  Also. these shingles are prone to wind damage and should be monitored regularly for deterioration.  In order to reduce the potential for moisture related damage, the material should not be replaced in kind and when it deteriorates to the point where replacement is required it is recommended that alternate proper siding materials be installed by a qualified siding installation contractor.

• EWGCE-10 EXTERIOR WALLS< GROUNDS, CHIMNEYS. ETC:

  The exterior window lintels have been sealed and can no longer drain moisture which increases the potential for corrosion of the lintels.  Over time the corroding steel will expand which can damage the adjacent masonry walls and allow moisture to penetrate to the interior of the living space. In order to reduce the potential for moisture related damage, the lintel drainage space should be repaired by a qualified masonry restoration contractor.

• EWGCE-11 EXTERIOR WALLS< GROUNDS, CHIMNEYS. ETC:

  Some of the aluminum encasements that are sealing trim on the structure are loose and unsealed which exposes the older wood to become exposed to moisture. In order to reduce the potential for moisture related damage It is recommended that a qualified carpenter or handyman secure and seal all of the encasements.

• EWGCE-12 EXTERIOR WALLS< GROUNDS, CHIMNEYS. ETC:

  The presence of flat horizontal projections from the exterior masonry façade creates an increased risk for moisture accumulation, moisture saturation of the masonry and moisture penetration through the exterior wall to the interior. The most basic concept in exterior wall moisture management is to avoid flat surfaces and to ensure all exterior elements are properly sloped to promote the drainage of moisture. Therefore, it is recommended that a qualified masonry restoration contractor install an angled mortar wash, corrosion resistant metal flashing, or other methods and materials to reduce the risk for moisture related damage at these locations.

• EWGCE-13 EXTERIOR WALLS< GROUNDS, CHIMNEYS. ETC:

  The exterior masonry walls are in overall good condition, however, general deterioration was noted with regard to the common brick exterior walls around the building. In order to reduce the potential for damaging and mold causing moisture to enter the home, it is recommended that plans be made for grinding out and repointing of the mortar joints in conjunction with spot replacement of individual damaged brick masonry units. Application of a penetrating masonry sealant is also recommended in order to reduce direct moisture absorption by the aged and deteriorated common bricks. The exterior walls should be evaluated and repaired by a qualified masonry restoration contractor.

  
  

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• EWGCE-14 EXTERIOR WALLS< GROUNDS, CHIMNEYS. ETC:

  The vent for the heater on the rear porch appears to be damaging the finish on the siding. The vent for the heater should be evaluated by a qualified HVAC service technician in order to see if it complies with the manufacturers installation instructions with regards to clearance to combustible materials. If the vent is installed properly, paints that can withstand high temperatures should be used on the siding adjacent to the vent.

• EWGCE-15 EXTERIOR WALLS< GROUNDS, CHIMNEYS. ETC:

  The existing wooden deck/porch is weathered and deteriorating. In order to extend the service life of the deck materials, all exterior wooden deck surfaces should be professionally cleaned and sealed against weather.

  
  

  Here is a link to some potentially useful information regarding deck sealing: How to Seal Your Deck & Best Deck Sealers

• EWGCE-16 EXTERIOR WALLS< GROUNDS, CHIMNEYS. ETC:

  The deck ledger board is not properly secured to the exterior structural wall of the home. This creates a risk for structural motion of the deck, deck damage, and deck collapse. It is recommended that the deck ledger board be bolted to the exterior structural wall by a qualified carpenter or deck construction specialist.

• EWGCE-17 EXTERIOR WALLS< GROUNDS, CHIMNEYS. ETC:

  There did not appear to be any lateral load resistance devices installed on the deck. While local municipal codes may not require these devices or may allow bracing, they are required in the International Building Code and can be critical in preventing the accidental detachment of the deck from the structure. These devices can be retro-fitted to the existing deck and in order to reduce the potential for deck collapse and resulting injury it is highly recommended that these devices be installed by a qualified carpenter or handyman.

• EWGCE-18 EXTERIOR WALLS< GROUNDS, CHIMNEYS. ETC:

  The points of attachment between the rear porch and the exterior walls are concealed and it is unknown if they are properly sealed against moisture intrusion. In order to reduce the risk for ongoing moisture intrusion, mold growth, wood rot, etc. these critical areas should be protected by corrosion resistant metal flashing.

  
  

  In order to determine the condition of the attachments it is recommended that decking, siding or interior wall coverings be removed so the band joist the structure is attached to can be examined and evaluation and potential repair by a qualified carpenter or handyman is recommended. If flashing is not present it should be retrofitted on the exterior walls wherever needed by a qualified contractor.

• GAO-2 GARAGES AND OUTBUILDINGS:

  The trolley for the garage door opener appears to be bolted to a piece of wood that is only nailed in place which creates the potential for the opener to become loose. In order to reduce the potential for detachment of the opener trolley from the garage wall, the wood the door opener is bolted to should be securely fastened to the studs by a qualified garage door installation contractor.

• RCRFRD-1 ROOF COVERINGS, ROOF FLASHING, ROOF DRAINAGE:

  In order to reduce the risk for moisture penetration and damage, it is recommended that a qualified roofing contractor install the missing overhanging drip edge flashing along all roof rake edges.

• RCRFRD-2 ROOF COVERINGS, ROOF FLASHING, ROOF DRAINAGE:

  The sealant around the flashing on the metal roofs is cracked and deteriorated which can allow for the entry of moisture and signs of moisture related damage were observed in the ceiling of the living room.  In order to reduce the potential for moisture related damage, It is recommended that a qualified roofing contractor or handyman repair the flashing joints as needed via appropriate means and materials.

• RCRFRD-3 ROOF COVERINGS, ROOF FLASHING, ROOF DRAINAGE:

  The flashing along the masonry chimney and/or roof to masonry wall transition has flush flashing that is sealed with caulk which is a low performance and high maintenance installation that creates the potential for moisture to enter the home.  In order to reduce the potential for moisture related damage, it is recommended that step flashing be installed along the roof to masonry joint by a qualified roofing contractor.

• RCRFRD-4 ROOF COVERINGS, ROOF FLASHING, ROOF DRAINAGE:

  The gutters on the home are clogged and overflowing with debris which can do more damage than discolor a home. The water that overflows out of the back side of the gutter can penetrate into the attic space causing damage to the internal structure and create holes large enough for invasive pests.  Maintenance to keep gutters clear to prevent damage is recommended, especially in the fall when trees are losing their leaves.

• RCRFRD-5 ROOF COVERINGS, ROOF FLASHING, ROOF DRAINAGE:

  The existing rooftop above the three season room appears to be able to be used as a deck. The roof does not have a walking surface and in order to reduce the potential for damage to the roof surface, a roof deck or some other walking or wearing surface should be added to the roof. When adding a roof deck, permitting through the City of Chicago is required and according to a recent memo from the City of Chicago, compliance with load and egress requirements is critical.

  
  

  NOTE: The railing openings and height make the railing on the deck non-compliant and modifications to the railing if the roof is to be used.

  
  

  Here is a link to a webpage that appears to contain current code information with regard to rooftop decks in Chicago: Rooftop Deck Code

  
  

  Also, here is a link to a memorandum regarding roof deck replacements that may provide information relative to these installations: Replacement of roof decks installed before 10/1/2003

• RCRFRD-6 ROOF COVERINGS, ROOF FLASHING, ROOF DRAINAGE:

  The modified bitumen roof covering on the rear addition roof is not properly secured to the back of the roof gutter. This defect presents an increased risk for damage from ice damming and from water backing up at the gutter. It is recommended that the roof/gutter interface be repaired by a qualified roofing contractor.

• RCRFRD-7 ROOF COVERINGS, ROOF FLASHING, ROOF DRAINAGE:

  The roof on the rear three season room is older and was cracked and worn and plans should be made for roof replacement in the not too distant future. In order to extend the service life of the roofing and in order to reduce the cooling load on the rear porch, the application of a reflective coating is recommended over the surface of the modified bitumen roof covering.  FYI: Aluminized coatings are, in general, far inferior to white roof coatings which are both more reflective and more emissive.

• SAF-1 STRUCTURE AND FOUNDATION:

  Multiple foundation wall cracks were noted in the basement one of the cracks was actively leaking at the time of the inspection. The cracks may have been repaired by a professional foundation crack repair contractor and they will often provide lifetime warrantees against continued seepage and these warrantees are often transferable from owner to owner.  All documentation regarding any crack repair performed during the current owners tenure should be provided to the buyer and in order to reduce the risk of seepage and to help prevent the cracks from becoming pathways for wood boring insects, these cracks should be evaluated and repaired by a licensed and competent basement waterproofing contractor.

  
  

  Here is a link to an article that describes one potential type of crack sealing repair: Fixing Cracks in Concrete

• SAF-2 STRUCTURE AND FOUNDATION:

  The rear three season room essentially has a crawlspace beneath it. Most vented crawlspaces are damp, moldy and inhabited with pests.  They are typically connected to the air inside the home through many small un-intentional air leaks in the floors, partitions and ducts.  Modern building science standards dictate that crawlspaces should not be vented unsealed to the exterior as this crawlspace is and it should be a conditioned space.

  
  

  Therefore, to ensure durability, indoor air quality and save energy, a crawlspace must be kept dry, conditioned to control temperature and humidity and sealed tight to be pest free.  It is recommended that the following improvements be made to the crawlspace: 

  
  

  • The door in the crawlspace be replaced with one that is insulated and should be completely sealed and the vent should also be sealed.
  • The soil or gravel floor that is present in the crawlspace should be vapor-sealed with a minimum of a 6 mil plastic liner that has sealed joints, but preferably a high quality mesh reinforced liner.
  • Floor insulation (if present) should be removed and the perimeter walls and rim joist areas should be insulated and air-sealed and the crawlspace air should be conditioned with small amounts of indoor air. 

  
  

  One potential use for accessible crawlspaces is storage.  Here is a link to an article that discusses crawlspace improvements keeping that objective in mind:  Convert Your Crawl Space into a Storage Area

• ESGCDAF-1 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, GROUNDING, CONNECTED DEVICES AND FIXTURES:

  The clamp securing the grounding wire to the driven ground rod is intended for a pipe connection and does not provide adequate connectivity to the ground rod.  In order to ensure proper grounding of the electrical system, it is recommended that a qualified electrician evaluate and repair the grounding system by installing an acorn style grounding clamp or by other approved means.

• ESGCDAF-3 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, GROUNDING, CONNECTED DEVICES AND FIXTURES:

  The grounding electrode conductor is not properly secured to the water piping system and grounding clamp.  The stranded copper grounding conductor has been squeezed between the clamp and the piping which is not allowed and is unsafe since it makes the clamp prone to loosening.  This can reduce the safety and effectiveness of the bonding and grounding system and the existing clamp should be replaced with one that can properly secure the grounding electrode conductor into a screw terminal.  Further evaluation and repair by a licensed and competent electrical contractor is recommended.

• ESGCDAF-4 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, GROUNDING, CONNECTED DEVICES AND FIXTURES:

  There was a switch in the basement that was uncovered with represents a significant electrical safety defect.  All of the electrical switches and receptacles in the structure should be evaluated and repaired as necessary by a licensed and competent electrical contractor.

• ESGCDAF-5 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, GROUNDING, CONNECTED DEVICES AND FIXTURES:

  Cold drafts can create condensation on the warm electrical components inside the service panel which can lead to corrosion and other deleterious conditions.  The opening at the end of the service panel's feeder conduit should be sealed to stop the strong air drafts and energy losses at this location.

• ESGCDAF-6 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, GROUNDING, CONNECTED DEVICES AND FIXTURES:

  The existence of cloth insulated branch wiring was noted in the residence. Older cloth insulated wiring is often degraded and may have to be replaced during remodeling of the electrical system.  In order to determine if it needs replacement, the cloth wiring in the building should be further evaluated and potentially replaced by a qualified electrician.

• ESGCDAF-7 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, GROUNDING, CONNECTED DEVICES AND FIXTURES:

  At least one over fused circuit was noted in the electrical service panel.  Over fusing can cause overheating of the wires which could result in electric shock or fire.  The service panel should be evaluated, repaired and certified as safe by licensed and competent electrical contractor.

• ESGCDAF-8 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, GROUNDING, CONNECTED DEVICES AND FIXTURES:

  At least one screw was missing from the cover for the electrical service panel.  In order to reduce the potential for inadvertent contact with energized electric equipment, it is recommended that the missing electrical panel cover screw/s be replaced.

• ESGCDAF-10 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, GROUNDING, CONNECTED DEVICES AND FIXTURES:

  The bathroom light fixture in the primary bathroom is powered through the nearby GFCI receptacle. If the receptacle were to trip during a late night visit to the bath, or the receptacle were to become defective, the occupant could be left in the dark and would be subjected to an increased risk for falls and injuries. Repair by a qualified electrician is recommended.

• ESGCDAF-11 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, GROUNDING, CONNECTED DEVICES AND FIXTURES:

  In order to reduce the fire hazard associated with their hot surfaces and also to reduce the risk of bulb breakage, the bare bulb light fixtures in the closets should be replaced with low-profile fluorescent fixtures or their equivalent by a qualified electrician.

• ESGCDAF-12 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, GROUNDING, CONNECTED DEVICES AND FIXTURES:

  There was a missing and/or incomplete circuit directory for the electrical service panel/s.  In order to allow for safe and efficient electrical circuit interruption when required for maintenance, repairs, or in emergencies, a complete and accurate electrical circuit directory should be provided to the buyer before closing.

• PSDFAV-2 PLUMBING SUPPLY, DRAINS, FIXTURES AND VENTS:

  The water pressure and flow at some of the plumbing fixtures is marginal.   For optimal flow and pressure during the use of multiple fixtures, it is recommended that the remaining galvanized water supply piping be removed and replaced with copper piping.

• PSDFAV-7 PLUMBING SUPPLY, DRAINS, FIXTURES AND VENTS:

  The hot tap on the faucet on the laundry tub in the basement was leaking at the time of the inspection and the nozzle is stuck so it only fills one basin. For proper use of the laundry tub, repair or replacement of the faucet by a qualified plumber is recommended.

  
  

  NOTE: While the old concrete tub was not leaking at the time of the inspection, cracks in the tub were noted and if signs of leakage from the sink are observed at some point in the future, replacement of the tub would be recommended.

• PSDFAV-8 PLUMBING SUPPLY, DRAINS, FIXTURES AND VENTS:

  The pop-up drain assembly in the many of bathroom/s are not operating as intended and in order to be able to fill and/or drain the sink basin/s, they should be repaired or replaced by a qualified plumber or handyman.

• PSDFAV-9 PLUMBING SUPPLY, DRAINS, FIXTURES AND VENTS:

  Several toilets in the home are not adequately secured to the floor. This can result in deformation of the wax ring seal, leaking and other damage.   In order to reduce the potential for moisture related damage and to determine if removal and reinstallation is necessary, the toilets should be evaluated by a licensed and competent plumber.

• PSDFAV-11 PLUMBING SUPPLY, DRAINS, FIXTURES AND VENTS:

  The flexible and corrugated drain piping at the main level bathroom should be replaced with rigid and smooth walled drain piping for optimal drain performance and clog prevention.

• HACVAGAS-2 HEATING, AIR CONDITIONING, VENTILATION, AND GAS APPLIANCE SYSTEMS:

  The deteriorated/missing insulation on the A/C refrigerant lines can result in energy losses that promote the formation of condensation. In order to reduce the potential for moisture related damage and to reduce energy losses and maximize efficiency, the insulation should be replaced by a qualified HVAC contractor.

• HACVAGAS-4 HEATING, AIR CONDITIONING, VENTILATION, AND GAS APPLIANCE SYSTEMS:

  Condensation staining and air gaps were noted on the air conditioning lines set entry points into the HVAC unit.  In order to prevent further condensation and possible damage to the HVAC equipment, these entry points should be sealed a licensed and competent HVAC contractor.

• HACVAGAS-11 HEATING, AIR CONDITIONING, VENTILATION, AND GAS APPLIANCE SYSTEMS:

  There is a junction box for the ductless min-split heat pump units in the attic and it appears there is leakage from some of the refrigerant lines. In order to ensure proper operation of the system and damage from fluid leakage It is recommended that a qualified HVAC service technician evaluate and repair the unit as needed.

• HACVAGAS-12 HEATING, AIR CONDITIONING, VENTILATION, AND GAS APPLIANCE SYSTEMS:

  The space heater on the rear porch has a pilot light that needs to be lit to make the unit operational. The pilot light could not be lit and if the unit is operational, proper operation should be demonstrated at the final walk-through prior to closing. If the unit is not operational, the unit appears older and interior corrosion may exist that could affect performance and safety and it may be more cost effective to replace rather than repair this potentially older heater.

• FWE-2 FIREPLACES, WOODSTOVES, ETC.:

  Both of the fireplaces in the home had broken dampers that were partially stuck open. Fireplaces can be a significant source of energy losses either when in use or not and care should be taken in order to reduce the impacts from fireplaces.  Partially sealed flues allow conditioned air to escape creating a "stack effect" that can draw additional exterior air into the home.

  
  

  In order to reduce the potential for a "stack effect" to occur, when not in use, dampers (if present) should be closed and insulated dampers should be inserted in the flues between fireplace uses with another possibility being to install a top sealing damper on the top of the flue that would reduce air from entering the chimney from the exterior.  The flue on the decorative living room fireplace should be sealed completely, preferably with closed cell insulating foam just above the existing damper in order to eliminate air leakage as close to the fireplace opening as possible.

  
  

  For a simple explanation of the "stack effect", here is a link to a webpage from NC State that explains this phenomena:  Stack Effect – Defined

  
  

  In order to further understand heat loss through a fireplace, here is a link to an article that may be useful:  Is Your Fireplace Burning Through your Energy Bill?

  
  

  For more information regarding chimney dampers, here is a link to a local supplier that provides examples of the types of products that are available:  Top Sealing Chimney Damper Caps

• IVAE-1 INSULATION, VENTILATION, ATTICS, ETC.:

  The existing cheap plastic vent and/or dryer dampers are warped and are open to the exterior which creates the potential for cold air to enter and condense on warmer interior components and for flying pests to enter the open dryer venting.  In order to reduce the potential for corrosion and moisture related damage and unwanted visitors, all dryer and exhaust vent dampers on the exterior walls should be replaced with high-quality, gasketed, vent dampers.

  
  

  NOTE: In order to ensure proper performance of the dryer vents, regular examination and cleaning of dryer vents is recommended.

• IAF-3 INTERIORS AND FINISHES:

  The existing handrails in the home have open ends that project from the wall, are non graspable and are non-continuous.  Modern safety standards require that interior handrails be returned 90 degrees to the wall and in order to reduce the risk of snagging, falls and injuries and the handrails should be graspable and continuous and any non-conforming handrails should be modified or replaced by a qualified carpenter or handyman.

• IAF-5 INTERIORS AND FINISHES:

  The interior finishes have some minor blemishes and in order for the interior to conform to accepted appearance standards, some repairs, re-finishing, drywall touch ups and repainting may be needed. The attached photo/s are representative, not all inclusive, of repairs that may be needed.

  
  

  Persistent cracks in common areas for cracking like above doors and windows should be repaired with a flexible repair material.  Here is a link to information regarding one such product: Applying Krack Kote

• IAF-6 INTERIORS AND FINISHES:

  In order to reduce the potential for fungi growth and damage to the tile substrate, it is recommended that the gap between the tub spout and the tile wall be caulked or otherwise sealed via appropriate means and materials.

• IAF-7 INTERIORS AND FINISHES:

  Portions of the caulk between the bathtub and tub/shower wall tile appear to have a mold like substance in/on it. Once mold has penetrated into the body of the caulk it typically cannot be successfully eliminated and for proper appearance the caulk should be removed and replaced by a qualified contractor.

  
  

  Note - If grout is found in any corner areas beneath the caulk, these areas are prone to cracking and the presence of the grout does not allow for the formation of a proper caulk joint.  In order to prolong the life of the caulk joints and reduce the potential for moisture to enter the cracks and damage the underlying sub-base, it is recommended that the grout be raked out completely prior to re-caulking.

• IAF-8 INTERIORS AND FINISHES:

  The hardwood floors do not appear to have an adequate level of floor finish protection and could be easily damaged. It is recommended that the floors be protected by the application of at least two additional coats of a high-quality hardwood floor finish.

• WDS-2 WINDOWS, DOORS, SKYLIGHTS:

  The weatherstripping around the exterior entry door/s is deteriorated and/or missing.  In order to conserve energy, reduce cold drafts and reduce noise levels inside the living space, the installation of high quality rubber bulb weatherstripping by a qualified handyman is recommended at the top and sides of the exterior entry door(s).

• WDS-3 WINDOWS, DOORS, SKYLIGHTS:

  Many of the doors in the home failed to close or latch properly and problems included: doors hitting doorframes, non-catching latches and non-locking door locks. For proper operation it is recommended that any non-functional doors be repaired or adjusted by a qualified carpenter or handyman.

• WDS-5 WINDOWS, DOORS, SKYLIGHTS:

  Some of the windows in the home are older windows that may require maintenance and repair. While some older windows may have character that is worth retaining, potential improvements like adding storm windows or re-habilitating older windows with newer components can be performed. Repairs can be made on an as needed basis by a qualified window installation contractor, carpenter or handyman.

  
  

  Examples of observations noted during inspection include:

  • Some windows in the home are not operating and may be painted shut.
  • Glazing is missing from some of the windows - this is used to secure the window pane to the wood frame of the window
  • Many of the windows are single pane glass - these older windows do not comply with modern energy efficiency standards
  • Windows are showing signs of leakage and moisture control problems.
• WDS-6 WINDOWS, DOORS, SKYLIGHTS:

  Open gaps were noted on the bottom corners of the exterior entry door.  In order to reduce energy losses and drafts, draft stopping self-adhesive pads should be installed at the exterior entry door(s).

• IA-1 INSTALLED APPLIANCES:

  The kitchen range is unsecured and has the ability to tip under the right circumstances.   In order to reduce the potential for scald and burn injuries related to the instability of the kitchen range, an anti-tipping device (Federally mandated and shipped with all ranges) should be installed behind the kitchen range.

• IA-2 INSTALLED APPLIANCES:

  For increased insurance against leaks and water damage, it is recommended that the existing rubber water supply hoses for the washing machine be replaced with braided stainless steel hoses. The 'Watts' corporation produces hoses with a 'Flood-Stop' feature that will further reduce the risk for the free flow of water from the laundry outlet.

• IA-3 INSTALLED APPLIANCES:

  The refrigerator appeared to be operational at the time of the inspection, however, this is no indication that the unit will be operational in the future. The inspector was unable to pull the refrigerator out of its recess due to inadequate perimeter clearance.  Refrigerators should be readily removable so that the area in which they are located can be accessed for cleaning, servicing, repairs, etc.

• O-4 OTHER:

  Exposed fiberglass was noted inside the side attics in the upper level and these areas appear to be in use as storage. Fiberglass fibers are an indoor air contaminant and are considered by the state of California to be carcinogenic. It is recommended that all reasonable attempts be made to isolate fiberglass fibers from the indoor air of the home. Therefore, it is recommended that all exposed fiberglass be concealed behind sealed surfaces such as drywall or other solid surfacing material.

• O-5 OTHER:

  The home appeared to have cats living in the home. Many people are sensitive to cats and the removal of their byproducts is essential to being able to occupy a space formerly occupied by these residents. While professional cleaning and removal services are available, there are numerous applications that can be self applied.

  
  

  Here is a link to an article regarding suggestions for removing cat byproducts: The 9 Best Cat Pee, Odor, and Stain-Removal Products of 2022, Tested and Reviewed