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Traverse City Home InspectionsYour Property Inspection Report

Cover Page

105 W Mesick Ave, Mesick, MI 49668Inspection prepared for: Sharon Ream-Springville Twp

Real Estate Agent: Brian McAllister - Bouwman Realty Group

Date of Inspection: 1/26/2017 Time: 8:00 AMOrder ID: 1514

Inspector: Josh BergInterNachi Certification #16052949

1133 W Long Lake Rd, Traverse City , MI 49685Phone: 231-499-3256

Email: traversecityhomeinspections@gmail.comwww.traversecityhomeinspections.com

Traverse City Home Inspections 105 W Mesick Ave, Mesick, MI

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We appreciate the opportunity to conduct this inspection for you! Please carefully read your entireInspection Report. Call us after you have reviewed your report, so we can go over any questionsyou may have. Remember, when the inspection is completed and the report is delivered, we are stillavailable to you for any questions you may have, throughout the entire closing process.Properties being inspected do not "Pass" or "Fail.” - The following report is based on an inspectionof the visible portion of the structure; inspection may be limited by vegetation and possessions. Depending upon the age of the property, some items like GFCI outlets may not be installed; thisreport will focus on safety and function, not current code. This report identifies specific non-code,non-cosmetic concerns that the inspector feels may need further investigation or repair. For your safety and liability purposes, we recommend that licensed contractors evaluate and repairany critical concerns and defects. Note that this report is a snapshot in time. We recommendthat you or your representative carry out a final walk-through inspection immediately beforeclosing to check the condition of the property, using this report as a guide.


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Summary of Items of ConcernSummary of Items of Concern

On this page you will find, in GREEN, a brief summary of any CRITICAL concerns of the inspection,as they relate to Safety and Function. Examples would be bare electrical wires, or active drain leaks.The complete list of items noted is found throughout the body of the report, including NormalMaintenance items. Be sure to read your entire report!For your safety and liability, we recommend that you hire only licensed contractors when having anywork done. If the living area has been remodeled or part of an addition, we recommend that youverify the permit and certificate of occupancy. This is important because our inspection does nottacitly approve, endorse, or guarantee the integrity of any work that was done without a permit, andlatent defects could exist. Depending upon your needs and those who will be on this property, items listed in the body of thereport may also be a concern for you; be sure to read your Inspection Report in its entirety.Note: If there are no comments in GREEN below, there were no CRITICAL system or safetyconcerns with this property at the time of inspection.Exterior AreasPage 4 Item: 1 Roof Due to snow cover, roof was not able to be fully evaluated. We

highly recommend, as weather permits, having roof inspected bya qualified contractor to ensure roof has no water leaks.

Page 6 Item: 3 Siding • Building 1. Entrance awning is pulling away from building.Flashing appears to have failed allowing for water to be directedto base of entrance door. As a result multiple areas of corrosionand decay were observed at base of entrance door. Werecommend consulting with a qualified contractor for evaluationand repairs as needed.• Multiple areas of corrosion observed on siding. Werecommend consulting with a qualified contractor for evaluationand repairs as needed.• Damage to SE corner of building 2. Siding has been pulledaway, dented and torn. We recommend a qualified contractorevaluate and repair as needed.• Holes in siding on both buildings. We recommend sealing theseareas to prevent water intrusion.• Well head is not secure. We recommend a qualified Welltechnician evaluate and secure as needed. We also recommend,once water has been restore to building, having the water tested.

Page 12 Item: 4 HVAC Platform • Multiple deficiencies at HVAC platform. We recommendconsulting with a qualified contractor for evaluation and repairsas needed.

Page 14 Item: 5 Electrical, Exterior • No electrical service to units at the time of inspection. Werecommend consulting with a qualified electrician for evaluationand repairs as needed.

AtticPage 15 Item: 1 Attic • Staining and dampness observed in insulation and wood

framing below every seam in the metal roof in the attic. Werecommend a qualified roofer evaluate and repair as needed toprevent further water intrusion. We also recommend consultingwith a qualified insulation technician for further evaluation ofinsulation to determine if insulation should be replaced.• Signs of rodents observed. We recommend baiting andmonitoring as rodents can damage framing, wiring andinsulation.

Electric, Heat, Water Heater


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Page 20 Item: 1 Electrical Panel • As both panels have not had power in some time and have beenout of use, we recommend evaluation of electrical system by aqualified electrician prior to close.• Building 2. Multiple areas of service panel are not secured.Prior to use we recommend consulting with a qualifiedelectrician for evaluation and repairs as needed.

Page 21 Item: 2 HVAC Unit • Multiple discrepancies noted in ductwork of Building 1. HVACunit could not be tested due to lack of electricity to property. Werecommend a qualified HVAC technician evaluate these areasprior to closing.

Interior FeaturesPage 24 Item: 1 Kitchen • Water shutoff to unit at the time of inspection. Prior to use we

recommend a full evaluation by a qualified plumber to ensurethat water damage does not occur from disconnected/faultyplumbing.

Page 26 Item: 4 Interior Electric • Electric to both buildings was not able to be inspected as therewas no power to either unit at the time of inspection.

Page 27 Item: 5 Floors, Ceilings &Walls

• Multiple areas of organic growth observed in unit. Werecommend consulting with a qualified mitigation contractor forevaluation and repairs as needed.• Multiple signs throughout interior of water intrusion. As waterenters the unit it can do damage to areas of the building that cannot be seen (i.e. sill plate, wooden framing members, insulation,and others). Prior to close we recommend consulting with aqualified contractor for evaluation to determine estimates ofsecuring facility against water intrusion.

Page 37 Item: 6 Doors • Corrosion/decay observed on building 1 W entry door. Werecommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair asneeded.

General Notes2 Item: 1 General Notes • PRIOR TO CLOSE: As there are multiple areas in both units

that need repair across several functions we recommendconsulting with several qualified contractors for estimates onrepairs prior to close.• Inspection performed by Joshua Berg 708-227-4241• Note: During your inspection, we make every effort to observeall areas of your building. In any building however it is possiblefor there to be areas that were not observed during theinspection due to stored items, clutter, or concealed areas. Afteran inspection, items can be changed, damaged, or altered.Because of these circumstances we always recommend a verythorough walk through with your realtor prior to closing. Thewalk through prior to closing is the time for the client to inspectthe property. It is best to perform your walk through after thebuilding has been thoroughly cleaned and furniture has beenremoved. It may be necessary to consult with the seller as he/shemay have in-depth knowledge regarding its condition.Conditions can change between the time of a home inspectionand the time of closing. Restrictions that existed during theinspection may have been removed for the walk through.Defects or problems that were not found during the homeinspection, because of these restrictions, may be discoveredduring the walk through. A thorough walk through prior toclosing is imperative.


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Exterior Areas As with all areas of a building, we recommend that you carefully examine the roof immediately priorto closing the deal. Note that walking on a roof voids some manufacturer’s warranties. Adequate atticventilation, solar / wind exposure, and organic debris all affect the life expectancy of a roof (seewww.gaf.com for roof info). Always ask the seller about the age and history of the roof. On anyhome that is over 3 years old, experts recommend that you obtain a roof certification from anestablished local roofing company to determine its serviceability and the number of layers on theroof. We certainly recommend this for any roof over 5 years of age. Metal roofs in snow areas oftendo not have gutters and downspouts, as there is a concern that snow or ice cascading off the roofmay tear gutters from the house. Likewise, be advised that such cascading may cause personalinjury or even death. If this house has a metal roof, consult with qualified roofers or contractorsregarding the advisability of installing a damming feature which may limit the size and amount ofsnow / ice sliding from the roof.Grading and drainage are probably the most significant aspects of a property, simply because of thedirect and indirect damage that moisture can have on structures. More damage has probablyresulted from moisture and expansive soils than from most natural disasters. Also, there should begutters and downspouts with splash blocks that discharge away from the building. We havediscovered evidence of moisture intrusion inside structures when it was raining that would not havebeen apparent otherwise. In addition, we recommend that downspouts do not terminate over pavedareas such as walks or driveways, as they can contribute to icy slip and fall hazards in winter.Minor settlement or “hairline” cracks in drives, walks or even foundations are are normal to propertiesof any age. They should, however, be monitored for expansion and sealed as necessary.Note that any siding, but especially composition or hardboard siding must be closely monitored. Aclassic example is the older style Louisiana Pacific siding, where the failure and deteriorationprovided grounds for a class action lawsuit. Even modern composition siding and, especially, trim, isparticularly vulnerable to moisture damage. All seams be must remain sealed and paint must beapplied periodically (especially the lower courses at ground level). It is imperative that continuedmoisture be kept from it, especially from sprinklers, rain splash back or wet grass. Swelling anddeterioration may otherwise result.Vegetation too close to the building can contribute to damage through root damage to the foundation,branches abrading the roof and siding, and leaves providing a pathway for moisture and insects intothe building.Although rails are not required around drop-offs less than 30”, consider your own personal needsand those of your family and guests. By today’s standards, spindles at decks and steps should bespaced no more than 4” apart for the safety of children.Open window wells should have either grates or, preferably, a weatherproof shield installed overthem. This will keep rain and snow from building up inside the well and possibly leaking into thebuilding, as well as minimizing your liability from children and non-residents falling inside them. Anegress ladder should also be installed within the well, especially at below-grade bedrooms.1. RoofObservations: Due to snow cover, roof was not able to be fully evaluated. We highly recommend, asweather permits, having roof inspected by a qualified contractor to ensure roof has no water leaks.


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Due to snow cover, roof was not able to be fully evaluated. We highly recommend, as weatherpermits, having roof inspected by a qualified contractor to ensure roof has no water leaks.

2. Gutters & Grading

Grading along the E side of building 2 comes up to the building above the bottom of siding. This willallow water intrusion. We recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and improve grading in this area

as needed to prevent water intrusion.3. SidingObservations:• Metal siding, wood frame/pole barn construction• Building 1. Entrance awning is pulling away from building. Flashing appears to have failed allowingfor water to be directed to base of entrance door. As a result multiple areas of corrosion and decaywere observed at base of entrance door. We recommend consulting with a qualified contractor forevaluation and repairs as needed.• Multiple areas of corrosion observed on siding. We recommend consulting with a qualified contractorfor evaluation and repairs as needed.• Damage to SE corner of building 2. Siding has been pulled away, dented and torn. We recommend aqualified contractor evaluate and repair as needed.• Holes in siding on both buildings. We recommend sealing these areas to prevent water intrusion.• Well head is not secure. We recommend a qualified Well technician evaluate and secure as needed.We also recommend, once water has been restore to building, having the water tested.


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Building 1. S side. Bent/torn siding S side

Multiple holes in siding. We recommend sealingthese areas from water intrusion.

W side


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Entrance awning is pulling away from building.Flashing appears to have failed allowing for water

to be directed to base of entrance door. As aresult multiple areas of corrosion and decay were

observed at base of entrance door. Werecommend consulting with a qualified contractor

for evaluation and repairs as needed.

Entrance awning pulling away from building

Decay/corrosion at base of siding and doorbeneath awning

Decay/corrosion at base of siding and doorbeneath awning


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Water is saturating support beam beneath awning Multiple areas of corrosion observed on siding.We recommend consulting with a qualified

contractor for evaluation and repairs as needed.

Dent in siding W side Holes in siding NW side

N side E side


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Hole in siding E side E side awning

Building 2 W side Building 2 N side

Gaps between siding and soffit trim observed.This can allow pests to access building. We

recommend sealing these areas to prevent pestintrusion.

Cracked weather stripping observed at building 2garage door. We recommend replacing weather

stripping to prevent water intrusion.


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We recommend sealing/painting exposed woodtrim around W service door of building 2 to

prevent possible decay of wood.

Multiple dents observed in siding of building 2

S side Decay observed at threshold of S service door ofbuilding 2. We recommend a qualified contractor

evaluate and repair as needed.


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Cracked and missing trim around S service doorof building 2. We recommend a qualified

contractor evaluate and repair as needed.

Damage to SE corner of building 2. Siding hasbeen pulled away, dented and torn. We

recommend a qualified contractor evaluate andrepair as needed.

E side We recommend sealing around any penetrationsinto siding of building 2 to prevent water intrusion.


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Gas regulator appears secure Holes in siding on the E side of building 2. Werecommend sealing these areas to prevent water

intrusion.

Well head is not secure. We recommend a qualified Well technician evaluate and secure as needed.We also recommend, once water has been restore to building, having the water tested.

4. HVAC PlatformObservations:• Multiple deficiencies at HVAC platform. We recommend consulting with a qualified contractor forevaluation and repairs as needed.


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HVAC platform 2x6 construction on 16" centers with 4x6 supports

Cracked joist By todays standards, railing should be at least 36"in height and have full length vertical balusters

spaced no further than 4" apart

4x6 support shows decay. This can compromise the structural integrity of platform. Use caution whennear platform.


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5. Electrical, ExteriorObservations:• No electrical service to units at the time of inspection. We recommend consulting with a qualifiedelectrician for evaluation and repairs as needed.

Exterior receptacle missing cover No electrical service to units at the time ofinspection. We recommend consulting with a

qualified electrician for evaluation and repairs asneeded.


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Attic Note that minor settlement or “hairline” cracks in concrete slabs are not noted in an inspection, asthey are normal to properties of any age. They should, however, be monitored for expansion andsealed as necessary.We recommend that all attic hatches have a batt of fiberglass insulation installed over them, and thatthe hatch be sealed shut with latex caulk. This will keep warm moist air from entering the attic, whichmay cause condensation or even mold. Note that every attic has mold; mold is everywhere. Someattics have some minor visible mold. This is often a result of the building process, when materials getwet during construction. If there is extensive mold, or mold that appears to have grown due to poormaintenance conditions, we will report it to you, the client. If the hatch is sealed shut when we go toinspect the attic, it can only be unsealed by the owner or their representative, as our insuranceprohibits us from performing any destructive testing or entry. In accordance with industry andinsurance standards, we will not attempt to enter an attic that has no permanently installed steps orpull-down stairs; less than thirty-six inches of headroom; does not have a standard floor designed fornormal walking; walking, in the inspector’s opinion, may compromise the ceiling below; is restrictedby ducts, or in which the insulation obscures the joists and thereby makes mobility hazardous, inwhich case we will inspect the attic as best we can from the access point, with no comments orevaluations of areas not readily viewed from the hatch area. 1. AtticObservations:• Staining and dampness observed in insulation and wood framing below every seam in the metal roofin the attic. We recommend a qualified roofer evaluate and repair as needed to prevent further waterintrusion. We also recommend consulting with a qualified insulation technician for further evaluationof insulation to determine if insulation should be replaced.• Signs of rodents observed. We recommend baiting and monitoring as rodents can damage framing,wiring and insulation.

Building 2 S view Ridge vent is open


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Soffit baffles are in place N view

Insulation appears packed down and clumpedtogether, as if it had held a lot of moisture at one

point.

Rafters and supports appear secure


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Water stains in OSB could indicate water intrusionin roof

Approximately 7" of loose fill cellulose insulationpresent. By today's standards this is an

inadequate amount. Consider adding insulationfor improved heating/cooling efficiency.

Building 1 attic S view Building 1 attic N view

Soffit areas appear open allowing ventilation. Ridge vent is open


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2X8 trusses on 36" centers appear secure. Vent fan. Unable to verify function due to lack ofelectricity.

Stained and damp insulation observed throughoutattic. It appears to be located under every seam inthe metal roof. We recommend a qualified rooferevaluate and repair as needed to prevent further

water intrusion. Approximately 5-6 inches of loosefill cellulose insulation observed.

Staining and dampness observed in insulationand wood framing below every seam in the metalroof. We recommend a qualified roofer evaluateand repair as needed to prevent further water

intrusion.


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Wood tested damp at time of inspection withmoisture meter in areas where a seam in themetal roof is directly above in the attic. We

recommend a qualified roofer evaluate and repairas needed.

Signs of rodents observed. We recommendbaiting and monitoring as rodents can damage

framing, wiring and insulation.


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Electric, Heat, Water Heater Electric: Note that only actual GFCI outlets are tested and tripped. Some baths may have non-GFCI outlets which are protected by a GFCI outlet in a remote area (garage, another bath, etc.). Confirm with owner that apparent non-GFCI outlets within 6’ of wet areas are thus protected. Also,note that most electricians agree that smoke detectors are good for about 5 years, and the breakersin your panel box have an expected life of about 20 years. Therefore, if this home was built before1990, consider having the panel box and breakers evaluated by a licensed electrician, as anoverheated breaker can result in a structural fire. If your home does not have a carbon monoxidedetector (few do!), we recommend making that investment. Any home that has a Bulldog Pushmatic,Zinsco, Sylvania Zinsco or Federal Pacific Electric panel should have it evaluated by a licensedelectrician, as these older types of panels and breakers have been known to overheat and causehouse fires.Heat: The heating, ventilation, air conditioning and cooling system (often referred to as HVAC) is theclimate control system for the structure. The goal of these systems is to keep the occupants at acomfortable level while maintaining indoor air quality, ventilation while keeping maintenance costs ata minimum. The HVAC system is usually powered by electricity and natural gas, but can also bepowered by other sources such as butane, oil, propane, solar panels, or wood. The inspector willtest the heating and air conditioner using the thermostat or other controls. A more thoroughinvestigation of the system, including the heat (“firebox”) exchanger, should be conducted by alicensed HVAC service person every year. Failure to do so may result in carbon monoxide escapingthrough cracks in a heat exchanger or flue pipe, resulting in death.1. Electrical PanelObservations:• As both panels have not had power in some time and have been out of use, we recommend evaluationof electrical system by a qualified electrician prior to close.• Building 2. Multiple areas of service panel are not secured. Prior to use we recommend consultingwith a qualified electrician for evaluation and repairs as needed.

Building 2. 200 amp rated service main. Ledgerincomplete.

Cover removed


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Neutral bus bar is not secured Multiple areas of service panel are not secured.Prior to use we recommend consulting with a

qualified electrician for evaluation and repairs asneeded.

Building 1. 200 amp rated panel. Ledger incomplete.2. HVAC UnitObservations:• Multiple discrepancies noted in ductwork of Building 1. HVAC unit could not be tested due to lack ofelectricity to property. We recommend a qualified HVAC technician evaluate these areas prior toclosing.


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Building 1: Open ended ductwork observed nearHVAC unit

Ripped/torn ductwork observed

Ductwork detaching at the S end of attic HVAC unit not tested due to lack of electricity toproperty.

3. Water Heater


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1997 Reliance 4 gallon hot water heater was unable to be tested as there was no water or power tobuilding.


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Interior Features This inspection does not include testing for radon, mold or other hazardous materials unlessspecifically requested.Plumbing is an important concern in any structure. Moisture in the air and leaks can cause mildew,wallpaper and paint to peel, and other problems. The home inspector will identify as many issues aspossible but some problems may be undetectable due to problems within the walls or under theflooring. Note that if in a rural location, sewer service and/or water service might be provided by private wastedisposal system and/or well. Inspection, testing, analysis, or opinion of condition and function ofprivate waste disposal systems and wells is not within the scope of a home inspection. Recommendconsulting with seller concerning private systems and inspection, if present, by appropriate licensedprofessional familiar with such private systems. If a Septic System is on the property, pumping isgenerally recommended prior to purchase, and then every three years. Interior areas consist of bedrooms, baths, kitchen, laundry, hallways, foyer, and other open areas. All exposed walls, ceilings and floors will be inspected. Doors and windows will also beinvestigated for damage and normal operation. Although excluded from inspection requirements, wewill inform you of obvious broken gas seals in windows. Please realize that they are not alwaysvisible, due to temperature, humidity, window coverings, light source, etc. Your inspection will reportvisible damage, wear and tear, and moisture problems if seen. Personal items in the structure mayprevent the inspector from viewing all areas, as the inspector will not move personal items.An inspection does not include the identification of, or research for, appliances and other items thatmay have been recalled or have had a consumer safety alert issued about it. Any comments made inthe report are regarding well known notices and are provided as a courtesy only. Product recalls andconsumer product safety alerts are added almost daily by the Consumer Product SafetyCommission. We recommend visiting the following Internet site if recalls are a concern to you:http://www.cpsc.gov.1. KitchenObservations:• Water shutoff to unit at the time of inspection. Prior to use we recommend a full evaluation by aqualified plumber to ensure that water damage does not occur from disconnected/faulty plumbing.

Building 1. Water shutoff to unit at the time ofinspection. Prior to use we recommend a full

evaluation by a qualified plumber to ensure thatwater damage does not occur from

disconnected/faulty plumbing.

Plumbing not hooked up

http://www.cpsc.gov


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Plumbing not hooked up2. Bath

Water shutoff to unit at the time of inspection. Prior to use we recommend a full evaluation by aqualified plumber to ensure that water damage does not occur from disconnected/faulty plumbing.

3. Plumbing & LaundryObservations:• No gas line present in laundry area• 240 volt electrical receptacle present in laundry area


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Laundry hookups in bathroom4. Interior ElectricObservations:• Electric to both buildings was not able to be inspected as there was no power to either unit at the timeof inspection.

Electric to both buildings was not able to beinspected as there was no power to either unit at

the time of inspection.

Unsecured receptacle SW corner. Building 1.


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Multiple junction boxes/receptacles missingfaceplates

Multiple loose wires should be secured

5. Floors, Ceilings & WallsObservations:• No wood boring insects were observed during the inspection. It can be common for buildings that havewater intrusion to attract wood boring insects. Thats why we recommend regular monitoring for waterintrusion throughout a building. The most common wood boring insects observed in NW MI are carpenterants. They are large dark colored ants that can be observed around the base of a building. Carpenter ants areusually observed in areas that are damp• As indicated, an inspection is a visual non invasive inspection. There are areas of a building that cannot beobserved. For example, the inspectors can not see between walls, under flooring, or under insulation.• Multiple areas of organic growth observed in unit. We recommend consulting with a qualifiedmitigation contractor for evaluation and repairs as needed.• Multiple signs throughout interior of water intrusion. As water enters the unit it can do damage toareas of the building that can not be seen (i.e. sill plate, wooden framing members, insulation, andothers). Prior to close we recommend consulting with a qualified contractor for evaluation todetermine estimates of securing facility against water intrusion.

Building 2 N view S view


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Garage door operates manually in track Multiple signs throughout interior of waterintrusion. As water enters the unit it can do

damage to areas of the building that can not beseen (i.e. sill plate, wooden framing members,

insulation, and others). Prior to close werecommend consulting with a qualified contractorfor evaluation to determine estimates of securing

facility against water intrusion.

E side water intrusion S side water intrusion


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SW corner water intrusion NW corner water intrusion

NW corner water intrusion Broken glass and debris scattered around unit.Use caution when present.


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Organic growth and water staining S side ceiling.We recommend consulting with a qualified

contractor for evaluation and repairs as needed.

Multiple areas of organic growth observed in unit.We recommend consulting with a qualified

mitigation contractor for evaluation and repairs asneeded.

Hole in wall E side Multiple areas of cosmetic damage to ceiling anddrywall throughout unit


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Torn weather stripping and trim at garage door Corrosion at base of W side door

Garage door arm not connected Organic growth in ceiling near garage door. Seeprevious note concerning organic growth.

Staining and possible corrosion in garage door Decay in S side access door trim


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Decay and corrosion in S side access door Building 1. SW view

SE view NW view


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NE view Multiple areas of cosmetic defects throughoutunits. Including, but not limited to; missing trim,holes/damage to drywall, staining on walls andfloors, broken glass, missing/loose tile, garbage

and debris left behind.

Organic growth in drywall near SE access door.See previous note concerning organic growth.

Slope in floor S side. Area appears secure.


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Water intrusion SE corner S wall

Water intrusion SW corner S side supports appear secure

W side supports appear secure W wall


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Water intrusion along W wall Water staining in W wall

Decay and water intrusion near W wall window N wall

Sloping in floor W side N side garage door was not able to be opened.


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Multiple areas of organic growth/water staining inceilings. See note in attic portion of report

concerning water intrusion.

E wall

Office Office

Office construction is 2x8 joists on 16" centers.Area appears secure.

Disconnected vent stack


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Building 1 vestibule6. DoorsObservations:• Doors opened/closed and appeared to function properly during inspection. Any discrepancies are notedbelow.• Corrosion/decay observed on building 1 W entry door. We recommend a qualified contractorevaluate and repair as needed.

Corrosion/decay observed on building 1 W entry door. We recommend a qualified contractor evaluateand repair as needed.

7. Windows


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Water stains and decay in sill plate W wall window building 1.


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An Inspection is a non-invasive visual examination of a dwelling, performed for a fee, which isdesigned to identify observed material defects within specific components of said dwelling. Components may include any combination of mechanical, structural, electrical, plumbing, or otheressential systems or portions of the building, as identified and agreed to by the Client and Inspector,prior to the inspection process.An inspection is intended to assist in evaluation of the overall condition of the dwelling. Theinspection is based on observation of the visible and apparent condition of the structure and itscomponents on the date of the inspection and not the prediction of future conditions.An inspection will not reveal every concern that exists or ever could exist, but only those materialdefects observed on the day of the inspection.A material defect is a condition with a real property or any portion of it that would have a significantadverse impact on the value of the real property or that involves an unreasonable risk to people onthe property. The fact that a structural element, system or subsystem is near, at or beyond the end ofthe normal useful life of such a structural element, system or subsystem is not by itself a materialdefect.An inspection report shall describe and identify in written format the inspected systems, structures,and components of the dwelling and shall identify material defects observed. Inspection reports maycontain recommendations regarding conditions reported or recommendations for correction,monitoring or further evaluation by professionals, but this is not required.


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General Notes


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1. General NotesObservations:• Fire and carbon monoxide protection – By today’s standards: The installation of smoke alarm(s) is requiredinside of all bedrooms and in any rooms designated for the purpose of sleeping, and outside within theproximity of the doors to those rooms. Test all alarms and detectors weekly or monthly per manufactureinstructions. The installation of carbon monoxide (CO) detector(s) is required in homes with fuel-firedappliances at every floor elevation and any areas where fuel-fired equipment is located. The installation ofType ABC fire extinguisher(s) at the kitchen, laundry, and garage, if applicable, is also advised. Test all ofthese devices monthly. Install new batteries yearly. Initiate and practice plans of escape and protection for alloccupants in case any emergencies arise. Failure to repair defective or install absent alarms, detectors, andother safety equipment immediately can result in serious injury or death. For further information about firesafety and CO poisoning, consult your local fire department and your equipment manufacture(s), and readthese links: www.cpsc.gov/CPSCPUB/PUBS/464.pdf, www.carbonmonoxidekills.com,www.nfpa.org/index.asp, and www.usfa.dhs.gov/downloads/pyfff/inhome.html.• Pre-Closing Walk Through:The walk through prior to closing is the time for client to inspect the property. Conditions can changebetween the time of a home inspection and the time of closing. Restrictions that existed during the inspectionmay have been removed for the walk through. Defects or problems that were not found during the homeinspection, may be discovered during the walk through. Client should be thorough during the walk through.

Any defect or problem discovered during the walk through should be negotiated with the owner/seller of theproperty prior to closing. Purchasing the property with the known defect or problem releases Traverse CityHome Inspections of all responsibility. Client assumes responsibility for all known defects after settlement.

• We are not professional roofers. Feel free to hire one prior to closing.

We do our best to inspect the roof systems within the time allotted. We inspect the roof covering, drainagesystem, skylights, chimneys, and roof penetrations. We are not required to inspect antenna, interior flues,chimneys not accessible and other installed accessories. This is not an exhaustive inspection of everyinstallation detailed of the roofs manufacturers specifications or construction codes.

It is virtually impossible to detect a leak except as it is occurring or by specific water tests, which are beyondthe scope of a home inspection. We recommend that you ask the seller to disclose information about the roofand that you include comprehensive roof coverage in your home insurance policy.• You are advised to seek 2 professional opinions and acquire estimates of repair as to any defects, comments,improvements or recommendations mentioned in the report. We recommend that the professional makingany repairs inspect the property further, in order to discover and repair related problems that were notidentified in the report. We recommend all repairs, corrections, and cost estimates be completed anddocumented prior to closing or purchasing the property. Feel free to hire other professionals to inspect theproperty prior to closing, including HVAC professionals, electricians, engineers or roofers.• Conclusions:We are proud of our service, and trust that you will be happy with the quality of our report. We have madeevery effort to provide you with an accurate assessment of the condition of the property and its componentsand to alert you to any significant defects or adverse conditions. However, we may not have tested everyoutlet, opened every window or door or identified every problem. Also, because our inspection is essentiallyvisual, latent defects could exist. We cannot see behind walls, flooring or under insulation. Therefore, youshould not regard our inspection as a guarantee or warranty. It is simply a report on the general condition ofa property at a given point in time. As a homeowner you should expect problems to occur. Roofs will leak,basements may have water problems and systems may fail without warning. We cannot predict future events.For these reasons you should keep a comprehensive insurance policy current.

This report was written exclusively for our client. It is not transferable to other people. The report is onlysupplemental to a sellers disclosure.

Thank you for taking the time to read the report and please call if you have any questions. We are always


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attempting to improve the quality of our service and our report.• PRIOR TO CLOSE: As there are multiple areas in both units that need repair across severalfunctions we recommend consulting with several qualified contractors for estimates on repairs prior toclose.• Inspection performed by Joshua Berg 708-227-4241• Note: During your inspection, we make every effort to observe all areas of your building. In anybuilding however it is possible for there to be areas that were not observed during the inspection due tostored items, clutter, or concealed areas. After an inspection, items can be changed, damaged, oraltered. Because of these circumstances we always recommend a very thorough walk through withyour realtor prior to closing. The walk through prior to closing is the time for the client to inspect theproperty. It is best to perform your walk through after the building has been thoroughly cleaned andfurniture has been removed. It may be necessary to consult with the seller as he/she may have in-depthknowledge regarding its condition.Conditions can change between the time of a home inspection and the time of closing. Restrictions thatexisted during the inspection may have been removed for the walk through. Defects or problems thatwere not found during the home inspection, because of these restrictions, may be discovered during thewalk through. A thorough walk through prior to closing is imperative.

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