xxxxx verde vista dr, fairfax, va 22030rustylayton.com/pdf/sfsample.pdfthe inspector is not required...
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XXXXX Verde Vista Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030
Page 1 Copyright Russell Layton Associates, Inc.
RUSSELL LAYTON ASSOCIATES, INC. HOME INSPECTION REPORT
Home Inspections by Rusty Layton American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) #392 International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) #NACHI14022610 Virginia DPOR State Certified Home Inspector #3380000573 Phone and Text: 703-568-6600 Email: [email protected] Internet: www.rustylayton.com
GENERAL INFORMATION
Inspection Address: XXXXX Verde Vista Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030
Client: Jonathan H
House Type: Single Family
House Age: 1984
Inspection Date: 1/19/2017
Inspection Fee: $450 paid in full(Receipt; thank you)
Radon Test: $120.00 paid in full (Receipt; thank you)
Client Contact: [email protected]
Agent: Robin M
Agent Contact: [email protected]
Weather Conditions: Mild
Temperature: 50-55 degrees
XXXXX Verde Vista Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030
Page 2 Copyright Russell Layton Associates, Inc.
THE HOME INSPECTION PURPOSE
The purpose of the home inspection is intended to provide you with objective information regarding the condition of the systems and components of the home as inspected at the time of the home inspection. The home inspection and report are performed to and compliant with the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics. No other standards or requirements apply. ASHI Standards-of-Practice
EXCLUSIONS AND LIMITATIONS
The home inspection is a general inspection of the property and is not a technical evaluation of specific components as a contractor or other professional service offers. There is a significant difference between a home inspection service and a contracting service. Evaluation of components by contractors or other professional services may describe issues relative to the contracting perspective that the home inspector does not observe, are not within his perspective or the scope of the home inspection. A home inspector does not guarantee to find all defects or issues a house may have. Many components, such as windows or receptacles, a representative sampling is made. Non-sampled parts may have issues. A home inspection is not represented as an engineering, architectural, code compliance, safety, environmental, contractor or technical evaluation. Post inspection issues do not diminish or negate the home inspection service provided. A comprehensive list of limitations and exclusions are included in the report.
HOME INSPECTION CONTRACT AGREEMENT
For a fee of $450 paid in full payable at inspection, Russell Layton Associates Inc. (RLA Inc.) will sell and client will buy the RLA Inc. Basic Home Inspection. The RLA Inc. Basic Home Inspection consists of and is limited as set forth in the contract agreement included as part of the report and requires a client signature, initials and date. The parties agree that the liability of RLA Inc. for any claim that may arise out of this inspection is strictly limited to the inspection fee paid, which shall be the client’s sole and exclusive remedy against the company or its employees. If not signed and initialed by the client then RLA is absolved from any and all home inspection claims.
HOME INSPECTION REPORT TABLE OF CONTENTS (TOC)
1. INTRODUCTION
2. REPORT DEFINITIONS
3. ELECTRICAL
4. PLUMBING
5. HEATING and COOLING
6. FOUNDATION FRAMING
7. KITCHEN
8. LAUNDRY
9. INTERIOR
10. FIREPLACE AND CHIMNEY
11. BATHROOMS
12. ATTIC
13. EXTERIOR
14. ROOFING
15. GROUNDS/ATTACHMENTS
16. GRADING AND DRAINAGE
17. GARAGE
18. WOOD BORING INSECTS
19. HOUSEHOLD PESTS
20. UNPROFESSIONAL WORK
21. SUMMARY
22. INSPECTION PHOTOS
23. EXCLUSIONS AND LIMITATIONS
24. INSPECTOR QUALIFICATIONS
25. CONTRACT AGREEMENT
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Page 3 Copyright Russell Layton Associates, Inc.
1. INTRODUCTION TOC
Jonathan,
It was a pleasure working with you to provide objective information regarding the condition of the systems and components of the home. The report should reflect our inspection time together and comply with the home inspection industry reporting requirements.
Inspecting and evaluating homes begins with determining the year of construction and establishing a perspective for the methods, materials and standards of practice then follows with determining what has been changed, altered, or modified since the home was built. These basic parameters allow for a better understanding of the home as it is at the time of the inspection. No authority requires bringing existing houses up to current building standard requirements when building standard requirements change.
After reviewing the report please let me know if I can answer any questions.
Rusty Layton, Home Inspector American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) #392 International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) #NACHI14022610 Virginia DPOR State Certified Home Inspector #3380000573
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Page 4 Copyright Russell Layton Associates, Inc.
2. HOME INSPECTION REPORT PARAMETERS AND DEFINITIONS TOC
Performing intended function and/or Reasonable condition for age (OK) An item, component or system inspected in accordance with the ASHI home inspection standards of practice and in the home inspector’s opinion is reasonably performing its intended function, in reasonable condition for its age and consistent with the standards of practice for its age and quality.
Alert An alert for an inspected component is identified and described using the following parameters:
Not Applicable An item, component or system designated for inspection but does not exist or is not applicable to the home inspection. Component is in the report for your information that the component does not exist such as a sump pump or fireplace.
Descriptions and Component Detail Subcategories:
Check Box for component description. ☐ Unchecked Box for not applicable description.
Not functioning properly: An item, component or system inspected, observed or determined to be not functioning properly and requires further evaluation to determine repair needs and associated costs by a qualified service contractor.
End of service life: Even if a component is functioning properly or in reasonable condition, because of its age and average service life, which vary, component should be taken into consideration as an improvement and replacement cost when purchasing the property.
Repair: An item, component or system that was observed to be damaged, decayed, not functioning, out of order or worn out requiring evaluation and repair from a qualified service contractor.
Update Maintenance: An item, component or system that was observed to require a protective maintenance task of some sort and to some degree to reduce the risk of more serious problems. Maintenance needs often require repair. Examples include exterior painting, wood decay, dirty filters, caulking and sealing.
Improve: Improve an item, component or system into a more desirable condition including replacement due to age, condition or other factors.
Marginal: An item, component or system that is near the end of its average life, at the lower limit of acceptability, function, and barely exceeds minimal requirements; costs and expenses are expected at some point and to some degree.
Limited inspection: An item, component or system that is near the end of its average life, at the lower limit of acceptability, function, and barely exceeds minimal requirements; costs and expenses are expected at some point and to some degree.
Further evaluation: An item, component or system evaluation that is not provided by the home inspector that would require use, an additional inspection, or a specialist, contractor, engineer or other building professional evaluation.
Not inspected (evaluated or tested): An item, component or system designated for inspection and for one reason or another was not inspected, evaluated or tested for one reason or another described. Examples include cold temperatures preventing AC testing, restricted access or other reason.
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3. ELECTRICAL TOC
The electrical inspection is a Limited Inspection since overcurrent protection devices cannot be tested, wiring is concealed, and personal belongings and storage restrict access. Each receptacle in high shock risk areas such bathrooms, exterior, garage and kitchen are tested to determine if Ground Fault Interrupter (GFI) protection exists and functions properly. It is beyond the scope of the inspection to evaluate circuit distribution or to test each receptacle, switch or light fixture; a representative sampling is evaluated.
Electric Service to House: Underground 120/240 Volt Service Aluminum Stranded Main Wire to Service Panel (Normal/OK)
Location of the Service Panel: Basement Sub-Electric Panel: N/A
Location of the Main Electric Disconnect: Panel has a main fuse pull out block
Main Service Panel: Circuit Breakers Original component GE
Main Service Panel Amperage: 200 AMPS (1, 200 AMP Electric Panel)
Predominant Branch Circuit (120V) Wiring Method: Vinyl Jacket (Romex), Copper
240 Volt Circuits: Furnace HP Dryer AC
Receptacles: 3 Prong grounded receptacles Representative sampling
Lighting Fixtures and Switches: Performing intended function
Grounding System: Ground Wire to Metal Water Pipe
Ground Fault Interrupters (GFI): Alert; improve. Alert described in summary. GFI reset circuit breaker is in the electric panel GFCI Protection in Baths, Garage and Exterior (1976 Standard)
Ground fault circuit interrupter, or GFCI, is a safety device on electrical outlets to shut off electricity if the outlet becomes ungrounded, which would create an unsafe condition and could produce an electrical shock; recommended in all wet use areas.
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCI):
No AFCI Protection An Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) is a specific duplex receptacle or circuit breaker designed to help prevent fires by detecting an unintended electrical arc and disconnecting the power before the arc starts a fire.
The inspector is NOT required to: Inspect remote control devices, test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, security systems, and other signaling and warning devices, low voltage wiring systems and components, ancillary wiring systems and components not a part of the primary electrical power distribution system, solar, geothermal, wind, and other renewable energy systems, measure amperage, voltage, and impedance, determine the age and type of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms.
The kitchen receptacles are not GFI protected; inspector recommends an electrician install GFI protection to the kitchen receptacles for shock hazard protection in the wet use area.
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4. PLUMBING TOC
Plumbing systems are limited inspections since internal water supply pipes, sewer lines and related components are not fully visible to the inspector. Some post inspection plumbing issues include leaks that are concealed or not observed, drains that do not function properly and code compliance issues not within the scope of the home inspection. Inspect each plumbing fixture prior to closing for leaks and issues as they may occur at any time after the inspection or not observed by the home inspector during the inspection. To eliminate post inspection issues with a buried sewer line a camera scope inspection is recommended.
Main Water Entry Pipe: Copper, 3/4 inch main water entry pipe
Main Water Valve Location: Located in the basement
Interior Water Pipes: Copper Water Pipes
Interior Drain and Waste Pipes: ABS Drain and Waste Pipes
A.O. Smith Water Heater: Natural Gas 40 Gallon Water Heater Pressure and Temperature Relief Valve Does not have a thermal expansion tank Has a leak pan
Approximate Age of Water Heater: 10 years old (MFD 2006) Water Heater Average Service Life is 12-16 years
Water Heater Gas Vent: Plastic vent through wall from power vent
Gas Distribution Pipes: Copper Gas Pipes
Fuel Shut-off Valve Locations: Natural Gas Shut Off Valves at the Gas Meter and Each Gas Appliance
The inspector is NOT required to: Inspect interiors of vent systems, flues, and chimneys that are not readily accessible, wells, well pumps, and water storage related equipment, water conditioning systems, solar, geothermal, and other renewable energy water heating systems, manual and automatic fire extinguishing and sprinkler systems and landscape irrigation systems, septic and other sewage disposal systems or determine whether water supply and sewage disposal are public or private, water quality, the adequacy of combustion air components, measure water supply flow and pressure, and well water quantity. Gas exhaust systems are NOT evaluated for draft characteristics or tested for carbon monoxide. Gas distribution pipes are NOT tested for gas leaks.
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5. HEATING AND COOLING TOC
Heating and air conditioning systems and related components are limited inspections. There are concealed components, technical conditions, maintenance requirements, and home inspection limitations that require an HVAC contractor to determine needs, issues or improvements. An HVAC contractor technical inspection is recommended to eliminate many post inspection issues related to concealment, technical issues, warranties, servicing, cleaning, improvements and code compliance quotes by HVAC contractors.
Heat Distribution: Forced Warm Air (FWA) Ductwork
Carrier Heating Equipment: 90+% Efficient Natural Gas Furnace located in the basement
Approximate Age of Heating Equipment: 7 years old. Furnace Average Service Life is 20-25 Years
Heating Equipment Gas Vent: Alert; repair. Alert described in summary. Plastic vent pipe system for air intake and gas exhaust through the back wall of the house
Cooling Distribution:
Shared with Heat Ducts Carrier Central Cooling Equipment:
Split System; Exterior R-410a (Puron) Condensing Unit and Interior Coil Approximate Age of Cooling Equipment:
7 years old. AC Average Service Life is 15-20 Years AC Condensate Drain:
Drains to Floor Drain Thermostat:
Carrier Infinity System Setback thermostat on first level in hall Air Filter:
HEPA electronic air filter Humidifier:
Flow-Through (Flow-thru) Humidifier
The gas combustion condensation is leaking from the gas vent PVC pipe in the basement. Inspector recommends a qualified HVAC contractor repair the leak to the gas exhaust system and service check each furnace, AC, electronic air filter, humidifier and UV light to certify the components are in proper working order at this time.
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BEDROOM LEVEL HEATING AND COOLING ZONE
The BR level heating and cooling zone was added.
BR Level Heat Distribution: Forced Warm Air (FWA) Ductwork distributed through Attic
BR Level Heating Equipment: Electric Furnace part of the Heat Pump System
BR Level Approximate Age of Heating Equipment: 3-4 years old. Furnace Average Service Life is 20-25 Years
BR Level Cooling Distribution: Shared with Heat Ducts
BR Level Central Cooling Equipment: Split System; Exterior R-410a (PURON) Heat Pump and Interior Coil
BR Level Approximate Age of Cooling Equipment: 3-4 years old. AC Average Service Life is 15-20 Years
BR Level AC Condensate Drain: Drains to Floor Drain in basement
BR Level Thermostat: Setback thermostat
BR Level Air Filter: Flat-paneled fiberglass air filter in the return duct grill on the BR level hallway
The inspector is NOT required to: Inspect interiors of vent systems, flues, and chimneys that are not readily accessible, heat exchangers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, electric air cleaning and sanitizing devices, whole-house mechanical ventilation systems or determine heat supply adequacy and distribution balance, the adequacy of combustion air components, determine cooling supply adequacy and distribution balance, inspect cooling units that are not permanently installed or that are installed in windows. Gas exhaust systems are NOT evaluated for draft characteristics or tested for carbon monoxide.
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6. FOUNDATION AND FRAMING TOC
Foundation and framing inspections are Limited Inspections. Most of the related components are concealed. The home inspector is not a professional engineer, does not provide engineering or architectural services or analysis and does not offer an opinion about the adequacy of any structural system or component.
Foundation: Concrete Foundation
Floor Framing Structure: Wood Framed Floor Structure
Exterior Wall Structure: Exterior Wall Structure is Wood Framed
Basement: Entire basement is below grade
Basement walk-out: N/A
Sump Pump: System installed when home built
Basement Windows: Alert; improve. Replacements
Basement Water Stains Observed: Not Observed
Observed or not, water stains on the foundation, slab, flooring, framing, and rust are typical which indicate past water leakage or intrusion of some sort and to some degree. Further evaluation beyond the scope of the home inspection is required to determine if there is current water seepage or leak problem in the basement.
Crawlspace: N/A
For the home purchaser’s assurance, the home inspector recommends inquiring about any knowledge of basement water intrusion to determine if further evaluation or corrective measures are necessary. The inspector is NOT aware of past water intrusion or predicts future water intrusion. The home inspector does NOT perform mold inspections and is NOT required to identify mold issues.
The basement windows are inadequately sized to provide a fire escape. A general contractor installs fire escape windows to allow for a secondary ingress and egress other than the stairway.
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7. KITCHEN TOC
Appliance inspections are Limited Inspections and are evaluated by using normal operating controls to activate the primary function of each appliance. GFCI protected receptacles are recommended in the kitchen for shock hazard protection if they do not exist. Kitchen vent fans can either be recirculating or ducted to the exterior.
Kitchen Ventilation: Recirculating microwave fan
2014 Kitchen Sink: Reasonably performing intended function
2014 Kitchen Cabinets: Solid Wood
2014 Kitchen Countertops: Granite
Kitchen Receptacles: Alert; improve. Not GFI Protected; recommended for shock hazard protection
2014 Dishwasher:
Has an anti-siphon loop 2014 Garbage disposer:
1/3 HP Has a wire connector clamp
2014 Refrigerator: Ice maker in freezer
Ice Maker: Alert; further evaluation. No ice in tray
2014 Range: Natural Gas Has an anti-tip device
2014 Microwave: N/A
The inspector is NOT required to inspect: Free-standing kitchen appliances, appliance thermostats including their calibration, adequacy of heating elements, self-cleaning oven cycles, indicator lights, door seals, timers, clocks, timed features, and other specialized features of the appliance, operate, or confirm the operation of every control and feature of an inspected appliance.
The kitchen receptacles are not GFI protected; inspector recommends an electrician install GFI protection to the kitchen receptacles for shock hazard protection in the wet use area.
The ice maker is not making ice; turn on the ice maker or repair it so that it functions properly.
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8. LAUNDRY TOC
A significant effort is made to determine the exit location and free flowing condition of a dryer vent. A rigid metal dryer vent duct, having a smooth interior surface is recommended but is not necessarily the case. An automatic shut off system that protects against catastrophic water damage should a water inlet hose burst while the machine is not in use and unattended is recommended. Leak containment systems under washers are desirable. High quality washer hoses to help prevent burst hoses and property damage are recommended.
Laundry Location: Utility Room on First Level
Laundry Sink: Fiberglass Laundry Sink
Washer: Stand alone washer.
Washer hoses: Steel Braided
Washer Drains to: Stand Pipe
Washer leak pan: No Leak Containment Pan
Dryer: Alert; further evaluation. Electric dryer.
Dryer Exhaust:
Metal Dryer Vent Pipe
Washer and Dryer inspections are Limited Inspections and are evaluated by using normal operating controls to activate the primary function of each appliance. The inspector is not required to inspect clothes washing machine connections.
The dryer makes a noise when the drum is rotating that sounds like a ball is in the drum but it isn’t. An appliance contractor evaluates the dryer and corrects the sound condition.
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9. INTERIOR TOC
To eliminate inspection report redundancy and superfluous reporting information each living area is represented in the Interior Inspection. Any issues observed in the home with the listed components will be described. The home inspection does not evaluate cosmetic issues. A representative sampling of window operation and electric receptacle evaluation is performed. Furnishings and storage restrict access and inspection. Inspection of the property after the owner has removed all personal belongings is required as concealed defects may exist.
Predominant Interior Walls and Ceilings Material: Drywall
Interior Wall and Ceiling Water Stains Observed: Not observed
Walls and ceilings are inspected for leaks and stains as a general inspection procedure but is not a guarantee that stains are observed or leaks are not present or have occurred in the past. The inspector is not required to determine if water stains are current leaks or to determine the source of the leak or stain. Water stains require further evaluation beyond the scope of the home inspection to determine if needs and issues exist.
Interior Doors: Hollow-core Pre-hung
Windows: Double-Hung Stationary Not original Vinyl Insulated Glass Screens
Interior Floor Coverings: Wood Carpet Vinyl Ceramic Tile
Interior Stairways: The most critical characteristic of stairs is that every step be the same.
Interior Railings: Typically hand railings are required on stairs that have a total rise of three feet or more.
Smoke Alarms: Alert; improve. Present
Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Alert; improve. Not Present
Fire Extinguishers: Alert; improve. Present
The inspector is not required to inspect: Paint, wallpaper, and other finish treatments, floor coverings, window treatments, coatings and the hermetic seals between panes of window glass, central vacuum systems, or recreational facilities. The home inspector does NOT perform mold inspections and is NOT required to identify mold issues.
The two smoke alarms in the home are wired and are over 10 years old. For safety, replace these existing units with combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms with a battery back-up. Supplement the smoke alarm system and add alarms to each BR. Supplement the carbon monoxide alarm system by adding in the garage. Install fire extinguishers on each level of the home.
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10. FIREPLACE AND CHIMNEY TOC
All wood burning and gas fireplace and chimney systems and components are Limited Inspections. There are concealed components, unknown conditions, fires are not built, and home inspection limitations that require a qualified fireplace and chimney professional inspection to determine if needs and issues exist. Flue inspections using a camera scope is recommended. A qualified gas contractor is recommended to inspect gas logs or inserts.
Wood Burning Fireplace: Wood burning fireplace with gas log insert.
Wood Burning Fireplace Location: Family Room
Gas Log Insert: Alert; further evaluation.
Chimney:
Masonry Chimney Chimney Location:
Side Offset Single Flue
The inspector is NOT required to: Inspect interiors of vent systems, flues, and chimneys that are not readily accessible, fire screens and doors, seals and gaskets, automatic fuel feed devices, mantles and fireplace surrounds, combustion air components and to determine their adequacy, heat distribution assists (gravity fed and fan assisted), fuel-burning fireplaces and appliances located outside the inspected structures, determine draft characteristics, move fireplace inserts and stoves or firebox contents. The inspector does NOT inspect wood stoves, wood stove inserts or pellet stoves.
The gas is off to the unit and the pilot is not lit; turn on the gas to the unit, light the pilot and demonstrate proper operation of the gas log insert in the fireplace.
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11. BATHROOMS TOC
To eliminate inspection report redundancy and superfluous reporting information each bathroom is represented in the Bathroom Inspection. Any issues observed in the home with the listed components will be described. Analysis and tests of the bathroom fixtures is limited to running water for a period of time through each fixture in each bath simultaneously. Toilets are flushed. Drainage and water flow are observed and evaluated. An effort is made to determine if there are leaks present to faucets, fixtures, and drains. It is not unusual to have past leak signs, stains or damage in and under bathrooms. It is necessary to maintain caulking and grouting at tubs, showers and floors at all times to prevent leaks. GFCI protected receptacles are recommended in each bath for shock hazard protection in wet use area.
Bathroom Tub Faucets and Drains: Each fixture operated and inspected for leaks and clogs.
Bathroom Stand Alone Shower Faucets and Drains: Each fixture operated and inspected for leaks and clogs.
Toilets: Each toilet flushed and inspected for flush, leaks and clogs.
Bathroom Sink Faucets and Drains: Each sink faucet operated and each drain checked for leaks and clogs.
Bathroom Receptacles: GFI Protected GFI Re-set Location: Circuit Breaker in the Electric panel
Bathroom Floor Coverings: Vinyl Wood
Bathroom Wall Tile: N/A; the tub and shower are fiberglass
Bathroom Countertops: Significant deficiencies not observed.
Bathroom Cabinets: Significant deficiencies not observed.
Bathroom Ventilation: Windows and Fans.
Bathroom Caulk and Grout: Reasonable condition
The inspector is NOT required to: Measure water supply flows, pressure, water quantity, fill shower pans or fixtures to test for leaks. Vacant houses are especially prone to plumbing problems; concealed leaks or leaks that will occur from use following occupancy are unknown. For your protection it is recommended that you inspect each plumbing fixture prior to close of escrow for leaks and issues as they may occur at any time after the inspection or not observed by the home inspector at the inspection.
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12. ATTIC TOC
Attic inspections are Limited Inspections. An effort is made to determine if the roof or flashing is leaking. Water stains in the attic are common and may or may not indicate current roof or flashing leaks requiring repairs. All roofing components require regular maintenance. To eliminate post inspection problems with roofing components a roofing professional inspection is recommended.
Attic Inspection Method: From attic access (limited inspection).
Attic Access: Ceiling Hatch
Attic Framing: Manufactured Roof Trusses
Sheathing: Plywood
Insulation: Fiberglass; the insulation has been improved to modern standards of coverage
Ventilation: Ridge Soffit Attic Fan
Attic Fan: Alert; further evaluation. Attic Fan on Gable Vent with Attic Thermostat Not Operating During Inspection
Absence of Insulation:
Not Observed Vapor Barriers:
Not Observed Evidence of Pests:
Not Observed Observed Water Stains:
Not observed
The inspector is NOT required to: Offer an opinion about the adequacy of structural systems and components, traverse attic load-bearing components that are concealed by insulation or by other materials, disturb insulation. The home inspector is NOT required to determine if water stains are current leaks or not. The home inspector does NOT perform mold inspections and is NOT required to identify mold issues.
The attic fan has a thermostat which signals the unit to turn on in hot weather. The operation of the fan is not confirmed in the winter.
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13. EXTERIOR TOC
It is imperative to maintain caulking to prevent water intrusion and painting to protect wood surfaces. The inspector will not list each and every area that requires caulking or paint; if one or more areas need caulk and paint then by extension all areas require further evaluation for similar needs and issues. GFCI protected receptacles are recommended for shock hazard protection. Faucets that are turned off or winterized are not evaluated and interior water shut off valves are not operated. Exterior lighting and receptacle inspection are limited to those attached to the house. All electrical components beyond the house, buried, in yard, to sheds, landscape lighting and detached garage electricity are excluded from the home inspection.
Exterior Wall Coverings: Brick Vinyl
Exterior Eaves: Edges of the roof which overhang the face of a wall.
Exterior Fascia: Board which caps the end of rafters to hold the rain gutter.
Exterior Soffits: Alert; repair. Finished surface below the fascia and rafters.
Exterior Trim:
Boarders and ornamentation at doors, windows, corners. Exterior Protection and Painting:
Reasonable condition at this time
Exterior Sealants and Caulking: Reasonable condition at this time
Exterior Doors: Entry Garage Back
There is a hole through the rear soffit that does not have an apparent useful purpose such as a drain pipe exit for the attic furnace leak pan. If there is not a reason for it to be there a siding contractor replaces the soffit panel to close the hole and to eliminate the pest entry area.
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Exterior Light Fixtures: Standard Locations at Exit Doors.
Exterior Receptacles: GFI Protected GFI Re-set Location: Bathroom
Faucets: Alert; repair. Two Exterior Faucets.
The inspector is NOT required to inspect: Screening, shutters, awnings, similar seasonal accessories, spas, pools, landscape lighting, irrigation systems or buried components of drainage systems.
The front outside faucet was dripping at the time of the inspection. The valve was open meaning that the inside shut off valve is not shutting all of the water off from the inside. Either tighten the interior valve so that it does not leak and shuts all of the water off or a plumbing contractor replaces the interior valve so that it does shut off the water to drain out the pipe of water in the winter to reduce risks of frozen pipes.
Dripping spout Leaking inside valve
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14. ROOF AND FLASHING TOC
Roof covering and flashing inspections are Limited Inspections. The home inspector is not required to walk on the roof or to jeopardize his safety to inspect the roof. An effort is made to evaluate the roof for issues requiring repair and to determine the approximate age of the roof covering. Unless there is documentation for the roof the age recorded is an estimate and approximation based on the inspector’s opinion; ask the property owner for roofing documentation for installation, age and warranty details. All roofing components require regular maintenance. To eliminate post inspection problems with roofing components a roofing professional inspection is recommended.
Roof Inspection Method: Ground Level
Roof Type: Gable
Roof Coverings: Standard Shingle
Approximate Age of Roof Covering: 10-15 years old. Average service life is 20-25 years.
Flashings: Aluminum
Penetrations: Includes vent pipe collars, flues and vent caps.
Skylights: There are two light tubes into the MBR closet and MBR bath
Gutters and Spouts: Aluminum 5 Inch Gutter Guards
Inspector is NOT required to inspect: antennae, interiors of vent systems, flues, and chimneys that are not readily accessible or other installed accessories such as satellite dishes.
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15. GROUNDS AND BUILDING ATTACHMENTS TOC
The most critical characteristic of steps and stoops is that every step be the same; recommendations call for unit runs to be not less than 10 inches and unit rises not more than 7¾ inches. Grip rails on stairways and 4 inch gaps between railings are recommended.
Entry Walk: Alert; repair. Concrete
Entry Steps:
Concrete
Entry Stoop: Concrete
Porch: Rear screened porch
Deck: Pressure Treated Wood Composite Decking Guardrails at least 36" Rail openings 4” Sweep space less than 4" Handrail between 34” and 38” Has a handrail to grip on stairway
Exterior deck inspections are limited inspections. Unless a deck is brand new, permitted and documented it does not comply with current construction requirements or standards. The condition of the deck components is evaluated but the construction techniques and structural integrity requires a contractor or engineering inspection beyond the scope of the home inspection.
Driveway: Asphalt
Vegetation: Not adversely affecting the house.
The inspector is NOT required to inspect: Sheds, fences, boundary walls, similar structures, geological conditions, soil conditions, recreational facilities, outbuildings, and erosion control and earth stabilization measures.
The front walk has cracked apart. To eliminate crack and trip hazards from displacement a concrete contractor replaces the cracked walkway section.
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16. GRADING AND DRAINAGE TOC
Adequate grading and drainage is imperative to insure water falls away from the foundation and window wells to help prevent water intrusion into basements and crawlspaces. As much effort should be made as feasible to ensure positive drainage away from a structure’s foundation. Water should be diverted away from the foundation, sidewalks and entryways with downspouts and correctly sloped landscaping. Maintaining drainage systems is essential.
Surface Drainage: Surface drainage is the diversion or orderly removal of excess water from the surface of land by means of improved natural channels or constructed drains. Significant deficiencies not observed.
Grading: The grading fill should be properly compacted and graded to slope away from the house, with the objective of achieving at least a 5 percent slope for a minimum of 10 feet (making the ground 6 inches lower than the ground surface at the house). This may not always be feasible, depending on the existing grading and characteristics of the existing structure, side yards, and vegetation. Significant deficiencies not observed.
Window Wells: A window well provides space for light and air and forms a rigid barrier to hold back soil. Limited inspection; a window well has the potential to fill with water during a heavy or sustained rain or snow melt. Significant deficiencies not observed.
Grading and drainage are Limited inspections. The inspector rarely witnesses the actual drainage of rain water at the time of the inspection. An effort is made to determine if significant deficiencies exist.
17. GARAGE TOC
Automatic garage door openers are safety hazards and require annual service to ensure safe and proper operation. It is recommended for safety and operational assurances that an automatic door opener system be evaluated by a service professional. GFCI protected receptacles in the garage are recommended for shock hazard protection.
Garage: Built-in One Car Single Door
Garage Car Door: Metal garage door.
Automatic Garage Door Opener: Safety reverse has an infrared (IR) sensor
Garage Receptacles: GFI Protected GFI Re-set Location: Circuit Breaker in the Electric panel
Garage Slab: Concrete
Garage Access Door: Door to exterior and to house
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18. COMMON WOOD BORING INSECTS TOC
The home inspector recommends that a separate wood boring insect and pest inspection be performed. Termite and other wood boring insect inspections are excluded from the home inspection but when visible evidence is observed during the course of the home inspection the home inspector can record it here for your information.
Not Observed.
19. COMMON HOUSEHOLD PESTS TOC
Vermin and pest issues are excluded from the home inspection but when visible evidence exists during the course of the home inspection the home inspector can record it here for your information. Pest issues are common in basements and attics such as ants, insects, squirrels, birds, bats and mice. A separate pest inspection is recommended since pest inspections are not within the scope of the home inspection.
Not Observed.
20. LOW QUALITY AND UNPROFESSIONAL WORK TOC
Expect problems of some sort from unpermitted, uninspected, unprofessional and low quality work and improvements. The home inspector does not perform a code inspection and the home inspection is not a code compliance inspection. Building permit evaluation is beyond the scope of the home inspection. However, during the course of the home inspection the home inspector can record observations of low quality and unprofessional work for further evaluation.
Not Observed.
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21. SUMMARY TOC
The summary is not the entire report. Read the entire report. The entire report may include additional information of concern to the client and is essential to comprehend to reduce risks of post inspection problems. The home inspector is not required to determine methods, materials, or costs of corrections. Obtain accurate repair costs from qualified contractors. Additional deficiencies or contractor opinions during the course of contractor evaluation or repairs that were not within the scope, purpose and limitations of the home inspection, not observed, or concealed may have a significant impact on costs. No authority requires existing houses updated to current building requirements when those requirements change. No house is in perfect condition. All houses can be improved. Repair and maintenance needs seldom affect the process of purchasing a home or its habitability. Those observed are identified for your reference. Expect to find others after you occupy the property.
1. Entry Walk Repair:
2. Front Faucet Drip and Interior Valve Repair
The front walk has cracked apart. To eliminate crack and trip hazards from displacement a concrete contractor replaces the cracked walkway section.
The front outside faucet was dripping at the time of the inspection. The valve was open meaning that the inside shut off valve is not shutting all of the water off from the inside. Either tighten the interior valve so that it does not leak and shuts all of the water off or a plumbing contractor replaces the interior valve so that it does shut off the water to drain out the pipe of water in the winter to reduce risks of frozen pipes.
Dripping spout Leaking inside valve
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3. Exterior Soffits Repair:
4. Attic Fan:
5. Gas Log Insert
6. Smoke Alarms, Carbon Monoxide Alarms, Fire Extinguishers Improvement:
7. Dryer Noise and Further Evaluation:
8. Ice Maker Further Evaluation:
There is a hole through the rear soffit that does not have an apparent useful purpose such as a drain pipe exit for the attic furnace leak pan. If there is not a reason for it to be there a siding contractor replaces the soffit panel to close the hole and to eliminate the pest entry area.
The attic fan has a thermostat which signals the unit to turn on in hot weather. The operation of the fan is not confirmed in the winter.
The gas is off to the unit and the pilot is not lit; turn on the gas to the unit, light the pilot and demonstrate proper operation of the gas log insert in the fireplace.
The two smoke alarms in the home are wired and are over 10 years old. For safety, replace these existing units with combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms with a battery back-up. Supplement the smoke alarm system and add alarms to each BR. Supplement the carbon monoxide alarm system by adding in the garage. Install fire extinguishers on each level of the home.
The dryer makes a noise when the drum is rotating that sounds like a ball is in the drum. An appliance contractor evaluates the dryer and corrects the sound condition.
The ice maker is not making ice; turn on the ice maker or repair it so that it functions properly.
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9. Kitchen Receptacles Improvement:
10. Basement Window Improvement:
11. Heating Equipment Gas Vent Repair:
End Summary
The kitchen receptacles are not GFI protected; inspector recommends an electrician install GFI protection to the kitchen receptacles for shock hazard protection in the wet use area.
The basement windows are inadequately sized to provide a fire escape. A general contractor installs fire escape windows to allow for a secondary ingress and egress other than the stairway.
The gas combustion condensation is leaking from the gas vent PVC pipe in the basement. Inspector recommends a qualified HVAC contractor repair the leak to the gas exhaust system and service check each furnace, AC, electronic air filter, humidifier and UV light to certify the components are in proper working order at this time.
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FAIRFAX COUNTY BUILDING PERMITS LOOKUP http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/fido/ Lookup by Address Search Results For: xxxxx Verde Vista DR Plan# Permit # Type Status Applicant Description W-13-1301 130220264 RESIDENTIAL ADDITION FINALIZED ETHAN HUH REPLACE POSTS BUILDING REVIEW #2 1/22/2013 CHRISTIANNA RABER Approved SITE PERMITS REVIEW 1/22/2013 BRANDY LEIGH MUELLER Approved N-12-4879 123340104 DECK FINALIZED LINDSEY HARRIS BUILD DECK BUILDING REVIEW #1 1/22/2013 CHRISTIANNA RABER Approved SITE PERMITS REVIEW 12/04/2012 ALYSIA GASKINS Approved ZONING REVIEW #1 12/04/2012 MARIE LANGHORNE Approved N-96-00854 960172840 ELECTRIC RESIDENTIAL PERMIT ISSUED JOHN GAS CONVERT ELECTRICAL REVIEW #1 1/01/0001 Waived N-96-00693 960162709 PLUMBING/GAS RESID PERMIT ISSUED BILL INSTAL GASFURN ENGINEERING REVIEW #1 1/01/0001 Waived WASTEWATER REVIEW #1 ` 1/01/0001 Waived N-96-00694 960162680 MECHANICAL/GAS RES PERMIT ISSUED BILL INSTAL GASFURN MECHANICAL CERTIFICATION 1/01/0001 Waived R-89-99999 893086685 ELECTRIC RESIDENTIAL PERMIT ISSUED JOI INSTAL WATER H ELECTRICAL REVIEW #1 01/01/0001 Waived R-85-00281 850637060 RESIDENTIAL ADDITION PERMIT ISSUED DAVID MOSELEY SCREEN PORCH REAL ESTATE REVIEW #1 03/04/1985 Approved SITE PERMITS REVIEW #1 03/04/1985 Approved STATE LICENSING REVIEW #1 03/04/1985 Approved ZONING REVIEW #1 03/04/1985 Approved ASSESSMENT REVIEW #1 03/04/1985 Approved
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22. HOME INSPECTION PHOTOS TOC
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23. HOME INSPECTION EXCLUSIONS AND LIMITATIONS TOC A. The following are excluded from the home inspection and require additional evaluation or professional services not provided by the home inspector: Air Quality; Asbestos; Building Code Compliance; Buried Drain Pipes, Sewer Pipes, Water Pipes, Gas Pipes, Wires; Carbon Monoxide; Central Vacuums; Chimney Flues; Condominium common elements; Communications, Audio, and Video Systems and Wiring; Cosmetic issues and quality of installation or choices of components not affecting safety or habitability; Destructive probing; Electronic Air Filters; Engineering and Structural Analysis; Environmental Conditions; Exterior Barbeque and Grills; Exterior Insulation Finishing System (EIFS); Fire Separation Walls; Fire Suppression Systems; Gaining access where sealed off or where property damage will occur; Geological Conditions; Humidifiers and Dehumidifiers; Intercom Systems; Irrigation Systems; Landscaping and Trees; Lead; Lifting Carpet or Rugs; Moving Personal Property; Low Crawlspaces; Mold and Mildew; Natural Gas Leaks requiring Meter or Equipment; Oil Tanks or Oil Leaks; Pest Inspection; Prediction of any component or system performance or replacement time; Radon; Recalls; Security Systems; Septic and Private Waste Disposal Systems; Sheds and Outbuildings; Solar Systems; Sump Pump System Operation or Performance; Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs; Technical testing or analysis requiring meters, gauges or technical training; Underground Conditions; Use of Ladder over 12 feet; Utility Company Meters, Wires and Gas Pipes; Walking on Roofs; Water Quality; Water Treatment Equipment; Wear and Tear; Well Systems; Wood Boring Insects; Yard and Lot Drainage; Yard and Lot Drainage Pipes and Systems
B. The general home inspection will assist you in evaluating the condition of the home and its immediate surrounding areas. While the inspection can help to reduce some of the risk involved in purchasing the property, it cannot eliminate all risks, nor can the home inspection anticipate future events or changes in performance of the home due to changes in use or occupancy. We recommend that you obtain information that is available about the property and the home, including any seller’s disclosures, previous inspection reports, engineering reports, building or remodeling permits, and reports performed for or by municipal inspection departments, lenders, relocation companies, insurers, and appraisers. You should also attempt to determine whether repairs, renovation, remodeling, additions, or other such activities have taken place at the Property.
C. The home inspection is conducted in accordance with the standards of practice of the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI); no other standards apply. The home inspection does not pass or fail the home but seeks to identify and accurately report on visible issues that affect the construction, general maintenance, and overall safety of the home and its surrounding areas.
D. The home inspection is an impartial evaluation of the home and its permanently installed, readily accessible systems and components. The inspection is not an exhaustive evaluation of the structure, systems or components. The inspector is not required to disassemble equipment, dismantle items, move furnishings, stored items, lift floor coverings, open wall coverings, or disturb items belonging to the occupant. The home inspector does not make light of the limitations and exclusions inherent with an inspection. If you are uncomfortable with the limitations and exclusions listed in the home inspection report and contract agreement you should make arrangements to have comprehensive and technically exhaustive inspection services performed at the home prior to closing.
E. While the home inspection evaluation may address issues that are code based or may refer to a particular code, the home inspection is not a code compliance inspection or code safety inspection, and does not verify compliance with manufacturer’s installation instructions for any system or component. The home inspector is not authorized to regulate or enforce code compliance and must operate under the reasonable presumption that all code requirements for the home were satisfied at the time a certificate of occupancy was issued and at the completion of any improvement. You should contact the appropriate government body or manufacturer for information related to construction, addition or remodeling permits, energy efficiency ratings, or other issues relating to code compliance.
F. The home inspector evaluates the visible and apparent condition of the systems and components of the home as they existed on the date of the inspection. The home inspector is not required to evaluate items that are concealed, underground, or inaccessible; the home may have issues that were not discovered or recognized as issues. Conditions at the home can change between the time of the inspection and the time that title to the property changes hands. It is the home purchaser’s responsibility to inspect or have a professional inspection of the property at the time of walkthrough before settlement to determine if needs and issues exist or if repairs from the initial home inspection were made.
G. The home inspection company and its employees are not attorneys and are not responsible to note all possible recalled items or know all possible class action lawsuits for components in the home or within a specific area. If the home inspector is familiar with a specific issue or if an issue is disclosed it may be noted in the inspection report but is not a comprehensive list.
H. The home inspection does not specifically address or evaluate each and every system or component in the home; numerous and repetitive items such as windows, electrical outlets and light fixtures were randomly selected and a representative number were checked for functionality.
I. Subsequent inspections or evaluations performed by other parties may yield different, and in some cases contradictory, evaluations. There can be several reasons for discrepancies in evaluations, not the least of which are differences in the purpose and scope of each inspection or evaluation or financial interests in recommendations. The home inspection is a fee based service. It is not commissioned based or benefits from fees, services, improvements or repairs as all contractors do. In addition to differences in reporting standards, findings are always influenced by the background, training, and subjective opinions and experiences of the individuals performing an inspection or evaluation.
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24. HOME INSPECTOR QUALIFICATIONS TOC
Russell Layton, Professional Home Inspector
American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) Certified Home Inspector Member #392 International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) Member #NACHI14022610 Virginia State Certified Home Inspector License Number: 3380000573
Professional Home Inspection Employment and Experience
HVAC Mechanic General Heating, Capital Heights, MD Project Coordinator Parkfairfax Condo Conversion, Majestic Builders, Alexandria, VA Construction Supervisor Washington Homes, Burke, VA Construction Supervisor Globe Construction Corporation, Burke, VA Construction Loan Inspector Real Estate Appraisal Services, Gaithersburg MD Home Inspector HomeChek Inspection Services, Falls Church VA Home Inspector Business Owner Russell Layton Associates, Alexandria, VA
Professional Home Inspection Affiliations and Certifications
Certified Member American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) Certified Member International Society of Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) Certified Home Inspector Commonwealth of Virginia License Number: 3380000573
Professional Home Inspection Accomplishments
First Professional Home inspection Performed in 1981 National Home Inspectors Exam and ASHI Standards of Practice Exam in 1981 American Society of Home Inspectors Annual CEU Requirements Since 1981 Over 20,000 Home Inspections Performed Continuously Since 1981 Recognized 30 Year Member of the American Society of Home Inspectors Home Inspection Business Owner Since 1995 National Home Inspectors Exam 2014
College
University of Maryland, College Park, MD Bachelor of Arts Degree 1977
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25. RUSSELL LAYTON ASSOCIATES, INC. HOME INSPECTION CONTRACT AGREEMENT TOC
Client: Jonathan H
Inspection Address: XXXXX Verde Vista Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030
For a fee of $450 paid in fullat inspection, Russell Layton Associates Inc. (RLA Inc.) will sell and client will buy the RLA Inc. Basic Home Inspection. The RLA Inc. Basic Home Inspection consists of and is limited as set forth below:
1. SCOPE OF INSPECTION The inspection is to provide a limited report on the general condition of the property identified above, to provide useful knowledge to client about the property, and to identify components that are in immediate need of major repair. Major repair means conditions that would cost more than $2,000.00 to repair and materially affect the habitability of the house. The inspection is to be conducted in a manner generally consistent with home inspection industry standards, particularly those of the American Society of Home Inspectors, which are incorporated herein by reference. (Copies of the ASHI Standards of Practice are available from your inspector). The inspection is limited to the condition of the property at the time of the inspection. Latent conditions, conditions that require time to manifest themselves or prolonged observation to detect, and failure of components occurring after the inspection is beyond the scope of this inspection. This is a visual inspection of readily accessible areas. 2. EXCLUDED FROM INSPECTION The following are excluded from the home inspection and require additional evaluation or professional services not provided by the home inspector: Air Quality; Asbestos; Building Code Compliance; Buried Drain Pipes, Sewer Pipes, Water Pipes, Gas Pipes, Wires; Carbon Monoxide; Central Vacuums; Chimney Flues; Condominium common elements; Communications, Audio, and Video Systems and Wiring; Cosmetic issues and quality of installation or choices of components not affecting safety or habitability; Destructive probing; Electronic Air Filters; Engineering and Structural Analysis; Environmental Conditions; Exterior Barbeque and Grills; Exterior Insulation Finishing System (EIFS); Fire Separation Walls; Fire Suppression Systems; Gaining access where sealed off or where property damage will occur; Geological Conditions; Humidifiers and Dehumidifiers; Intercom Systems; Irrigation Systems; Landscaping and Trees; Lead; Lifting Carpet or Rugs; Moving Personal Property; Low Crawlspaces; Mold and Mildew; Natural Gas Leaks requiring Meter or Equipment; Oil Tanks or Oil Leaks; Pest Inspection; Prediction of any component or system performance or replacement time; Radon; Recalls; Security Systems; Septic and Private Waste Disposal Systems; Sheds and Outbuildings; Solar Systems; Sump Pump System Operation or Performance; Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs; Technical testing or analysis requiring meters, gauges or technical training; Underground Conditions; Use of Ladder over 12 feet; Utility Company Meters, Wires and Gas Pipes; Walking on Roofs; Water Quality; Water Treatment Equipment; Wear and Tear; Well Systems; Wood Boring Insects; Yard and Lot Drainage; Yard and Lot Drainage Pipes and Systems. 3. CONDITIONS OF WORK No technical testing of components or equipment is included in this inspection. The inspector will not dismantle equipment (except for readily openable access panels not screwed or painted shut) and will operate equipment only by normal homeowner controls; equipment that is shut down will not be operated. Inspector may state age or remaining life expectancies of certain components, or cost to repair certain components, these are estimates only. They are provided for client convenience only. If exact figures are need for negotiating or decision making, then client should contact contractors for bids. 4. SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE USE This report is prepared for the sole and exclusive use of the client named above. RLA Inc. assumes no liability to any third parties in connection with the inspection or the report. The report is nontransferable. 5. LIMITED INSPECTION This is a limited inspection of the property. Limitations on access, lighting and time, as well a possible concealment, camouflage, distraction or severe weather, make full exercise of the inspector’s skills impossible. A strong probability exists that one or more defects, even visible and detectable ones, may be overlooked or inadequately analyzed. RLA Inc. assumes no liability for any overlooked or unreported repair needs.
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6. STANDARD OF CARE- THIS IS NOT A COMPLETE INSPECTION The RLA Inc. Basic Home Inspection is not a complete inspection. Hence, the standard of care applicable to this inspection shall not be construed to include reporting of any and all property defects, even ones seemingly obvious later. Therefore, inspector oversights or unreported problems shall not be considered professional negligence. (If you desire a complete inspection, you may choose the RLA Inc. Ultrasure Complete Home Inspection described below). Because the limits on the Basic Home Inspection are substantial, its value is in the collective findings, advice, and observations about the property supplied in the report. However, it is not represented as a full and complete disclosure of the property’s condition. 7. CLIENT RECOURSE-NOTE TIME LIMIT RLA Inc. hopes that you are satisfied with your inspector’s performance of the inspection. If you are unsatisfied in any way, simply notify RLA Inc. within 24 hours of the inspection and promptly return all copies of the report. You will receive a full refund of your inspection fee promptly. This is your sole and exclusive recourse, and it is given in lieu of any other recourse of any kind. 8. LIMIT ON LIABILITY; ATTORNEY FEES The parties agree that the liability of RLA Inc. for any claim that may arise out of this inspection is strictly limited to the inspection fee paid, which shall be the client’s sole and exclusive remedy against the company or its employees. In the event that client brings suit against RLA Inc. or its employees and fails to prevail, client hereby agrees to bear all reasonable attorney fees and costs incurred by RLA Inc. or its employees in defending client’s claim or lawsuit. 9. POST-INSPECTION PROBLEMS Should any claim for damages arise, client agrees to promptly notify RLA Inc. in writing of the specifics of the complaint. Further, client agrees not to disturb or begin repairs of any component(s) related to the complaint (except in emergency, or to prevent personal injury or serious damage to the property) until RLA Inc. has had reasonable opportunity to examine the component(s). Client agrees to hold harmless RLA Inc. from any claims relating to conditions that are altered or repaired without the required notice and opportunity for inspection. However, inclusion of this provision does not enlarge or expand the limit on liability in the preceding section. I (we) have read the above contract, understand its terms, and agree to be bound by them. Client Signature Date: If NOT signed and dated by the client, then RLA is absolved from any and all home inspection claims.
Russell Layton, Inspector for RLA: Date: 1/19/2017 Commonwealth of Virginia Certified Home Inspector License Number: 3380000573 10. NOTICE: ULTRASURE COMPLETE HOME INSPECTION OFFER The Russell Layton Associates Inc. Basic Home Inspection is a limited inspection, with significant limits on our liability. We also offer the RLA Inc. Ultrasure Complete Home Inspection. Unlike the Basic Home Inspection, the Ultrasure Inspection guarantees to detect and report all major defects in a home. The Ultrasure inspection costs $1,500.00 for homes up to $325,000, or 0.5% of the price for higher priced homes. If you want the Ultrasure Inspection, let your inspector know now. It can be started during your current appointment and then be completed on another day or days, to be arranged. I (we) have read the above notice and understand it. I do not want to purchase the RLA Inc. Ultrasure Inspection; I accept and agree to the substantial performance and liability limits of the Basic Home Inspection, as set forth in our contract above. Client initials here to Decline the Ultrasure Inspection: If NOT initialed by the client, then RLA is absolved from any and all home inspection claims.
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POST-INSPECTION ISSUES
The purpose of the home inspection is intended to provide you with objective information regarding the condition of the systems and components of the home as inspected at the time of the home inspection. The home inspection is a general inspection of the property and is not a technical evaluation of specific components as a contractor or professional service offers. There can be a significant difference from a home inspector opinion and a contractor opinion. Evaluation of components by contractors or professional services may reveal issues that are not within the scope of the home inspection or the home inspector does not observe. The home inspector does not guarantee to observe or report all issues a house may have even those that may be categorized as obvious.
The home inspection is a visual inspection and its principal value is in the dialog between you and the inspector to establish a reasonable perspective of the property condition. A home inspection is not represented as an engineering, architectural, code or contractor technical evaluation of specific components. The home inspector follows a defined scope of home inspection standards and offers opinions to you based on experience, education, professional society membership, certification requirements and standards of practice for the home inspection industry.
Rusty Layton is well qualified to offer you a professional opinion; he has been a home inspector for over 30 years, has performed over 25,000 home inspections, and has been a member of the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) since 1981, a member of the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) and DPOR Certified by the Commonwealth of Virginia. We hope that you had the opportunity to attend the home inspection with Mr. Layton since the visual and verbal communication during the inspection process allows you to understand the inspection parameters, including limitations.
If you did not attend the inspection and did not have a personal dialog at the inspection with the inspector, this report is all that you have of the home inspection experience and is therefore limited and can be a significant reason for post inspection issues. It is impossible to convey the entirety of the inspection purpose without personal experience and dialog with the inspector at the property during the inspection within a report even though the report is an essential part of the home inspection.
The expectation is that you are satisfied with your home inspection but it is a possibility that you will experience some sort of post inspection problem after you move in. It is not possible for the home inspector to find all issues and deficiencies a house may have in a limited period of time. Most post inspection problems stem from a contractor telling you that the inspector should have caught something and is therefore responsible. The home inspection is a general inspection of the entire property and is not to be confused with a specialty contractor inspection of a single system or component nor is it a code compliance inspection of any sort. A contractor opinion of a component within his standards of practice, usually quoting current code requirements and the home inspector opinion, within a defined set of standards, can be similar or vary greatly.