Bruns Home Inspections

This inspection is not intended to address or include any geological conditions or site stability information. For information concerning these conditions, a geologist or soils engineer should be consulted. Any reference to grade is limited to only areas around the exterior of the exposed foundation or exterior walls. This inspection is visual in nature and does not attempt to determine drainage performance of the site or the condition of any underground piping, including municipal water and sewer service piping or septic systems. When decks and porches are built close to the ground where no viewing or access is possible, we cannot make accurate opinions. These areas as well as others that are too low to enter, or in some other manner not accessible, are excluded from the inspection and are not addressed in this report. We routinely recommend that inquiry be made with the seller about knowledge of conditions.

Our inspection of the Exterior grounds includes the surface drainage, grading, some fencing, gates, sidewalks, patios, driveways, and retaining walls adjacent to the structure. The inspection of the exterior of the building includes the cladding, trim, eaves, fascias, decks, porches, downspouts, railings, doors, windows and flashings. Areas hidden from view by finished walls or stored items cannot be judged and are not a part of this inspection. Minor cracks are typical in many foundations and most do not represent a structural problem. If major cracks present along with rotation, we routinely recommend further evaluation be made by a qualified professional structural engineer. The grading of the soil should allow for surface and roof water to flow away from the foundation. All concrete slabs experience some degree of cracking due to shrinkage in the drying process or minor settlement. All items listed are inspected for their proper function, poor installation, excessive wear and general state of repair. Where deck carpeting, stacked firewood, excessive vegetation, soil and other coverings are installed over decking and patio surfaces, the materials or their nature of construction and condition of the underneath these coverings cannot be determined.

The inspection of the roof system includes a visual examination of the surface materials, connections, penetrations and roof drainage systems. We examine the roofing material for damage and deterioration. We examine the roof system for possible leaks, damage and conditions that suggest limited remaining service life. We may offer opinions concerning repair and/or replacement if warranted. Opinions stated herein concerning the roofing material are based on the general condition of the roof system as evidence by our visual inspection. These do not constitute a warranty that the roof is or will remain, free of leaks. All roofing systems require annual maintenance. Failure to perform routine maintenance will usually result in leaks and accelerated deterioration of the roof covering and flashings. When provided, our estimates of the roof's life expectancy are based on the assumption that the roof will be properly maintained during that period. The only way to determine whether a roof is absolutely watertight i s to observe it during a prolonged rainfall. Many times, this situation is not present during the inspection and we cannot confirm this condition. We suggest that an annual inspection of the Attic area be performed where accessible to identify if any leaks are evident.

Our Inspection of the plumbing system includes a visual examination of the exposed portions of the domestic water supply, drain waste, vent, gas lines, faucets, fixtures, valves, drains, traps, exposed pipes and fittings. These items are examined for proper function, excessive or unusual wear, leakage and general state of repair. The hidden nature of piping prevents inspection of every pipe and joint connection, especially in walls, floors and ceiling voids. A sewer lateral test is necessary to determine the condition of the underground sewer lines. This type of test is beyond the scope of this inspection. Our review of the plumbing system does not include landscape irrigation systems, water wells, on site and/or private water supply systems, off site community water supply systems, or private (septic) waste disposal systems unless specifically noted. A qualified specialist prior to the closing of escrow can perform review of these systems. Our inspection of the water heater includes a visual examination of the accessible portions of the tank, gas, electrical and/or water connections, venting and safety valves. These items are examined for proper function, excessive or unusual wear, leakage and general state of repair.

Our examination of the electrical system includes a visual examination of the exposed and accessible branch circuits, wiring, service panel, over current protection devices, lighting fixtures, switches, and receptacles. Service equipment, proper grounding, wiring methods and bonding are focal points. We inspect for adverse conditions such as lack of grounding and bonding, over-fusing, exposed wiring, open-air wire splices, reverse polarity and defective GFCI's. The hidden nature of the electrical wiring prevents inspection of every length of wire or their connections. Telephone, video, cable, audio, security systems and other low voltage systems were not included in this inspection unless specifically noted. We recommend you have the seller or a specialist demonstrate the serviceability or locations of these systems to you if necessary. Any electrical repairs attempted by anyone other than a licensed electrician should be approached with caution. The power to the entire house should be turned off prior to beginning any repair efforts, no matter how trivial the repair may seem. Aluminum wiring requires periodic inspection and maintenance by a licensed electrician. Operation of time clock motors is not verified. Inoperative light fixtures often lack bulbs or have dead bulbs installed. Light bulbs are not changed during the inspection, due to time constraints. Smoke Alarms should be installed within 15 feet of all Bedroom doors and in Bedrooms. These units should be tested monthly.

Our inspection of the Attic includes a visual examination of the roof framing, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems. There are often heating ducts, bathroom vent ducts, electrical wiring, chimneys and appliance vents in the Attic. We examined these systems and components for proper function, unusual wear and general state of repair, leakage, venting and unusual or improper improvements. When low clearances and deep insulation prohibits walking in an unfinished Attic, inspection will be from the access opening only. Vaulted ceilings cannot be inspected.

Our inspection of the Interior includes a visual inspection of the readily accessible portions of the walls, ceilings, floors, doors, cabinetry, countertops, steps, stairways, balconies and railings. Please note that a representative sample of the accessible windows and electrical receptacles are inspected. These features are examined for proper function, excessive wear and general state of repair. In some cases, all or portions of these components may not be visible because of furnishings and personal items. In these cases some of the items may not be inspected. The condition of walls behind wall coverings, paneling and furnishings cannot be judged. Only the general condition of visible portions of floors is included in this inspection. As a general rule, cosmetic deficiencies are considered normal wear and tear and are not reported. Determining the source of odors or like conditions is not a part of this inspection. Floor covering damage or stains may be hidden by furniture. The condition of floors unde rlying floor coverings is not inspected. Determining the condition of insulated glass windows is not always possible due to temperature, weather and lighting conditions. Check with owners for further information. All fireplaces should be cleaned and inspected on a regular basis to make sure that no cracks have developed. Large fires in the firebox can overheat the firebox and flue liners, sometimes resulting in internal damage.

Our inspection of the bathrooms included a visual examination of the readily accessible portions of the floors, walls, ceilings, cabinets, countertops and plumbing fixtures. Bathrooms are inspected for water drainage, damage, deterioration to floor and walls, proper function of components, active leakage, unusual wear and general state of repair. Bathroom fixtures are run simultaneously to check for adequate water flow and pressure. Fixtures are tested using normal operating controls. Vent fans and their ductwork are tested for their proper operation and examined where visible. Shower pans are visually checked for leakage, but leaks often do not show except when the shower is in actual use. Determining whether shower pans, tub/shower surrounds are watertight is beyond the scope of this inspection. It is very important to maintain all grout and caulking in the bath areas. Very minor imperfections can allow water to get into the wall or floor areas and cause damage. Proper ongoing maintenance will be requir ed in the future.

Inspection of standalone refrigerators, freezers and built-in icemakers are outside the scope of the inspection. No opinion is offered as to the adequacy of dishwasher operation. Ovens, self or continuous cleaning operations, cooking functions, clocks, timing devices, lights and thermostat accuracy are not tested during this inspection. Appliances are not moved during the inspection to inspect below or behind them. Portable dishwashers are not inspected, as they require connection to facilitate testing and are sometimes not left with the home.

Many of the building's structural elements and portions of its mechanical systems are visible inside the Crawlspace. These include the foundation, portions of the structural framing, distribution systems for electricity, plumbing, and heating. Each accessible and visible component and system was examined for proper function, excessive wear or abnormal deterioration and general state of repair. It is not unusual to find occasional moisture and dampness in the Crawl Spaces and we advise annual inspections of this area. Significant or frequent water accumulation can affect the structures foundation and support system and would indicate the need for further evaluation by professional drainage contractor. We advise to monitor your Crawlspace during the rainy season.

Our examination of the heating system includes a visual examination of the exposed and accessible heating equipment, thermostat, safety controls, venting and the means of air distribution. Our inspection of the heating system includes activating the heating system via the thermostat and a visual examination of the accessible components listed below. These items are examined for proper function, excessive or unusual wear and general state of repair. Heat exchangers are inaccessible by design, and are not part of the ASHI standards of practice. They must be completely removed from the furnace to be fully evaluated. Our inspection does not include disassembly of the furnace. The inspector cannot light pilot lights due to the liability. The inspector does not test safety devices. To obtain maximum efficiency and reliability from your heating system, we recommend annual servicing and inspections by a qualified heating specialist. Determining the condition of oil tanks, whether exposed or buried, is beyond the scope of this inspection. Leaking oil tanks represent an environmental hazard, which is sometimes a costly condition to address.

This is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions: - Window and/or wall mounted air conditioning units are not inspected. - The cooling supply adequacy or distribution balance are not inspected. - Pressure tests on coolant systems are not within the scope of this inspection; therefore no representation is made regarding coolant charge or line integrity. - Judgment of system efficiency or capacity is not within the scope of this inspection. - Cooling systems are not dismantled in any way. Secured access covers are not removed. - The interior components of evaporators, condensers and heat pumps are not viewed. - The interior conditions of cooling components are not evaluated. - The presence of leaking refrigerant lines, heat pump oil, etc., is outside the scope of this inspection. Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection.

The Garage is inspected as best as possible, but can be limited due to parked cars or personal stored items. Due to this area be cluttered or areas being inaccessible, it is common for sections that cannot not be fully inspected or items identified during our limited inspection. We suggest that a walk-through be performed once the home is vacant. If this is a new construction inspection or vacant home this area will be inspected thoroughly. Determining the heat resistance rating of firewalls and doors is beyond the scope of this inspection. Flammable materials should not be stored within the Garage area if possible.