Home Inspection Newcombe Ct Arvada CO

The inspector observed deflection of the roof decking in some areas was noted. A qualified contractor should evaluate, then repair or replace as advised prior to the inspection objection deadline.

A plumbing vent appeared to lack proper clearance from a valley, sidewall, openable window, door, ventilation, or air intake. A qualified contractor should evaluate, then repair or replace as advised prior to the inspection objection deadline.

One or more combustion appliance exhaust flue(s) did not extend far enough above the roof. To ensure proper and safe operation, exhaust flues should extend at least 3 feet above the roof, and 2 feet above any portion of the roof within 10 feet (measured horizontally).  A qualified contractor should evaluate, then repair or replace as advised prior to the inspection objection deadline.

The combustion exhaust flue was dented/damaged at the time of the inspection. A qualified contractor should evaluate, then repair or replace as advised prior to the inspection objection deadline.

Gutters had moderate general corrosion visible. Corrosion is generally a sign of poor sloping or drainage, and continued corrosion will eventually result in leaking gutters.

This condition may cause problems by introducing excessive amounts of moisture to the soil beneath the foundation. Excessive moisture in the soil supporting the foundation can affect its ability to support the weight of the structure above and may cause foundation damage from soil movement. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.

The attic hatch was not the proper size to access the attic itself. The rough framed opening must measure a minimum of 22 by 30 inches to allow a full-grown adult to safely enter and exit. Should there be an appliance in the attic, the dimensions may be required to increase to allow the appliance to be removed.

The 2012 International Residential Code requires an attic access opening for attics with an area greater than 30 square feet and a vertical height in excess of 30 inches.

The roof decking had been damaged or altered. This can affect the overall structural integrity of the roof, and cause the roof to sag or fail in that area.

Trusses are specifically engineered and designed to support the roof and loads placed on it, such as snow. The individual components of a truss — webs, connectors, gusset plates, straps, clips, and fasteners — and all trusses in a roof are designed to perform together as a system. Recommend further evaluation by a licensed roofing contractor and/or structural engineer to determine the effect of the damage or alterations, and options for any necessary repairs.

The insulation is missing.

Recommend a qualified contractor to evaluate and repair or replace as needed.

The insulation is thinner than current thermal resistance (R-value) standards.

Recommend a qualified contractor to evaluate and repair or replace as needed.

There were penetrations in areas of the siding at the time of inspection. Recommend applying the appropriate sealant to these areas to prevent potential moisture or pest intrusion. A qualified contractor should further evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The distance between the bottom of wood components and the ground surface (or grade) was not sufficient. In locations that have little or no snow, the distance should be no less than 8 inches. In locations with significant lasting snow, the bottom of wood elements should be no less than 8 inches above the average snow depth.

A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.

A common maintenance task for brick masonry is the repair of mortar joints. The longevity of mortar joints will vary with the exposure conditions and the mortar materials used, but a life span of more than 25 years is typical. The longevity of brick, however, may well exceed 100 years. Consequently, occasional repair of the mortar joints is expected over the life of the brick masonry. It is our observation that the most common reason for repointing brick masonry is to improve water penetration resistance. Repointing deteriorated mortar joints is one of the most effective and permanent ways of decreasing water entry into brickwork. This is because the most common means of water entry into a brick masonry wall is through de-bonded, cracked or deteriorated mortar joints. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair all areas as necessary.

The fascia was damaged in one or more areas.

Recommend a qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.

No Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection was provided for the exterior electrical outlets. Although GFCI protection of exterior circuits may not have been required at the time in which this property was built, modern building and safety standards now require them. This is a reflection of the current understanding of the potential hazards. The inspector recommends updating the existing exterior electrical circuits to include GFCI protection. A qualified contractor should evaluate and implement according to current standards.

An exterior electrical outlet had contacts that are loose and no longer holds a plug securely. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.

There were signs of significant cracking on the walkway(s) in areas. Cracks that with a separation of 1/4″ and more would be an indication of settlement, heaving, or structural problems. These cracks may present a tripping hazard. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair as necessary.

Dense vegetation was present around the house in areas.  This condition limited and restricted my visual inspection.  Dense vegetation and landscaping up against or near the house foundation and exterior walls may be prone to water penetration and insect infestation. Trimming, pruning, and some landscaping are recommended by a qualified contractor

The downspout (s) are missing the proper 6 ft. extensions. This condition may cause problems by introducing excessive amounts of moisture to the soil beneath the foundation. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.

The inspector was unable to verify that the door was fire rated. This may be considered a fire safety hazard. The door between the garage and the house should be a solid wood door at least 1-3/8 inches thick, a solid or honeycomb-core steel door at least 1-3/8 inches thick, or a 20-minute fire-rated door. This means that should a fire occur in the garage, the occupant door does not afford protection until firemen arrive. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The door between the garage and the living space failed to close by itself. Modern safety requirements require that the door between the home interior and the garage be self-closing for safety reasons related to fire hazards and toxic fumes. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

Walls and/or ceilings had signs of repairs at the time of inspection. Recommend asking current homeowners for more information. Should repairs appear to be poorly done, we recommend having a qualified contractor evaluate further for any further repairs.

The garage floor had surface spalling in areas. This condition will continue to degrade if not corrected. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The photo-electric reverse sensors are installed too high from the garage floor surface.

The vertical distance between the photo-eye beam and the floor should be no more than 6 inches.

The garage had one or more outlets without GFCI (or ground fault circuit interrupter) protection.

GFCI protection is required for all 15- and 20-amp receptacles, including outlets for refrigerators, sprinkler systems, garage door openers, and washing machines – some items may not be protected on purpose due to the potential for them to go unnoticed and cause damage. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The garage floor had surface spalling in areas. This condition will continue to degrade if not corrected. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The photo-electric reverse sensors are installed too high from the garage floor surface.

The vertical distance between the photo-eye beam and the floor should be no more than 6 inches.

The property had ceiling materials that may contain asbestos. Ceiling tiles or popcorn textures were manufactured or installed using asbestos as late as the early 90s.

In the past, asbestos fibers were added during production to strengthen and increase durability. Materials that contain asbestos, when intact and in good condition, are generally considered non-friable and not hazardous. Heat, water, weathering, or aging can weaken asbestos materials to the point where it is considered friable. Friable material includes any material containing more than 1 percent asbestos that can be crumbled, pulverized, or reduced to powder with hand pressure. This includes previously non-friable material which has been damaged to the extent that it may be crumbled, pulverized, or reduced to powder by hand pressure and can also be made friable during its removal. Friable materials can release asbestos fibers into the air. Once in the air, asbestos fibers present a health hazard to people who inhale those fibers.

Minor cracking was visible on the interior walls.  A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

Moderate cracking was visible on the interior ceilings.  A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

Significant cracking was visible on the interior ceilings.  This may indicate a structural issue.  Further analysis by a structural engineer is recommended.

The smoke detector was missing. A qualified person should replace them as needed. The existing smoke detectors were tested if present, but they are only noted as to presence and operation as of the date of inspection. Smoke detectors may work today but not work when you need them to work. This is why it is important for you to test them on a regular basis, monthly at least. Smoke detectors are recommended by the U.S. Product Safety Commission to be installed inside each bedroom and adjoining hallway and on each living level of the property and basement level.

The property had ceiling materials that may contain asbestos. Ceiling tiles or popcorn textures were manufactured or installed using asbestos as late as the early 90s.

In the past, asbestos fibers were added during production to strengthen and increase durability. Materials that contain asbestos, when intact and in good condition, are generally considered non-friable and not hazardous. Heat, water, weathering, or aging can weaken asbestos materials to the point where it is considered friable. Friable material includes any material containing more than 1 percent asbestos that can be crumbled, pulverized, or reduced to powder with hand pressure. This includes previously non-friable material which has been damaged to the extent that it may be crumbled, pulverized, or reduced to powder by hand pressure and can also be made friable during its removal. Friable materials can release asbestos fibers into the air. Once in the air, asbestos fibers present a health hazard to people who inhale those fibers.

Minor cracking was visible on the interior walls.  A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

There were “nail pops” visible on the interior ceilings.  A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

Significant cracking was visible on the interior ceilings.  This may indicate a structural issue.  Further analysis by a structural engineer is recommended.

An electrical outlet was loose in the wall. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

An electrical outlet was not working. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The smoke detector was missing. A qualified person should replace as needed. The existing smoke detectors were tested if present, but they are only noted as to presence and operation as of the date of inspection. Smoke detectors may work today but not work when you need them to work. This is why it is important for you to test them on a regular basis, monthly at least. Smoke detectors are recommended by the U.S. Product Safety Commission to be installed inside each bedroom and adjoining hallway and on each living level of the property and basement level.

One or more electrical outlet(s) were wired incorrectly with the hot and neutral wires being reversed. While the outlet still provides power to electronic equipment, a shock hazard has been created as there is still electricity running through the hot wire when the switch is off. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary according to current standards.

The oven door fell open indicating weak or damaged springs.  A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The sink drain pipe was leaking at the time of inspection.  A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The door was missing.  A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

A dyer vent connection was installed in the laundry area. The dryer was vented using a flexible plastic vent which is not approved by the Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL). The flexible plastic dryer vent is more likely to accumulate lint than a smooth metal vent creating a potential fire hazard. Excessive lint accumulation can increase drying time and shorten the lifespan of the dryer. The inspector recommends replacing the plastic vent with a properly installed UL-approved dryer vent. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

An outlet did not provide Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection. Although GFCI protection of circuits may not have been required at the time in which this home was built, safe building practices have improved with the passage of time and building standards have changed to reflect current understanding. The inspector recommends updating the existing electrical circuits to include GFCI protection. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The interior walls showed evidence that moisture was entering from behind possibly including damage and deterioration.  A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

Minor cracking was visible on the interior walls.  A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The sink drain line was clogged or drains slowly. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The hot water in the shower did not get over 100 degrees whereas the nearby faucets did. This may indicate that either the mixing valve (safety feature to limit potential scalding) or control cartridge needs adjustment to achieve a hot shower. There may be a more significant issue, that only further evaluation can reveal.

The hot and cold supply was installed correctly and the property’s overall hot water temperature was within an acceptable range.

Recommend a qualified contractor to evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The shower diverter was stuck and did not release when the water was turned off.  A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

A shower supply arm was loose in the wall.  This will cause caulking/sealant to deteriorate at an accelerated rate and may allow water to enter the wall. Over time, this could potentially put added stress on the plumbing connections and develop a leak. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace it as necessary.

Some caulking in the tub shower area was loose, old, or poorly done. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and re-caulk as needed.

Minor cracking was visible on the interior walls.  A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The tile floor was cracked/damaged.  A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The sink drain stop was missing, damaged, or did not operate properly.  A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The toilet continually “runs” after flushing. This generally means the interior tank components are not working properly. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

Evidence of a possible mold-like substance was observed bath or shower area.  We did not inspect, test, or determine if this growth is or is not a health hazard. The underlying cause is moisture. It is recommended to consult a mold inspector or mold remediation specialist to determine if further action is needed. Further analysis by a mold remediation specialist is recommended. Axium recommends our premier partner – Mold Removal Express. They can be contacted at 720-464-1555 or online at www.axiuminspections.com/mold-removal-express.

Some caulking and/or grout in the tub & shower area was missing, loose, old, or poorly done.  Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and re-seal as needed.

The sink drain pipe was leaking at the time of inspection.  A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

A shower supply arm was loose in the wall.  This will cause caulking/sealant to deteriorate at an accelerated rate and may allow water to enter the wall. Over time, this could potentially put added stress on the plumbing connections and develop a leak. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace it as necessary.

The shower/bathtub was missing a trim piece.  A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

With at least 2 plumbing fixtures running water, there was a noticeable drop in the water flow after the toilet was flushed. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The property water supply pressure is measured at the exterior faucet or laundry appliance hose bib. Property water supply pressure exceeded the 80 pounds per square inch (PSI) limit considered the maximum allowable by generally accepted current standards. Excessively high water pressure can stress connections in the plumbing system and appliances are likely to cause leaks.

A qualified contractor should install a pressure regulator or evaluate and repair or replace one as necessary.

The drain line had an improper slope.  These pipes must slope downhill at a minimum of 1/4″ per foot in order to function properly. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The drain pipe was actively leaking at the time of inspection.  A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The property had a sump pump. The sump pump did not respond to the controls. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair/replace as necessary.

This system protects the property from water intrusion by discharging rising groundwater or seepage from surface runoff to the exterior of the property or to a waste pipe or storm drain. Sump pumps require periodic maintenance to ensure that they work when they’re needed and should be tested on an annual basis to ensure they are in working order. The pumps can be tested by lifting the float, but to avoid potential shock/electrocution hazards testing should be performed using a tool that will not conduct electricity. Pumps have a filter that should be cleaned during routine maintenance.

Indications of water intrusion, rust, and corrosion inside the electrical panel cabinet. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The electrical panel was damaged. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The circuit labels were missing, partial, or illegible at the electrical distribution panel. The circuit labels provide information describing the locations each individual circuit breaker provides power to.

Recommend a qualified contractor to verify the breakers and accuracy of any existing labeling as necessary.

The manufacturer’s label was missing, partial, or illegible on the electrical service panel. The manufacturer’s label typically provides information describing the main panel such as the name of the panel manufacturer, the panel model number, the panel amperage rating, limitations related to the environment in which the panel was designed to be installed, and grounding/bonding information for that particular model. The Inspector was unable to confirm the existence of proper conditions when confirmation would require information taken from this missing label.

An opening in the panel was missing a filler plate. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair and replace as necessary.

The panel cover won’t stay open without a prop. This is a potential safety hazard for working on the panel.

The circuit labels were missing, partial, or illegible at the electrical distribution panel. The circuit labels provide information describing the locations each individual circuit breaker provides power to.

Recommend a qualified contractor to verify the breakers and accuracy of any existing labeling as necessary.

The manufacturer’s label was missing, partial, or illegible on the electrical service panel. The manufacturer’s label typically provides information describing the main panel such as the name of the panel manufacturer, the panel model number, the panel amperage rating, limitations related to the environment in which the panel was designed to be installed, and grounding/bonding information for that particular model. The Inspector was unable to confirm the existence of proper conditions when confirmation would require information taken from this missing label.

The water heater was at or beyond its warranty and/or expected life expectancy.

The water heater age was determined by the photo included in this report. According to the U.S. Department of energy, these major appliances are intended to run for between 8 and 12 years. Be advised that every water heater will age differently relative to the following life span factors: water quality, mineral buildup, frequency of flushing, the volume of water utilized, size of the tank, brand, and quality of water heater. Although it was operating at the time of the inspection, the inspector can not determine the remaining life of the water heater.

The temperature pressure relief valve was missing a pipe at the time of inspection. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The water heater burn chamber had rust/corrosion visible. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The water temperature was higher than the acceptable range of 120-130 degrees. We recommend adjusting the water heater thermostat.

The blower motor and/or wheel appeared to be dirty at the time of inspection. Blower fan motors and fan wheels are subjected to constant dirt, dust, and lint and can become overly dirty when not cleaned on a regular basis and even faster if the air filters are not changed regularly.

A qualified contractor should evaluate, clean, and service as necessary, and certify the unit is in good working order.

Due to the year of manufacture, the cooling system is assumed to be near the end of its expected service life. Regular maintenance and monitoring of its condition is recommended. Budgeting for repairs and future replacement is recommended. A qualified contractor should evaluate to clean, service/repair/replace as necessary, and certify the unit if possible.  InterNACHI’s Standard Estimated Life Expectancy Chart for Homes

The air-conditioner refrigerant suction line (large, insulated) has damaged or missing insulation in areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair/replace as necessary.

There was damage to the air-conditioner condenser coil fins. This limits the ability to dissipate heat. Further damage to the coil fins should be avoided in order to maintain cooling system efficiency and avoid problems from overheating of the compressor. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.

Surface and/or interior components of the AC condenser showed rust in areas. Recommend a qualified contractor to evaluate, service, and repair or replace as necessary.

No soil cover was installed at the time of the inspection. Soil covers help reduce humidity levels in crawlspaces by limiting moisture evaporation into the air from the soil. Reducing humidity levels can help reduce the chances of mold growth and deterioration of structural components. A qualified contractor should evaluate and install a soil cover as necessary.

Efflorescence (white powdery substance) on the wall indicates moisture is in contact with the concrete or masonry. This does not necessarily indicate that intrusion will occur. I recommend checking the gutters and the downspout drain lines for proper operation. Also, a waterproofing paint could be applied to the interior side of the wall if necessary. Efflorescence is found on many properties without water intrusion occurring inside the property. But, it should alert you to the possibility that future steps may be needed. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair as necessary.

Water damage was visible in the crawlspace floor structure around plumbing lines. There may be a past or current leak in the nearby drain or supply lines that could further stain or rot wood if not corrected.

There is some heaving and settling present in the foundation stub wall. Recommend qualified contractor repair and replace as needed.

There is no insulation on the crawlspace exterior walls or floor system. Heat loss can occur more on this property than on one that is properly insulated. A qualified contractor should evaluate and install as necessary.

No soil cover was installed at the time of the inspection. Soil covers help reduce humidity levels in crawlspaces by limiting moisture evaporation into the air from the soil. Reducing humidity levels can help reduce the chances of mold growth and deterioration of structural components. A qualified contractor should evaluate and install a soil cover as necessary.

The inspector observed signs of a possible active leak in the crawlspace.

Efflorescence (white powdery substance) on the wall indicates moisture is in contact with the concrete or masonry. This does not necessarily indicate that intrusion will occur. I recommend checking the gutters and the downspout drain lines for proper operation. Also, a waterproofing paint could be applied to the interior side of the wall if necessary. Efflorescence is found on many properties without water intrusion occurring inside the property. But, it should alert you to the possibility that future steps may be needed. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair as necessary.

Areas of the crawlspace were visibly wet or soft/squishy under the vapor barrier. The ground showed signs of moisture intrusion. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

There were water stains or water-damaged areas in the crawlspace at the time of inspection. Recommend a qualified contractor to evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

Evidence of a possible mold-like substance was observed.  We did not inspect, test, or determine if this growth is or is not a health hazard. The underlying cause is moisture. It is recommended to consult a mold inspector or mold remediation specialist to determine if further action is needed. Further analysis by a mold remediation specialist is recommended. Axium recommends our premier partner – Mold Removal Express. They can be contacted at 720-464-1555 or online at www.axiuminspections.com/mold-removal-express.

Water damage was visible in the crawlspace floor structure around plumbing lines. There may be a past or current leak in the nearby drain or supply lines that could further stain or rot wood if not corrected.

There is no insulation on the crawlspace exterior walls or floor system. Heat loss can occur more on this property than on one that is properly insulated. A qualified contractor should evaluate and install as necessary.

Sludge is a sticky concoction of soap scum, grease, hair, food particles, and even dissolved minerals in the water. Once a layer of sludge forms, more sludge tends to accumulate in that segment of the pipe, increasingly narrowing the size of the pipe until only a small channel allows free flow of water.

We recommend consulting a qualified drain cleaning contractor IMMEDIATELY to have the line cleaned and reinspected.

An offset means that one section of a sewer pipe does not line up with the next, creating a gap or reduction in the effective opening of the pipe. Most of the time, an environmental change is usually at fault for an offset pipe. Settlement in the surrounding earth or root growth can cause the two sections of piping to shift independently. Occasionally, the problem is due to poor installation, but this is rare.

A minor offset is small and does not appear to be blocking the flow of waste. No action is required at this time. We recommend having the line reinspected every three to five years to monitor the condition. If the offset gets larger, and specifically if it is near the bottom edge of the pipe, then repair will likely be needed. If you have concerns, consult a qualified sewer line repair or replacement contractor to evaluate if further action is required.