The roof covering material had an “alligatored” look. A qualified contractor should evaluate, then repair or replace as advised prior to the inspection objection deadline.
The roof covering material was damaged/deteriorated in some areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate, then repair or replace as advised prior to the inspection objection deadline.
Some of the shingles appeared to be de-granulated in areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate, then repair or replace as advised prior to the inspection objection deadline.
The inspector observed exposed nails on the roof covering. This condition could allow moisture to penetrate the roof component. A qualified contractor should evaluate, then repair or replace as advised prior to the inspection objection deadline.
The roof covering material had minor damage or erosion in areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate, then repair or replace as advised prior to the inspection objection deadline.
The roof covering appeared to be at or near the end of its serviceable life. A qualified contractor should evaluate, then repair or replace as advised prior to the inspection objection deadline.
The vent flashing, used to protect areas of the roof from moisture intrusion, was bent/damaged in areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate, then repair or replace as advised prior to the inspection objection deadline.
The vent flashing, used to protect areas of the roof from moisture intrusion, had exposed/inadequately sealed nails. A qualified contractor should evaluate, then repair or replace as advised prior to the inspection objection deadline.
One or more combustion exhaust flue(s) showed signs of rust/corrosion. A qualified contractor should evaluate, then repair or replace as advised prior to the inspection objection deadline.
The attic access hatch was dirty and had marks, fingerprints, or scuffs on it. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Visible signs of water intrusion in the attic are present on insulation. Water intrusion can lead to more costly repairs and increase damage if not corrected. The extent of intrusion or how often it occurs could not be determined. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Visible signs of water intrusion in the attic are present on a vent pipe. Water intrusion can lead to more costly repairs and increase damage if not corrected. The extent of intrusion or how often it occurs could not be determined. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The insulation is thinner than current thermal resistance (R-value) standards.
Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace as needed.
Apparent Birdsnest in turtle vent north side of the house
The concrete driveway was moderately cracked. Cracks that progress to a separation of 1/4″ and more would be an indication of settlement, heaving, or structural problems. Cracks may present a tripping hazard. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair as necessary.
The driveway showed signs of heaving and/or settling in areas. Heaving is often caused by soil that has expanded in volume due to increased moisture content, or by wet soil which has expanded as it became frozen. Settlement is when the soil below a concrete slab is loose, or it can no longer support the weight causing it to sink or crack. This condition could potentially cause a trip hazard.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
The driveway has a negative slope and drains towards the home or garage. This condition is prone to water penetration into the home structure. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
The driveway surface was pitted in areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Cracking from apparent wall movement was present in the siding at the time of inspection.
Monitoring the walls of the house is needed. Most materials including masonry can deform elastically over long periods of time to accommodate small amounts of movement, large movements normally cause cracking.
Cracking can result from a variety of problems:
- Differential settlement of the foundation
- Drying shrinkage
- Expansion and contraction due to ambient thermal and moisture variations
- Improper support over openings
- The effects of freeze-thaw cycles
- The corrosion of iron and steel wall reinforcement
- Differential movement between building materials; expansion of salts
- The bulging or leaning of walls.
Recommend a qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
There were penetrations in areas of the siding at the time of inspection. Recommend applying appropriate sealant to these areas to prevent potential moisture or pest intrusion. A qualified contractor should further evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Peeling paint was present in areas.
Recommend a qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as needed.
The eave(s) was damaged in one or more areas.
Recommend a qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
Components of the eaves, facia, and/or soffit were deteriorated or rotted. Adjacent portions may also have signs of water damage and be warped, swollen, or have peeling paint and will eventually begin to rot if left untreated or cause has not been corrected.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Components of the eaves, facia, and/or soffit was warped, swollen, or had peeling paint which are signs of water damage. The materials will eventually begin to rot if left untreated or cause has not been corrected.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Signs of repairs were evident at the eaves at the time of inspection. Recommend asking the seller for more information. If repairs appear to be significant or failing we recommend a qualified contractor evaluate further for any possible repair or replacement.
The doorbell was inoperable at the time of inspection. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
An entry door had areas of peeling paint. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
An entry door rubs at the door frame when closing. This may mean the door or frame is out of square or that hinges may not be installed properly.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
An exterior door is weathered or deteriorated. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
The window frame was damaged. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Window wells had accumulated soil, leaves, and other debris which should be cleared to encourage proper drainage and minimize the retaining of moisture near the foundation and moisture intrusion and damage through the window area. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary according to current standards.
Window Well(s) lacked covers and may represent a danger to small children and may trap pests. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Cracking or separation was present at the concrete step(s) in areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
Minor cracking was visible on the walkway(s) in areas. Monitoring is the minimum recommendation. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
The walkway(s) showed signs of heaving and/or settling in areas. Heaving is often caused by soil that has expanded in volume due to increased moisture content, or by wet soil which has expanded as it became frozen. Settlement is when the soil below a concrete slab is loose or it can no longer support the weight causing it to sink or crack.
- This causes cracks in the concrete.
- This creates trip hazards that could result in injury.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
Signs of repairs were present in the walkway(s) in areas. Recommend asking current homeowner for more information, and if repairs appear to be of poor quality it is recommended to have a qualified contractor evaluate further for any additional repairs necessary.
The walkway(s) 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.
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 is recommended by a qualified contractor
Large trees near the house have branches which overhang the property. Falling branches due to conditions such as wood decay, high winds or heavy snow loads may cause injury, death or damage. Significant weakening of large branches by conditions such as core decay may not be visible by persons without special training. Consider having these trees evaluated by a qualified arborist. Evaluating trees lies beyond the scope of the general property inspection.
Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The outside water faucet is damaged. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
The exterior foundation wall had cracks at the corner. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary. Axium recommends our premier partner – Level Engineering. They can be contacted at 720-706-8540 or online at www.axiuminspections.com/structural-engineer.
The exterior foundation wall had settlement crack(s.) A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary. Axium recommends our premier partner – Level Engineering. They can be contacted at 720-706-8540 or online at www.axiuminspections.com/structural-engineer.
The exterior foundation wall had signs of repair. Recommend inquiring with the current sellers for more information. Recommend further evaluation by a qualified contractor if the quality of work is poor.
One or more down spout extensions were too short. Recommend installing 6-8ft long (or greater as needed) extensions to divert rainwater runoff away from the property.
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 exterior wall covering is beginning to deteriorate or has deteriorated. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The siding/trim had a swollen appearance due to moisture intrusion. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The siding and/or trim in areas was missing paint.
The inspector observed peeling paint in areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair as necessary.
The eaves, soffit, and/or facia boards were moisture damaged in areas. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace as needed.
Gutters are necessary to properly collect rain water from the roof, control it, divert it, and discharge that water away from the house and its foundation.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as needed.
The detached garage was missing a downspout. This can cause major moisture intrusion into the house and foundation, which could cause settlement of the structure.
Recommend a qualified contractor install downspouts where needed. The downspout discharge needs to be extended away from the foundation too.
The concrete floor in the garage was cracked.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair as necessary.
The concrete floor in the garage was significantly cracked. Cracks of 1/4″ or greater separation are typically indicating settlement, heaving, or structural problems. These types of cracks may present a tripping hazard. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair as necessary.
The garage door panelling was dented, corroded, or damaged and should be further evaluated by a qualified contractor to repair or replace as needed.
I observed a missing window screen.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
The drywall was cut out for an access hole. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The wall was bowed or bulges in areas. 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.
Baseboard trim was missing in areas of the interior walls at the time of inspection. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as needed.
Minor cracking was visible on the interior walls. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The interior ceilings have signs of repairs. Recommend asking the current homeowner for more information. Recommend further evaluation from a qualified contractor should the repairs be excessive or of visibly poor quality.
The drywall showed pulling or wrinkling of the drywall tape at the corner which may reflect structural movement in that area. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
There appeared to be some damage to the interior flooring in areas. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace as needed.
The floor squeaks when stepped on. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The floors showed signs of minor damage and wear, particularly in high-traffic areas. 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.
The door had missing or damaged floor guides. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The sliding/folding door would fall off the track when operated. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The window did not have tempered glass installed for safety. Tempered glass is required if the bottom of the window is less than 18 inches above the floor or ground. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The window had damaged or missing lock hardware. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Windows installed in the home appeared to be worn or aged. This apparent condition can mean the windows are deteriorated or difficult to operate, and can also mean they are not consistent with current efficiency standards. They were possibly original and were either at or near their serviceable lifespan. Recommend further evaluation by a qualified contractor and budgeting for potential future replacement.
At the time of the inspection, the property did not have emergency escape and rescue openings which met generally-accepted current standards. Egress opening requirements:
For safety reasons, all sleeping room and basements greater than 200 square feet and new properties should meet the generally-accepted current standards for emergency escape and rescue openings, which include the following requirements:
1. Sill height shall not exceed 44 inches above the floor.
2. Minimum net clear opening shall be 5.7 square feet; exception – grade level windows
may have a minimum clear opening of 5 square feet.
3. Minimum net clear opening height shall be 24 inches.
4. Minimum net clear opening width shall be 20 inches.
An electrical outlet had a loose or damaged faceplate. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
One or more electrical outlets were not grounded. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The switch was damaged. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The ceiling fan may not have been properly mounted. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The ceiling fan wobbles when operated and may need to be balanced. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
At the interior stairs, the handrail was missing. A fall or injury could occur if not corrected. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Carbon monoxide detectors were not installed within a specified distance of each room lawfully used for sleeping purposes. The inspector recommends installation of carbon monoxide detectors in appropriate locations. Colorado House bill 1091 became effective on July 1, 2009 that requires Carbon Monoxide detectors to be installed in most properties that has a fuel-burning heater or appliance, a fireplace, or an attached garage.
There are no carbon monoxide detectors on the lower or upper level.
The smoke detector was not secured properly to ceiling/wall. A qualified person should repair or replace as needed. The existing smoke detectors were tested if present, but they are only noted as to presence and operation as of 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 smoke detector did not work when tested. A qualified person should repair or replace as needed. The existing smoke detectors were tested if present, but they are only noted as to presence and operation as of 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 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 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 walls had signs of a previous repair. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
7.4.1 – Floors
The floors showed signs of minor damage and wear – particularly in high traffic areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The counter top needs caulking with silicone along the back splash. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The cabinet floor was damaged. This may be from excessive leaking pipes, condensation, or even leaking cleaners stored in cabinet over the years.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The cabinet hinge was loose and not securely fastened. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Counters or cabinetry had a finish that was worn or peeling. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace as needed.
The cabinets and/or counters have signs of repairs. Recommend asking the current homeowner or builder for more information. Recommend further evaluation from a qualified contractor should the repairs be excessive or of visibly poor quality.
No ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection was provided for kitchen electrical outlets. Although GFCI protection of kitchen circuits may not have been required at the time in which this property was built, as general knowledge of safe building practices has improved with the passage of time building standards have changed to reflect current understanding. The inspector recommends updating the existing kitchen electrical circuits to provide GFCI protection. This can be achieved by:
1. Replacing the current standard outlets with GFCI outlets.
2. Replacing the first circuit outlet located closest to the main electrical service panel with the GFCI outlet
3. Replacing the breaker currently protecting the electrical circuit that contains these outlets with the GFCI breaker.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Some windows had damaged or missing screens. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The drywall on the interior walls was missing in areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The window was not considered a functional window. 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.
An electrical outlet was not grounded. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
An interior door rubs at the door frame when closing. This may mean the door or frame is out of square or that hinges may not be installed properly.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The floors showed signs of minor damage and wear – particularly in high traffic areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The counter top was loose and not fastened securely. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The bathtub drain stop was damaged, missing or did not operate properly. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The water supply valve was corroded at the time of inspection. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
A control valve 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.
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 tub spout 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.
There was a leak at the shower head connection at the time of inspection. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
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.
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 ceilings had signs of previous repair. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The floors showed signs of minor damage and wear – particularly in high traffic areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Windows installed in the home appeared to be worn or aged. This apparent condition can mean the windows are deteriorated or difficult to operate, and can also mean they are not consistent with current efficiency standards. They were possibly original and were either at or near their serviceable lifespan. Recommend further evaluation by a qualified contractor and budgeting for potential future replacement.
No ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection was provided for the bathroom electrical outlets. Although GFCI protection of bathroom circuits may not have been required at the time of in which this property was built, as general knowledge of safe building practices has improved with the passage of time building standards have changed to reflect current understanding. The inspector recommends updating the existing bathroom electrical circuits to provide GFCI protection. This can be achieved by:
1. Replacing the current standard outlets with GFCI outlets.
2. Replacing the first circuit outlet located closest to the main electrical service panel with the GFCI outlet
3. Replacing the breaker currently protecting the electrical circuit that contains these outlets with the GFCI breaker.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
A GFCI outlet was not grounded and did not trip when tested. A GFCI requires a ground wire to route electricity when tripped. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The base cabinet was damaged. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Flexible drain lines can clog, leak or fail. Flex lines design includes multiple folds in which moisture may become trapped and mold may grow. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The drain stop did not work or did not hold water in the sink. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The toilet was slow to fill when flushed. 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.
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 electric meter base was loose at time of inspection. 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 too.
Recommend a qualified contractor verify the breakers and accuracy of any existing labeling as necessary.
Screws / fasteners were missing at the electrical panel cover. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
An electrical distribution panel was missing a front cover allowing access to live wires. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and repair or replace as needed.
The conduit protecting the service entrance conductors is disconnected or damaged exposing the electrical conductors to damage. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
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.
Pipe fittings at the water heating equipment were corroded. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.
The water heating equipment was rusted/corroded showing signs of previously leaking. 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.
Flames were not entirely burning a blue color. Orange and yellow flames may be an indicator the fuel-air mixture is not right and gas may not be burning as efficiently as possible. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate to adjust, repair, or replace fuel-burning components as necessary.
The water temperature was below the suggested range of 120-130 degrees. Recommend adjusting the water heater thermostat first. If water does not reach the acceptable range then a qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
Based on the age of the cooling system it is recommended that it be cleaned and serviced and certified (if possible) by an HVAC professional.
The air-conditioner refrigerant suction line (large, insulated) exterior wall penetration should be sealed to prevent moisture and insect intrusion. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair/replace as necessary.
Based on the age of the heating system it is recommended that it be cleaned and serviced and certified (if possible) by an HVAC professional.
Air supply ducts were not sealed. Ideally all ducts are sealed with mastic in order to be more energy-efficient. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair as necessary.
The blower motor, wheel, and/or cabinet appeared to be dirty at the time of inspection. Blower fans/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.
The concrete floor in the basement was cracked in areas. These cracks appear to be common cracks indicating regular settlement or heaving, but not necessarily structural problems. Recommend a qualified contractor to evaluate to make further recommendations and repair as necessary.
Axium recommends our premier partner – Level Engineering. They can be contacted at 720-706-8540 or online at www.axiuminspections.com/structural-engineer.
Indications of movement/settling of the concrete floor were present in the basement area. This may be a compromise to the structural integrity of the foundation or structure of the house which only a qualified structural engineer could comment after further analysis.
Recommend a qualified structural engineer inspect further and provide a professional opinion related to this observation.
Axium recommends our premier partner – Level Engineering. They can be contacted at 720-706-8540 or online at www.axiuminspections.com/structural-engineer.
Basement walls were not constructed using a method which will allow for soil movement. This method is usually termed “floating” the walls and involves leaving a gap at the bottom of the wall so that vertical movement (heaving) of the concrete slab basement floor will not be transmitted to the rest of the property structure. Colorado has areas with expansive soils. Expansive soils are soils which increase to many times their original volume in response to increases in soil moisture content, creating forces which can easily damage property structural components such as foundations, floor slabs, flat work and interior and exterior wall coverings. Consider consulting with a qualified contractor before the expiration of your Inspection Objection Deadline to discuss options and costs for correction an/ or stabilization.
There is no insulation on the basement exterior walls or floor system. Heat loss can occur more on this property than one that is properly insulated. A qualified contractor should evaluate and install as necessary.