
The wall flashing was missing kick-out/diverter flashing at the time of the inspection. This condition could allow moisture to penetrate the exterior wall component. 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 mortar crown was damaged, cracked, or deteriorated at the time of inspection. This condition could allow moisture to penetrate the chimney. A qualified contractor should evaluate, then repair or replace as advised prior to the inspection objection deadline.


Gutters were full of debris or granules in areas and need to be cleaned. The debris in gutters can clog drainage, or be sign gutters are sloped improperly – Either of which may cause problems by overflowing to introduce 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.
Debris in gutters can also conceal rust, deterioration, or leaks that are not visible until cleaned.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.

The attic access hatch was not properly insulated. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

Signs of previous water penetration or intrusion into the attic. Watermarks or stains were observed. Recommend asking the seller if there are any recent incidents that have been documented or mitigated.
Further evaluation is recommended.

The insulation had been walked on or had stored items compressing it, which reduces the R-value.
Recommend a qualified contractor to evaluate and repair or replace as needed.

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 exterior of the garage door was damaged at the jamb. A qualified contractor should inspect and repair as necessary and according to current standards.

The exterior of the garage door has one or more damaged panels. A qualified contractor should inspect and repair as necessary and according to current standards.

The siding and/or trim were damaged in areas of the exterior.
A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.

The siding was in direct contact with the roof covering materials in some areas at the time of inspection. This condition can cause deterioration of the bottom edge of the siding at these locations. Ideally, there should be a minimum clearance of at least 1 1/2 inches from the bottom of the siding material to the top of the roof covering material. Recommend further evaluation by a qualified contractor to repair or replace.

Gaps at intersections of the siding, trim, and door and window openings, as well as any other holes in the siding, should be sealed with an appropriate sealant to prevent water penetration into the wall system. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The siding and/or trim appeared to be rotted in areas. Recommend a qualified contractor to evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

Recommend removing

The exterior light fixture or light cover was damaged. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary according to current standards.

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) lack covers and may represent a danger to small children and may trap pests. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

Window Well(s) were damaged. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary according to current standards.

There were signs of moderate cracking on the walkway(s) in areas. 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 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.

Consideration should be given to trimming or even removing the large tree(s) located close to the structure. We suggest a consultation with a tree specialist. Evaluating trees lies beyond the scope of the general property inspection.
Recommend a qualified contractor to evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.


The property had areas of neutral or negative drainage, which will route runoff from precipitation to the foundation. Excessive moisture content in soil supporting the foundation can cause foundation and other structural damage from undermining, heaving, or settling, depending on soil composition, moisture content, and other conditions. The ground around the property should slope away from all sides, ideally 6 inches for the first 10 feet from the house foundation perimeter. Downspouts, surface gutters, and drains should also be directing water away from the foundation. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair as necessary according to current standards.

The tree limbs that are in contact with the roof or hanging near the roof should be trimmed. Evaluating trees lies beyond the scope of the general property inspection.
Recommend a qualified contractor to evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

Vegetation growing on siding should be removed and kept away from eaves, woodwork, doors, chimneys, or other building components. They hold moisture against the wall, hide rot and other problems and are conducive conditions for termites, carpenter ants, etc. The growth does not allow full inspection of the siding and can hide potential defects underneath.
Recommend a qualified contractor to evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The outside water faucet drips at the knob when turned on. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary and according to current standards.

One or more exterior faucet was loose in the wall. The faucet should be securely fastened to the wall using appropriate screws depending on the material at the location of the faucet. Recommend a qualified contractor to evaluate and repair or replace as needed.
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.

One or more vent was missing a screen. A damaged vent assembly can allow entry of water, air, or rodents into vent ducts or homes. Recommend a qualified contractor to evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

Improper spacing was noted between balusters, spindles, and rails. This is a safety hazard, especially for small children.
Guards may not allow the passage of a sphere 4 inches in diameter.
Correction and further evaluation are recommended.

One or more downspout extensions were too short. Recommend installing 6-8ft long (or greater as needed) extensions to divert rainwater runoff away from the property.

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.



An interior wall in the garage was damaged.
Recommend a qualified contractor to evaluate and repair or replace as needed.

The garage door was hard to lift or the spring(s) did not support the weight of the door when tested.
Recommend a qualified contractor to evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
The garage door would not close without holding the button down at the time of the inspection. Recommend a qualified contractor to evaluate and repair or replace as needed.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection was not provided for all the garage electrical outlets. A qualified contractor should evaluate and implement according to current standards.
Although GFCI protection of garage circuits may not have been required at the time in which this property was built, GFCI protection is now required for all 15- and 20-amp receptacles in a garage, 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.

The door surface 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 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.

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

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.


The ceiling and/or walls showed various signs of minor defects at numerous locations including all or some of the following: damage, cracks, holes, previous repairs, and/or improper repairs. A representative number of pictures were taken to provide an example. Should any of these issues appear excessive we recommend a qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace items as necessary.

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

The carpet was stained in areas. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

At the time of the inspection, the property did not have emergency escape and rescue openings that met generally-accepted current standards. Egress opening requirements:
For safety reasons, all sleeping rooms 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 was loose in the wall. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The ceiling fan was noisy when on. 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 the installation of carbon monoxide detectors in appropriate locations. Colorado House bill 1091 became effective on July 1, 2009, which 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 levels.


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.

Some of the smoke detectors appeared to be old and beyond their expected life. 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 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 visible areas of the firebox and chimney flue were dirty at the time of the inspection. Most of the chimney flue was inaccessible and was not inspected. Dirty flues are potential fire hazards and should be cleaned by a professional. Recommend having the chimney evaluated by a C.S.I. (Chimney Safety Institute) -qualified chimney sweep.

The tub spout should be sealed at the wall to prevent moisture intrusion into the wall component. A qualified contractor should evaluate and then repair or replace as advised.

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

An electrical outlet had a missing faceplate. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

A saddle valve was present in the plumbing at the time of inspection. They are prone to leak over time as the rubber seal will eventually deteriorate and they clog up as calcium deposits build up at the small opening. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and replace it with a permanent valve as needed.

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

The countertop needs caulking with silicone along the backsplash. 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 walls had signs of a previous repair. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

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.

The sink drain line was clogged or drains slowly. 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 sink drain pipe was leaking at the time of inspection. 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 loose on the floor. This condition typically is caused by loose bolts or nuts and/or missing floor seals. The loose toilet can result in leaks, water damage, and mold, as well as damage to the toilet, water supply lines, bolts, and drainage pipes. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

A saddle valve was present in the plumbing at the time of inspection. They are prone to leak over time as the rubber seal will eventually deteriorate and they clog up as calcium deposits build up at the small opening. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and replace it with a permanent valve as needed.

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 220-volt dryer electrical outlet was loose. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

A dyer vent connection was installed in the laundry area. The dryer vent was kinked and/or damaged at the back of the dryer. The inspector recommends repairing or replacing the dryer vent to prevent restricting dryer exhaust air flow, the restriction of which can result in lint accumulation or vent blockage which can cause the dryer to overheat; a potential fire hazard and a condition that will shorten the dryers life span. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

The washing machine outlet box was corroded or damaged at the time of inspection. Recommend a qualified contractor to evaluate and repair or replace as needed.

The water supply valve was leaking at the time of inspection. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.

Small signs of scorching. Ask the current homeowner.

The HVAC system air filter was missing. This condition reflects a lack of regular maintenance of the HVAC system. Clogged filters can restrict airflow and increase internal temperatures. A clean air filter will help increase the efficiency and prolong the life expectancy of the heating and cooling system. Due to the damage that can be caused by dirty or clogged coils, recommend replacing the filter, as well as cleaning, servicing, and evaluating the HVAC system by a qualified HVAC professional and repair or replace as necessary.
Airflow to the air-conditioner condenser coils was restricted by vegetation, dirt, or debris. The unit should be cleaned and anything restricting air flow in or around the air conditioner should be removed in order to maintain cooling system efficiency and avoid problems from overheating of the compressor.
The cooling unit shut-off was obstructed or otherwise not accessible at the time of inspection. Recommend a qualified contractor evaluate and clear or modify the location as needed.

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

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 for 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, 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.

The crawl space insulation was damaged. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.