Inspected By:

Referral Information:

Bob Wood

Friend

Inspected 2/15/2006
1200 Square Feet
Front View of Home

12:30 PM
1955 Construction
Photo

Inspection Summary

Homeward Bound Home Inspection
1-800-228-8865

Record s12345678 - Sample Home Inspection Report, 123 Your New St, Your New Town, MI 48???

Safety Concern

GROUNDS

Steps

The wood steps at the front porch are inconsistent. They should be replaced or
corrected for safety.

GARAGE

Garage Electrical System

One missing switch plate and several receptacle cover plates were noted. They should be replaced for safety.

ELECTRIC

Main Electrical Disconnect

Type of House Wire

Some homeowner added wiring noted. All exposed romex should be in conduit.
All junction boxes should be secured.

Summary: Page 1 of 16

Homeward Bound Home Inspection

Record s12345678 - Sample Home Inspection Report, 123 Your New St, Your New Town, MI 48???

Safety Concern

PLUMBING

Gas Line.

There is a crimped off gas line in the basement. The copper tube should be
removed to the valve and the valve properly capped for safety.

LAUNDRY

Dryer Vent

Plastic dryer vents are considered a fire hazard. This plastic dryer vent should be replaced with a ridged metal vent
for safety.

BASEMENT

Basement Stairs

No hand rail noted. Add a hand rail and a guard rail to the opened side for safety.

HALF BATH (1)

Bathroom Receptacles (1)

Add GFCI protection to all bathroom receptacles for safety.

BATHROOM (1)

Bathroom Receptacles (1)

Add GFCI protection to all bathroom receptacles for safety.

KITCHEN (1)

Kitchen (1) Electrical Receptacles

Add GFCI protection to all outlets within six feet of the kitchen sink.

Summary: Page 2 of 16

Homeward Bound Home Inspection

Record s12345678 - Sample Home Inspection Report, 123 Your New St, Your New Town, MI 48???

Safety Concern

ATTIC

Insulation Type

The knee wall insulation is installed backwards. The paper is to face the warm
side for fire safety. It should be corrected.

INTERIOR

Smoke Detectors

A minimum of one smoke alarm on each level of the home is recommended. Some municipalities may require more.
Check with the local building department for requirements. Be sure to have, at least one smoke alarm on each level.
Replace all the existing alarms with updated units and add a carbon monoxide alarm in the living room and master
bedroom.

Stairways

Add a hand rail to the upstairs stairway for safety.

Summary: Page 3 of 16

Homeward Bound Home Inspection

Record s12345678 - Sample Home Inspection Report, 123 Your New St, Your New Town, MI 48???

Major Defect

EXTERIOR

Basement Windows

There are several cracked basement windows and deteriorated sills.

Replacement is needed. Consider glass block. Anticipate expensive repair costs.

GROUNDS

Driveway

The driveway has cracked and settled towards the house. Some slab
replacement is needed. Anticipate expensive repair costs.

Summary: Page 4 of 16

Homeward Bound Home Inspection

Record s12345678 - Sample Home Inspection Report, 123 Your New St, Your New Town, MI 48???

Major Defect

ROOF

Roof Covering (Area 2)

The metal awning over the front porch is torn. Repair, or replacement is needed
Anticipate expensive costs to replace it.

COOLING (1)

System Coils and Fins (1)

There is significant damage to the fins on the a/c unit. This will affect the
efficiency of the unit. Replacement should be considered.

Summary: Page 5 of 16

Homeward Bound Home Inspection

Record s12345678 - Sample Home Inspection Report, 123 Your New St, Your New Town, MI 48???

Major Defect

GARAGE

Garage Exterior Walls

Proper prep and paint is needed (expensive to hire).

Garage Fascia\Soffit\Trim

Proper prep and paint is needed (expensive to hire).

Overhead Doors

Extensive rust noted at base. Replacement should be considered .

ELECTRIC

Main Panel Rateing

A 60 amp system is not considered enough for today's needs. This system should be evaluated by a licensed
electrician, who can advise you of needed upgrades.

PLUMBING

Interior Visible Water Pipes

Galvanized steel water supply lines have a normal life of 40 to 50 years. Due to the advanced age of this plumbing
supply system you should anticipate a need to re-plumb in the near future.

Summary: Page 6 of 16

Homeward Bound Home Inspection

Record s12345678 - Sample Home Inspection Report, 123 Your New St, Your New Town, MI 48???

Service/Repair/ Comments

EXTERIOR

Soffit\Fascia

The presence of wood rot behind the aluminum/vinyl can not be determined by this inspection.
There is no visible damage at the time of inspection.

Trim Work

The presence of wood rot behind the aluminum/vinyl can not be determined by this inspection.
No visible damage was noted at the time of inspection.

Siding

The presence of wood rot behind the aluminum/vinyl can not be determined by
this inspection. There is a loose corner piece at the northwest corner. Minor
repair is needed.

Grading

Soil should be sloped away from house to improve drainage. Minor regrading is
needed at the north and west.

The drive also drains towards the house (see page 4).

Summary: Page 7 of 16

Homeward Bound Home Inspection

Record s12345678 - Sample Home Inspection Report, 123 Your New St, Your New Town, MI 48???

Service/Repair/ Comments

Entry Doors

Reconditioning is needed at the sill and frame of both the side and front doors.

Storm Doors

The storm door inside handle needs to be replaced.

Glass

At times, broken thermal seals are difficult to identify because of dirty windows, overcast weather, interior window
dressings, etc. No visibly broken seals were noted at the time of inspection.

GROUNDS

Walks

There is minor cracking noted in the walk to the front porch. No repair is needed at this time.

Summary: Page 8 of 16

Homeward Bound Home Inspection

Record s12345678 - Sample Home Inspection Report, 123 Your New St, Your New Town, MI 48???

Service/Repair/ Comments

Porches

Some block deterioration noted and some settlement away from the house is [p21]
visible. Repair the block deterioration and seal the joint between the porch and
house. Monitor for further movement. Eventual replacement may be needed but
is unlikely in the near future.

GUTTERS

GUTTER SYSTEM

Gutters should be cleaned in the Fall and Spring. Gutter guards are recommended to reduce debris accumulation in the gutters.

Gutter

The back gutter is dented and loose. It functions properly but eventual
replacement will be needed.

Summary: Page 9 of 16

Homeward Bound Home Inspection

Record s12345678 - Sample Home Inspection Report, 123 Your New St, Your New Town, MI 48???

Service/Repair/ Comments

Downspout

The bottom boot is missing at two west downspouts.

Downspout Extensions

Add extensions to all downspouts, where missing, to move water away from the foundation.

ROOF

Roof Covering (Area 1)

The average useful life of asphalt shingle roofing material is 15 to 20 years. There is no visible damage to this roof
to the time of inspection.

Valleys

Monitor the valleys of the roof closely. They are, typically, the first part of a roof to deteriorate. There is no visible
damage at the time of inspection.

Summary: Page 10 of 16

Homeward Bound Home Inspection

Record s12345678 - Sample Home Inspection Report, 123 Your New St, Your New Town, MI 48???

Service/Repair/ Comments

ELECTRIC

Entry Line

The entry line is frayed and deteriorated. Replacement is needed.
Contact a licensed electrician for a repair quote.
 

Electrical Receptacles

A sample number of receptacles were tested during this inspection. All of the receptacles were not checked.

The number of electrical receptacles is typical for a home of this age.

PLUMBING

PLUMBING

What constitutes "adequate" water volume varies from person-to-person.
WE RECOMMEND YOU CHECK THE WATER VOLUME TO ENSURE IT MEETS YOUR PERSONAL NEEDS.

Interior Waste/Vent Pipes

All plumbing under the slab and/or in non-visible areas is not verifiable.

Summary: Page 11 of 16

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Record s12345678 - Sample Home Inspection Report, 123 Your New St, Your New Town, MI 48???

Service/Repair/ Comments

Outside Spigots

Consider internal winterizing as a second measure of protection.

W. HEATER 1

WATER HEATER 1

The average life of a typical hot water tank is 10 - 14 years. The remaining life and recovery rate of this/these unit's
cannot be determined by this visual inspection.

LAUNDRY

LAUNDRY

Any inspected appliances are only run through a basic, quick cycle, to see if major components are operating.
Timers, internal lights, temperature settings, and miscellaneous special features were not checked.

Laundry Sink Faucets

A leak was noted at the valve stems of the faucet. Minor repair is needed.

Washing Machine

Keep in mind the advanced age of this appliance.

Dryer

Keep in mind the advanced age of this appliance.

FURNACE (1)

FURNACE (1)

The furnace should be thoroughly cleaned and adjusted by a licensed and qualified heating contractor every year
before the heating season begins. The average life of this type of furnace is 18-20 years.

Visible Heat Exchanger (1)

Even when great care is taken to inspect heat exchanger visually most of it is not accessible and some problems
may not be visible. Some dirt and rust noted. The unit should be cleaned (normal maintenance).

Thermostat (1)

Consider updating to a programmable thermostat.

Filter System (1)

The current filter is dirty and should be replaced. Replacement of this type of filter will be needed monthly.

BASEMENT

BASEMENT

Proper maintenance of the gutter and downspout system and proper drainage away from the home can help
minimize the potential for water penetration into the basement.

Summary: Page 12 of 16

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Record s12345678 - Sample Home Inspection Report, 123 Your New St, Your New Town, MI 48???

Service/Repair/ Comments

Basement Foundation Walls

Some cracks and past water penetration noted.

Basement Finished Ceiling

The finished ceiling obstructs 60% of the floor joists, beams, sub-floor and other
sub-structure components. These areas were not inspected.

Moisture stains were noted under the bathroom and at the west wall indicating
past plumbing leaks. Both areas were tested and found dry at the time of inspection.

Summary: Page 13 of 16

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Record s12345678 - Sample Home Inspection Report, 123 Your New St, Your New Town, MI 48???

Service/Repair/ Comments

Basement Wall Finished/Obstructed

Inspection limited by finished areas and stored items. Approximately 70% of the
walls are obstructed. Some minor settling cracks were noted. No repair needed at this time.

Water Penetration

Some visible staining and efflorescence present, indicating past water
penetration. Ask the current owner for any history of past leaking and what was
done to prevent it. Regrading and proper gutter maintenance, can help minimize
the potential for water penetration. All basements can leak during extreme
weather. Monitor for water penetration and repair as needed.

Dry walls at the time of inspection does not indicate that water penetration will not
develop in the future.p33]

Summary: Page 14 of 16

Homeward Bound Home Inspection

Record s12345678 - Sample Home Inspection Report, 123 Your New St, Your New Town, MI 48???

Service/Repair/ Comments

HALF BATH (1)

BATHROOM (1)

This bathroom is located in the basement.

Toilet Bowl and Tank (1)

The toilet runs. Adjust, or repair the float , or flush valve.

Bathroom Ventilation (1)

There is no bathroom exhaust fan for the basement bathroom. One should be added. Either a fan or window is required.

BATHROOM (1)

Bathroom Sink Drain and Trap (1)

Rust noted in trap monitor for leakage. Consider preventative replacement.

Bathtub (1)

The bathtub caulk needs to be improved.

Bathroom Floor (1)

The threshold tile is cracked and loose. It should be replaced.

KITCHEN (1)

KITCHEN (1)

The appliances were tested in a basic cycle. Individual timers, cycles, etc. were not tested.

Kitchen Drain and Trap (1)

There is minor corrosion in the drain line. It is not actively leaking at this time. Consider preventative replacement.

Dishwasher (1)

Keep in mind the advanced age of this appliance.

Range/Oven (1)

Keep in mind the advanced age of this appliance.

Summary: Page 15 of 16

Homeward Bound Home Inspection

Record s12345678 - Sample Home Inspection Report, 123 Your New St, Your New Town, MI 48???

Service/Repair/ Comments

Refrigerator (1)

The refrigerator door seal is torn. It should be replaced.

Keep in mind the advanced age of this appliance.

ATTIC

Attic Accessibility

INTERIOR

INTERIOR ROOMS

This inspection does not include any type of testing for presence of mold, or any other environmental risk.

Interior Walls

There is typical damage to the drywall/plaster. It is typically, not a structural issue. Repair is considered normal
maintenance.

Interior Ceilings

There is typical damage to the drywall/plaster. It is typically, not a structural issue. Repair is considered normal
maintenance.

Closets

Hardware adjustment needed. Some doors catch and rub. This is typical in older homes due to settlement.

Windows

Not all windows were opened.

Summary: Page 16 of 16

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Inspection Report Details

Record s12345678 - Sample Home Inspection Report, 123 Your New St, Your New Town, MI 48???

EXTERIOR

Serviceable

Type of Home - Frame, Bungalow

Serviceable

Exposed Foundation - Serviceable, Basement

Service/Repair/
Comments

Soffit\Fascia - Serviceable, Aluminum/Vinyl

The presence of wood rot behind the aluminum/vinyl can not be determined by this inspection.
There is no visible damage at the time of inspection.

Service/Repair/
Comments

Trim Work - Serviceable, Aluminum/Vinyl

The presence of wood rot behind the aluminum/vinyl can not be determined by this inspection.
No visible damage was noted at the time of inspection.

Service/Repair/
Comments

Siding - Serviceable, Aluminum

The presence of wood rot behind the aluminum/vinyl can not be determined by this inspection. There is a loose corner
piece at the northwest corner. Minor repair is needed.

Service/Repair/
Comments

Grading - Defect Noted

Soil should be sloped away from house to improve drainage. Minor regrading is needed at the north and west. The
drive also drains towards the house (see below).

Service/Repair/
Comments

Entry Doors - Serviceable, Wood, Other

Reconditioning is needed at the sill and frame of both the side and front doors.

Service/Repair/
Comments

Storm Doors - Serviceable, Other

The storm door inside handle needs to be replaced.

Service/Repair/
Comments

Window Character Material - Serviceable, Vinyl

Service/Repair/
Comments

Glass - Serviceable, Insulated

At times, broken thermal seals are difficult to identify because of dirty windows, overcast weather, interior window
dressings, etc. No visibly broken seals were noted at the time of inspection.

Serviceable

Windows Storm\Screen - Serviceable

Major Defect

Basement Windows - Defect Noted

There are several cracked basement windows and deteriorated sills. Replacement is needed. Consider glass block.
Anticipate expensive repair costs.

GROUNDS

Serviceable

Walks - Serviceable, Concrete, Other

There is minor cracking noted in the walk to the front porch. No repair is needed at this time.

Major Defect

Driveway - Defect Noted, Concrete

The driveway has cracked and settled towards the house. Some slab replacement is needed. Anticipate expensive
repair costs.

Inspection Details: Page 1 of 12

Homeward Bound Home Inspection

Record s12345678 - Sample Home Inspection Report, 123 Your New St, Your New Town, MI 48???

GROUNDS

Serviceable

Fence - Serviceable, Chain link

Safety Concern

Steps - Defect Noted

The wood steps a the front porch are inconstant. They should be replaced or corrected for safety.

Serviceable

Patio - Serviceable, Masonry

Service/Repair/
Comments

Porches - Defect Noted, Masonry

Some block deterioration noted and some settlement away from the house is visible. Repair the block deterioration and
seal the joint between the porch and house. Monitor for further movement. Eventual replacement may be needed but is
unlikely in the near future.

GUTTERS

Service/Repair/
Comments

GUTTER SYSTEM - General Comment

Gutters should be cleaned in the Fall and Spring. Gutter guards are recommended to reduce debris accumulation in the gutters.

Service/Repair/
Comments

Gutter - Serviceable, Aluminum, Other

The back gutter is dented and loose. It functions properly but eventual replacement will be needed.

Service/Repair/
Comments

Downspout - Defect Noted

The bottom boot is missing at two west downspouts.

Service/Repair/
Comments

Downspout Extensions - Missing

Add extensions to all downspouts, where missing, to move water away from the foundation.

ROOF

Serviceable

How Inspected - Walk on Roof

Service/Repair/
Comments

Roof Covering (Area 1) - Asphalt/Fiberglass

The average useful life of asphalt shingle roofing material is 15 to 20 years. There is no visible damage to this roof to
the time of inspection.

Serviceable

Approx. Age (Area 1) - 1 to 5

Major Defect

Roof Covering (Area 2) - Defect Noted, Other

The metal awning over the front porch is torn. Repair, or replacement is needed. Anticipate expensive costs to replace it.

Serviceable

Number of Layers - 1

Serviceable

Roof Ventilation System - Serviceable, Ridge, Roof

Serviceable

Flashing - Serviceable

Inspection Details: Page 2  of 12

Homeward Bound Home Inspection

Record s12345678 - Sample Home Inspection Report, 123 Your New St, Your New Town, MI 48???

ROOF

Serviceable

Plumbing Vents - Serviceable

Service/Repair/
Comments

Valleys - Serviceable

Monitor the valleys of the roof closely. They are, typically, the first part of a roof to deteriorate. There is no visible
damage at the time of inspection.

CHIMNEY

Serviceable

Chimney Inspected From - Roof

Serviceable

Chimney (1) - Serviceable, Masonry, Metal

Serviceable

Chimney (1) Location - Center

Serviceable

Cap/Crown (1) - Serviceable