Alatech Home Inspection Service Website:www.AlatechHomeInspection.com E-Mail:Alatech@cableone.net Report Date December 7, 2006 Report Prepared For: Mr. Frank Smith 1075 HALLS CHAPEL RDALAEXANDRIA, AL 36250 (TOLL FREE) 1-800-270-1736 (LOCAL) 256-820-1736 (FAX) 256-820-9828
Porch steps need railing. Step riser not standard height. Gap in caulk arond window. Concrete slab has excessive slope. Flashing missing behind slab Blocks mortar cracked or missing. Block damaged. 2x4 is supporting the rear porch. 2
2x4 supporting corner of chimney and concrete slab on the rear. Foundation vent missing. Holes in window frame not sealed. Flashing missing between brick and vinyl. Shingles missing nails Aluminum installed backwards. Water can enter behind aluminum.. 3
Kickout missing at the roof/wall termination. Water can enter behind siding. Ridge vent does not lay flat against roof. Water and debris can enter under vent. Hand railing needed in the garage. Closet door and trim in poor condition. Closet needs to be finished with drywall to prevent the spread of fire. Safety pan missing under water heater. 4
Door weather strip missing on garage door. Plastic plugs missing over screws and door needs to be cleaned. Gas line needs to be sealed with fire resistant caulk. Stove does fit flush with counter. Gap between cabinet and wall. Trash needs to be cleaned from vent. A/C duct needs to be sealed at the floor. 5
Hole in wall behind toilet in the hall bathroom. Loose outlet in the right rear bedroom. Insulation blocking soffit vents. Wood shim compressed under beam. Freon lines on ground. Flex pipe connected to smooth dryer pipe. Pex water lines not supported. 6
Abandoned conductors on ground. I joist cut. 120 Volt conductor connected to the 230 volt circuit for the heat pump. 120 volt circuit needed for condensate pump. Gaps between the return duct and air handler. All duct joints should be sealed with mastic to prevent air leaks. Ducts not insulated. Duct needs to be sealed at the floor. Condensation on the duct can damage the wood framing. Gaps need to be sealed around the return duct at the floor. 7
Alatech Building Inspection Report Time: 8:00 AM Weather: Sunny: 47 degrees Persons who attended: Mr. Smith Larry Brooks 1075 Halls Chapel Rd. Alexandria Al 36250 256-820-1736 www.alatechinspection.com alatech@cableone.net License No: HI0007 & EIFS 0667 11
Report Overview THE HOUSE IN PERSPECTIVE For reference purposes the locations of the deficiencies and observations are indicated in this report are as if facing the structure from the street. CONVENTIONS USED IN THIS REPORT For your convenience, the following conventions have been used in this report. Major Concern: a system or component, which is considered significantly deficient or is unsafe. Significant deficiencies need to be corrected and, except for some safety items, are likely to involve significant expense. Safety Issue: denotes a condition that is unsafe and in need of prompt attention. Repair: denotes a system or component which is missing or which needs corrective action to assure proper and reliable function. Improve: denotes improvements, which are recommended but not required. Monitor: denotes a system or component needing further investigation and/or monitoring in order to determine if repairs are necessary. Please note that those observations listed under Discretionary Improvements are not essential repairs, but represent logical long-term improvements. IMPROVEMENT RECOMMENDATION HIGHLIGHTS / SUMMARY The following is a synopsis of the potentially significant improvements that should be budgeted for over the short term. Other significant improvements, outside the scope of this inspection, may also be necessary. Please refer to the body of this report for further details on these and other recommendations. The inspection of the mechanical systems and appliances is limited to a visual inspection only. The inspection of the any defects that are noted because of brand, make or model should be researched further by the purchaser through the Consumer Products Safety Commission, for the latest recall information. WWW.CPSC.COM THE SCOPE OF THE INSPECTION All components designated for inspection in the ASHI â Standards of Practice are inspected, except as may be noted in the Limitations of Inspection sections within this report. It is the goal of the inspection to put a homebuyer in a better position to make a buying decision. Not all improvements will be identified during this inspection. Unexpected repairs should still be anticipated. The inspection should not be considered a guarantee or warranty of any kind. Please refer to the pre-inspection contract for a full explanation of the scope of the inspection. "Important Notice to third parties or other purchasers: Receipt of this report by any purchasers of this property other than the party identified on this Inspection Report is not authorized by the Inspector. The Inspector strongly advises against any reliance on this report. We recommend that you retain a Qualified Professional Inspector to provide you with your own inspection and report on this property." 12
Structural Components DESCRIPTION OF STRUCTURAL COMPONENTS Foundation: Floor Structure: Wall Structure: Ceiling Structure: Roof Structure: Concrete Block Crawl Space Configuration Crawl space entered I joist Wood Frame Joist Rafters OSB Plywood STRUCTURAL COMPONENT OBSERVATIONS RECOMMENDATIONS / OBSERVATIONS Foundation Repair: The concrete slab on the rear porch is supported with 2x4 framing that was secured with nails to the masonry wall. The wood support could fail and the slab could fall. Masonry footing and piers needs to be installed. Repair: The rear porch has damaged and loose blocks. Removing the damaged block, mortar and re-pointing is suggested. Improve: Wood supports were added under the rear porch. Wood/soil contact should be eliminated. This condition is risks rot and wood boring insect activity. The lack of a footing the brace would not be effective. Repair: The foundation vents are missing on the rear. Repair or replacing the vents to restore full function is suggested. All potential vermin entry points to the crawl space should be sealed to reduce risk of pest activity or damage. Improve: All wood debris and/or trash should be removed from the crawl space. Organic debris around a property increases risk of insect or rot damage. Floors Repair: The floor joists on the left and right side are cantilevered over the foundation wall and the band joist does not rest on the foundation. The band joist is needed to carry the weight of the structure. Adding 2x4 blocking between the I joists is suggested. Major Concern: Repair: The sills of the structure do not have the proper number and spacing of anchor bolts. Bolts should be twelve inches from each corner and six feet apart down each wall. Proper connectors to fasten the sills to the foundation should be installed to protect the building from movement and damage. Repair: Floor trusses under the master bathroom and bathroom by the laundry have been altered, sacrificing their integrity. Trusses should not be cut or modified without special engineering of additional support. This area should be investigated as repairs may be needed. Repair: No blocking was installed between the joists where they cross the support beams. This was common in the past, but is now considered substandard. SUGGESTION: A qualified technician should be retained to evaluate the framing and determine what corrective action may be needed. Repair: The girders are shimmed with narrow pieces of wood. The weight of the structure can compress the shims. The shims should be wider to cover the entire top of the pier to spread the weight of the structure over a larger area. The deficiencies should be evaluated and repaired by a qualified contractor. 13
LIMITATIONS OF STRUCTURAL COMPONENT INSPECTION As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions: Structural components concealed behind finished surfaces could not be inspected. Only a representative sampling of visible structural components was inspected. Furniture and/or storage restricted access to some structural components. Engineering or architectural services such as calculation of structural capacities, adequacy, or integrity are not part of a home inspection. Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection. 14
Roofing System DESCRIPTION OF ROOFING SYSTEM Roof Covering: Roof Flashings: Chimneys: Roof Drainage System: Skylights: Method of Inspection: Asphalt Shingle Neoprene & Metal None Aluminum Downspouts discharge above grade None Walked on roof ROOFING OBSERVATIONS RECOMMENDATIONS / OBSERVATIONS Sloped Roofing Repair: The roofing material is in good condition. However the installation workmanship was poor. While this does not pose a serious short term concern, it risks leaks and reduced roof life. Not enough nails were installed on each shingle. This may allow a possible blow off of the shingles. The roofing deficiencies should be evaluated and repaired by a qualified contractor before closing. Repair: The ridge vent is loose and does not lay flat against the shingles. SUGGESTION: Replacing the ridge is suggested. Flashings Improve: There was no visible kick-out flashing where the roofing intersects a sidewall of the rear. A kick-out prevents rainwater from entering the siding, were the flashing terminates above the eave fascias. See sample below for proper installation of the siding and kickout flashing. 15
LIMITATIONS OF ROOFING INSPECTION As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions: Not the entire underside of the roof sheathing is inspected for evidence of leaks. Interior finishes may disguise evidence of prior leaks. Estimates of remaining roof life are approximations only and do not preclude the possibility of leakage. Leakage can develop at any time and may depend on rain intensity, wind direction, ice build up, and other factors. Antennae, chimney/flue interiors that are not readily accessible are not inspected and could require repair. Roof inspection may be limited by access, condition, weather, or other safety concerns. Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection. 16
Exterior Components DESCRIPTION OF EXTERIOR Wall Covering: Eaves, Soffits, And Fascias: Exterior Doors: Window/Door Frames and Trim: Entry Driveways: Entry Walkways And Patios: Overhead Garage Door(s): Surface Drainage: Retaining Walls: Brick Vinyl Siding Vinyl & Aluminum Metal Vinyl Concrete Concrete Steel Graded Away From House None EXTERIOR OBSERVATIONS RECOMMENDATIONS / OBSERVATIONS Exterior Walls Monitor: The brick siding has no visible weep holes or visible flashing under the windows. The flashing and weep holes are needed to insure moisture that enters the siding can escape. The brick siding usually has a one inch space between the siding and substrate that usually keeps moisture from damaging the structure. Adding weep holes at floor level every three feet to improve ventilation. Since flashing cannot be installed without removing the brick siding; all openings through the siding including windows and doors should be sealed to prevent water entry. Exterior Eaves Repair: The aluminum that covers the fascia on the rear was installed backwards allowing water can enter the structure. SUGGESTION: A competent technician should evaluate and replace all loose, improperly installed or damaged aluminum fascia. Windows Repair: The window frames require caulking along the frame and siding to prevent water from entering. Garage Repair: The garage door opener is inoperative. It should be repaired as necessary. Repair, Safety Issue: The door between the garage and the interior of the house should be rated to resist fire. The glass in door does not meet this requirement. Porch Repair, Safety Issue: As there is a danger of falling, a hand railing that is graspable should be provided for the front porch. Repair: The size and/or orientation of the step risers on the front porch may make the steps difficult to negotiate. Steps at different heights can be a trip hazard; this condition should be altered for improved safety. Major Concern: Repair: The rear porch concrete slab is attached to the structure on top of the OSB plywood substrate without the proper flashing and can promote water entry. Removing the concrete to install flashing is suggested. Safety Issue: The safety sticker for the overhead door opener is missing in the garage. Federal law requires the safety sticker be placed next to the control button. The sticker is provided with the overhead door opener. 17
LIMITATIONS OF EXTERIOR INSPECTION As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions: A representative sample of exterior components was inspected rather than every occurrence of components. The inspection does not include an assessment of geological, geotechnical, or hydrological conditions, or environmental hazards. Screening, shutters, awnings, or similar seasonal accessories, fences, recreational facilities, outbuildings, seawalls, break-walls, docks, erosion control and earth stabilization measures are not inspected unless specifically agreed-upon and documented in this report. Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection. 18
Electrical System DESCRIPTION OF ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Size of Electrical Service: Service Drop: Service Entrance Conductors: Service Equipment & Main Disconnects: Service Grounding: Distribution Wiring: Wiring Method: Switches & Receptacles: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters: Smoke Detectors: 120/240 Volt Main Service - Service Size: 200 Amp Underground Conductors Not Visible Main Service Rating 200 Amps Breakers Located: Garage Copper Ground Connection Not Visible Copper Non-Metallic Cable "Romex" Grounded Bathroom(s) Exterior Garage Present ELECTRICAL OBSERVATIONS RECOMMENDATIONS / OBSERVATIONS Distribution Wiring Repair: Safety Issue: Abandoned wiring was observed in the crawl space. SUGGESTION: Abandoned wiring should be disconnected at its source or terminated in a covered junction box by a qualified technician to reduce the risk to personal safety. Outlets Safety Issue: Receptacles were not securely attached to the wall in the right rear bedroom, which could be a hazard to personal safety. SUGGESTION: A qualified technician should be retained to properly secure the receptacles to insure safe operation of the outlets as designed. Repair: A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet on the front is inoperative. This circuit should be repaired. Repair: The installation of a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is recommended in the kitchen outlets above all the counters. A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is a relatively inexpensive device, that provide a substantial electrical shock safety factor, and also reduce the amount of energy released (and therefore reduce the fire hazard) when short circuits to ground occur.. Safety Issue: Repair: The installation of an arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) is recommended in the bedroom outlets. A ark fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) is a relatively inexpensive device, that provides a substantial electrical safety factor from loose connections or deteriorated conductors, and also reduce the amount of energy released (and therefore reduce the fire hazard) when loose connections and short circuits occur. Repair: Safety Issue: The number of receptacles in the kitchen is insufficient. The bar counter has no visible outlets. Adding more receptacles within specific distance along the counter surfaces for safe operation of electrical appliances is recommended. Lights Repair: The light and outlet for service in the under building crawl space was not installed. The light and a GFCI protected outlet is needed incase service to the heating system is needed. The outlet and light should be installed by a qualified electrical technician. 19
Repair: The kitchen light fixture is loose and does not fit flush with the ceiling surface. Re-securing the loose fixture to restore appearance is suggested. Safety Issue: Repair: The installation of smoke detectors outside the master bedroom is recommended. LIMITATIONS OF ELECTRICAL INSPECTION As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions: Electrical components concealed behind finished surfaces are not inspected. Only a representative sampling of outlets and light fixtures were tested. Furniture and/or storage restricted access to some electrical components, which may not be inspected. The inspection does not include remote control devices, alarm systems and components, low voltage wiring, systems, and components, ancillary wiring, systems, and other components, which are not part of the primary electrical power distribution system. Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection. 20
Cooling / Heat Pump System DESCRIPTION OF COOLING / HEAT PUMP SYSTEM Energy Source: Central System Type: 240 Volt Power Supply Air Source Heat Pump System Cooling BTU s 36,000 SYSTEM OBSERVATIONS RECOMMENDATIONS / OBSERVATIONS Heat Pump Repair: The condensate pump male plug was removed, and the conductor connected to the power supply for the air handler. The pump should be plugged into a dedicated outlet and the safety float switch should be connected to the control circuit. The pump should be evaluated and repaired by a qualified HVAC contractor. Repair: The freon lines in the crawl space were not properly supported and are lying on the ground. The installation of straps to support the lines by a qualified heating and cooling contractor is suggested. Supply Air Ductwork Repair: Loose fitting joints and/or openings in the ductwork should be sealed with mastic to prevent conditioned air from discharging into the crawl space. Repair: Insulation was deteriorated or missing from a portion of the supply duct in the crawl space. SUGGESTION: All missing insulation should be replaced to restore the energy efficiency of the system. Return Air Ductwork Repair: Loose fitting joints and/or openings in the return ductwork should be improved to prevent unfiltered outside air from entering the system. House Fan Repair: The ceiling fan in the master bedroom was out of balance. SUGGESTION: We recommend the fan be balanced to restore smooth operation. LIMITATIONS OF COOLING / HEAT PUMP SYSTEM INSPECTION As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions: Window mounted air conditioning units are not inspected. The cooling supply adequacy or distribution balance are not inspected. The heat pump was operated in the heating mode only. NOTE: Inspection and evaluation of the defrost circuitry of the heat pump was not conducted. A full evaluation of the condition of the heat pump requires extensive tested, and is beyond the scope of a home inspection. Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection. 21
Insulation / Ventilation DESCRIPTION OF INSULATION / VENTILATION Attic Insulation: Exterior Wall Insulation: Crawl Space Insulation: Roof Ventilation: Crawl Space Ventilation: Exhaust Fan/vent Locations: Glass fiber Not Visible None Ridge Vents & Soffit Vents Exterior Wall Vents Bathroom & Dryer INSULATION / VENTILATION OBSERVATIONS RECOMMENDATIONS / ENERGY SAVING SUGGESTIONS Attic / Roof Repair: The bathroom exhaust fans should be vented to the building exterior. Repair: The passage of air between the soffit vents and the roof cavity is obstructed with insulation. Blocking should be provided to hold back insulation and allow for free movement of air within the roof space. Floors Insulation improvements may be desirable, to improve the comfort of the room above. Crawl Space Repair: A moisture barrier should be installed under the front and rear porch. LIMITATIONS OF INSULATION / VENTILATION INSPECTION As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions: Insulation/ventilation type and levels in concealed areas are not inspected. Insulation and vapor barriers are not disturbed and no destructive tests (such as cutting openings in walls to look for insulation) are performed. Potentially hazardous materials such as Asbestos and Urea Formaldehyde Foam Insulation (UFFI) cannot be positively identified without a detailed inspection and laboratory analysis. This is beyond the scope of the inspection. An analysis of indoor air quality is not part of our inspection unless explicitly contracted-for and discussed in this or a separate report. Any estimates of insulation R-values or depths are rough average values. Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection. 22
Plumbing System DESCRIPTION OF PLUMBING SYSTEM Water Supply Source: Service Pipe to House: Main Water Valve Location: Interior Supply Piping: Waste System: Drain, Waste, & Vent Piping: Water Heater: Public Water Supply Plastic At street Plastic Private Sewage System Plastic Electric Approximate Capacity (in gallons): 47 PLUMBING OBSERVATIONS RECOMMENDATIONS / OBSERVATIONS Water Heater Improve: The electric water heater was installed without a safety catch pan under the unit. A pan under the heater will protect the floor if the heater should leak. Repair: The discharge piping from the temperature pressure relief valve terminated in the crawl space. SUGGESTION: The discharge piping should be routed to an approved exterior location by a qualified technician. Repair: There is no shut off valve on the cold water supply to the water heater. The lack of a valve could prove to be very inconvenient in the event that the water heater or the connection in the hot water supply line begins to leak significantly. Supply Plumbing Repair: The supply piping lacks adequate support. Waste / Vent Repair: The sagging waste piping should be better supported. Monitor: No clean out for the main drain was found. Clean outs are useful when attempting to remove obstructions within the drainage piping. It may be prudent to have a clean out installed now, or verify its location with the existing owner. Fixtures Repair: The drain stop on the washbasin in the hall bath was not operational. SUGGESTION: All missing, or damaged or non-functioning drain stops should be repaired or replaced to restore full function. Repair: The toilets were not sealed to floor. The toilet needs to be caulked to the floor to secure the toilet and to prevent water from entering under the toilet. Improve: The shower head in the hall bath is loose. The supply piping was not secured during construction. Repair: The hall bathroom tub faucet does not fit flush with the wall and water can enter the wall cavity behind the spout. Caulking the spout is suggested. Improve: The tub in the hall bathroom is damaged. Small scratches were noted inside the tub. Refinishing tubs is possible. Repair: The whirlpool bath was inoperative at the time of the inspection. Repair: Access to the whirlpool motor should be provided. 23
Discretionary Improvements To reduce the risk of contamination of supply water, installation of anti-siphon devices on exterior hose bibs would be wise. LIMITATIONS OF PLUMBING INSPECTION As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions: Portions of the plumbing system concealed by finishes and/or storage (below sinks, etc.), below the structure, or beneath the ground surface are not inspected. Water quantity and water quality are not tested unless explicitly contracted-for and discussed in this or a separate report. Clothes washing machine connections are not inspected. Interiors of flues or chimneys, which are not readily accessible, are not inspected. Water conditioning systems, solar water heaters, fire and lawn sprinkler systems, and private waste disposal systems are not inspected unless explicitly contracted-for and discussed in this or a separate report. Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection. 24
Interior Components DESCRIPTION OF INTERIOR Wall and Ceiling Materials: Floor Surfaces: Window Type(s) & Glazing: Drywall Carpet & Vinyl/Resilient Double/Single Hung Double Glazed INTERIOR OBSERVATIONS General Condition of Interior Finishes On the whole, the interior finishes of the home are in average condition. Typical flaws and dirt were observed in some areas. RECOMMENDATIONS / OBSERVATIONS Wall / Ceiling Finishes Repair: The wall surfaces were properly installed and in acceptable condition, except in the hall bathroom and living room by the fireplace. We suggest repair in that area to restore function and appearance. Doors Repair: The passage door in the right front bedroom did not latch. SUGGESTION: Repair or replacement of the door latch/lock is recommended to restore full function. Repair: The weather stripping for the garage entry door is missing. Repair: The hall bathroom door has a broken doorstop. Repairing the door stop is suggested. Windows Repair: One of the windows in the master bedroom did not operate properly because its counterweight spring mechanisms are weak. The lower sash will not stay up. SUGGESTION: Repair or replace of the counterweight springs to restore full function of the window is recommended. Repair: The window in the hall bath was inoperative. Repair: Damaged screen was noted on bonus room window. Bathroom Cabinets Repair: The drawer in the master bath is difficult to open and close. Some adjustment or replacement of the drawer guide may be needed. Stairways Repair, Safety Issue: For improved safety, it is recommended that a handrail be provided for the stairway. Repair: The installation of interior finishes in the stairwell is incomplete. Floors Repair: The edge of the flooring at the base of the bathtub was not sealed to prevent splash-over water from entering. SUGGESTION: The flooring should be caulked to reduce the potential for water penetration and possible damage to the sub-floor. Discretionary Improvements TIP: As a safety upgrade, one or more CO detectors could be installed in locations and in a manner suggested by the manufacture r of the detector. 25
LIMITATIONS OF INTERIOR INSPECTION As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions Furniture, storage, appliances and/or wall hangings are not moved to permit inspection and may block defects. Carpeting, window treatments, central vacuum systems, household appliances, recreational facilities, paint, wallpaper, and other finish treatments are not inspected. Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection. 26
Appliances DESCRIPTION OF APPLIANCES Appliances Tested: None APPLIANCE OBSERVATIONS RECOMMENDATIONS / OBSERVATIONS Electric Range Repair: The utility drawer in the range is damaged. Repair: The stove top does not fit tight against the counter. Dishwasher Safety Issue: Repair: The dishwasher lacks an air-gap device. It is advised that one be installed or raising the drainpipe high under the cabinet against the under side of the counter should create a gap to prevent contaminated water from entering the dishwasher. Repair: The dishwasher door is damaged. Waste Disposer Repair: The waste disposer is inoperative. Clothes Dryer Repair: The dryer duct has a damaged back-draft damper. Safety Issue: The use of flexible ducts contributes to poor dryer performance. Replacing the flex duct with a rigid aluminum or rigid galvanized steel duct and taped with aluminum tape to make a moisture tight seal. The interior of the duct should be smooth surfaced with the joints running in the direction of the air flow. There should be no sheet-metal screws, rivets or any other fastener used to connect the duct. Kitchen Exhaust Hood Repair: Screens missing. LIMITATIONS OF APPLIANCE INSPECTION As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions Thermostats, timers and other specialized features and controls are not tested. The temperature calibration, functionality of timers, effectiveness, efficiency and overall performance of appliances is outside the scope of this inspection. Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection. 27
Fireplaces & Solid Fuel Burning Appliances DESCRIPTION OF FIREPLACES & SOLID FUEL BURNING APPLIANCES Fireplaces: Vents, Flues, Chimneys: Gas None FIREPLACES & SOLID FUEL BURNING APPLIANCE OBSERVATIONS RECOMMENDATIONS / OBSERVATIONS Fireplaces Safety Issue: The opening around the gas pipe should be sealed with a high temperature sealant. LIMITATIONS OF FIREPLACE & SOLID FUEL BURNING APPLIANCE INSPECTION As we have discussed and as described in your inspection contract, this is a visual inspection limited in scope by (but not restricted to) the following conditions The interiors of flues or chimneys are not inspected. Fire screens, fireplace doors, appliance gaskets and seals, automatic fuel feed devices, mantles and fireplace surrounds, combustion make-up air devices, and heat distribution assists (gravity or fan-assisted) are not inspected. The inspection does not involve igniting or extinguishing fires or the determination of draft. Fireplace inserts, stoves, or firebox contents are not moved. Please also refer to the pre-inspection contract for a detailed explanation of the scope of this inspection. 28