Home Inspection Report

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2761 Gonzaga Street, East Palo Alto

Inspection date:
February 19, 2021
Read & Received
Inspected for:
Don Mitchell
Real Estate Experts
Signature DATE
Inspected by:
Alex Abreu
Signature DATE
2761 Gonzaga Street, East Palo Alto – Property Inspection Service, Inc. Page 2 of 12

Dear Client,

This report, regarding the residence mentioned above, has been prepared at your request.
While it is prepared exclusively for you, you may share it as you please. We do not and
will not discuss the details of this report with others without your permission.

The purpose of this inspection is to identify and disclose visually observable conditions and
deficiencies of the inspected systems and items at the time of the inspection only. The
scope of this inspection is intended to be an overview, rather than an exhaustive
evaluation of a particular system or component. This is not a code compliance report, so
the items included in our inspection will be judged based on ASHI standards. We do our
best to apply this policy using the date of original construction as the basis for comments.
Please be advised, some violations and unserviceable conditions can be a threat to health
and safety. Some items included in our report will require the inspector’s subjective
opinion of their condition. In such cases, it is our intent to remain neutral and unbiased.
Additionally, this inspection is not intended to provide a warranty for the continued use of
any system or component, nor does it dictate what should or should not be included in the
home and/or property.

Given the fact that we typically have very little historical information in advance of the
inspection and a number of the components are not visible and/or accessible during the
inspection, we urge you to be diligent in your review of the seller’s disclosure statement
(TDS form), and we encourage you to ask any questions that will help provide peace of
mind before you buy.

Property Inspection Service inspection methods and reports meet or exceed the home
inspection standards (January 1, 2000 revision) set by the American Society of Home
Inspectors (ASHI).

Please be advised regarding any disputed item, any and all possible financial responsibility
by our company will be null and void in the event our office is not contacted prior to any
corrective work performed. Property Inspection Service is neither a guarantor nor insurer.

Thank you for selecting Property Inspection Service for your inspection. Feel free to call
our office if you have any questions concerning this report.

Sincerely,

Property Inspection Service


OFFICE: 1-800-RED-FLAG | 408-261-7000 | 650-348-3600
larry@propertyinspection.com | chrisinsp@gmail.com

Mailing Address:
Property Inspection Service
PO Box 28917
San Jose, CA 95159

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2761 Gonzaga Street, East Palo Alto – Property Inspection Service, Inc. Page 3 of 12

DESCRIPTION OF TERMS

A system or component is serviceable when it serves its intended purpose and shows no
unusual signs of deterioration.

A minor condition exists at a system or component when, in the inspector’s opinion, the
deterioration and/or inadequate functionality of the item has advanced to a point of
service that the item should be considered for improvement during routine homeowner
maintenance. In some cases, minor conditions will simply be noted for you to monitor or
be aware of, and in other cases it will be suggested that the minor condition be corrected.

When an unserviceable or severe condition is present at a system or component, it will be


recommended that the condition be observed by a licensed contractor or qualified
professional of the trade for further consultation and possible recommendations for
corrective work.

DISCLOSURES

This is primarily a visual inspection. It is not our intention to underline and/or number
every item of possible repair. The inspection does not include the examination of
concealed items within the walls, under concrete slabs or concealed vapor barriers, behind
stucco, below shower floors, below balconies and/or decks, and any other location or item
that is visually inaccessible.

Our inspection does not include the examination or disclosure of termites, pest
infestations, dry rot, fungus or mold. We do not perform water quality and or water
analysis testing. Please contact a qualified professional for inspection or analysis of these
items.

Our inspection does not include the examination or disclosure of the presence of any
environmentally hazardous materials or the presence of, but not limited to, urea-
formaldehyde, asbestos, radon or lead paint. The identification of these items requires
specialized skills that we do not have, therefore, if you wish to have any of these
materials identified, please consult a qualified professional.

Our inspection does not include all items specific to Title 25’s mobile/ modular/
manufactured homes.

This inspection report shall not be transferred or relied upon by any other person or
company without the written consent of Property Inspection Service.

PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE REPORT


Client hereby acknowledges they have received and read the report in its entirety.

Name__________________________________ Date_________________________

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2761 Gonzaga Street, East Palo Alto – Property Inspection Service, Inc. Page 4 of 12

DESCRIPTION

The single-family residence was built in 1953, was inspected during dry weather
conditions, and was occupied at the time of this inspection.

PROPERTY SITE

1. CURBS & GUTTERS


The concrete curb and gutter adjacent to the street is in serviceable condition. There are
minor cracks in the curb and gutter, however, they do not appear to compromise its
serviceability, therefore, repair is not suggested at this time.

2. SIDEWALK
The concrete sidewalk appears to be in serviceable condition. There are minor cracks at
the sidewalk, however, this condition does not appear to compromise its serviceability,
therefore, corrective work is not required at this time.

3. DRIVEWAY
The concrete driveway is in serviceable condition.

4. FENCE
The wood fence is in serviceable condition with no evidence of excessive or unusual
deterioration. There are several rotted posts at the right fence. This condition appears to
be the result of deferred maintenance and could be corrected during routine maintenance
of the fence.

5. SITE DRAINAGE
The surface water drainage adjacent to the foundation of the building appears to be
generally adequate.

BUILDING EXTERIOR

6. SIDING
The stucco exterior covering of the building is in serviceable condition.

7. PATIO & PORCH


The brick/pavers patio at the rear of the building and the concrete porch at the front of
the building are in serviceable condition.

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8. WALKS
The concrete walks at the front, rear, and right side of the property appear to be in
serviceable condition. There are minor cracks in the walks, however, this condition does
not appear to compromise their serviceability, therefore, repair is not suggested at this
time.

9. WINDOWS
A representative number of exterior windows were inspected and appear to be in
serviceable condition for proper operation and weather sealing. However, our inspection
does not include the confirmation of the condition of weatherproofing flashing. This
flashing is concealed behind the exterior siding and is not visible.

10. EXTERIOR DOORS


THE FOLLOWING DOOR CONDITION WOULD SUGGEST CORRECTION:
A. The side garage door rubs on the jamb.
It is suggested that the door condition be corrected.

ROOF

The inspection of the roof covering was performed by walking on the roof.

11. ROOF MATERIAL


The rolled composition roof covering for the building appears to be in serviceable
condition.

12. FLASHING
The roof is equipped with metal flashing. The metal flashing serve to provide a watertight
seal for all penetrations through the roof, i.e., plumbing vents, flues, and chimneys. The
flashing at this roof appear to be in serviceable condition and do not show any unusual
signs of excessive deterioration.

13. RAIN GUTTERS


The rain gutters appear to be in serviceable condition with no signs of unusual or
excessive deterioration.

14. DOWNSPOUTS
The downspouts appear to be in serviceable condition with no signs of unusual or
excessive deterioration.

15. CHIMNEY SPARK ARRESTOR


The fireplace chimney is equipped with a spark arrestor to prevent burning ash from
escaping from the chimney. This is an added safety feature.

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16. CHIMNEY
Based on the method of inspection that we perform, the chimney at the house appears to
be in serviceable condition with no signs of unusual or excessive deterioration. Since it is
possible for a more aggressive method of inspection to identify and even create a break in
the chimney, no comment can be given as to the condition of the chimney after
subsequent or multiple inspections are performed. This inspection report in no way
guarantees the present structural strength of this chimney and Property Inspection
Service assumes no liability for the future stability of this chimney.

The exterior cover for the ash clean-out at the base of the chimney is missing. It is
suggested that the condition be corrected.

BUILDING INTERIOR
The building interior is inspected for evidence of structural failure only, therefore,
there are no comments made concerning the cosmetic condition of the paint, wall
covering, carpeting, drapes, etc. Conditions concealed by personal items such as
storage or furniture are not included in this inspection.

17. ROOMS
The condition of the walls and the ceilings within the building do not reflect any signs of
unusual or excessive settlement or structural failure.

The floors at several locations have evidence of minor crowning and minor sloping. These
conditions appear to be the result of settlement and do not appear to be unusual
considering the age of the building. However, we cannot confirm if the conditions have
stabilized. Since there is no standard or measurement to determine when corrective
measures should be taken, it becomes a personal decision. Please be sure to make your
own evaluation to determine if the present level of floor crowning and sloping is
acceptable.

THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS WOULD SUGGEST CORRECTIONS:


A. There are cracked tiles and/or missing caulk/grout at the dining area.
It is suggested that the condition be corrected.
B. The door serving the far-right bedroom rubs on the jamb.
It is recommended that a competent contractor be consulted for recommendations and
corrective work.

18. FIREPLACE
The smoke damper is not serviceable in its present condition because it difficult to
operate. It is recommended that a competent contractor be consulted for review.

There is evidence of minor cracks and minor erosion at the firebrick lining of the firebox,
however, these conditions do not appear to compromise the serviceability of the fireplace.

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There is evidence of excessive buildup of creosote. This suggests that it would be


appropriate that the chimney be cleaned as a part of routine maintenance and to permit a
more complete inspection of the chimney lining.

19. SMOKE DETECTOR


The house is equipped with smoke detectors located in the hallway adjacent to the
bedroom area and in the bedrooms. These units should be checked monthly for proper
operation.

20. CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR


A carbon monoxide detector is present. This unit should be checked monthly for proper
operation.

CO alarms should be installed according to the manufacturer's instructions. CPSC


recommends that one CO alarm be installed in the hallway outside the bedrooms in each
separate sleeping area of the home. CO alarms may be installed into a plug-in receptacle
or high on the wall. Hard wired or plug-in CO alarms should have battery backup. Avoid
locations that are near heating vents or that can be covered by furniture or draperies.
CPSC does not recommend installing CO alarms in kitchens or above fuel-burning
appliances.

KITCHEN APPLIANCES
Our inspection of the appliances does not include confirmation of thermostat
calibration or operation of clocks and/or timers. Our inspection of the dishwasher
is limited to testing the response of the washing command and does not include a
full cycle inspection. We do not provide a “warranty” for continued use of these
appliances. This type of insurance is typically available through a "home warranty
protection plan". It is suggested that all of the appliances be re-checked for
adequate operation during the final walkthrough prior to the close of escrow.

21. KITCHEN APPLIANCES


The following kitchen appliances responded to our operational test:
• The automatic dishwasher.
• The garbage disposal.
• The stovetop burners.
• The oven.
• The range hood.

The dishwasher drain line is not equipped with a required air gap fitting. This condition
could result in the back up of drain water upon the accidental stoppage of the sink drain.
It is suggested that the condition be corrected.

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GARAGE

22. GARAGE STRUCTURE


Inspection at the garage reveals that the garage is in serviceable condition with no signs
of unusual deterioration or structural failure. There is evidence of minor floor cracks,
however, this condition does not appear to compromise the serviceability of the garage.

23. GARAGE DOOR OPENER


The automatic garage door opener responded properly when tested.

ELECTRICAL
Inspection of the electrical system does not include electrical components
concealed behind finished surfaces, low voltage systems, telephone wiring,
intercoms, alarm systems, TV cable, or timers. Conditions concealed by personal
items such as storage or furniture are not included in the inspection. Our
inspection of the electrical system includes a representative number of switches
and outlets.

24. MAIN PANEL


The primary electrical supply for this property is 240 volts at 200 amps, all of which
appears to be in serviceable condition. The main electrical panel is located at the right
side of the building.

The electrical system is provided with a main disconnect switch at the exterior of the
building. This switch should always be kept accessible for use in emergencies.

25. DRYER
The house is not equipped with a 240 volt outlet to accommodate the installation of an
electric clothes dryer, however, this feature is not a requirement.

It is noted that there is a gas clothes dryer at the garage.

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26. CIRCUIT WIRING


The branch circuit wiring uses copper
conductors (wire). The branch circuit wiring
method uses nonmetallic sheathed cable
wiring. The electrical system SHOULD BE
SERVICED to correct the following condition:
A. There are multiple circuits wired to a
single breaker at the main panel. (SEE
PHOTO)
It is recommended that a competent
electrical contractor be consulted for
recommendations and corrective work.
Please be advised that many electrical
conditions may be considered a potential fire
hazard and/or threat to health and safety.

27. GROUND FAULT PROTECTION


The electrical system appears to be equipped with ground fault circuit interrupters at the
bathroom, kitchen, and garage. A GFCI is a fast-acting circuit breaker designed to shut
off electric power in the event of a ground-fault. These outlets should be tested monthly
to insure proper operation for maximum safety protection.

PLUMBING
Inspection of the plumbing system is limited to a visual inspection of the
accessible portions of the plumbing. This inspection does not include sprinkler
systems, portions of the plumbing concealed by finishes and/or storage (i.e. below
sinks, etc.).

28. WATER PIPING


The domestic water piping is copper, all of which appears to be in serviceable condition
with no signs of unusual or excessive deterioration. Our visual inspection and operation of
several faucets suggests that volume and pressure are reasonable.

The main shut-off valve is located at the front of the building.

29. DRAINAGE PIPING


The drainage piping within the property is ABS plastic.

The drainage piping SHOULD BE SERVICED to correct the following conditions:


A. A drain stopper is not provided to serve the hallway bathroom tub.

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2761 Gonzaga Street, East Palo Alto – Property Inspection Service, Inc. Page 10 of 12

B. The drainage piping at half bathroom


sink is an improper material. (SEE
PHOTO)
It is recommended that a competent
plumbing contractor be consulted for
recommendations and corrective work.

30. WATER HEATER


The domestic hot water is furnished by a tankless, gas water heater at the garage. The
unit appears to be serviceable with no signs of unusual deterioration or premature failure.
The unit is equipped with the following items:
• A temperature/pressure relief valve to protect the system from failure because of
excessive temperature or pressure.
• An approved type gas valve to provide convenient gas shut-off.
• An adequate flue to handle flue gases.
• Sufficient combustion air ventilation to serve the burners of the water heater.

31. GAS PIPING


The gas meter and shut-off valve are located at the right side of the building.

HEATING SYSTEM
Inspection of the heating system is limited to a visual inspection of the accessible
components of the heating system.

32. SYSTEM
The building heating is furnished with a gas, forced air heating unit at the attic. The unit
is equipped with the following items:
• A gas valve for the servicing of the unit.
• Sufficient combustion air ventilation to serve the burners of the heating unit.
• An electrical disconnect switch for convenient disconnection of electrical service for unit
servicing.
• An electronic ignition system for the pilot burner. This device offers the most current
energy conservation feature for the furnace.

The installation of a gas pipe sediment trap at the furnace should be considered.

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The unit appears to be functional at the time of this inspection. However, the heat
exchanger of the heating unit is not accessible for inspection, therefore, a complete
inspection of the unit could not be performed. If further confirmation of its condition is
needed, it will require a disassembly of the unit. We do not perform this level of
inspection. If further inspection is desired, it is suggested that a competent heating
contractor be consulted.

The heating unit SHOULD BE SERVICED


because:
A. The distance between the flue and
combustible materials is insufficient.
(SEE PHOTO)
It is recommended that a competent heating
contractor be consulted for recommendations
and corrective work.

33. FILTERS
The air filters for this unit should be checked periodically for cleanliness. The filters should
be kept clean for efficient and economical system operation.

34. THERMOSTAT SETBACK


The thermostat controlling the heating system has an energy saving night setback
feature. This thermostat offers you the ability to program the system for its most
economical operation.

35. DUCTWORK
The air distribution ductwork appears to be in serviceable condition. The ductwork is
wrapped with insulation for energy conservation.

ATTIC

A limited inspection of the attic space was performed because it was inspected from the
access opening due to inadequate clearance to the roof members.

36. INSULATION
The attic space is insulated with fiberglass type insulation to an estimated resistance value
of R-11 (three and one-half inches). This is considered a minimal amount of insulation
and below the recommended level necessary to provide energy efficiency.

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37. STRUCTURAL MEMBERS


The structural framing in the attic appears to be adequately installed and properly
supported. There is no evidence of modification or structural failure.

38. VENTILATION
The ventilation in the attic space appears to be adequate to meet and satisfy the free air
requirements.

39. ATTIC LEAKS


There is evidence of water staining in the attic at the rafters. This condition appears to be
the result of a previous leak, however, no evidence of current leakage could be found.
Please confirm the repair of the previous leak with the property owner.

FOUNDATION & CRAWL SPACE


Our foundation inspection does not include soil testing or visual evaluation since
this work requires skills beyond our capabilities. The soil type and condition can
and/or will determine the amount of future settlement.

The design of this building does not incorporate the use of a crawl space, therefore, under
floor structural and mechanical items cannot be inspected.

GENERAL COMMENTS

The following items are not included in this report:


A. The alarm system.
B. The solar electric system.
C. The irrigation system.

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