Common Defects

Question 2

Damaged shingles and flashing

Answer 2

These items should be dealt with as soon as possible to avoid water penetration and wood rot.

Question 3

Deteriorated roof jack flashings

Answer 3

Damaged or deteriorated roof jack flashings will allow water to penetrate. Replacement of these is relatively easy.

Question 4

Chimney cricket

Answer 4

Chimneys that are 30" or more in width require a cricket. A cricket stops water ponding and diverts water around the chimney.

Question 5

Flat roof materials

Answer 5

Once seams are loose or have become damaged the roofing material needs to be replaced.

Question 6

Cracks in exterior foundation

Answer 6

Cracks visible may indicate structural movement. All aspects of the structure should be evaluated as these could also be cosmetic issues.

Question 7

Rotted crawlspace support

Answer 7

These beams can weaken and sag.

Question 8

Uncontained electrical connections

Answer 8

All electrical connections must be contained inside an approved electrical junction box, especially in the attic.

Question 9

Electrical cords used as permanent wiring

Answer 9

Cords should not be installed as permanent wiring and should not pass through holes in a wall. This type of application is extremely dangerous.

Question 10

Electrical panels

Answer 10

The inside of electrical equipment must be free of contaminants.

Question 11

Melted, cut or nicked wires

Answer 11

The wire has melted inside of the electrical panel, this is a very serious safety concern.

Question 12

Corrosion at the water heater plumbing

Answer 12

Corrosion is often caused by dissimilar metals being in contact with each other. The condition can be increased when there are leaks present.

Question 13

Improper clearance AC unit

Answer 13

A minimum of 12 inches of clearance is normally required around outdoor condenser units It is important that there is no dirt or vegetation around the coils surfaces.

Question 14

Disconnected vent pipes

Answer 14

When gas furnace vent pipes are disconnected this creates a very hazardous condition for both health and fire. These need to be repaired immediately.

Question 15

Rusted gas furnace heat exchanger

Answer 15

Visible rust on a gas furnace heat exchanger could be a sign of cracks or holes in the walls or seams. This will need further, invasive inspection by a HVAC technician.

Question 16

Damaged insulation on refrigerant lines

Answer 16

All insulation should be repaired and any gap in the evaporator coil housing should be sealed.