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Draining System Notes...

Photos
gutter inspection
gutter inspection

Here is a noted classic example of a neglected new gutter system.  Maintaining a clean gutter system is an essential part in protecting your interior and exterior from water damage all the way to your home's foundation and structure.  Periodically have your gutter system inspected and cleaned.

While splash blocks are common at the draining point of the downspout, it is recommended that the draining is extended 4'-6' away from the structure at all points. This helps to prevent water damage to the foundation of the home. 

Electrical Notes...

electrical wiring inspection
home inspection service

Often in older homes previous owners have made electrical changes without the proper methods and/or advice from a qualified electrician.  Wires like these should always be properly secured in junction boxes for safety.  It is always recommended that whenever making changes to any electrical system to consult a qualified electrician.

In the 1970's it became required in new homes that GFCI protected receptacles (outlets) be installed in areas near water like bathrooms and kitchens to protect against electrical shock.  Older homes did not have these.  It was also noted that this receptacle was not on a grounded circuit.  There are several concerns here regarding safety.  It is always recommended that if your bathroom and kitchen receptacles are not GFCI protected, to have one installed by a qualified electrician for added safety.

electrical fire hazards
electrical fire hazards

Here is an example of a combination of system failures.  Here is An electrical circuit's external receptacle (outlet).   Poorly installed vinyl siding and a electrical outlet's weather cover in a heavy seasonal rain location contributed the the overheating and eventual destruction of the receptacle and circuit.   This could have led to a significant fire/safety hazard.

Plumbing notes...

water heater settings
unsafe water heater

Here we see where a home owner has upgraded their water heating system.  A high efficiency gas heated tank-less water heater was installed properly.  A generally accepted safe water temperature is (120) one hundred twenty degrees Fahrenheit.  Now while this is 5 degrees higher than the recommended, please note (especially if you have children) as the temperature is set higher the risk of potential scalding increases.

YOU NEVER WANT TO SEE THIS.  This is a temperature pressure relief (TPR) valve which is located on water heaters.  This allows pressure to be relieved in cases of an excess of pressure build up inside the tank.  With the valve capped, the pressure relief would not be allowed and a potential serious injury or damage to the property could occur.  An extension pipe should always be present and should extend to no higher than six inches above the floor or waste receptor. It should also be constructed of an approved material, such as CPVC, copper, polyethylene, galvanized steel, polypropylene, or stainless steel. PVC and other non-approved plastics should not be used since they can easily melt.

Window notes...

skylight leaking
skylight leaking

It is not uncommon for seals or flashings of skylights to fail.  When seals fail and moisture begins to enter the building, significant interior, finish and structure damage can result.  It is recommended to have these locations of a home inspected annually by a qualified professional along with annual roof inspection and service.

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