Case：Foundation Wall Leaning/Cracking（Crawlspace)

Years：>70 Years

Comments：

    • There were three problems being identified from the interior of the Crawlspace:(Part of the foundation wall is leaning outward and has disengaged with the bottom blocks.Therefore, structure integrity was seriously comprised.
    • a crawlspace with an uncovered earth floor can contribute a very significant amount of moisture to the house environment ,causing elevated moisture in living spaces and damaging the structural members,Therefore, moisture barrier should be provided to cover the dirt.
    • Insulation sagging/loose increased the heat loss.

Suggestions：

call a qualified basement contractor to evaluate the crawl space, cover the soil and evaluate the stone foundation. 

Estimated cost：>$40,000

Case：Mold（Attic)

Years：>50 Years

Comments： 

Large area of Mold and frost were identified on the plywood sheathing at the time of inspection in attic. According to the seller’s report, the insulation was upgraded three years ago by themselves. Insufficient ventilation, which was confirmed by soffits blockage and roof vents closed by shingles, and leaky vapor/moisture barrier are the main causes. 
Mold is not only heath concern, but also it rots the wood members and comprises their strength and structure.

Recommendations: 

Certified insulation contractor should be called in the evaluate the ventilation and remove the mold as soon as possible.

Cost：>$5,000

Case：Aluminum Wiring

Years：>50 Year

Comments： 

This house was wired with aluminum. This was an accepted form of wiring. However, aluminum wiring can be an issue in regards to cost and availability of home insurance. Some companies may not insure a home with aluminum wiring unless it is inspected by a licensed electrical contractor or the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA), and a safety report is provided. Other companies may not offer insurance at all for homes with aluminum wiring and may require that it is replaced with copper wiring.

Suggestions: 

It is important to check with your insurance carrier now, before signing to purchase the home, to ensure that you can obtain insurance.We recommend further evaluation from a licensed Electrician. More Information regarding aluminum wiring can be found at:

https://www.esasafe.com/assets/files/esasafe/pdf/Flash_Notices/16-30-FL.pdf

Cost：Depends on work needed

Case：Leaks（Ceiling )

Years：>50 Years

Comments： 

Irregular high moisture was identified behind the second-floor bed room ceiling by using Infrared Imaging(IR) camera and confirmed by moisture meter. The moisture will not only damage the interior finishes, but also allow mold to grow.

Suggestions：

Call the qualified contractor to open the ceiling and further locate the leaky spots and source.

Cost：Depends on work needed

Case：Toilet Leaks （Bathroom)

Years：<15 Years

Comments： 

High moisture was identified behind the tiles around the toilet, which deteriorated the wood members and provides a good habitat for mold growth.

Suggestions: 

Call plumber to further investigate and fix the problem as soon as possible

Cost：Depends on work needed

Case：Insulation Incomplete （Basement)

Years：<15 Year

Comments： 

Insulation of exterior wall in a finished basement is missing as shown in the IR photo. This implies the buyer has to pay larger hydro bill to maintain the room comfortable, but also possible mold growth in summer if the moisture barrier is incomplete or missing as well.

Suggestions：

Complete insulation and moisture barrier as soon as possible.

Cost：Depends on work needed