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What We Inspect - Hawaii Inspection List
Structure Inspection
The structure of a home is its skeleton, including the foundation and footings, the roof and the framework - the floor, wall and ceiling structures.
Objective:
To identify deficiencies in the condition of structural members which affect their load bearing capacity and deficiencies in the structural assembly.
Inspection Observation:
- Foundation
- Floors
- Walls
- Columns
- Ceilings
- Roofs
Actions:
- Probe structural components where deterioration is suspected
- Enter underfloor crawl spaces and attic spaces exept when access is obstructed
- Report signs of water penetration into the building or signs of abnormal condensation on building components
- Report the presence or absence of seismic anchoring and bracing
Roof Inspection
Objective:
To identify deficiencies in the condition of the roofing system
Inspection Observation:
- Roof coverings and type
- Roof drainage systems
- Flashings
- Skylights and roof penetrations
- Signs of leaks or abnormal condensation on building components
Action:
- To walk on the roof if it does not cause property damage or unsafe to inspector
- To report the methods used to observe the roofing
Exterior Inspection
Objective:
To identify deficiencies in the condition of exterior components
Inspection Observation:
- Exterior walls, flashings and trim
- Entry doors and windows
- Garage door and operator
- Decks, balconies, porches, steps and railings
- Eaves, soffits and fascias
- Vegetation, grading, drainage, driveways, patios, walkways, and retaining walls
Action:
- To walk the property to inspect above observations and utilize inspections tools to conduct the inspection
Electrical Inspection
Objective:
To identify deficiencies in the electrical system
Inspection Observation:
- Service entrance conductors (overhead or underground)
- Service equipment, grounding equipment, main disconnect device, and distribution panels
- Amperage and voltage rating of service
- Branch circuit conductors
- Polarity and grounding of all receptacles within 6 feet of interior plumbing fixtures, garage or carport, and on the exterior of inspected structures
- Location of main and distribution panels
Action:
- Operate installed lighting fixtures, switches and outlets
- Operate and test GFCI’s
- Report any observed aluminum branch circuit wiring
Plumbing Inspection
Objective:
To identify deficiencies in the interior plumbing system
Inspection Observation:
Interior water supply and distribution system
- Piping materials
- Fixtures and faucets
- Functional flow and leaks
- Cross-connections: when a direct link between drinking water and sewage water exists in the home’s plumbing lines
Interior drain, waist and vent system
- Traps
- Drain, waist, and vent piping
- Piping supports
- Leaks and functional drainage
Hot water systems
- Water heating equipment
- Normal operating controls
Action:
- Operate all plumbing fixtures
Interior Inspection
Objective:
To identify deficiencies in the condition of the interior living structure, including walls, ceilings, floors, windows and doors
Inspection Observation:
- Walls, ceilings, floors
- Steps, stairways, railings
- Counters and cabinets
- Doors and windows
- Safety glazing in locations subject to human impact
Action:
- Operate windows and interior doors
- Report signs of water penetration into the building or signs of abnormal condensation on building components
Cooling - A/C Inspection
Objective:
To identify deficiencies in the air conditioning system
Inspection Observation:
- Air conditioning system
- Cooling and air handling equipment
- Normal operating controls
- Distributions systems: fans, ducts, and piping
- Not required to inspect window air conditioners
Action:
- Operate the system using normal operating controls
- Open readily openable access panels
Insulation and Ventilation
Objective:
To identify if insulation is present and if so to perform an inspection to identify any deficiencies in the installation and to identify any deficiencies in the ventilation systems
Inspection Observation:
- Identify type of insulation found
- Measure insulation thickness and provide an opinion on its adequacy
- Inspect the condition of insulation
- If possible, confirm the presence of a vapor barrier
- Ventilation of attics and foundation areas
- Kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room venting systems
Action:
- To inspect and report the above observed actions, if any, when access available
- To utilize inspection tools to conduct the inspection
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