Foreclosure Home Inspection - Gutter/Downspout Inspection
Inspection of gutters
Type: -- Exterior-mounted -- Built-in
Material used: -- Copper (top quality) -- Aluminum (no corrosion problem) -- Galvanized -- Plastic
Any blockage or debris? -- No -- Yes --> Cleaning is needed.
Rusted gutters are leaking around the connections of downspouts and elsewhere.
Any disconnected, loose, or leaking gutter? Examine corners and connections more carefully.
Notice the disconnection on the left side of the gutter due to settlement. This causes water penetration.
Inspection of downspouts
Gutter of the higher roof connected to the gutter of the lower roof with downspout. See the holes and cracks on the shingles.
Damage at soffit area is due to water penetration from the roof as gutters were full of debris and clogged for months.
Any evidence of rust, corrosion? -- Yes -- No.
Inspection of inclination of downspouts
Upper downspout piece should be assembled inside the lower piece. If not, wrong application --> Expect leakage soon.
Downspouts go -- under the ground -- to the surface.
Downspouts discharge water away from the property. If not, place long splash plates under each.
Does this downspout keep the water away from the property?
Do you see any water accumulation on new walls? Diversion or redirection of water flow is needed.
Sometimes gutters and downspouts become loose and start separating from the home. They may rust out and get damaged by trees and accumulation of leaves.