Foreclosure Inspection > Bedroom inspectio
Foreclosure Inspection - Patio / Deck Inspection
Inspection of patios
Type: -- Concrete slab -- Stone set in mortar -- Bricks directly in the ground.
Patio condition: -- Steps are uneven --> Serious trip hazard. Cracks or broken parts --> Replace
Wood-earth contact - May invite wood destroying insects. Careful inspection needed. Pressure-treated wood should be used to prevent rot. (Treated wood has green tint or dark color, like creosote treated railroad ties)
Patio slope: -- Patio has a slope away from the house. -- Does not have a slope away from the house --> Water accumulation around the foundation is possible.
Inspection of decks
Is it made of “pressured-treated” wood against termites? -- Yes -- No --> Expect wood deterioration.
Are columns rest on concrete pads? If not, do you see any sign of termite damage? (Use screwdriver to check status of the wood at the bottom)
Deck on the left is supported by wood columns attached to concrete footing. Guardrail support of the deck on the right has lost its strength due to wood-soil contact.
If deck is attached to the house, is it secure and not pulling away from the house?
- Are lag bolts used instead of nails?
- Diagonal bracing exists between the two diagonal corners nailed under each joist. If not, have it done by a professional.
- If deck is higher than 30 inches from the ground it must have guardrails 42 inches high and balusters not more than 4 ¾” apart.
- There must be about quarter of an inch distance between the deck planks to let the water go.
- Any decay or crack underside of the deck?
Metal under the paint is rusted. Repainting will not solve the problem.
Planks should have a minimum quarter inch distance between each other to let the water flow away and avoid any rot.
Certificate of Occupancy required if the deck was added after the construction of the house.
Patio/Deck Electrical: Electrical receptacles/outlets must be weather-protected and wires should be graded for outdoor use.
This is an outlet with two receptacles covered against harsh weather conditions. Cable above is a heavy-duty outdoor type.