The floor register near the kitchen’s double doors has built-up debris, which can restrict airflow and affect air quality. Cleaning the registers and ducts will improve the efficiency of your HVAC system and ensure cleaner air circulation throughout your home.
The attic crawlspace has insufficient insulation, which impacts your home’s energy efficiency. Adding more insulation will help regulate indoor temperatures, reduce energy costs, and improve overall comfort. Proper insulation in the attic makes a big difference, especially in extreme weather conditions.
In the informal den next to the kitchen, the chimney has creosote buildup, despite its current use as a gas fireplace. Creosote can pose a fire risk even in gas fireplaces due to its flammable nature. We recommend having all chimneys in the home professionally swept and inspected before further use to ensure they’re safe, clean, and functioning properly. Regular chimney maintenance is key to preventing potential hazards and extending the life of your fireplaces.
The pipe to the right of the water heater has multiple connections, likely for icemakers, that are heavily corroded. These connections should be replaced by a plumber with durable, appropriate fittings to prevent leaks and future damage. Avoid saddle-type connectors, as they are prone to corrosion when interacting with dissimilar metals. Upgrading to proper fittings will ensure reliability, improve water flow, and reduce the risk of ongoing issues with corrosion.
Throughout the home, there is visible separation of the caulk where the crown molding meets the ceiling. While this is a cosmetic issue, it can be easily remedied by applying high-quality caulk before repainting.
Several receptacles throughout the home are damaged, worn, or need replacement for safety and functionality. Given the age of the home, it is suggested to replace a majority of your receptacles. Additionally, the family room floor receptacle poses a hazard if liquids spill on it, so upgrading to a newer, safer model with a cover is recommended.
There’s a slight gap on the far right of the fireplace in the formal dining room that allows air from the crawlspace to enter the home. Sealing this gap will prevent drafts, pest intrusion and reduce energy loss, helping to keep the space comfortable year-round.
In the informal den, the door separating it from the adjacent room with baseboard heaters is hard to open once closed and should be adjusted for ease of use. Additionally, many of the informal den’s built-in lower cabinet doors are sticky and should be adjusted to open and close with ease. For the utility room window, condensation and water marks suggest it needs painting to protect it, and adding casing will help reduce drafts.
The primary bathroom fan is dirty, which reduces airflow and efficiency. Cleaning it will help restore proper functionality. Additionally, all of the viewable bathroom exhaust fan ducting in the attic is uninsulated which allows for heat loss and potential condensation issues. Insulating the ductwork will improve energy efficiency, prevent heat transfer, and minimize the risk of condensation buildup, ensuring a well-functioning ventilation system.
In the primary bedroom, there is a gap between the hearth and the firebox that should be sealed with mortar. This will reduce the risk of sparks or embers escaping and creating a fire hazard. A handyman or mason can handle this task efficiently. Similarly, the family room fireplace has the same issue, and filling this gap with mortar or grout is equally important for safety.
The worn area of flooring would benefit from a full sanding and refinishing to ensure a uniform appearance and durable finish. While spot finishing may provide temporary protection, it’s unlikely to blend seamlessly with the rest of the floor. Refinishing the entire surface will restore the floor’s beauty and safeguard it for years to come.
The formal dining room flooring has visible staining, likely caused by dye bleed-through from an old rug. Spot repairs in this area are challenging and may not blend well with the rest of the floor. To achieve the best look and protection, full sanding and refinishing of the floor are recommended.
The furnace shows corrosion at both the top and bottom, which could indicate moisture issues or aging components. Corrosion can impact the system's efficiency and safety, so it’s important to have your HVAC technician inspect it thoroughly to rule out any leaks or operational problems. Additionally, keeping combustible items away from the gas furnace is essential to reduce fire risks and maintain proper ventilation for safe operation.
The green bathroom has minor gaps in the grout where the wall meets the floor near the toilet. These gaps should be filled to prevent moisture intrusion.
In the kitchen, the wiring for the disposal is not properly suited for its location and should be repaired or replaced to ensure safety. To further protect the circuit, adding a metal conduit (BX cable) is recommended. Addressing this issue will help prevent potential electrical hazards and improve the durability of the system.
The flooring to the left of the toilet in the powder room next to the kitchen has separated, possibly due to water damage or subfloor issues. Promptly repairing this area will prevent moisture from penetrating into the subfloor, which could lead to further deterioration or structural concerns.
The area under the kitchen sink shows significant water damage and air infiltration, likely caused by leaks or inadequate sealing. It’s crucial to investigate the source of these issues, such as plumbing leaks or gaps around pipes, and repair them to prevent further damage. Additionally, the separation between the granite countertop and backsplash creates an entry point for water to seep into the cabinets below. Resealing this joint with a siliconized grout in a matching color will not only protect against future water penetration but also restore a clean, polished appearance.
The toilet seat in the primary bathroom is loose, which can make it uncomfortable to use and potentially cause further wear to the mounting hardware. Tightening the seat or replacing it with a new one will restore comfort and stability. This quick fix ensures the toilet remains functional and avoids any unnecessary damage to the seat or the toilet itself.
There are a few missing shingles on the garage roof that should be repaired by a qualified roofer to ensure the roof remains watertight and to prevent further damage.
Some receptacles lack proper cover plates, which could lead to safety risks. In the front bedroom, a cover plate fell off one receptacle during testing and connected with the tester. While the receptacle itself is in good condition, it needs a new cover plate. Additionally, a receptacle with a surge protector installation was found to be missing a cover plate underneath. It is recommended to replace any old surge protectors and install a new cover plate to ensure safety.
In the far-left room with baseboard heaters and a large picture window, mold at the base of the crown molding suggests moisture-laden air is flowing behind it. Removing the crown molding and sealing this area will block airflow and prevent recurring moisture buildup. In the family room closet, the mold at the base of the door casing is minimal and can be cleaned, but it’s a sign of past moisture issues. It’s a good idea to investigate potential sources of moisture in these areas, such as leaks, insufficient ventilation or insulation, to avoid future problems.
An open slot in the wall behind the furnace allows unconditioned air from the crawlspace to enter the space, which can lead to energy inefficiencies and pest intrusion. Sealing this opening will reduce air leakage and help keep pests out of the home.
Several doors in the home need attention to ensure proper functionality. The powder room door next to the kitchen is sticking and needs adjustment to improve operation. The door to the left of the service panel is sticking at the top jamb, likely due to a misaligned hinge that should be adjusted. Lastly, the plinth block molding in the front foyer should be resecured to prevent further loosening and maintain the trim’s appearance.
The caulking at the base of the shower door in the primary bathroom has mildew embedded in it. This indicates moisture retention and mold growth. Cleaning and replacing the caulk is essential to prevent further mold issues and ensure the shower remains sealed against water intrusion.
The primary bathroom shower ceiling shows signs of moisture damage due to years of exposure. The current exhaust fan in the main bathroom is not positioned effectively to dry out the shower ceiling. To address this, installing a dedicated exhaust fan inside the shower area is recommended. Alternatively, the ceiling should be scraped and repainted to restore its appearance and prevent further deterioration.
The shower tiles in the primary bathroom are in poor condition and require attention. Many areas need re-grouting, as water can easily penetrate and get behind the tiles, potentially causing damage to the substructure. In addition, long horizontal cracks in the shower tiles indicate a problematic substructure. While re-grouting can temporarily prevent water intrusion, replacing the cracked tiles is necessary for a more effective and permanent solution.
The vanity in the master bathroom shows moisture damage, inside the cabinet, and the P-trap is corroded. We recommend replacing the P-trap and addressing the water damage to prevent further deterioration. Addressing this promptly is important to prevent further damage to the cabinetry and potential mold growth.
In the primary bedroom, the door leading to the third floor should be reattached to help keep heat from rising up the stairwell, improving temperature control. The primary bathroom door requires re-securing at the top hinge to operate smoothly. The bathroom shower door is also loose at the top and should be secured to ensure proper functionality.
Mouse droppings were found in the family room closet, along with a deceased mouse under the utility sink in the furnace room, indicating recent rodent activity. Thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting these areas is essential for maintaining hygiene. To prevent future infestations, seal any potential entry points, such as gaps around pipes or cracks in the foundation. Using traps or bait stations can help manage existing rodents, but consulting a pest control professional is advisable for long-term solutions.
The second-floor hall bathroom has several areas requiring grout and caulk repairs to prevent water intrusion. There are gaps in the grout to the left of the toilet that should be filled to keep water at bay. At the junction between the vanity top and the tile backsplash, caulk is needed to seal the area and prevent water from seeping in. Additionally, there is slight separation at the top of the tub tile, which can be sealed with caulk to ensure water does not penetrate these areas.
The service panel area presents several fire hazards that should be addressed immediately. The panel is located in an enclosed space, which is not ideal for ventilation or safety. Missing screws on the cover and gaps between the cover and breakers leave the area vulnerable to sparks or electrical malfunctions. Additionally, the uncovered receptacle at the bottom of the wall poses an added safety risk. It’s strongly recommended to have a licensed electrician evaluate this setup, secure the panel cover with all screws, fill the gaps to ensure a tight fit, and address the enclosed space issue. These steps will greatly enhance safety and ensure compliance with electrical standards.
Installing smoke detectors in all bedrooms and a combination smoke/CO detector in the second-floor central hallway will ensure comprehensive coverage. Additionally, the existing detectors in the hallway are over 10 years old and likely unreliable, so replacing them is crucial. Keeping detectors updated is one of the simplest ways to maintain a safe home for your family.
The handrails on the stairs from the attic to the second floor, as well as those leading from the second-floor hallway to the first-floor foyer, do not return into the wall, which increases the risk of snagging clothing and causing falls. While this design is typical in older homes, updating the handrails to meet current standards by having them return into the wall will enhance safety for everyone, especially when your hands are full. Additionally, securing the handrail wall mounted newel post at the second-floor hallway with fasteners will improve its stability, which is especially important with kids using the stairs frequently.
Some switches and fixtures in the home require attention to improve safety and functionality. The 3rd floor stairwell does not have a switch at the top to operate the light, which would improve safety if added during future remodeling. The chandelier in the home did not power on during testing, likely due to a faulty dimmer switch or a breaker issue, and further inspection is recommended. Additionally, the dryer electrical connection is not secured to the wall, securing it properly will enhance safety and functionality.
In the first-floor far-left room, the tongue-and-groove wall paneling exhibits natural expansion and contraction, leading to visible gaps. These gaps are not structurally concerning and do not require caulking. However, if a seamless appearance is preferred, high-stretch caulk can be used to fill the seams.
The flooring in the Lego room presents safety concerns. The small step up into the room is a trip hazard and could be mitigated by marking the change in floor level with a visual indicator. Additionally, the threshold at the door entering
The whole home humidifier is currently powered by an extension cord resting on the furnace, which is not intended for permanent use and poses a safety risk. To ensure proper and safe wiring, a GFCI receptacle should be installed near the humidifier, providing a dedicated power source.
The hot water connection on the washing machine has corrosion, which is unusual and worth monitoring closely. Corrosion in this area can eventually lead to leaks or damage, so having it inspected or replaced by a plumber during their next visit is a proactive step to avoid bigger issues.
Water damage and moisture concerns are evident in several areas and should be addressed to prevent further deterioration. In the front guest room, the ceiling register has minor water damage, likely from attic condensation during humid months. Adding insulation around the duct will help resolve this issue. In the kitchen, the corner base cabinet shows water damage and drafts. If you’re planning to remodel, it’s worth investigating further to determine the extent of the issue and address it properly. These updates will protect your home and maintain its value over time.
Several areas of the roof, particularly on the driveway side in both the front and rear main roof, show water stains, indicating potential long-term issues. Evidence of previous repairs is visible in these areas, suggesting this may have been a recurring problem. A closer inspection by a qualified roofer is recommended to assess the extent of the damage and address any underlying issues.
There is evidence of water damage to the flooring caused by an icemaker waterline. The affected section of the flooring should be repaired or replaced entirely to address the damage and restore the area to its original condition.
In the primary bathroom, the window shows paint damage due to moisture and should be repainted to protect it. The guest room’s window and baseboard, as well as the window directly below on the first floor, and utility room show signs of water damage, suggesting a potential roof issue. A roofer should inspect this area to address the source of the moisture. Similarly, the formal den window is experiencing minor water issues, likely tied to the damage in the guest room above.
The dishwasher isn’t securely attached to the adjacent cabinets, which can cause it to shift during operation. Securing it properly will improve stability, reduce noise, and ensure it operates efficiently without unnecessary strain on the appliance or surrounding cabinetry.
Some of your home’s systems and components fail to meet current safety standards or show significant damage, posing meaningful risk to inhabitants. Immediate repair, replacement, or professional assessment is recommended to improve occupant safety.
While a majority of the key health factors in your home are in a healthy range, a few issues could pose health risks to occupants, particularly sensitive populations. Additional testing and/or minor intervention may be needed to prevent deterioration.
Below are the key systems and appliances we identified in your home. Tracking these helps you stay on top of routine maintenance, find replacement parts, monitor recalls, and manage warranty and insurance claims.
These are the corrective tasks we suggest you undertake to resolve the Key Findings from your assessment. Contact care@henryhomes.com or text the virtual assistant at
+1 (877) 916-3904 if you have any questions or would like Henry's help.