Download Walker Property Evaluation Services

Inspection Address:
2318 Buena Vista Avenue, Belmont, CA 94002
Inspection Date/Time:
11/25/2008 9:00 am to 12:30 pm
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
No representations can be made as to the conditions within concealed or inaccessible areas. However, you
can be sure that blockages will occur, usually relative in severity to the age of the system, and will range
from minor ones in the branch lines, or at the traps beneath sinks, tubs, and showers, to major blockages in
the main line. The minor ones are easily cleared, either by chemical means or by removing and cleaning the
traps.
Type of Material
Informational Conditions
¬
The residence appears served by cast iron / steel drain waste and vent pipes at the older areas ABS drain
waste and vent pipes at the addition area(s). Interior wall finishes and or accessibility issues prevent us
from positively verifying the type and condition of the drain system in all areas.
Drain Pipes Waste Pipes and Vent Pipes
Functional Components and Conditions
¬
Based on industry recommended water tests for functional flow, the draw observed at the fixture/drainpipes
appeared to be adequate at the time on inspection except as noted elsewhere. However, only a video-scan
of the sanitary sewer pipe system can confirm the actual condition of the drain pipes and or system. No
opinions can be offered as to the conditions within concealed and or inaccessible areas.
Informational Conditions
¬
We noted trees and or vegetation adjacent to what appears to be the main drain line path that could have
an adverse effect on either the water main or the main sewer pipe. Interested parties may wish to consult
an arborist who could predict future growth potential and speak to any potential issues. As noted elsewhere,
interested parties are encouraged to have the main sewer pipe video scanned by a qualified plumbing
contractor as this is the only way to actually determine the actual condition of the drain system.
¬
Portions of the galvanized / cast iron drainpipes at various locations within the dwelling appear older and
may be original. Some or all of this piping may be approaching or at the end of its normally anticipated life
span. Various areas of the sanitary sewer pipes appear to have been repaired/replaced. While no moisture
or indications of leakage were apparent at the time of inspection, only a video-scan of the sanitary sewer
pipes can confirm the actual condition of the sewer system. The piping should be monitored for indications
of deterioration and or leakage and serviced as necessary by a qualified plumbing contractor. Interested
parties desiring further information should consult with a qualified plumbing contractor.
¬
The presence of multiple pipe materials in a residence of this age is an indication of repairs or
modifications. We suggest that Interested Parties obtain copies of any relevant documentation related to
this work.
¬
Portions of the ABS pipe in the crawlspace appear supported with straps or hangers not rated for this
purpose. Generally accepted plumbing practices require that ABS drain//waste/vent pipe be supported with
listed plastic hanger assemblies at intervals not exceeding four feet. Interested parties should consult with a
qualified plumbing contractor for further information and or any necessary service.
• See Attached Illustration 4
¬
The sub-floor area below one or more tubs is not completely sealed. This is a common point of pest
intrusion. Current construction standards recommend that any such openings be sealed with wire mesh or
similar material to prevent rodent intrusion. We suggest that a qualified trades person be consulted
regarding properly sealing this area.
¬
As noted elsewhere, there are apparent "flat" and or improperly sloped vent pipes at one or more under floor
drains. Generally speaking, current standards require plumbing drain system vents to be installed with a
minimum 45 degree slope from horizontal until they are above the floor level. This is to insure that if a
blockage occurs in the drain line, that any effluent will drain properly back into the sanitary sewer system.
We recommend that a qualified plumbing contractor evaluate and service as needed,
• See Attached Illustration 5
Waste Clean-Out Location
Informational Conditions
¬
There appears to be a main sewer waste clean-out located at the rear of the dwelling.
¬
There are one or more secondary waste clean-outs located in the crawlspace. We may not have located all
the accessible clean-outs in the dwelling.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
This report has been produced in accordance with our signed contract and is subject to the terms and conditions agreed upon therein.
All printed comments and the opinions expressed herein are those of Walker Property Evaluation Services. Copyright 2008.
Inspection Narratives - Page 44