Circuit Breaker Panels

These are probably the most common type that home inspectors will come across, as they have replaced fuse panels over the last 40 years or so. As we saw for fuse panels, breakers are far from foolproof and require some particular checking.

Moisture

A crucial point to always bear in mind is that water can be a very good conductor of electricity. Any panel that is damp or wet should NOT be touched or opened by an inspector.

Plumbing Vents

Depending on location, there are primarily two different types of plumbing vent flashing. The most common in northern climates is the neoprene or metal boot. In Florida and in many other southern states, a lead flashing, which also protects the plastic vent pipe from ultraviolet damage, is more common. The stack vent is provided for the waste stack. The stack vent is the extension of a soil or waste stack above the highest horizontal drain that is connected to the stack. This is the main commonly-observed pipe that is observed penetrating the sloped roof surface, and it may also be visible in the unfinished attic space. This is an inspection image of a stack vent pipe penetrating the roof covering surface.

Vent Problems

As with any other system, roof venting may have been installed incorrectly, may not have enough area, may have been rendered inoperable by changes to the home, or may have been badly modified by the homeowner in an attempt to save energy. Such problems include:

Roof flashing are at least as important as the roof covering itself. A covering can be brand new, but unless the flashing are in a similar condition and properly installed, the roof is going to leak.

How to on gutters what to look for