Marc

Brick and mortar are both porous. Capillary action allows it to travel throughout the material. Heat or sunlight isn't needed.

I don't understand the choice of modified bitumen on a roof surface with that much slope but in any case the underside of the roof deck should be ventilated. I would include a comment in the report that this vital ventilation is absent. I would add to this comment what the reasons for it are and what the consequences might be if it's missing. Finally, I would look for signs of moisture intrusion for additional findings. If I were to make a recommendation on it, it would be 'further evaluation by a qualified roofing contractor. I wouldn't want the liability of suggesting a course of action on this unusual type of roof construction. Leave that liability to the roofer.

Good question. I'd have to ask our Board.

Are you referring to me, Mr. Bain? Marc LeBlanc

I use a pocket computer to collect data on the job. After the inspection, I USB the data into the corresponding software on my laptop and edit the report. Editing usually takes as long as the physical inspection itself (2-3 hrs). I use a signature pad so that the report can be Emailed (signed reports are required in Louisiana). I try to get the report out on the same day as the inspection but only guarantee 24 hours on that. My software is 3d but I have my own customized item list that has been developing for the last 6 years and has completely replaced the original 3d items. Individual editing allows a highly customized and productive report. Average report has a couple dozen photos.

I haven't seen much consideration on this thread about the effect of an infrared camera on an inspector's liability on the job. Without the camera, an inspector's liability goes only as far as his naked eye can detect. With the camera in the inspector's arsenal, that liability is extended to whatever the camera can see also. Which means that an infrared equipped inspector needs to make sure on every home inspection he does that he includes any finding that the camera could have disclosed. And he doesn't have to be in immediate possession of it, just own one.

No defect is indicated. It's just a curiosity.

The drains are needed for condensing furnaces. Maybe Terrance is correct: The tubes were used on the older condensing furnaces but are not needed on the replacement furnaces. One other thing: In the top most photo, what is that little thing sticking out at the lowest extremity of the draft fan housing? Marc

A shower is considered a hazardous location. Glass panes install in these locations should have a designation permanently embossed into the glass by way of acid etching, sandblasting or other method. Perhaps look for that designation and research whether it is approved for use as shower stall doors. Marc

Efflorescence is associated with cementitious materials such as brick and mortar. Water moving from behind and out of cementitious materials results in the deposit of salts on the outer face of the wall as the water evaporates. As far as I know, it isn't an issue, other than to evidence intruding moisture. Marc

GFCI's use electronic circuits to detect the flow of low level ground fault currents and respond by opening the circuit before the current can reach higher, more dangerous levels. This helps prevent electrocution and reduces shock intensity to those persons who happen to complete the ground path for fault currents originating from defective appliances or wiring. How's that for a basis? Marc

Allen, The role of building codes in the discovery of findings during a home inspection is a volatile topic, even among the most experienced of home inspectors. How then can we expect homebuyers to comprehend the difference between the two? Home inspectors are charged with creating a clear view in the mind of the homebuyer of just what the inspector did and what he found. Confusion and misunderstanding invites complaints and lawsuits. Think of yourself as an educator. One humble suggestion: When you are engaged in your capacity as a home inspector, regard the word 'code' as a 4 letter word. Don't speak it, don't write it. Study as many codes as you wish. They are excellent for your education as a home inspector, but use them in your report only if based on the original foundation for that code requirement. Do it without speaking or writing the word 'code'. You may be inspecting a house that is 50 years old but unless you want to give your client a recommendation from 50 years ago, always suggest the GFCI protection. Marc

Intriguing lawyer story, until a real lawyer stood up and exposed it as fiction, totally undeserving of attention on a forum for professional inspectors. I just registered on this forum this morning. It'd be nice if it would remained just that...Professional! Marc