Click on the gallery of bay area homes inspections photographs below:
Someone “remodeled” the bathroom above this area, but didn’t realize that a 2” waste pipe should not be connected to a smaller diameter waste pipe, in this case the original 1-1/2“ pipe. Plumbing codes change, but some old habits don’t, and this is not to plumbing standards. And according to Murphy’s Law, this won’t be a problem until there are guests over for the holidays!
Here is an example of a gas shut-off wrench. A handy thing to have hanging from your gas meter when you need to turn off the gas in a hurry. If you don’t have one, they only cost about $10 – so go get one.
Now, be honest. How many times have we used this type adapter so we can plug in a refrigerator or other appliance (computer?) that has a three prong plug, into an outlet that has only two slots or openings? Most of us do this routinely when we live in older houses. But there are significant limitations, and both electrical safety and equipment concerns. And, if the adapter is properly grounded within the electrical box (the small green wire) as required, then you can have the old outlet simply replaced for a new one that is properly grounded. You won’t need the adapter.
This was an older water heater that was still in operation after more than 45 years. However, if you look at the glass in the mirror, which is just above an opening in the water heater jacket, there is condensation. This indicates that combustion gasses are not going up the flue, and this was a potential safety hazard, especially when it is inside the home.
Sill Plate
The shear panel installation was definitely lacking, good thing that painters tape was there to hold everything together!
This was from a 1964 home. Sugar City Building Materials is still around, but the phone numbers have changed!
Newer homes do not necessarily have to appear newer. This new home was constructed in a 1920’s neighborhood, and the developer carefully imitated the style of nearby housing, thereby preserving the period of construction. Yes, even new homes should be inspected.
This is an electrical subpanel (enclosure) that has been improperly wired by a non-professional. While this may seem like an unimportant concern, when the grounding wires and the current carrying conductors are improperly connected as shown, an electrical hazard exists. A licensed electrical contractor can easily correct this potential shock hazard.
I think it is time to clean the gutters…
