Need Advice my first Inspection

[Nicolas Cuesta]

Hi BiggerPockets community!

I'm under contract on my first rental property and just received the inspection report. I wasn't expecting a perfect house, but I'd appreciate your opinion on which items I should ask the seller to address before closing versus which ones are normal maintenance I can handle after purchase.

I've listed the findings below. Thanks in advance for your advice!

Exterior Componants

1.Damaged garage siding should be repaired/replaced to prevent moisture intrusion and further damage. Gaps or holes should be filled and sealed as part of an annual maintenance.

Roof

2. Damaged garage shingles should be repaired or replaced to reduce the risk of leaks. Tree cover is heavy, we suggest trimming the trees well away from the home to avoid potential damage to the roofing materials.

3. We suggest adding a rain cap on the chimney, to help prevent water and pest intrusion. The cement chimney cap should be sealed as part of routine maintenance.

4. Water stains noted on garage wall, this was dry at the time of the inspection, we advise further review to determine if moisture is continuing and repair. The sill plate is decayed in areas and should be repaired/replaced. Cost estimates should be obtained and a qualified contractor should perform the repairs.

5. The service door to the garage is missing, repair/replacement is needed to prevent moisture, pest intrusion, and for security purposes.

6. Exposed wiring should be corrected and protected from physical contact or damage. A qualified electrician should review, repair and secure all wiring in the garage. A qualified electrician should review, repair and secure all wiring in the garage. GFCI protection at all outlets in the garage are needed.

Heating System

7. Basement Heating System Blower Fan/Filter: Direct drive with disposable filter - The filter is missing. A properly size filter should be installed as soon as possible to ensure proper function. If the system has been operating in this condition for an extended period of time, service by licensed HVAC contractor is advised to check the cleanliness of the fan, evaporator coil, ducts, etc.. Clean as needed.

Plumbing

8. The water meter has been removed, we advise contacting the city water department to install a new meter prior to closing.

9. Main exterior sanitary sewer accessed through the exterior cleanout to approximately 37’.Pipe is PVC to approximately 37'.At the time of inspection the pipe had a hard blockage at 37’.

10. The exterior cleanout in the rear yard is damaged and needs to be repaired to prevent debris falling into the main sewer line.

[Richard F.]

You don't state where the property is located. I would be concerned about the water meter missing. Depending on locale and the Utility company policies, you could get hit with a big fine if not resolved prior to transfer of title.

The sewer line blockage may well require replacement of the entire line, depending on age and type. If a legit plumber ran a cutter blade and could not clear, or ran a camera and found an actual "solid" blockage, those would be serious. So, it depends on what you are paying for...

The garage is of minor consequence, depending on the value you place on it. There is nothing that cannot be corrected easily and probably inexpensively later. Sending in an electrician now might trigger additional costly updates/permits. 

Heating system I would insist on repair and inspection, or significant credit depending on actual age.