Front porch footings

[Joe Farsetta]

I use this.

Concrete piers were (seen / not seen).

As depth, size, material, condition, and compressive sterength of pier could not be established at the time of the inspection, this structural component is specifically excluded from the inspection. Inspector strongly recommends researching whether professionally prepared plans were created and submitted to the municipality, if a construction permit was ever issued, if municipal inspections were ever performed, and the year in which a certificate of occupancy was issued for the deck. Although this information is in no way a guarantee as to hidden components and defects, it could help to serve as a benchmark regarding the deck's construction. COntact a licensed professional engineer if further evaluation is desired.

[mstankiewicz]

Well stated Joe Farsetta. I am keeping that one!

[Robert J. OConnor]

Originally Posted by charper

The porch has very minor indications of sagging at the front. You can see minor separation at joints, etc.

Just observe and report what ya see, with your recommendations ... CCIR (Component, Condition, Implication, Recommendation). In situations where your gut feeling is that somethings wrong, you can word things a little stronger ... another example would be

The porch has minor indications of sagging, and minor separation at joints. It could not be verified that the porch has adequate post supports, which are not visible for inspection and is beyond a home inspection to evaluate. As a minimum verify the porch was built with permits, monitor the condition over time, and budget for support repairs if movement continues. Alternately an engineer or qualified specialist can be contacted for further evaluation prior to closing.

P.S. A good contractor with a post hole digger could also check things out ...

[ROBERT V. YOUNG]

Originally Posted by jfarsetta

I use this.

Nice narrative.