Iam wondering if anyone has any verbage on disclaiming a home that has EFIS in place. I have never came across this this type of cover for a home before.
EIFS
I disclaim EIFS.
A thorough EIFS(Exterior Insulation Finishing System) inspection includes invasive techniques that are beyond the scope of a visual home inspection and may include drilling holes, the use of special equipment and/or removing building materials to inspect for hidden damage. A separate EIFS inspection is recommended.
That said it is also an opportunity to get trained and charge extra.
P.S. As a precaution, I do spend more time looking for signs of damage on a EIFS clad home.
There where no cracks or any signs of failure, other than on the North side of home near the roof line there are a few holes.
from last week, 2004, this could be a case study on how to not put on EIFS:D
cracks galore, no caulk joints and plenty on Styrofoam showing
Generally, damages are not always evident. The biggest factor you need to know is “was it installed properly” and IAW EIMA standards. If it was not then many times the major issues can be hidden from view. If someone does not know what to look for they are most likely going to miss ALL of that and more. You can dlsclaim it but you also need to recommend the “EIFS siding” be inspected by a trained / certified EIFS inspector. Off the top of my head I do not know if Nachi has a training video on this so the average inspector can at least know enough to stay out of his or her own way and defer this to a professional. If someone doesn’t know what they are looking at or what “success” looks like they are hanging it out to get it stepped on. I think it is important to make your client understand this is an area that requires a trained specialist and most likely or need be will require some kind of “invasive” procedures. They will have to have the permission of the current homeowner to proceed if invasive methods are required. The seller may not want to allow that. Then the buyer has to decide to proceed with the buy or walk away. Either way it must be handled by the original inspector correctly. It is not anything to be ashamed of to say “I am not qualified or I don’t know.” Too many new (and some older ones too) inspectors try to bs or tap dance their way through or around things because they do not want to appear a novice or unsure.
It’s usually the damage you can’t see that’s the problem.
EXACTLY…If there is NOT significant water damage some where in an EIFS Clad Home it’s NOT EIFS…!!!