How to read this report:
The defects within the report are organized into three categories. They are Minor Concern (in blue), Moderate Concern (in orange), and Major Concern (in red). The category that each defect is in does not determine the importance of the recommended repair. All defects noted on this report should be addressed. Health and safety concerns will be in the Moderate Concern or Major Concern, depending on how the perceived danger but these should be addressed ASAP. All repairs should be performed by licensed and/or qualified contractors in order to ensure the repairs are done safely and properly.
Minor Concern: Items or components of the home that are defective and, in the opinion of the inspector, may be considered general maintenance or are typical for the age of the home. Any recommended improvements to the home may also be in this category.
Moderate Concern: Items or components that were found to be defective and, if not addressed, these could lead to further problems. These defects are not considered to be routine maintenance. This category may also contain safety hazards or concerns.
Major Concern: Items or components that were defective and may require major/costly repairs. This category may also contain serious safety hazards or concerns that are in need of immediate attention.
These categories are based on the inspectors professional judgement and are based on the conditions at the time of the inspection. This categorization should not be construed as to mean that items designated as a Minor Concern or Moderate Concern do not need need repaired or addressed. The recommendation in each comment is more important than the category in which the defect was placed in.
Limitations: In the event that the inspector was not able to inspect/test certain areas or components of the home, there may be a Limitations tab in that section of the report. The Limitations tab may show things that need to be further evaluated after the inspection. I recommend reading any Limitations in the report and addressing them as necessary.
Photographs: Several photos and videos are in your inspection report. These photos are for informational purposes and may not include every instance or occurrence of a defect. For example, if the report has three photos of hail damage on the roof, this does not mean that there is only hail damage in those areas.
The following pictures are of the exterior walls and are intended to help the person reading this report orient themselves with the home or to reference while reading the report. For example, if the Inspector states that there was a defect with a window on the West exterior, this section can be used to view a picture of the West exterior wall.
I recommend that everyone living in the home familiarizes themselves with the location of the electrical service panel and the disconnect used to shut off power to the whole house. Knowing the location of the panel may be beneficial to all members of the family, whether it's to reset a tripped breaker or to disconnect power in the event of an emergency.
I recommend that everyone living in the home familiarizes themselves with the location of the main shut off valve for the gas. If home renovations are being done, it may be necessary to locate and turn off the gas. In the event that natural gas was smelled in the home, I recommend contacting the local utility company and evacuating the home until they evaluate the smell.
I recommend that everyone living in the home familiarizes themselves with the location of the main shut off valve for the water. In the event of a plumbing emergency, knowing where it is and how to turn the water off can limit damage and save time, money and avoid costly repairs from water damage.
The materials, styles and components present and observable are described as follows:
I. The inspector shall inspect from ground level or the eaves: A. the roof-covering materials; B. the gutters; C. the downspouts; D. the vents, flashing, skylights, chimney, and other roof penetrations; and E. the general structure of the roof from the readily accessible panels, doors or stairs. II. The inspector shall describe: A. the type of roof-covering materials. III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction: A. observed indications of active roof leaks. IV. The inspector is not required to: A. walk on any roof surface. B. predict the service life expectancy. C. inspect underground downspout diverter drainage pipes. D. remove snow, ice, debris or other conditions that prohibit the observation of the roof surfaces. E. move insulation. F. inspect antennae, satellite dishes, lightning arresters, de-icing equipment, or similar attachments. G. walk on any roof areas that appear, in the inspectors opinion, to be unsafe. H. walk on any roof areas if doing so might, in the inspector's opinion, cause damage. I. perform a water test. J. warrant or certify the roof. K. confirm proper fastening or installation of any roof-covering material.
Gutters are missing in areas. In order to prevent rain water from getting near the foundation, I recommend having gutters added.
Gutter Contractor
The materials, styles and components present and observable are described as follows:
The windows were noted to be single pane and likely original to the home. You should be aware that this will lead to decreased energy efficiency.
I. The inspector shall inspect: A. the exterior wall-covering materials, flashing and trim; B. all exterior doors; C. adjacent walkways and driveways; D. stairs, steps, stoops, stairways and ramps; E. porches, patios, decks, balconies and carports; F. railings, guards and handrails; G. the eaves, soffits and fascia; H. a representative number of windows; and I. vegetation, surface drainage, retaining walls and grading of the property, where they may adversely affect the structure due to moisture intrusion. II. The inspector shall describe: A. the type of exterior wall-covering materials. III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction: A. any improper spacing between intermediate balusters, spindles and rails. IV. The inspector is not required to: A. inspect or operate screens, storm windows, shutters, awnings, fences, outbuildings, or exterior accent lighting. B. inspect items that are not visible or readily accessible from the ground, including window and door flashing. C. inspect or identify geological, geotechnical, hydrological or soil conditions. D. inspect recreational facilities or playground equipment. E. inspect seawalls, breakwalls or docks. F. inspect erosion-control or earth-stabilization measures. G. inspect for safety-type glass. H. inspect underground utilities. I. inspect underground items. J. inspect wells or springs. K. inspect solar, wind or geothermal systems. L. inspect swimming pools or spas. M. inspect wastewater treatment systems, septic systems or cesspools. N. inspect irrigation or sprinkler systems. O. inspect drainfields or dry wells. P. determine the integrity of multiple-pane window glazing or thermal window seals.
The stucco is in overall poor condition. Due to the amount of defects observed, I recommend having the stucco evaluated and repaired as necessary by a licensed contractor who specializes in stucco.
Stucco Repair Contractor
The exterior door(s) was damaged. I recommend having the door evaluated and repaired/replaced as desired.
Door Repair and Installation Contractor
The exterior door(s) does not have a deadbolt lock installed. In order to increase the security of the home, I recommend having a deadbolt added.
Door Repair and Installation Contractor
The weatherstripping on the exterior door(s) is in need of repair. In order to prevent energy loss, I recommend having it replaced.
Qualified Professional
There was an interior hollow core door being used as an exterior door. For security and energy efficiency reasons, I recommend an exterior rated door be installed.
Qualified Professional
Areas of the guardrails/handrails are loose. In order to increase the overall safety of the home and to prevent accidents/injuries, I recommend having this evaluated and repaired as necessary.
Qualified Professional
Rot and/or moisture damage was observed on areas of the patio cover. I recommend having the patio cover evaluated and repaired as necessary by a qualified contractor.
Qualified Professional
The bottom of the post has apparent moisture damage/rot. This should be repaired for increased stability to the porch cover.
Qualified Professional
Tree branches were overhanging the roof in areas. Branches overhanging the roof can cause leaves to clog gutters, branches could fall and cause damage, and critters can use branches to get onto the home. I recommend having the overhanging trees trimmed back to avoid any issues.
Tree Service
Vegetation has overgrown the gas meter. In order to prevent the gas vent from becoming blocked, I recommend the vegetation be trimmed back/removed.
Qualified Professional
The materials, styles and components present and observable are described as follows:
I. The inspector shall inspect: A. a representative number of doors and windows by opening and closing them; B. floors, walls and ceilings; C. stairs, steps, landings, stairways and ramps; D. railings, guards and handrails; and E. garage vehicle doors and the operation of garage vehicle door openers, using normal operating controls. II. The inspector shall describe: A. a garage vehicle door as manually-operated or installed with a garage door opener. III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction: A. improper spacing between intermediate balusters, spindles and rails for steps, stairways, guards and railings; B. photo-electric safety sensors that did not operate properly; and C. any window that was obviously fogged or displayed other evidence of broken seals. IV. The inspector is not required to: A. inspect paint, wallpaper, window treatments or finish treatments. B. inspect floor coverings or carpeting. C. inspect central vacuum systems. D. inspect for safety glazing. E. inspect security systems or components. F. evaluate the fastening of islands, countertops, cabinets, sink tops or fixtures. G. move furniture, stored items, or any coverings, such as carpets or rugs, in order to inspect the concealed floor structure. H. move suspended-ceiling tiles. I. inspect or move any household appliances. J. inspect or operate equipment housed in the garage, except as otherwise noted. K. verify or certify the proper operation of any pressure-activated auto-reverse or related safety feature of a garage door. L. operate or evaluate any security bar release and opening mechanisms, whether interior or exterior, including their compliance with local, state or federal standards. M. operate any system, appliance or component that requires the use of special keys, codes, combinations or devices. N. operate or evaluate self-cleaning oven cycles, tilt guards/latches, or signal lights. O. inspect microwave ovens or test leakage from microwave ovens. P. operate or examine any sauna, steamgenerating equipment, kiln, toaster, ice maker, coffee maker, can opener, bread warmer, blender, instant hot-water dispenser, or other small, ancillary appliances or devices. Q. inspect elevators. R. inspect remote controls. S. inspect appliances. T. inspect items not permanently installed. U. discover firewall compromises. V. inspect pools, spas or fountains. W. determine the adequacy of whirlpool or spa jets, water force, or bubble effects. X. determine the structural integrity or leakage of pools or spas.
Areas of the interior window sill had apparent moisture damage that appears to have been repaired. No moisture was present at the time of inspection. I recommend asking seller about the repair.
Qualified Professional
Multiple areas of the flooring have damage/imperfections present. I recommend having the flooring evaluated and addressed as desired.
Flooring Contractor
The toilet area in the bathroom has moisture damage to the flooring. I recommend having this evaluated and repaired/addressed as necessary
Qualified Professional
Throughout the home, multiple areas of the interior walls appeared to be in need of drywall repair. I recommend having the home evaluated by a drywall contractor in order to have the damaged or missing drywall areas properly repaired.
Drywall Contractor
A mold like substance was observed. I recommend having this tested by a licensed mold inspector, and remediated as necessary.
Mold Inspector
The kitchen sink backsplash is damaged and pulling away from the wall. This should be repaired to avoid moisture damage to the wall behind it.
Qualified Professional
Areas of the ceiling drywall are in need of repair. I recommend having the repairs made by a qualified drywall contractor.
Drywall Contractor
Damage was observed in the bottom of a cabinet, below the sink. This area was not leaking at the time of the inspection, however I recommend monitoring it over time for leaks and having the damage repaired.
Qualified Professional
A mold like substance was observed. I recommend having this tested by a licensed mold inspector, and remediated as necessary.
Mold Inspector
The refrigerator was visually inspected and a temperature was taken inside the refrigerator and freezer to ensure that they were cooling properly. Any ice/water dispensers present were tested. Any defects are noted below.
The range/oven was visually inspected and each burner/element was checked to ensure they were heating. Any defects are noted below.
The range hood was visually inspected and the exhaust fan and light were tested. Any defects are noted below.
The refrigerator was unplugged therefore was not tested.
The gas/propane was shut off and/or empty, therefore the range was not tested or inspected.
10.1 The inspector shall inspect: F. installed ovens, ranges, surface cooking appliances, microwave ovens, dishwashing machines, and food waste grinders by using normal operating controls to activate the primary function. 10.2 The inspector is NOT required to inspect: G. installed and free-standing kitchen and laundry appliances not listed in Section 10.1.F. H. appliance thermostats including their calibration, adequacy of heating elements, self cleaning oven cycles, indicator lights, door seals, timers, clocks, timed features, and other specialized features of the appliance. I. operate, or con rm the operation of every control and feature of an inspected appliance.
There appears to be no range hood exhaust installed over the range/oven. To prevent excessive moisture in the home, I recommend one be installed.
Qualified Professional
The materials, styles and components present and observable are described as follows:
Due to the attic access being in a narrow closet, access was limited In the attic.
The attic access was limited due to obstructions (wires) blocking the opening.
The attic hatch does not have a cover installed. In order to prevent air leakage into the attic, which can lead to condensation and energy loss, I recommend having a proper access cover installed.
Qualified Professional
The materials, styles and components present and observable are described as follows:
The home appeared to have 60 amp service, which is small by todays standards. Be aware that the use of multiple electrical devices, particularly ones with heating elements, could result in frequently tripped breakers.
This home had older ungrounded wiring for some or most receptacles. Not all receptacles are shown. Grounding systems are installed to provide a pathway to the earth for high voltage from lighting strikes and electrical surges, accidental contact with higher voltage lines, and to help stabilize the electrical system during normal operation.
This condition may have complied with the safety standards in effect when the home was built, but as electrical knowledge has improved over the years, standards have changed. Homes are not required to be constantly updated to comply with new standards.
I recommend that you consult with a qualified electrical contractor to discuss options if desired.
Exterior light fixtures can be on motion detectors, from dusk to dawn sensors, timers, etc. For this reason, we are not always able to confirm whether exterior lights work.
There was no electricity to the home at the time of the inspection, therefore the electrical system could not be fully inspected.
I. The inspector shall inspect: A. the service drop; B. the overhead service conductors and attachment point; C. the service head, gooseneck and drip loops; D. the service mast, service conduit and raceway; E. the electric meter and base; F. service-entrance conductors; G. the main service disconnect; H. panelboards and over-current protection devices (circuit breakers and fuses); I. service grounding and bonding; J. a representative number of switches, lighting fixtures and receptacles, including receptacles observed and deemed to be arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI)-protected using the AFCI test button, where possible; K. all ground-fault circuit interrupter receptacles and circuit breakers observed and deemed to be GFCIs using a GFCI tester, where possible; and L. smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors. II. The inspector shall describe: A. the main service disconnect's amperage rating, if labeled; and B. the type of wiring observed. III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction: A. deficiencies in the integrity of the serviceentrance conductors insulation, drip loop, and vertical clearances from grade and roofs; B. any unused circuit-breaker panel opening that was not filled; C. the presence of solid conductor aluminum branch-circuit wiring, if readily visible; D. any tested receptacle in which power was not present, polarity was incorrect, the cover was not in place, the GFCI devices were not properly installed or did not operate properly, evidence of arcing or excessive heat, and where the receptacle was not grounded or was not secured to the wall; and E. the absence of smoke detectors. IV. The inspector is not required to: A. insert any tool, probe or device into the main panelboard, sub-panels, distribution panelboards, or electrical fixtures. B. operate electrical systems that are shut down. C. remove panelboard cabinet covers or dead fronts. D. operate or re-set over-current protection devices or overload devices. E. operate or test smoke or carbon-monoxide detectors or alarms F. inspect, operate or test any security, fire or alarms systems or components, or other warning or signaling systems. G. measure or determine the amperage or voltage of the main service equipment, if not visibly labeled. H. inspect ancillary wiring or remote-control devices. I. activate any electrical systems or branch circuits that are not energized. J. inspect low-voltage systems, electrical de-icing tapes, swimming pool wiring, or any timecontrolled devices. K. verify the service ground. L. inspect private or emergency electrical supply sources, including, but not limited to: generators, windmills, photovoltaic solar collectors, or battery or electrical storage facility. M. inspect spark or lightning arrestors. N. inspect or test de-icing equipment. O. conduct voltage-drop calculations. P. determine the accuracy of labeling. Q. inspect exterior lighting.
The screw(s) that secure the dead front cover to the service panel were pointed screws. This presents a safety hazard due to the pointed screws being able to pierce an electrical conductor. I recommend having the cover properly secured with blunt tipped screws.
Electrical Contractor
The electrical service appeared to be improperly grounded. The grounding conductor was broken/detached from the grounding rod. In order to prevent electrical shocks, I recommend having the ground evaluated and repaired as necessary by a licensed electrician.
Electrical Contractor
The unused opening(s) inside the service panel were not properly covered. When breaker knockouts or wire knockouts are removed and are no longer being used, knockout plugs or filler plates should be installed. In order to prevent electrocution, I recommend having the openings properly covered/filled.
Electrical Contractor
Unused openings were observed in the service panel. When breaker knockouts or wire knockouts are removed and are not no longer being used, I recommend having the openings covered in order to prevent any shock hazards. I recommend having knockout plugs or filler plates installed.
Electrical Contractor
Due to the fact that there was no electricity to the home at the time of inspection, and the multiple issues found. I recommend having the electrical system and circuits evaluated by a licensed electrician.
Electrical Contractor
A cover plate was missing in multiple areas. Not only do cover plates help to prevent accidental shocks, but they help to contain any arcing or sparking that might take place within an electrical box, thus potentially preventing a fire. I recommend having the missing cover plates replaced.
Handyman
Older 2 prong receptacles were observed, which are not grounded. Although this was common in older homes, I recommend having them properly grounded by a licensed electrician in order to increase the safety of the home.
Electrical Contractor
The receptacle(s) were not GFCI protected. In order to protect against electrical shock, I recommend having all receptacles in the garage, on the exterior, and near any water sources such as bathrooms and kitchens protected by GFCI receptacles. For safety reasons, I recommend having GFCI protection installed.
Electrical Contractor
No CO alarms were observed in the home. I recommend having a CO alarm installed on each level of the home and within 15 feet of each sleeping room.
Qualified Professional
There were no visible smoke alarms in the home. I recommend having proper smoke alarms within 15 feet of all sleeping rooms, and one on each floor of the home.
Qualified Professional
The materials, styles and components present and observable are described as follows:
The water pressure was measured with a pressure gauge at an exterior faucet. I recommend the water pressure be between 40 psi and 80 psi. Any concerns with the pressure are noted below.
The water heater(s) was visually inspected in order to ensure proper installation and that no leaks, rust, or corrosion were present. The temperature of the water was also checked to ensure the water heater was functioning properly. The American Society of Sanitary Engineering recommends setting the temperature of home water heaters to 135 degrees to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, a range shown to destroy bacteria such as Legionella. At those temperatures, bacteria can neither thrive or survive to contaminate fixtures downstream from the heater. Adjusting a water heater to a higher temperature must always be accompanied by the installation of anti-scald devices in the home by a licensed plumber to prevent potential burn injuries.
Any defects are noted below.
The age of the water heater could not be determined using the resources available for determining appliance age.
I. The inspector shall inspect: A. the main water supply shut-off valve; B. the main fuel supply shut-off valve; C. the water heating equipment, including the energy source, venting connections, temperature/pressure-relief (TPR) valves, Watts 210 valves, and seismic bracing; D. interior water supply, including all fixtures and faucets, by running the water; E. all toilets for proper operation by flushing; F. all sinks, tubs and showers for functional drainage; G. the drain, waste and vent system; and H. drainage sump pumps with accessible floats. II. The inspector shall describe: A. whether the water supply is public or private based upon observed evidence; B. the location of the main water supply shut-off valve; C. the location of the main fuel supply shut-off valve; D. the location of any observed fuel-storage system; and E. the capacity of the water heating equipment, if labeled. III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction: A. deficiencies in the water supply by viewing the functional flow in two fixtures operated simultaneously; B. deficiencies in the installation of hot and cold water faucets; C. mechanical drain stops that were missing or did not operate if installed in sinks, lavatories and tubs; and D. toilets that were damaged, had loose connections to the floor, were leaking, or had tank components that did not operate. IV. The inspector is not required to: A. light or ignite pilot flames. B. measure the capacity, temperature, age, life expectancy or adequacy of the water heater. C. inspect the interior of flues or chimneys, combustion air systems, water softener or filtering systems, well pumps or tanks, safety or shut-off valves, floor drains, lawn sprinkler systems, or fire sprinkler systems. D. determine the exact flow rate, volume, pressure, temperature or adequacy of the water supply. E. determine the water quality, potability or reliability of the water supply or source. F. open sealed plumbing access panels. G. inspect clothes washing machines or their connections. H. operate any valve. I. test shower pans, tub and shower surrounds or enclosures for leakage or functional overflow protection. J. evaluate the compliance with conservation, energy or building standards, or the proper design or sizing of any water, waste or venting components, fixtures or piping. K. determine the effectiveness of anti-siphon, backflow prevention or drain-stop devices. L. determine whether there are sufficient cleanouts for effective cleaning of drains. M. evaluate fuel storage tanks or supply systems. N. inspect wastewater treatment systems. O. inspect water treatment systems or water filters. P. inspect water storage tanks, pressure pumps, or bladder tanks. Q. evaluate wait time to obtain hot water at fixtures, or perform testing of any kind to water heater elements. R. evaluate or determine the adequacy of combustion air. S. test, operate, open or close: safety controls, manual stop valves, temperature/pressure-relief valves, control valves, or check valves. T. examine ancillary or auxiliary systems or components, such as, but not limited to, those related to solar water heating and hot water circulation. U. determine the existence or condition of polybutylene plumbing. V. inspect or test for gas or fuel leaks, or indications thereof.
The tub drain was actively leaking. This should be repaired to avoid water damage.
Plumbing Contractor
Although the water heater is functioning, it appears to be past it’s expected service life. You should be aware of this.
Plumbing Contractor
The bathroom sink(s) leaked at drain assembly. I recommend having this evaluated and repaired/replaced as necessary in order to prevent water damage.
Plumbing Contractor
The materials, styles and components present and observable are described as follows:
The gas supply to the furnace was shut off at the shut-off valve near the furnace, therefore it was not tested or thoroughly inspected.
I. The inspector shall inspect: A. the heating system, using normal operating controls. II. The inspector shall describe: A. the location of the thermostat for the heating system; B. the energy source; and C. the heating method. III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction: A. any heating system that did not operate; and B. if the heating system was deemed inaccessible. IV. The inspector is not required to: A. inspect or evaluate the interior of flues or chimneys, fire chambers, heat exchangers, combustion air systems, fresh-air intakes, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, electronic air filters, geothermal systems, or solar heating systems. B. inspect fuel tanks or underground or concealed fuel supply systems. C. determine the uniformity, temperature, flow, balance, distribution, size, capacity, BTU, or supply adequacy of the heating system. D. light or ignite pilot flames. E. activate heating, heat pump systems, or other heating systems when ambient temperatures or other circumstances are not conducive to safe operation or may damage the equipment. F. override electronic thermostats. G. evaluate fuel quality. H. verify thermostat calibration, heat anticipation, or automatic setbacks, timers, programs or clocks.
The age of the furnace is near or is past the average life expectancy of a furnace. In addition to having the system cleaned, I also recommend having the system certified by a licensed HVAC contractor. A certification is a more thorough inspection, which typically includes inspecting the heat exchanger. On older furnaces, it's common for cracks to form in the heat exchanger, which can allow carbon monoxide to enter the home.
HVAC Professional
The materials, styles and components present and observable are described as follows:
I. The inspector shall inspect: A. insulation in unfinished spaces, including attics, crawlspaces and foundation areas; B. ventilation of unfinished spaces, including attics, crawlspaces and foundation areas; and C. mechanical exhaust systems in the kitchen, bathrooms and laundry area. II. The inspector shall describe: A. the type of insulation observed; and B. the approximate average depth of insulation observed at the unfinished attic floor area or roof structure. III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction: A. the general absence of insulation or ventilation in unfinished spaces. IV. The inspector is not required to: A. enter the attic or any unfinished spaces that are not readily accessible, or where entry could cause damage or, in the inspector's opinion, pose a safety hazard. B. move, touch or disturb insulation. C. move, touch or disturb vapor retarders. D. break or otherwise damage the surface finish or weather seal on or around access panels or covers. E. identify the composition or R-value of insulation material. F. activate thermostatically operated fans. G. determine the types of materials used in insulation or wrapping of pipes, ducts, jackets, boilers or wiring. H. determine the adequacy of ventilation.
The materials, styles and components present and observable are described as follows:
I. The inspector shall inspect: A. the foundation; B. the basement; C. the crawlspace; and D. structural components. II. The inspector shall describe: A. the type of foundation; and B. the location of the access to the under-floor space. III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction: A. observed indications of wood in contact with or near soil; B. observed indications of active water penetration; C. observed indications of possible foundation movement, such as sheetrock cracks, brick cracks, out-of-square door frames, and unlevel floors; and D. any observed cutting, notching and boring of framing members that may, in the inspector's opinion, present a structural or safety concern. IV. The inspector is not required to: A. enter any crawlspace that is not readily accessible, or where entry could cause damage or pose a hazard to him/herself. B. move stored items or debris. C. operate sump pumps with inaccessible floats. D. identify the size, spacing, span or location or determine the adequacy of foundation bolting, bracing, joists, joist spans or support systems. E. provide any engineering or architectural service. F. report on the adequacy of any structural system or component.
The crawlspace entrance does not have a proper cover. In order to prevent unwanted pests from entering the crawlspace, I recommend a proper cover be installed.
Qualified Professional
There was moisture damage noted to the floor structure below the toilet area. The floor around the toilet was soft as well. This should be repaired as necessary by a qualified contractor.
Qualified Professional
It is our goal to treat every home with respect and leave them in the same condition as when we arrived. The following are steps that were taken as part of our final checklist in order to ensure that everything was reset to it's original position/condition.
The main water shutoff was turned on in order to inspect the plumbing system. It was shut back off at the end of the inspection.
