Inspection Training

How to Inspect Mounting Penetrations at the Roof

  • October 31, 2017
  • MichaelTest KeilyTest
  • Roof

While the inspector is on the roof they should check all mounting penetrations to make sure that everything appears to be properly installed. Inspection of most items like solar panels and evaporative coolers is outside the scope of a general home inspection, but the inspector should still check to make sure that it is mounted and flashed properly. Please review the entire procedure below.

NACHI SOP

International Standards of Practice for Performing a General Home Inspection

 

3.1. Roof

 

I. The inspector shall inspect from the ground level or eaves:

N/A

 

II. The inspector shall describe:

N/A

 

III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:

N/A

 

IV. The inspector is not required to:

F. Inspect antennae, satellite dishes, lightning arresters, de-icing equipment, or similar attachments.

Axium SOP Differences

Axium Requires: The inspector will observe all mounting penetrations for proper installation and flashing.

 

Tools Needed

No tools required to inspect the mounting penetrations.

Procedure

  • The inspector should observe the mounting penetrations from ground with binoculars, from ladder, or while walking the roof.
  • The inspector should be checking for proper installation and flashing on all mounting penetrations. The inspector should make a mental note of where the mounting penetrations are located on the roof so they can check for any moisture intrusion on the inside of the property.

Common Defects

  • Mounting penetrations not being installed or sealed correctly.

 

Common Mistakes

  • Not checking every mounting penetration.
  • Not excluding certain penetrations in the report as “Not Inspected” because the inspector is unable to properly evaluate the item (i.e. solar panels).

 

Report / Software

IN
  • Fastener and mounting penetrations for any roof- mounted equipment appeared to be installed correctly and in serviceable condition at the time of the inspection. These areas will need periodic inspection and maintenance to prevent water penetration.

NI
  • The inspector was unable to safely inspect the roof mounting penetrations. The roof [word 1]. The mounting penetrations could not be properly evaluated at time of inspection.
    • Could not be lifted at edge
    • Gutters Covered
    • No Safe Access
    • Rain
    • Snow
    • Too High

NP
  • The roof did not have any fastener or mounting penetrations for roof-mounted equipment that is not covered under another section in the report.

RR
  • Fastener and mounting penetrations for the [word 1] did not appear to be sealed correctly at the time of the inspection. A qualified contractor should inspect and repair as necessary.
    • Electrical Masthead
    • Evaporative Cooler
    • HVAC Equipment
    • Satellite Dish
    • Solar Equipment
    • Supports for chimney/combustible exhaust flue
    • Television Antennae

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