Inspection Training

How to Inspect the Crawl Space Insulation

While the inspector is in the crawl space they should check for the presence of insulation and make sure that it is installed properly. Always make sure that the paper on the insulation is always facing the warm/heated side of the home. Please review the entire procedure below.

 

NACHI SOP

International Standards of Practice for Performing a General Home Inspection

 

3.9. Attic, Insulation & Ventilation

 

I. The inspector shall inspect:

A. Insulation in unfinished spaces, including attics, crawlspaces and foundation areas.

 

II. The inspector shall describe:
A. The type of insulation observed.

 

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.
E. Identify the composition or R-value of insulation material.

G. Determine the types of materials used in insulation or wrapping of pipes, ducts, jackets, boilers or wiring.

 

Axium SOP Differences

Axium Requires: Same as NACHI Standards of Practice.

 

Tools Needed

The inspector will need to use a flashlight in order to properly inspect the insulation and make sure that it is secured properly and there is no damage.

 

Procedure

  • While inspecting the crawlspace we will want to check for the presence of insulation in the crawlspace and make sure it is secured properly and there is no damage present at the time of the inspection. There is one picture required for this section and it should show the insulation in the crawlspace.

Common Defects

  • There is no insulation present in the crawl space.
  • The paper is the wrong direction on the insulation in the crawl space.
  • The insulation has fallen in areas, is not properly covered, is damaged, or loose.

Common Mistakes

  • Not recognizing that the paper is on the wrong side of the insulation.
  • Not inspecting the insulation across the entire crawlspace.
  • Not using a good flashlight to check the insulation in the crawlspace.

Report / Software

IN
  • The walls and/or the floor system of the crawl space were insulated with fiberglass batt. Insulation in the crawl space appeared to be installed in a satisfactory manner.

NI
  • N/A

NP
  • There is no insulation on the crawl space exterior walls or floor system. Heat loss can occur more on this property than one that is properly insulated. A qualified contractor should evaluate and install as necessary.

RR
  • No Insulation: There is no insulation on the crawl space exterior walls or floor system. Heat loss can occur more on this property than one that is properly insulated. A qualified contractor should evaluate and install as necessary.
  • Paper Wrong Direction: Insulation installed in the crawl space had paper or foil backing facing the wrong direction. Thermal insulation should always be installed with the paper or foil backing toward the source of heat. Reversal (backing on the cold side) may result in problems from the formation of excessive condensation. Excessive condensation may cause damage to property materials from decay or result in the development of microbial growth which can cause health problems in some people. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
  •  Insulation Defect: The crawl space insulation [word 1]. A qualified contractor should evaluate and repair or replace as necessary.
    • Has fallen and areas are not properly covered.
    • Is Damaged
    • Is Loose

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