How to Inspect Vegetation Around the Property
While the inspector is on the exterior of the property it is important to check all of the vegetation around the home. If the inspector observes trees that are overhanging the property or overgrown vegetation it should be called out as a defect in the report. Please review the below procedure for the proper way to inspect vegetation.
NACHI SOP
International Standards of Practice for Performing a General Home Inspection
3.2. Exterior
I. The inspector shall inspect:
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:
N/A
III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:
N/A
IV. The inspector is not required to:
C. Inspect or identify geological, geotechnical, hydrological or soil conditions.
Axium SOP Differences
Axium Requires: Evaluating trees are beyond the scope of a general home inspection but the inspector will note any trees that are in contact with the property or vegetation that is overgrown around the property.
Tools Needed
No tools required to inspected the vegetation.
Procedure
- Inspector will observe all vegetation while walking around the property looking specifically for any vegetation that is in contact with the home. Trees should be at least ten feet away from the house. Check for tree limbs that are in contact with the roof or hanging near the roof that should be trimmed. Bushes and shrubs should also be trimmed back from the property.
Common Defects
- Vines growing on the siding of the home.
- Tree limbs in contact with or overhanging on the roof.
- Vegetation overgrown near the building.
- Large trees being too close to the structure.
Common Mistakes
- Not checking all the vegetation around the property.
- Not identifying the proper vegetation defect.
Report / Software
IN |
|
|
NI |
|
|
NP |
|
|
RR |
|