Attic, Insulation, & Ventilation Inspection Guide

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To learn more, take InterNACHI's free, online How to Inspect the Attic, Insulation, Ventilation and Interior Course.

STANDARDS OF PRACTICE

The International Standards of Practice for inspecting the Attic, Insulation, & Ventilation is located at www.nachi.org/sop.

Observation

If attic access is located too close to the Fireplace it is recommended that the access door be sealed with weather stripping around the access door to avoid a backdraft condition. Attic access should meet the 22”x30” clear opening recommendations.

Observation

This section of the attic has no insulation installed.

Observation

Insulation is installed upside down (vapor barrier should be installed next to the warm side of the ceiling).

Observation

Structural Truss was cut to accommodate a heat duct (This may compromise the structural integrity of the truss).

Observation

Attic insulation is not level (May create cold areas in the conditioned space below).

Observation

Hand assembled wood gussets are not acceptable without approval of a structural engineer. (Any modification of an engineered structural truss will require a review and approval by a structural engineer).

 

Observation

The bath fan is vented into the attic space (discharged moisture can create an environment for potential mold growth).

Observation

Ridge beam has no vertical support at the end.

Observation

Plumbing vent is not connected.

Observation

Soffit vent is damaged and may interfere with air flow.

Observation

Water lines are located in unheated space (this would be a defect in cold weather locations and will vary according to geographic climate).

Observation

Heat ducts are not insulated in unconditioned areas.