Home Inspection of an Attic

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What surprises are hiding in the attic?

If there is damage present in the attic, an inspection can help you determine what you need to bring into the sales negotiations, including an estimate of repair costs. The things to look for in an attic are structural damage, proper insulation, and the condition of the chimney and storage areas.

Structural damage
Damage to the trusses and rafters can indicate that the home has shifted, causing them to crack or break. A substandard level of wood quality may have allowed these pieces to deteriorate. You will also see if there is evidence of fire damage, including the obvious black marks from charred or smoke-damaged wood, which may be camouflaged with layers of paint. Since water usually enters the shell of the home from the roof and not from the sides, you will be able to see water stains where water has been able to enter. Pest damage will be noted here: from termites indicated by the wood they have eaten to rodents that have their chewing marks on wires and insulation.

Proper insulation
An attic must be properly insulated with the required R level of insulation material for that climate. The colder the climate, the higher number the R insulation. Your home inspector will note if it is up to code as the code may have changed. He will also note whether it is placed properly according to the type of batts (sections of insulation backed with heavy paper) or blow-in insulation that was used.

Chimney and storage areas, windows and dormer
An attic inspection will show the condition of the exterior of the chimney shaft under the roof and what it looks like. It should be sealed properly where it meets the attic floor and roof; the condition of the bricks and mortar should also be acceptable. It will not tell you what the interior chimney shaft condition is like, but it will give you an idea of its exterior structural health. While the attic inspection is being performed, the inspector will note the condition of storage areas and attic floors, looking for damaged floor boards, and evidence of water, pest and fire damage in this area. Attic windows and dormers will be inspected to see if they are insulated and in good condition to prevent outdoor elements from entering the attic.

By Philip Commins