Level 4 Diploma for Home Inspectors (6020-02)

Level 4 Diploma for Home Inspectors (6020-02) Assignment Guide for Candidates 500/1629/5 www.cityandguilds.com

February 2007 Version 1.0

About City & Guilds City & Guilds is the UK’s leading provider of vocational qualifications, offering over 500 awards across a wide range of industries, and progressing from entry level to the highest levels of professional achievement. With over 8500 centres in 100 countries, City & Guilds is recognised by employers worldwide for providing qualifications that offer proof of the skills they need to get the job done. City & Guilds Group The City & Guilds Group includes ILM (the Institute of Leadership & Management) providing management qualifications, learning materials and membership services and NPTC which offers land-based qualifications and membership services. City & Guilds also manages the Engineering Council Examinations on behalf of the Engineering Council. Equal opportunities City & Guilds fully supports the principle of equal opportunities and we are committed to satisfying this principle in all our activities and published material. A copy of our equal opportunities policy statement Access to assessment and qualifications is available on the City & Guilds website. Copyright The content of this document is, unless otherwise indicated, © The City and Guilds of London Institute 2005 and may not be copied, reproduced or distributed without prior written consent. However, approved City & Guilds centres and learners studying for City & Guilds qualifications may photocopy this document free of charge and/or include a locked PDF version of it on centre intranets on the following conditions

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• the Standard Copying Conditions on the City & Guilds website. Please note: National Occupational Standards are not © The City and Guilds of London Institute. Please check the conditions upon which they may be copied with the relevant Sector Skills Council. Publications City & Guilds publications are available on the City & Guilds website or from our Publications Sales department at the address below or by telephoning +44 (0)20 7294 2850 or faxing +44 (0)20 7294 3387. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained in this publication is true and correct at the time of going to press. However, City & Guilds’ products and services are subject to continuous development and improvement and the right is reserved to change products and services from time to time. City & Guilds cannot accept liability for loss or damage arising from the use of information in this publication. City & Guilds 1 Giltspur Street London EC1A 9DD T +44 (0)20 7294 2800 www.cityandguilds.com F +44 (0)20 7294 2400 [email protected]

Level 4 Diploma for Home Inspectors (6020-02) Assignment Guide for Candidates

www.cityandguilds.com February 2007 Version 1.0

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Contents

1 Introduction 6 1.1 An introduction to the assignments 6 1.2 Important Information 7 2 Assignments 8 Task 001 Outline, agree and confirm terms, conditions and arrangements for carrying

out a home inspection and providing a Home Condition Report.. 8 Task 002 Investigate relevant matters relating to the property 11 Task 003 Inspect a property for condition and determine condition ratings and produce

complete and comprehensive record of findings. 14 Task 004 Collect and collate information for the assessment of energy efficiency and

deliver practical advice from the recommendations. 17 Task 005 Produce a complete and comprehensive Home Condition Report and make it

available. 20

1 Introduction 1.1 An introduction to the assignments

The Level 4 Diploma for Home Inspectors provides you with all the knowledge and skills needed to become a Home Inspector. To gain the qualification you are required to pass three units. Unit 1 Principles of Domestic Energy Assessment, Unit 2 Prepare, undertake and produce Domestic Energy Assessments and Unit 3 Prepare, undertake and produce Home Condition Reports. Unit 1 is assessed by a City & Guilds set and marked multiple choice question test, administered via City & Guilds Global On-line Assessment (GOLA). Unit 2 is assessed by a minimum of five assignments over the specific age bands, property types and issues (See Appendix 1) which test your competencies and understanding of the units. Unit 3 is assessed by a minimum of nine assignments over the specific age bands, property types and defects (See Appendix 8) which test your competencies and understanding of the units. Upon completion of each assignment your work will be graded taking account of your

1 preparation, planning and recording

2 performance in the practical activities

3 demonstration of the required underpinning knowledge.

Each of these will be marked and will be awarded a pass or fail. In order to pass a unit you must gain a pass in all tasks which form part of the assignment.

1.2 Important Information

Health and Safety The importance of safe working practices must always be stressed. Candidates have responsibilities for the safety of others as well as themselves. Anyone behaving in an unsafe manner must be stopped and a suitable warning given. Machinery, tools and equipment Centres must have access to sufficient equipment in the college, training centre or workplace to ensure candidates have the opportunity to cover all of the practical activities. It is acceptable for centres to use specially designated areas within a centre for some of the units. The equipment, systems or machinery must be of an industrial standard and be capable of being used under normal working conditions. Feedback The assignments are intended as a formal assessment of candidates’ practical skills. They are not designed as teaching aids and candidates should not be entered until they are ready. Should a candidate fail any of these assignments, appropriate feedback should be given by the assessor both to the candidate and the tutor concerned. If a candidate’s work is selected for verification, samples of work must be available to the appointed External Verifier. Equal opportunities It is a requirement of centre approval that centres have an equal opportunities policy (see PCGQ). The regulatory authorities require City & Guilds to monitor centres to ensure that equal opportunity policies are being followed. The City & Guilds equal opportunities policy is set out on the City & Guilds website: www.cityandguilds.com, in PCGQ, in the Directory of Awards and is also available from the City & Guilds Customer Relations department. Access to assessment City & Guilds’ guidance and regulations on access to assessment are designed to facilitate access to assessment and qualifications for candidates who are eligible for adjustments in assessments. Access arrangements are designed to allow attainment to be demonstrated. See City & Guilds Access to assessment and qualifications, available on the City & Guilds website, for further information. Appeals Centres must have their own, auditable, appeals procedure that must be explained to candidates during their induction. Appeals must be fully documented by the quality assurance co-ordinator and made available to the External Verifier or City & Guilds. Further information on appeals is given in PCGQ. There is also appeals information for centres and candidates on the City & Guilds website and from the Customer Relations department.

2 Assignments Task 001 Outline, agree and confirm terms, conditions

and arrangements for carrying out a home inspection and providing a Home Condition Report..

Candidate introduction

Brief overview of the assignment You are required to demonstrate your ability to interact with people, identify a mutually convenient time for the inspection, explain the terms and conditions and confirm the appointment in writing.

Materials, equipment and other resources You will need the following to complete the assignment:

• Computer and appropriate software

• A4 Printer

• Access to the internet

• A desk diary

• An enquiry management form.

Briefing for the assignment The vocational context of the assignment is as follows:

• Dealing with people (sellers, their representatives and others in the buying and selling process) is an essential skill for the Home Inspector.

• The National Occupational Standards require Home Inspectors to deal with people professionally, courteously, tactfully and ethically.

Task 001 Outline, agree and confirm terms, conditions and arrangements for carrying out a home inspection and providing a Home Condition Report..

Assignment coverage sheet

The information below provides brief details of the requirements for each sub-task within the assignment:

Sub-task

1.1 – You will be able to show you can respond to requests from various sources, accepting or declining an instruction to carry out a home inspection. It will also allow you to show you can manage your time, schedule appointments, prioritise tasks and set objectives.

1. 2 – You will be able to show you can examine, and are aware of circumstances which may prevent you from accepting, an instruction. This task will allow you to show that you understand the range of circumstances and reasons that might prevent you from carrying out an inspection.

1. 3 – You will be able to set out the terms and conditions under which to accept an instruction, who must be present at the property and any other specific requirements.

1. 4 – You will be able to produce and send out written confirmation of the date and time of the inspection and detail any other specific arrangements you will require.

For further details ask your tutor for page 46 in the handbook

Task 001 Outline, agree and confirm terms, conditions and arrangements for carrying out a home inspection and providing a Home Condition Report..

Tasks

1.1 Complete an enquiry management form, entering the details into your desk diary.

1.2 Draft a letter to a pack provider or similar client accepting an instruction.

1.3 Draft a letter to the

i) seller or their representative, declining the instruction for a specific reason

ii) resident confirming the time and date of the inspection detailing any specific arrangements and explaining why the Energy Performance Certificates are required.

1.4 Produce a method statement on how an instruction would be actioned.

Notes

Your tutor can support you by providing a template to help you structure your report.

Timings 1.5 hours What to hand in

1 Draft letters on the above basis.

2 Method statement of the process you would follow and the rationale behind your decisions.

3 Extract from your desk diary or wall chart.

Deadline for completion As arranged by the centre.

Task 002 Investigate relevant matters relating to the property


Brief overview of the assignment You are required to demonstrate your ability to undertake background research into the property using web based resources, your own local knowledge and information provided by the client or their representative.


• Computer with appropriate software


• Printer.

Briefing for the assignment The vocational context of the assignment is as follows:

• You will need to be able to carry out research and investigate the home to be inspected and determine if it falls within the range of legislation for Home Inspections.




Sub-task

2.1 – You will be able to show that you can research a property using records and data which is available to the public. These records will include regulatory research relating to the property and its surroundings.

2. 2 – You will be able to show that you can examine the facts that you have discovered about a property. You will use this information to arrive at conclusions on factors which might influence the way you conduct the inspection or areas where you may pay special attention.

2. 3 – You will be able to show that you are aware of the legislation and issues relating to the carrying out of Home Inspections. You will be able to show you know the types of properties which fall within the scope of the legislation. You will promptly inform the client.



Tasks

2.1 Assemble a selection of information about the home using web based resources. This may include information about flooding, mining, underlying strata, radon gas, conservation areas and listed status, relevant information from the client or their representatives.

2.2 Assemble a selection of information, using web based resources, on which legislation may influence whether or not a Home Inspection is carried out

2.3 Produce a method statement on the research that has been carried out and how the information researched could influence the way the Home Inspection is carried or is not applicable.

Timings Half an hour What to hand in

1 Printouts from web based providers.

2 Information from the occupier, client or their representatives. (ie is it a shop freeholding)

3 Method statements of the processes you would follow and the rationale behind your decisions.

Deadline for completion As arranged by the centre

Task 003 Inspect a property for condition and determine condition ratings and produce complete and comprehensive record of findings.


Brief overview of the assignment

This task requires you to carry out an inspection of a home to gather sufficient information to produce a home condition report.


• Inspection equipment Inspection equipment (See IRR)

• Blank site notes pro-forma

• Computer

• Internet Access

• A4 printer

• Digital camera.

Briefing for the assignment The vocational context of the assignment is as follows: Undertaking the physical inspection and accurately recording information about the home is an essential part of producing the home condition report.




Sub-task

3.1 – You will be able to produce a list of equipment and other resources (including suitable identification) that would be required to conduct the inspection.

3.2 – You will be able to use site notes to record information and measurements needed to produce a home condition report.

3. 3 – You will be able to show you can gather other information about the home, either from the resident or other sources. You will also be able demonstrate that you can carry out additional research to investigate inconsistencies or other issues subsequent to the inspection.

3. 4 – You will be able to demonstrate your knowledge of construction, materials and building pathology to determine the causes of failure or deterioration.

3.5 - You will be able to show that you can determine condition ratings for relevant building elements of the property.

3.6 - You will be able to produce legible complete and comprehensive site notes.

For further details ask your tutor for page 48-49 in the handbook


Tasks

3.1 You are required to carry out an inspection of a home using the appropriate equipment.

3.2 Produce a risk assessment for the property.

3.3 You will record your findings, observations and measurements about the home on a site notes pro forma in a clear and legible manner, which conforms to industry standards.

3.4 You will receive a witness statement from at least one of the Home Inspections from a named resident. (See Appendix 6)

3.5 You will produce a method statement of the process you followed for inspecting the defects, relating to the HI matrix (only one method statement per issue across the five certificates).


1 An inspection equipment checklist with photo of equipment

2 Completed risk assessment

3 A signed and dated witness statement from a named resident from at least one of the Home Inspections.

4 A set of completed site notes with cross referenced supporting digital images including:

all elevations with roof slopes, restrictions to the inspection (if any), unusual or significant features or defects, boiler, boiler controls, secondary heating, water heating, thermal insulation in the main roof space, renewable energy equipment, health and safety issues, electric meter and consumer unit, items requiring reflective thought, street scene

5 Method statement of the process you followed for inspecting the defects/issues, relating to the HI matrix (only one method statement per issue across the nine reports) and the rationale behind your decisions.

Deadline for completion As arranged by the centre.

Task 004 Collect and collate information for the assessment of energy efficiency and deliver practical advice from the recommendations.


Brief overview of the assignment This task requires you to collect and collate data and take measurements for the production of the energy performance certificate (Section H) of the home condition report, upload this data using the approved software and review the ratings and recommendations provided by the RDSAP software and revise these where necessary to deliver practical advice.


• Inspection equipment

• Site notes pro-forma

• Computer

• Internet access

• A4 printer

• Digital camera.

Briefing for the assignment The vocational context of the assignment is as follows: Accurate data collection for the production of Energy Performance Certificates is an essential skill for the Home Inspector. Incorrect identification of construction, heating type, age, measurements, insulation, etc can significantly affect the accuracy and value of the Energy Performance Certificate which forms an integral part of the Home Condition Report.




Sub-task

4.1 – You will be able to show that you are familiar with the correct procedures and protocols to be followed when collecting data for the production of the energy performance certificate.

4.2 – You will be able to show that once the data has been collected, you can upload this information using the approved software.

4. 3 – You will be able to show how to use the information provided by the energy performance certificate and from your own observations of the home, give practical advice to the resident/client on where improvements in energy efficiency can be made.

4. 4 – You will be able to produce legible complete and comprehensive site notes.



Tasks

4.1 Collect the data required for the production of an Energy Performance Certificate in a clear and legible format.

4.2 Using the data collected, you will upload the information using the approved software and produce an Energy Performance Certificate.

4.3 Record your findings, observations and measurements about the home on a site notes pro forma in a clear and legible manner, which conforms to industry standards.

4.4 Complete site notes with cross referenced supporting digital images.

4.5 Use the information from the EPC and review the recommendations made by the software to ensure a relevant outcome.

Timings 2 hours What to hand in A portfolio consisting of:

1 Completed site notes pro-forma.

2 A set of completed site notes with cross referenced supporting digital images including:

all elevations with roof slopes, restrictions to the inspection, boiler, boiler controls, secondary heating, water heating, thermal insulation in the main roof space, renewable energy equipment, health and safety issues, electricity meter (cross reference photos with Task 3 where appropriate)

3 Finished energy performance certificate (EPC) with recommendations.


Task 005 Produce a complete and comprehensive Home Condition Report and make it available.


Brief overview of the assignment You are required to produce a Home Condition Report for inclusion in your portfolio of evidence.

Materials, equipment and other resources You will need the following materials and components to complete the assignment:

• Computer and appropriate software

• A4 Printer


Briefing for the assignment The vocational context of the assignment is as follows: Actual production of the Home Condition Report is the outcome of all of the preparatory work carried out during the previous tasks. This outcome must meet industry standards, legislative requirements, be professionally prepared and meet the needs of consumers and other stakeholders.




Sub-task

5.1 – You will be able to produce complete, comprehensive, legible and accurate site notes that support your condition ratings and recommendations.

5.2 – You will be able to show you can use the information gathered during your inspection, with data from various other sources to produce a home condition report.

5. 3 – You will be able to produce a home condition report with correct condition ratings and justifications for all elements.

5. 4 – You will be able to show you can record all other data required by the report.

5.5 – You will be able to recommend any further investigations where you suspect a defect exists.

5.6 – You will be able use your measurements to calculate the estimated minimum reinstatement costs for insurance purposes.

5.7 – You will have shown you can highlight elements or areas of the home that could not be inspected and /or measured.

5.8 – You will establish and maintain records of the dates of inspections, when the HCR has been completed and when it was lodged with the national database.

5.9 – You will be able to inform the client or their representatives that the HCR is complete and available to them and answer questions about it and provide clarification when required.

For further details ask your tutor for page 51-52 in the handbook


Tasks

5.1 Complete and comprehensive site notes.

5.2 Complete and comprehensive Home Condition Report

5.3 A copy of the correspondence between you and the client or their representative informing them that the Home Condition Report has been completed and is available to them.

5.4 At least one letter (over the nine Home Condition Reports) responding to an enquiry from a concerned resident wanting clarification for a recommendation made in your report.

5.5 A method statement stating how you maintain your record storage and retrieval systems.


1 A professional Home Condition Report incorporating a Domestic Energy Assessment (including site notes) that conforms to industry standards and meets the needs of consumers

2 A sample letter informing the client or their representative that the Home Condition Report has been completed.

3 A sample letter responding to an enquiry from a concerned resident to clarify a recommendation (over the nine Home Condition Reports)

4 Method statements of the processes you would follow and the rationale behind your decisions.


Appendix 1 Domestic Energy Assessor Matrix

No

Issu

esEx

tens

ions

Room

in R

oof

Cons

erva

tory

Alte

rnat

ive

wal

l typ

eSo

lid W

all

Conv

erte

d no

n do

mes

tic

No

Issu

esEx

tens

ions

Room

in R

oof

Cons

erva

tory

Alte

rnat

ive

wal

l typ

eSo

lid W

all

Conv

erte

d no

n do

mes

tic

No

Issu

esEx

tens

ions

Room

in R

oof

Cons

erva

tory

Alte

rnat

ive

wal

l typ

eSo

lid W

all

Conv

erte

d no

n do

mes

tic

No

Issu

esEx

tens

ions

Room

in R

oof

Cons

erva

tory

Alte

rnat

ive

wal

l typ

eSo

lid W

all

Conv

erte

d no

n do

mes

tic

No

Issu

esEx

tens

ions

Room

in R

oof

Cons

erva

tory

Alte

rnat

ive

wal

l typ

eSo

lid W

all

Conv

erte

d no

n do

mes

tic

Terrace/Semi ABABAB

1950-1981 1982-1995 1996-2002 Post 2002

Terrace/Semi

Detached

Flat/Maisonette

Pre 1949 DEA number Property address The candidates need to enter the Domestic Energy

Assessment numbers into the relevant boxes in the first matrix. The address of the property should be entered in the table against the inspection number. This ensures that the candidates cover the necessary number of property types, ages of properties and the issues.

Appendix 2 White board for recording jobs

Appendix 3 Sample professional letter

Date Address for the Domestic Energy Assessment Town County Post Code Dear Mr and Mrs Smith, Type the body of your letter here. Include details stated in the marking scheme. Ensure that the letter is addressed to the correct person and for the correct property. If you have any further questions or queries please don’t hesitate to contact me. It should end with the correct sign off. Yours Sincerely, Candidates name Candidates job title

Your Company Name (if appropriate)

Appendix 4 Sample professional letter to resident accepting instruction

Address for the Domestic Energy Assessment Town County Post Code Date

Proposal to sell – Address for the Domestic Energy Assessment Dear Mr and Mrs Smith, I have been contacted by your estate agent (XXXX XXXX) to prepare a Domestic Energy Assessment of your home prior to placing the property for sale. As discussed in my brief telephone conversation with Mr Smith, I propose to carry out the survey on Monday ???? at 10.00am. The survey will take approximately X hours to complete and will require access to all rooms, airing cupboards, loft spaces and cellars where applicable. Please ensure that any money or valuables are safely put away and any objects or items which could be broken or damaged during the survey are securely stored. Please also ensure that any pets are suitably controlled for the duration of the survey. It is important that a responsible adult is present during the survey, preferably either of yourselves. I enclose the following for your attention:-

• 2 copies of my standard terms and conditions. 1 copy should be signed and returned to my office as soon as possible. (as per published guidance - formerly IRR))

• Information about why the Domestic Energy Assessment is required.

I can be contacted at the above address and telephone number should you have any further queries. Otherwise, I look forward to seeing you on the day when I will answer any questions you may have. Yours sincerely Candidates name Candidates job title

Appendix 5 RDSAP2005 Data Collection Sheet

DEA Name: Client Name:

Address:

Post Code: Inspection Date:

Risk checklist Parking Empty property Access Animals Occupants Chemical substances Vermin Construction Voids/holes Loft access Services Weather

Identification of significant hazards (following brief walk-round of the property)

Level of risk (H/M/L)

Action required (including special equipment needs)

Address: Date:

PROPERTY TYPE HOUSE □ BUNG □ CHALET □ FLAT □ MAISONETTE □ SHOP □ DETACHMENT DETACHED □ SEMI-DET □ MIDTERRACED □ END TERRACED □ PURP □ CONV □ (Date band)_________ ENCLOSED MID TERRACE □ ENCLOSED ENDTERRACED □

Date Band Main Property: Pre 1900 • 1900-29 • 1930-49 • 1950-66 • 1967-75 • 1976-82 • 1983-90 • 1991-95 • 1996-2002 • 2003-2006 • 2006- •

Extension Present? Yes / No Date Band Ext. 1 Date Band Ext. 2

Room in the roof: Yes / No Age Band

Conservatory: Yes / No Double / Single glazed Floor area____________m² Glazed Perimeter __________m

(non-separated) Storey Height 1 • 1 ½ • 2 • 2 ½ • 3

Flat: Purpose Built Converted Floor Position ______________ No. of floors in block______________

Corridor: Yes / No Heated Unheated Sheltered Wall Length M

Floor: Exposed floor Semi exposed upper floor to unheated space Semi exposed upper floor to partially heated space

Address: Date:

Habitable Rooms _____ Heated Habitable Rooms_______ No. of open Fireplaces ______ Mains Gas Yes / No

Proportion of fixed lighting outlets that are low energy _______% Electric Meter Single • Duel • Unknown

Address: Date:

Main Dimensions Extension 1 Dimensions Extension 2 Dimensions

Floor No. Floor Area

Room Height

Heat loss Perimeter

Floor Area

Room Height

Heat loss Perimeter

Floor Area

Room Height

Heat loss Perimeter

Room in roof

N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

+5

+4

+3

+2

+1

Lowest occupied

Main Wall Construction: Granite • Sandstone • Solid brick • Cavity • Timber frame • System Built Insulation: External • Internal • Filled Cavity • As Built • Unknown

Main Roof Construction: Pitched • Flat • Other dwelling above Insulation: Rafters • Joists • No Access Insulation Thickness: None • 12 • 25 • 50 • 75 • 100 • 150 • 200 • 250 • >300 • Don’t Know

Extension 1 Wall Construction: Granite • Sandstone • Solid brick • Cavity • Timber frame • System Built Insulation: External • Internal • Filled Cavity • As Built • Unknown

Extension 1 Roof Construction: Pitched • Flat • Other dwelling above Insulation: Rafters • Joists • No Access Insulation Thickness: None • 12 • 25 • 50 • 75 • 100 • 150 • 200 • 250 • >300 • Don’t Know

Extension 2 Wall Construction: Granite • Sandstone • Solid brick • Cavity • Timber frame • System Built Insulation: External • Internal • Filled Cavity • As Built • Unknown

Extension 2 Roof Construction: Pitched • Flat • Other dwelling above Insulation: Rafters • Joists • No Access Insulation Thickness: None • 12 • 25 • 50 • 75 • 100 • 150 • 200 • 250 • >300 • Don’t Know

Address: Date:

Alternate Wall Type Construction: Granite • Sandstone • Solid brick • Cavity • Timber frame • System Built Insulation: External • Internal • Filled Cavity • As Built • Unknown Part of: Main Wall • Ext. 1 Wall • Ext. 2 Wall Alternate Wall Area______________________m²

Windows Area of Glazing: Normal • More than typical • Less than typical Proportion Double Glazed____________% Installed: Pre 2002 • Post 2002 • Unknown

Solar Panels

Solar Water Heating Yes / No Photovoltaic Panels Yes / No PV as % of total roof area ______________ m²

Mechanical Ventilation Present Yes / No With Heat Recovery? Yes / No

Main Heating: Onsite • Communal Onsite boiler: Standard • Combi • Condensing • Back Boiler Onsite boiler ignition: Auto Ignition • Permanent Pilot Onsite boiler mounting: Floor • Wall Onsite Boiler Flue: Open • Balanced • Fan Flue • None Heat Emitter: Radiator • Underfloor Sedbuk: Manufacturer______________________ Model ________________________ Model No.________________ Fuel: Mains Gas • Bulk LPG • Bottled LPG • Oil • Electric • Solid Multifuel • House Coal • Smokeless • Anthracite

Wood logs • Wood Chips • Wood Pellets • Other Communal Specify ___________________

Heating Source Age: Pre 1980 • 1980-85 • 1985- 1997 • 1998-2000 • 2000 or later

Main Heating Code ¦______¦______¦______¦ Note: Taken from attached heating code identification sheet

Address: Date:

Secondary Heating:

Fuel: Mains Gas • Bulk LPG • Bottled LPG • Oil • Electric • Solid Multifuel • House Coal • Smokeless • Anthracite

Wood logs • Wood Chips • Wood Pellets • Other Specify ___________________ Secondary Heating Code ¦______¦______¦______¦ Note: Taken from attached heating code identification sheet

Controls:

Boiler Interlock Yes / No Boiler Energy Manager Yes / No Weather and/ or load compensator Yes / No

Programmer Yes / No Zone Control Yes / No Room Stat Yes / No

TRV Yes / No

Controls Code ¦______¦______¦______¦ Note: Taken from attached heating code identification sheet

Water Heating:

Water Heat Source: From main heating • Secondary heating • Instantaneous Gas / Electric • Electric Immersion heater Water Cylinder Present: Yes / No Cylinder Stat Yes / No Immersion: Single • Duel • Unknown

Cylinder Insulation: None • Jacket • Foam Insulation thickness mm: 12 • 25 • 38 • 50 • 80 • 100 • 150

Cylinder size: No access • Normal (90-130) • Medium (131-170) • Large ( > 170) Water Heating Code ¦______¦______¦______¦ Note: Taken from attached heating code identification sheet

Notes:

Appendix 6 Sample witness statement

Name of Domestic Energy Assessor _______________________________________________ Date____________________________ Address for the Domestic Energy Assessment __________________________________________________________________________________ Post Code_______________________ Name of person present________________________________________________ Contact details (phone/e-mail)____________________________________________ Relationship to property ie owner, friend of owner_____________________________ I can confirm that the above Domestic Energy Assessor turned up at the appointed time was polite and courteous explained the purpose of the survey treaded my property with respect and care Signed________________________________________________________________

Appendix 7 Sample professional letter to resident explaining recommendations

Address for the Domestic Energy Assessment Town County Post Code Date

Proposal to sell – Address for the Domestic Energy Assessment Further to my assessment of your home on the X November 20XX and my comments regarding the energy efficiency of the dwelling, perhaps I can offer the following advice. Heat Loss through Roof During the survey it was not possible to gain access to the loft space or make accurate assessment of the levels of insulation. However, I suspect that because of difficulty with access, there will be little insulation at ceiling level. It is here that ideally there should be 250mm of insulation (usually glass fibre quilt) which would have a significant impact on the energy efficiency and hence running costs / comfort in the house. It is generally accepted that some of the most cost effective energy saving measures can be made by the addition of loft insulation. Heat Loss through Walls The walls of your home are of cavity construction. The cavity can be filled with a variety of insulating materials (foam, polystyrene beads, mineral fibre etc), all of which will make big improvements to the comfort and energy efficiency of your home. In particular, end terrace or houses with a gable end (such as yours) can gain the most benefit by cavity insulation. As well as improving comfort levels, cavity insulation will help combat condensation on cold external walls which was noted during the survey. Heat Loss through Windows/External Doors The windows of your home are single glazed and some of the opening sashes were ill fitting and probably draughty during windy conditions. Major improvements in preventing heat loss, reducing draught and improving comfort could be made by installing double glazed windows/ doors. Furthermore, modern windows/doors can incorporate better security fasteners and locking devices which will not only make your home warmer but safer. Heating System Your home is fitted with a Baxi Housewarmer back boiler with Elegance fire front. These types of heating systems have about 65% efficiency when new and usually deteriorate as they get older. Additionally, there were inadequate controls for programming the heating and no thermostats on the wall or individual radiators.

Modern heating systems using combination boilers or indeed condensing boilers have efficiency values approaching 80%, which means you get more heat for your money. They also utilize thermostatic radiator valves which give better control in your rooms and dispense with the need for storage tanks for the hot and cold water. All in all, a new heating system could make dramatic savings to your fuel bills. In conclusion, I have highlighted in order of value for money, some of the current solutions for energy efficiency that are available. Whilst I do not know your individual circumstances, I can confirm that a variety of grants and assistance are available to homeowners who are considering home improvements and recommend you contact the Energy Advice Centre on Freephone 0800 512012. The local centre is based in XXXXX, is government funded and will provide a range of information leaflets that can give you more detail. I hope my advice has been of some benefit and wish you the best of luck! Yours sincerely Candidates name Candidates job title

Appendix 8 Home Inspector Matrix

No Is

sues

Hazz

ards

Mov

emen

tDa

mp

Defe

ctsBu

ilding

Ser

vices

Drain

age

Roof

Wall

s and

Chim

ney

Othe

rNo

Issu

esHa

zzar

dsM

ovem

ent

Dam

p De

fects

Build

ing S

ervic

esDr

ainag

eRo

ofW

alls a

nd C

himne

y

Othe

rNo

Issu

esHa

zzar

dsM

ovem

ent

Dam

p De

fects

Build

ing S

ervic

esDr

ainag

eRo

ofW

alls a

nd C

himne

y

Othe

r

Terrace ab

Semi Detached ab

Detached ab

Falt/Maisonette ab

Pre 1939 1939-1969 Post 1969 Home Inspection number Property address

The candidates need to enter the Home Inspection numbers into the relevant boxes in the first matrix. The address of the property should be entered in the table against the inspection number. This ensures that the candidates cover the necessary number of property types, ages of properties and the issues.

Appendix 9 Seller’s Questionnaire Pro-Forma

HI – Home Inspector HCR – Home Condition Report

Seller’s Questionnaire Pro-Forma This form is to be filled in by the Home owner/occupier prior to the Home Inspection, and presented to the HI on the day of inspection. The Home Inspector will carry out an inspection in line with the attached conditions of inspection This document contains a series of questions that the Home Inspector will require your assistance to answer. Please spend time in accurately preparing your answers before the visit. This data is very important to you, potential purchasers and the eventual purchasers and mortgage Lenders and it must be accurate and complete. If you have completed any alterations or renewals please declare these to the HI as this may enhance the HCR and sales process. In respect of major changes, ideally copies of all documents need to be made and handed to the HI i.e. all Planning Permissions, Building Control Approvals, Plans, Builders Estimates/Receipts, Drawings/Plans, Service Engineer Estimates/Receipts, Specialist Contractor remedial works such as for woodworm, decay, wall-dampness, cavity-wall-ties etc….. Your existing Solicitor/Conveyancer may have these documents. If you have had to claim on any Insurance, again all documents should be copied and handed to the HI. This is especially important were flood damage or structurally remedial works have been completed e.g. foundation underpinning. If you have any previous HCRs and/or Survey Reports, again copies of these are relevant and will be of interest to the HI. Please be aware that the HI will make a comprehensive set of site notes relating to the property including photographs, these will not be included in the completed Home Condition Report but will remain on file for the period as required by legislation. Fill in by using a pen OR ring /tick the most appropriate answer. It is accepted that some answers may be approximate or an assumption – which will be stated as an assumption. If you required additional space or have “other information” to impart to the HI please write in section ‘Other’. Address………………………………………………………………………………………… Client name……………………………………………………………………………………….. Inspection Date……………………………… Owner signature………………………………………

This form has been completed by the owner/occupier of the premises. I have read and understand the attached Terms and Conditions of the Inspection and agree the HI can take a full record of the property including photos. This form will provide the basis of a legal document, please ensure all information is as accurate as possible. This document will be kept for a minimum period of 15 years from inspection.

QUESTION ANSWER

01 How old is the original building? It was constructed in …………../ or around the ………………….. .period

02 How long have you resided here? Years

03 Is the property freehold or leasehold Is there any flying freeholds

Free Lease Period of lease………………….years Yes No

04 Is the property tenanted Yes No

05 Have any structural works, Insurance Claim or Storm Damage works been completed? Place an approximate date of works after each item…..

What When Why

06 Has the home or plot ever flooded? Yes No Regularly When… Unknown

07 If built upon a formerly contaminated site/landfill site, do you have a land Remediation Certificate?

Yes No Unknown Details

08 Have you carried out any alteration work or added an extension? Place an approximate date of works Do you have building regulation approval and planning permission? Do you have the appropriate documentation?

List which documents

09 What guarantees or warranties are known to pass with the premises? Place an approximate date of works after each Yes/No reply…..

Wall-dampness works Yes / No Cavity wall tie replacements Yes / No Cavity wall insulation Yes / No Double Glazing Yes / No Rewiring/Services renewals Yes / No – Items below…. 1. 2. Boiler replacement Yes / No Conservatory Yes / No Other 1 = Yes / No Other 2 = Yes / No

10 Have any Party Wall Act Notices been served by you, or upon you?

Yes No When…

11 What “mains” and other services are available; &which are metered?

Gas Mains or Liquid Propane Gas Electricity Mains or Shared supply Water Mains or Private supply Drainage Mains or Private System Oil Private Tank Supply Security system (full or partial?) Electric immersion heater

Electric showers (how many?)

12 How old is your heating boiler? years old

13 When was the last documented boiler professional service and date of any major repairs? (list exactly what)

Last service years ago Major repair years ago

14 If you have a private drainage system; when was it installed, last emptied, cleansed or repaired in any way?

Installed /created years ago Repaired years ago Cleansed/Emptied years ago

15 Is your road/access private? Yes No

16 Do you live in a Listed Building? Yes No Grade?

17 Do you live in a Conservation Area? Yes No Name?

18 Are there any tree preservation orders on trees within the grounds?

Yes No Details

19 What other works/renewals have you had completed: and when? For Example Kitchen, bathroom, wiring, windows etc

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

20 Are you aware of any hidden, covered or otherwise concealed hatches, ducts or other access points?

Yes No If yes – what and where are they?

21 Are you aware of anything wrong with the house and outbuildings or with the garden/boundaries of your home?

Yes No If yes – list and describe :

22 Is the property constructed using any particular system or using non-traditional materials (e.g. concrete or steel framed, etc.)?

23 Do you know which boundaries you are responsible for maintaining? Is your property currently affected by boundary disputes?

24 Do you know if there are any bats in the property?

25 Have you improved the energy

efficiency of the property?

26 Are you aware Radon or Landfill-Site Gas prevention/protection/monitoring or testing measures been completed?

Yes; in . . . . . . . . . . (year) No Don’t know

Other

HOME CONDITION REPORT General Information and Terms and Conditions The report tells you • About the construction and condition of the home on the date it was inspected; and • If necessary, whether further enquiries or investigations are needed. The report’s main aim is to tell you about defects that need urgent attention or are serious. It also tells you about things that need further investigation to prevent damage to the structure of the building and are on a set list of threats to personal safety. The report gives ‘condition ratings’ to the major parts of the main building (it does not give condition ratings to outbuildings). However, the report does not mention minor defects that do not need building work to put them right. The report contains an energy performance certificate that tells you about the energy and environmental performance of the home and suggests improvements that you can make. This report does not tell you • The value of your home or cover things that are more specifically considered when a valuation is provided, such as the locality of the home or the availability of public transport or facilities. • It does not tell you about any minor defects that would not normally have any effect on a buyer’s decision to buy. • This report does not warn you about any health and safety risks to people using or visiting the property, unless the risks are such that repair or building work is needed. The report does not contain advice on the cost of any repair work or the methods of repair which should be used. The report is not an asbestos inspection within the meaning of the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2002. A seller, buyer or lender who needs advice on subjects that are not covered by the home condition report must arrange for it to be provided separately. What is inspected? The home inspector inspects the inside and outside of the main building and all permanent outbuildings, and the visible parts of the services gas, electricity and water and drainage services. The inspector gives each part of the structure of the main building a condition rating, to make the report easy to follow. The Condition Ratings are as follows, Condition rating Definition Not inspected Not inspected 1 No repair is currently needed. Normal maintenance must be carried out. 2 Repairs or replacements are needed but the home inspector does not consider these to be serious or urgent. 3 These are defects which are either serious and/or require urgent repair or replacement. Important note The inspection is ‘non-invasive’. This means that the home inspector does not take up carpets, floor coverings or floorboards, move furniture or remove the contents of cupboards. Also, the home inspector does not remove secured panels or undo electrical fittings. The home inspector will say at the start of sections D, E and F of the report where it was not possible to inspect any parts of the home that are normally reported on. Where the home inspector has reason to be concerned about these parts, the report will tell you about any further investigations that are needed. The home inspector does not report on the cost of any remedial work or how repairs should be carried out. 1. More information about the inspection 1.1 The purpose of the report is to provide reliable information on the state of condition and repair of the home to the seller, prospective buyers and mortgage lenders.

1.2 The main objective of the report is to tell you about problems that require urgent attention, are of a serious nature, or both. The report gives ‘Condition Ratings’ to the major parts of the main building (it does not give ‘Condition Ratings’ to outbuildings). The report will not highlight minor defects. 1.3 The report does not contain a valuation and the inspection does not include matters that are more specifically considered when a valuation is provided, such as the location of the home or the availability of public transport or amenities. A seller, buyer or lender requiring a valuation must arrange for one to be separately prepared. 1.4 The Home Inspector (HI) carries out a ‘non invasive’ inspection. That means that the HI does not take up carpets or floor coverings, move furniture or remove the contents of cupboards. Nor, for example, does the HI lift floorboards, remove secured panels or undo electrical fittings. The HI will state at the start of sections D, E and F of the report if it was not possible to inspect any parts of the home that are normally reported on. Where the HI has reason to be concerned about these parts the report will tell you about any further investigations that are needed. 1.5 The report does not contain advice on the cost of any remedial work or the methods of repair that should be employed. A seller, buyer or lender requiring advice on these subjects must arrange for it to be provided separately. 1.6 The report is not an Asbestos Inspection within the meaning of the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2002. 2. The exterior of the property (Section D) 2.1 The HI carries out a non-invasive inspection of the outside of the main building and permanent outbuildings, from various vantage points within the boundaries of the property and from public areas such as footpaths and open spaces, using binoculars where necessary. The HI does not stand on walls or enter adjacent private property. The HI has a ladder for viewing flat roofs and other features that are up to 3 metres (10 feet) above the adjoining ground level. Features above this level that cannot be seen from any vantage point are not inspected. Because of the risk of causing damage, the HI does not walk on flat roofs. They assessed rainwater fittings (gutters and downpipes) only if there was heavy rain at the time of inspection. 2.2 The HI looks at the overall condition and the state of repair of the exterior parts of the property. The report does not reflect every minor blemish, and by way of example, it does not point out each individual minor defect in the external walls. Where however, there are so many minor defects that taken together they are serious then the report states this. 3. The interior of the property (Section E) 3.1 The HI carries out a non-invasive inspection of all the parts of the home that can be seen without causing damage. In the event, however, that the HI cannot see a part of the home without the risk of damage, and suspicion exists that there could be a defect, the report states this and includes recommendations on the need for further investigation. 3.2 The HI checks for damp penetration in vulnerable locations with the use of a moisture-measuring meter. 3.3 The HI opens a selection of the windows and all the doors, where possible. The HI enters the roof space, so long as there is safe access. In properties where there are obstructions, for example, where there is a deep thickness of insulation over the ceiling joists, the HI does not walk around the space, because of the risk to safety, but views the roof from the access point. The HI does not comment on the condition or adequacy of chimney flues. 4. Services (Section F) 4.1 The HI is not required to hold the qualifications of a ‘services’ engineer and therefore does not give a comprehensive test report on any of the services. The HI reports on those parts of the services that can be seen and no formal tests are undertaken. If any services such as the boiler or mains water are turned off the HI will state that in the report and will not turn them on. 4.2 Otherwise, the HI turns on a selection of water taps on sanitary appliances and lifts the covers on the drainage inspection chambers where it is safe and practical to do so. 4.3 The HI reports only on the services expressly covered in Section F - Electricity, Gas, Water, Heating and Drainage. All other services and appliances are excluded from the report, for example: security and door answering systems, television, cable, wireless and satellite communication systems, cookers, hobs, washing machines and fridges (even where built in). 5. Flats 5.1 It is frequently difficult to see the entire exterior of the property or block, and its maintenance is seldom the responsibility of a single flat occupier. The HI will only carry out a non-invasive inspection to the level of detail referred to above, the main walls, windows and roof over the flat. The remainder of the block will not be inspected to this detail. The HI will form an opinion based on a general inspection of the remainder of the block that is accessed by the entrance to the flat or common parts serving the flat, as to the standard of maintenance and management. Information given about the exterior and common parts is provided so that the conveyancer can check whether the maintenance provisions within the lease or other title documents are adequate. 5.2 The HI inspects the common access way to the flat, where such exist, and the area where car parking and garaging for the flat are located, together with the access thereto. Other common parts, such as separate halls, stairs and access ways to other flats in the block, the lift motor room and cleaning cupboards are not inspected. 5.3 The interior of the flat is inspected in the same manner as is described under ‘The interior of the property’ above. However, the roof space is only inspected where access can be safely made from within the flat itself. Access to the roof space is not undertaken where it is only possible from the common parts or from within another flat. 6. Grounds 6.1 The HI walks round the grounds and the report provides an overview of the general condition of any garden (but not the way it is stocked) retaining and other walls, fences, and permanent outbuildings. Conservatories, with translucent or clear roofs, attached to the main buildings are treated as outbuildings in the main report (but not for the energy performance report), as are garages and permanent store sheds, Buildings containing swimming pools and sports facilities are treated as outbuildings, but the HI does not report on the leisure facilities, such as the pool itself and its equipment. 7. Re-instatement Cost 7.1 THIS IS NOT A VALUATION OF THE HOME

7.2 The report includes a re-instatement cost [except where the property has special features which mean that the services of a specialist are required to assess the cost, in which event the report states that a specialist is required]. This figure represents the sum at which the home should be insured against fire and other risks. It is based on building and other related costs and does not include the value of the land on which the home is built. The figure should be reviewed regularly as building costs change. 8. Hazardous materials and contaminated land The HI assumes that the home is not built with, nor does it contain hazardous materials, and that it is not built on contaminated land. If, however, any such materials are found during the inspection, or the HI finds evidence to suspect that the land may be contaminated, this is stated within the report along with recommendations on the need for further investigation. 9. Health & safety and other risks 9.1The HI draws attention to health and safety issues where, to ensure a safe environment, the homeowner will need to expend money as part of the improvement of the condition of the home. 9.2 The HI is not required to identify hazards which are inherent, by reason of the age of the property, and which cannot reasonably be changed. By way of example, the HI will not draw attention to uneven floor surfaces that have existed for decades. 10. Matters that need to be investigated by conveyancers 10.1 It is not the role of the HI to act as ‘the conveyancer’. If however, during the home inspection, the HI identifies matters that may require further investigation by the conveyancers who are advising the parties on the transaction (frequently a Solicitor or Licensed Conveyancer) then the HI will make reference to these in the report. The purpose of this is to draw the matters to the attention of others to improve the quality of the information in the Home Information Pack. 10.2 The HI will not have seen the legal and other documents within the Home Information Pack

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Level 4 Diploma for Home Inspectors (6020-02)

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Transcript of Level 4 Diploma for Home Inspectors (6020-02)