By Barry Stone
Dear Barry,
As a home inspector, I find that some living units in multifamily buildings have no attic access openings, even when the attic spaces are large enough to require an access. The lack of an opening leaves me unable to inspect wiring, air ducts, insulation, framing, or evidence of roof leaks. It is my understanding that attics are required to be accessible. So why am I finding some without a way in? Darrell
Dear Darrell,
In older multi-unit dwellings, the attic access is often installed in one unit only. Unless you get permission to enter the neighboring unit, you cannot inspect the attic above the subject unit, and such permission is not always obtainable. When access is not possible, your only obligation is to disclose that you were unable to inspect the attic. However, that disclosure should be accompanied by a recommendation that an access opening be installed in the subject unit and that the inspection be completed prior to close of the sale.
Another concern with multi-unit buildings that have a single attic access is that attic firewalls are most likely not installed between the units. Wherever this deficiency is found, you should report it as a substandard condition for which upgrade may not be required, but is nonetheless advised.
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