This is a solidly-built deck.
It is properly and securely attached to the house.
The stair cases are well done, strong, straight and square.
There are lights at the top of the stairs and staircase.
The deck has been well sealed, not only against water but the sun's UV rays.
And the guardrail is securely through-bolted to a double joist and blocking is there to further add strength. It is 36" high, as required.
But this deck is unsafe! Not for what you see, but for what you DON'T see.
Why?
Two reasons:
1. There are spaces in the guardrails that an adult could dive through.
2. Children see that guardrail as an invitational ladder to climb to the top.
These homeowners don't have small children or grandchildren in the house. They never considered it. But who will buy this house?
This is a safe guardrail, which meets the local codes. And it was County inspected, unlike the deck above. The deck above is missing vertical balusters!
The local code happens to require that the balusters, even the decorative ones like the "sunburst" shown here, have any space no wider than, what turns out to be, my hand. Even at the bottom of the guardrail. It has been called the "Coke Can Test." Not much more than a coke can should fit through the space.
A small child's head cannot get stuck. Children are not encouraged to climb. And there is still room to sweep off leaves or snow. In every jurisdiction I do inspections in, it is considered safe. It's also good looking.
My recommendation: Even though a deck is strongly built, straight, square and sealed, it might not be right. People don't know what they don't know. Ask a home inspector! Chances are real good he will know!
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