When an inspector checks a new home it is sometimes amazing what the contractor or his sub-contractors failed to take into account, or what tasks are only half done. Below is a good example. 

 

The wise sages knew that, in that location, the water heater should have a pan under it. Fact is, it was in such a spot that draining the pan through the exterior wall would be a piece of cake compared to some places where it would take effort. The problem -- nobody bothered to make the hole in the wall and install a drain line. As is, when that tank leaks, there is going to be interior damage. The floor itself is concrete but this cubby-hole has sheet rock all around it. Sheet rock does not respond well to flooding.

Steven L. Smith

Bellingham WA Home Inspections