There are some items in condos that separates them from a normal single family residence home inspection. One of those items has to do with the picture below. Can you guess what it is?
Okay, I admit it, this is a tough one, especially when you're just looking at the picture and weren't on-site to see the layout of the units. The issue is that there were three units and this view was of the middle unit attic space. The attic was not separated. Someone could go up in the attic and crawl into another unit with no restriction... that's a little scary.
But there's another issue. The attics should not only be separated but should have a fire barrier. Think about it, if there's a fire in another unit, they will hear the fire alarms (hopefully) but you won't because the fire is not in your unit. You'll have no warning. But if there's a firewall, hopefully the occupants in the other unit will be alerted and will let you know there's a fire.
Just another reason why your home inspector should always go in the attic as long as it is accessible and safe.
I hope this gives you a little more information about a home inspection and its value. Be safe out there.
Posted by Joseph Lang of Pillar To Post Professional Home Inspection
(c) 2009 Joseph Lang dba Pillar To Post
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Joe, I see this to----and it is a jurisdicitional nightmare. I see it mostly with apartments that have been converted to Condos. The apartments didn't require separation and some jurisdictions allowed the attic to stay common after conversion. The security issues always make my buyers perk up their ears:)