Attic

The “attic” in a house is any area between the home’s roof and the ceiling of a habitable space. If there is enough room to move about freely, i.e. not a cathedral ceiling construction, access should be provided. These can be hatches, pull-down steps, or a permanent stairway. Many systems can be evaluated here, including the roofing, structure, insulation, and HVAC. Any limitations created by the structure, height, hazardous conditions, and finished spaces should be reported. A lack of access should be reported.

Hatches should be well-sealed and preferably insulated, although older construction did not require this. Stairs or ladders should be in good repair and acceptable for safe use. Any access in a garage should maintain the required fire rating of the overall ceiling or wall. Inspect to ensure that the access opening does not compromise the structure, especially when trusses are installed. An attic should not have openings to the exterior that can allow pest entry.

There is no access to the attic. The entry is locked or sealed. The conditions inside are undetermined. This prevents any entry necessary for repairs or inspection. Hire a contractor for repairs as needed to allow access to the attic.

The seal or insulation at the attic access is inadequate. This allows energy loss and permits moisture to enter the attic. Repair or replace the access hatch or seal, or add insulation as needed.

The attic access hatch cover is not fire rated. This condition creates a breach in the existing fire rated ceiling or wall. Replace the cover with a fire-rated cover.

The pull-down stairs have loose or missing hardware. This is a safety hazard. Repair or replace the hardware.

The pull-down stairs are not cut to the proper length. This is a safety hazard. Repair or replace the stairs.

The pull-down stairs are damaged. This is a safety hazard. Repair or replace the stairs.

The pull-down stairs are improperly installed. This is a safety hazard. Repair or replace the stairs.

There are gaps large enough to allow bats, birds, vermin and insects to enter. This is a health concern. Hire a contractor to make required repairs.