Sealed or covered: The sump pump cannot be fully inspected because it is sealed or covered, e.g., carpet, rug or other material. This prevents unobstructed access. Therefore, the inspection is limited.
Not operated: The sump pump is not operated.
Not connected to a power source, not operated/tested: The sump pump is not connected to a power source and, therefore, cannot be operated.
Float lifted manually, motor operates but no water: The inspector lifts the float manually and operates the electric motor. However, there is no water in the sump to verify that the pump operates properly.
Discharge point not visible: The point of discharge for the sump pump is not visible and, therefore, is not inspected.
Hydrostatic pressure relief system installed: The home has a hydrostatic pressure relief system installed at the foundation’s perimeter. These underground installations provide a drainage path for water that penetrates the foundation, either routing it passively to the exterior, or to a sump pump for discharge outside of and away from the structure. They are mostly below grade and are beyond the scope of this inspection. You should request design, installation, and warranty information from the homeowner.
Near/at end useful life, budget for replacement: The sump pump is near or at the end of its useful life. We recommend establishing a budget to replace the sump pump.
Past end useful life, budget for replacement: The sump pump is past the end of its useful life. We recommend establishing a budget to replace the sump pump.
Sump pump(s) is operative, responding to normal controls: The sump pump(s) is operative. The visible and readily-accessible components are responding to the normal controls.
No sump pump, passive sump with drain: There is a passive sump with a drain but there is no sump pump. The system is designed to collect and drain away ground water by gravity. There is no evidence that the sump has overflowed, but the sump should be monitored during and after heavy precipitation. If the water in the sump rises by more than one third of its depth, check the exterior drain area or consider installing a pump to discharge water to the exterior.
Sump pumps are designed to divert water away from foundation: Sump pumps are designed to divert water away from the foundation. Set the pump to discharge water when the water level is at the bottom of the drain tiles entering the sump. Test the pump regularly to ensure that it is operating properly when energized, that the float moves freely, and that there are no obstructions in the drain line. If the system has a battery backup, test the battery regularly.
No battery back-up system, consider installing back-up system: The sump pump does not have a battery back-up system; it is dependent on electrical service. During inclement weather electrical service outages are more likely. This is also the most important time to have your sump pump working. Consider installing a battery back-up system.