Cannon Inspection Services | Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee & Surrounding Areas
At Cannon Inspection Services, health and safety issues are some of the most important findings we document during home inspections throughout Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee, and surrounding Southern California communities. While many homeowners focus on cosmetic upgrades, it’s often the less visible safety items that pose the greatest risk to occupants.
Below is an inspection-savvy breakdown of the most common health and safety concerns we evaluate — and what homeowners should routinely check.
Smoke Detectors: Placement, Age & Functionality
Beyond simply having smoke detectors installed, inspectors evaluate location, age, and operation.
Inspection Considerations:
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Detectors should be installed inside bedrooms, outside sleeping areas, and on each level of the home
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Units older than 10 years should be replaced
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Interconnected systems provide enhanced protection
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Missing, painted-over, or non-functional detectors are common deficiencies
Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detectors: Life Safety Priority
CO detectors are required in homes with gas appliances, fireplaces, or attached garages.
Inspection Considerations:
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Proper placement outside sleeping areas and on each level
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Units tested for functionality
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Absence of CO detectors is considered a significant safety concern
Carbon monoxide exposure can be life-threatening, making this a critical inspection item.
Combustion Air & Venting Safety
Improper venting of fuel-burning appliances is a frequent safety finding.
Inspection Considerations:
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Proper vent slope and secure connections
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Corrosion or disconnected vent pipes
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Signs of back-drafting at water heaters or furnaces
Improper venting may allow combustion gases into the home.
Plumbing Leaks, Cross-Connections & Water Damage
Inspectors look beyond visible leaks and assess potential failure points.
Inspection Considerations:
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Active or past leaks at supply lines, drain lines, and fixtures
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Corrosion at shutoff valves and water heaters
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Improper drain connections or missing traps
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Signs of moisture intrusion that may lead to mold growth
GFCI Protection in Wet & Damp Locations
GFCI protection is essential to reduce the risk of electrical shock.
Inspection Considerations:
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Kitchen countertop outlets
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Bathroom, laundry, garage, and exterior outlets
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Older homes often lack required protection
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Non-functioning GFCIs are common safety defects
Electrical Panel & Wiring Hazards
Electrical systems are evaluated for fire and shock hazards, not cosmetic issues.
Inspection Considerations:
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Open knockouts or missing panel covers
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Double-tapped breakers or improper wiring
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Aluminum branch wiring or unsafe modifications
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Signs of overheating or arcing
Electrical deficiencies can significantly increase fire risk.
Fire Separation Between Garage & Living Space
The garage is one of the highest fire-risk areas in a home.
Inspection Considerations:
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Fire-rated door between garage and house
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Door must be self-closing and properly latching
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No unsealed penetrations in garage walls or ceilings
Compromised fire separation can allow smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide into the home.
Garage Door Safety Systems
Garage doors are heavy mechanical systems that can cause injury if safety features fail.
Inspection Considerations:
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Auto-reverse function tested
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Photo-eye sensors installed, aligned, and unobstructed
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Damaged tracks, springs, or improper repairs
Stairways, Handrails & Guardrails
Falls are a leading cause of injury in residential homes.
Inspection Considerations:
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Secure handrails on stairs with multiple risers
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Proper guardrails at elevated walking surfaces
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Loose or deteriorated steps, landings, or railings
Trip, Fall & Impact Hazards
Inspectors look for conditions that could cause injury.
Inspection Considerations:
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Uneven walkways or cracked concrete
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Loose flooring or damaged thresholds
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Low head-clearance areas and exposed fasteners
Attic & Crawlspace Safety Concerns
Out-of-sight areas often contain serious hazards.
Inspection Considerations:
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Exposed wiring or open junction boxes
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Inadequate insulation affecting energy efficiency and comfort
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Improper bathroom exhaust termination contributing to moisture buildup
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Evidence of pests or unsafe access conditions
Earthquake & California Safety Requirements
In California, certain safety measures are critical.
Inspection Considerations:
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Proper seismic strapping of water heaters
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Secure gas lines and flexible connectors
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Stable appliance installations
Why a Professional Health & Safety Inspection Matters
Homeowners may catch obvious issues, but professional inspections are designed to identify hidden risks, code-related safety concerns, and long-term liability issues.
At Cannon Inspection Services, we take a methodical, safety-first approach — evaluating each home with the goal of protecting occupants and helping homeowners make informed decisions.
Contact Cannon Inspection Services
If you’re a homeowner in Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee, or surrounding areas and want a detailed, safety-focused inspection, we’re here to help.
🏠 Cannon Inspection Services
📍 Serving Southern California
🌐 www.HomeInspection.Today
📧 Tony@HomeInspection.Today or 619-823-4133
Quality. Integrity. Full-Service Inspections.