CanNACHI - Canada's Commercial and Home Inspector Association

Recently inspected a (10 year old)  house where the attic hatch cover was in a closet and was fully sealed with what appeared to be caulking. To access the hatch, I would have had to cut through the caulking, and, I assume, repair/replace it after I was done. I elected to not disturb the seal, and advised my client that my access was restricted by the sealed hatch.
  Any suggestions on how to handle this if I come across it again?

Thanks!

You are not obligated to repair, replace the sealing compound once the vendor gives permission. However if the access was fastened with screws, I would expect you to refasten the screws.

Here is a case which explains clearly how the courts would review such a situation with an attic hatch which is sealed.

http://canlii.org/eliisa/highlight.do?text=Ontario+Association+of+Home+INspectors&language=en&searchTitle=Search+all+CanLII+Databases&path=/en/on/onsc/doc/2005/2005canlii32919/2005canlii32919.html

 

Attic hatch should have a weather strip, and, in fact, should never be sealed. Some insulation companies use removable caulking to seal the attic hatch. Exacta knife will do a good job on cutting the seal neatly. It is imperative to inspect the attic area, and it should be done before the waiver will be signed by the purchaser. So you may not have time to return for re-inspection. Personally, I don't like to return. So I usually cut the seal and gain the access. A different story is if the hatch is not accessible (because of the built-up shelf for instance). Then I take a picture, and make a comment in the report. It is up to the purchaser how to proceed further. 

The last one that was sealed on one of my inspections, I asked the buyer's agent to phone and get permission from the vendor to cut the seal as I would call the inspection incomplete without being able to view the attic!! You must get a look in the attic. To offer to return at no cost is not what we're in business for.....would you return for ZIP if you had to travel 25-30-35 km one way.......NO WAY!!!