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Attic prework condition before air sealing checklist

A pre-entry and prework attic checklist for confirming safe access and walking surfaces, identifying roof leaks and wet or deteriorated sheathing, locating suspect vermiculite or other hazardous material, mapping wiring, junction boxes and recessed lights, checking flues, chimneys and heat-producing equipment, tracing bathroom and kitchen exhaust, documenting existing ventilation and baffles, evaluating storage and pest contamination, protecting occupied areas and approving corrections before insulation is moved or air sealing begins.

6 items to check

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Access route, hatch, lighting, walking surfaces and fall hazards are evaluated

Critical item

Workers should not rely on hidden ceiling drywall for support.

Active roof, flashing, plumbing or condensate leaks and wet materials are resolved

Critical item

Moisture should not be buried under insulation.

Suspect vermiculite, asbestos, lead dust, mold, sewage, animal waste and contaminated materials trigger appropriate assessment

Critical item

Uncontrolled disturbance can create exposure.

Wiring, open splices, junction boxes, knob-and-tube or damaged components are identified

Critical item

Unsafe or heat-sensitive electrical conditions need qualified correction before covering.

Bath, dryer, kitchen and other exhaust routes terminate correctly and remain serviceable

Critical item

Moist air should not discharge into the attic.

Existing depth, ventilation, bypasses, damage and protected items are photographed before work

Critical item

A baseline supports scope and closeout.

Use before workers disturb attic materials. Suspect vermiculite should be treated cautiously and left undisturbed pending appropriate professional guidance. Do not enter unsafe attics or crawlspaces, step between framing, disturb suspect vermiculite or other hazardous materials, cover exposed electrical hazards, block combustion air or vents, seal active moisture, or work near hot flues and recessed fixtures without required clearances and qualified review. Air sealing can change building pressures and combustion behavior.

Reference standards

  • A current home energy assessment where appropriate, locally adopted building, energy, fire, mechanical and electrical requirements, approved project details, climate and moisture conditions, existing combustion equipment, hazardous-material findings, permits and inspections, utility or rebate program rules, and exact air-sealing, insulation, ventilation, firestop and equipment instructions
  • EPA vermiculite guidance, ENERGY STAR attic safety guidance and adopted electrical, fire and mechanical requirements

    • Tools

  • Energy bills, plans, attic and crawlspace records, equipment data, permits, rebate requirements, photographs and material certificates
  • Camera, flashlight, tape, depth markers, ruler and owner-safe observation tools; qualified blower-door, pressure, infrared, moisture, combustion and electrical measurements where appropriate
  • Qualified energy assessor, insulation and air-sealing contractor, electrician, HVAC or combustion-safety professional, roofer and environmental specialist as needed

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