If spall/stucco defect is 12x12 inches with depth 3/4 inches, how is it categorized?

• A. No deficiency
• B. Deficiency
• C. Minor cosmetic
• D. Needs professional assessment

Answer: (B)

A spall or stucco defect is judged by how much material is missing and how deep the damage goes, because that determines whether the exterior shell still provides its protective function. A 12-by-12 inch area with 3/4 inch depth is a substantial loss of material and leaves the underlying substrate exposed. That level of damage goes beyond a simple cosmetic blemish and can allow water penetration, moisture damage, and further deterioration, so it requires repair by a contractor to restore the exterior finish. It’s not merely no deficiency, and it’s more than a minor cosmetic patch. Therefore, it’s categorized as a deficiency. If there were clear signs of structural involvement or hidden issues requiring an engineer or specialist to assess, it would move toward needs professional assessment, but with this defect alone the appropriate category is deficiency.