Often overlooked is the fire wall separating the garage from the main living area in the attic over the garage. The photo shows what is all to common when I inspect the garage attic area.  In this photo there is no Fire Wall separating the garage attic from the main living area of the home. This is a serious fire hazard and risk to life. If a fire should start in the garage, the toxic fumes and flames can easily burn through the wood access panel (wood pull down stairs, panel, screen panels, no panels) and spread to the main living area. To correct this, a properly sealed 5/8-inch Type X drywall or equivalent wall needs to be install that separates the garage from living area and a 20-minute fire-rated attic access panel. Click here to see more home defects and home inspection services.