An item is deemed "deficient" if it is either not functioning as intended, or has come to the end its’ useful life expectancy. The term "deficient" would also include an item that has deteriorated and replacement (or repair) is imminent. For example, a roof may have severely cracked and curled shingles; even if there is no sign of leaking the inspector may report this as deficient because the condition of the system is nearing the end of its useful life, and replacement is a near term, foregone conclusion.