I have seen more and more of these in high-end homes of late (and also on TV programs). This I believe is going to be the first one in an actual inspection that I will need to be addressing. (2020 build) Apparently the (local) city code guys are allowing this. I’m thinking that I will just point out the issue regarding safety but how would you guys word this. It looks really cool… But… to upstairs…
They do look cool, BUT they also look very slippery, I can see a kid flying down the stairs with only socks on, then I can see an ambulance pulling into the driveway!
I would have a very serious discussion with the buyer as to the lack of safety here.
Guards are required on the open side of stairs and on landings and balconies which are more than 30 inches above the floor or grade below. Guards are to contain intermediate rails, balusters or other construction to reduce the chance of an adult or child from falling through the guard.
Just point out the lack of guardrails and the potential hazard of that. The riser gaps may be small enough to be safe. And if any component flexed or moved that would get written up. The potential attachment issues in those floating treads would give me the willies, and I just don’t trust contractors on uncommon/non-standard installations when I can’t watch the work progress.
I agree with Neil and Michael.
Not to worry, the treads are lit, lol!
We are truly on the same wavelength here. Great narrative also, Thank you Neil.
You missed one… 
You can’t go wrong by inspecting every home looking for and calling out hazards that could affect infants through the grandparent with mobility issues.
I comment on open stairs like that. Not as big a problem for adults as for children. My boy broke his wrist jumping down enclosed stairs (6) to get away from his sister (of course he instigated it). Open stairs like that invite children to jump!
It’s a risk that a buyer may accept. But should be on record as having acknowledged.
Plenty of bigger risks out there.
I would callout the lack of a “guard” (guard = guardrail and balusters) as well as the open risers if the opening between the risers is more than 4". The client may choose to ignore those risks, but that squarely puts the responsibility for any future mishaps on the client.
Afternoon, Larry.
Hope to find you well and in good spirits today
As yourself, I ran into more and more floating stair treads with open risers in engineered stair cases. They are visually challenging and unnerving while traversing. At least for me.
Code? Typically a municipality thing.
I would point out issues regarding safety. No brainer. Lighting, if it is insufficient, open riser although they look under 4" inches and the lack of guardrails. As well, rise to run deficiencies, tread depth, and step width, and step support if applicable. Some tread would flex when walked on. Typically older floating metal staircases in the 50’s and early 60’s. Lots of them that lead to basements in my neck of the woods.
Note: I would verbally mention the open riser as a posable hazard for young children and pets.
Good luck.
Thanks for sharing.
We called that skiing when I was a kid. 
Just CYA with the potential fall/safety hazard observation, I agree with Neil and Michael.
I dead ear it when somebody tells me it’s allowed by code or that it has passed CO. “Staircase should have a railing or guardrail to prevent potential injury from falling.” Boom. Poetry.
You’re a loser.
LOL
Yes, words matter, Daniel…words matter.
