ASHI Reporter May 2015

ASHI

Reporter MAY 2015

Inspection News & Views from the American Society of Home Inspectors, Inc.

Improper connection

Loose connections

Corrosion

Rot

Cracks

DECK SAFETY MONTH

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Oil Storage Tanks | 10 People Driven PR — First Time Buyers’ Seminar | 17 Lintels — A Visible Means of Support | 20 Pain in the Sump Pump | 21 On My Mind: Safety | 38 1

May 2015 | www.ASHIReporter.org

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ASHI

Reporter May 2015

The Industry’s First AFCI Outlet

Vol. 32, #5

Features 9 |

The ASHI School: Taking a Look Back While Looking Forward Jack McGraw, National Director of the ASHI School

10 |

Oil Storage Tanks Alan Carson – Carson, Dunlop

17 |

People-Driven PR — First-Time Buyers’ Seminar Alan Carson – Carson, Dunlop

21 |

Pain in the Sump Pump Michael Leiden, ACI, Spectro Home Inspections

23 |

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ASHI Western Washington 2015 Spring Seminar Joanne MacKintosh

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Deck Safety Month Sally Chapralis

27 |

PRO-ASHI Peer Review Michael J. Ashburn

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16 |

Herspective From the Women of ASHI Pam Pybas, Inspect It Like a Girl

20 |

Insider Tips for Smart Inspectors Tom Feiza, Mr. Fix-It, Inc.

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6 | You Tell Us

28 |

ASHI Community

32 |

Your ASHI

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New Inspector Status, Chapters, Education Membership News & More

Postcards From the Field

It’s Wacky Out There

Safety

Alden Gibson, ASHI President

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Photo courtesy of Basement Watch Dog, © 2015.

ASHI National Officers and Board of Directors ASH I M I S S I O N S TAT E ME N T To set and promote standards for property inspections and to provide the educational programs needed to achieve excellence in the profession and to meet the needs of our members.

Main Phone: 847-759-2820, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Mon.-Fri., CST

Officers Alden Gibson, President Breslau, ON, 519-648-3963 alden@inspectgib.com

Tim Buell, Treasurer Marysville, OH, 614-777-7922 tim.buell@pillartopost.com

Randy Sipe, President-Elect Spring Hill, KS, 913-856-4515 randy@familyhomeinspections.com

Larry Cerro, Secretary Tallahassee, FL, 850-222-4404 larrycerro@comcast.net

Howard Pegelow, Vice President Milwaukee, WI, 414-545-4186 hpegelow@yahoo.com

Bill Loden, Immediate Past-President Madison, AL, 256-464-7060 insight@knology.net

Directors Lisa Alajajian 2013-2015 Milford, MA 508-634-2010 homequest1@comcast.net James Allen 2013-2015 Overland Park, KS, 913-894-5893 james@sweethomeinspections.com Bruce Barker 2015-2017 Cary, NC, 919-322-4491 bruce@dreamhomeconsultants.com Ken Harrington 2015-2017 Delaware, OH, 614-507-1061 inspectorken@rrohio.com C. Blaine Illingworth III 2015-2017 Harleysville, PA, 610-565-4181 housemechanic@hotmail.com Keven Kossler 2015-2017 Huntersville, NC, 704-875-3200 Team@CastleCheck.com

Frank Lesh, Executive Director, 847-954-3182, frankl@ashi.org Bonnie Bruno, Executive Assistant, 847-954-3177 bonnieb@ashi.org Kimberly McGraw, Project Coordinator, 847-954-3179 kimm@ashi.org

Education, CE Approval, Smart Track, InspectionWorld Michele George, Director of Education & Events, 847-954-3188 micheleg@ashi.org

Membership, Chapter Relations, Booth Rental, Product Orders

Robert Peterson 2013-2015 Carmel, IN, 317-581-0074 inspectorbobp@sbcglobal.net

Mark Lester, Membership Services Coordinator, 847-954-3176 markl@ashi.org

Tony Smith 2015-2017 Cedar Rapids, IA, 319-533-4565 inspecthathouse@netscape. net

Russell Daniels, Director of Chapter Relations, 847-954-3185 russelld@ashi.org

Janet George, Membership Services Supervisor, 847-954-3180 janetg@ashi.org Jen Gallegos, Membership Administrator, 847-954-3175 jeng@ashi.org

Accounting

Mike Wagner 2014-2016 Westfield, IN, 317-867-7688 mwagner@ralis.com

Toni Fanizza, Bookkeeper, 847-954-3190, tonif@ashi.org Beverly Canham, Financial Assistant, 847-954-3184, beverlyc@ashi.org

Robert Walstead 2013-2015 Colorado Springs, CO 719-495-2652 rwalstead@aol.com

Mike Rostescu, Director IT & Internet Communications, 847-954-3189 miker@ashi.org

Kevin Westendorf 2014-2016 Mt. Pleasant, SC, 843-881-7842 kevinw@lowcountryhome inspection.com Mark Londner 2014-2016 Speaker, Council of Representatives: Purcellville, VA, 540-668-6339 James Funkhouser 2015-2016 mark@LBIhome.com Manassas Park, VA, 703-791-2360 Donald Lovering 2015-2016 Auburndale, MA, 617-698-3903 lovering@earthlink.net

jfunkhousr@aol.com

Publisher: Frank Lesh

847-954-3186 Reporter calls only 847-299-2505 (fax) Reporter only E-mail: frankl@ashi.org

American Society of Home Inspectors, Inc. 932 Lee Street, Suite 101 Des Plaines, IL 60016

Executive Director

Scott Patterson 2013-2015 Spring Hill, TN, 615-302-1113 scott@traceinspections.com

Bruce Labell 2015-2017 Scottsdale, AZ, 602-765-2140 inspect@cox.net

Editor: Sally Chapralis

ASHI Staff

Website, Information Systems, Database

Publications, Advertising, Marketing, Public Relations Dave Kogan, Manager of Marketing & Business Development 847-954-3187, davek@ashi.org Arlene Zapata, Communications Design Manager, 847-954-3186 arlenez@ashi.org

The ASHI School Jack McGraw, Managing Director, 888-884-0440 or 847-954-3178 jack@theashischool.com Steve Reilly, Senior Sales Representative, 888-884-0440 or 847-954-3181, steve@theashischool.com Kendra Eiermann, Administrative Assistant, 847-954-3198 kendra@theashischool.com

Advertising: Dave Kogan Phone: 847-954-3187, E-mail: davek@ashi.org

ASHI REPORTER – ISSN 1076-1942 – the official publication of the American Society of Home Inspectors, Inc. (ASHI), 932 Lee St., Suite 101, Des Plaines IL 60016, is published monthly. Annual subscriptions: $44.95 to non-members. Periodical postage paid at Des Plaines, IL 60016 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ASHI Reporter, 932 Lee Street, Suite 101, Des Plaines, IL 60016-6546.

Copyright© 2015, ASHI. None of the content of this publication may be reproduced, in any manner, without the prior written consent of the publisher. Inclusion of or specific mention of any proprietary product within does not imply endorsement of, nor does exclusion of any proprietary product imply non-endorsement, by the American Society of Home Inspectors, Inc. Opinions or statements of authors and advertisers are solely their own, and do not necessarily represent the opinions or positions of ASHI, its agents or editors. See above for information pertaining to submission of articles, advertising and related materials.

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ASHI Reporter | May 2015

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You Tell Us Letters From Our Readers

Electrical Fires are one of the Top Safety Hazards in Homes In case home inspectors are not aware of the following receptacle problem, I wish to bring this information to their attention.

A friend of mine discovered cracked receptacles and switches in his condo unit located in Columbia, MD. His home inspector had missed these particular cracked devices and therefore had not reported them. His condo building was built in 2007; the electrical receptacles and switches were manufactured by Pass & Seymour/Legrand Company. Fortunately for all concerned, the manufacturer paid for replacing all the devices in his unit.

Apparently, when the electricians push the wired devices back into the wall boxes, the pressure of the metal screw connections cracked the plastic parts. This condition was discovered in other condo units in the building.

Another item in the local news related to electrical hazards was a 16,000-sq. ft. mansion built in 2005 in Annapolis, MD, that had burned to the ground last month, tragically killing a family of six (two adults and 4 visiting grandchildren). Sprinkler systems were not required in 2005 in that county when the house was built. A preliminary investigation by the fire department determined the blaze was caused by a faulty electrical outlet that ignited materials in the home’s great room, including a 15-foot tall Christmas tree. The deceased owner of the mansion was a 56-year-old computer/software developer. 

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Lou Rinaldi of Eagle Eye Home Inspection Services Shared This Press Release: February 12th, 2015, Eagle Eye Home Inspection Services was recognized as the Emerging Business of the Year by the Perkiomen Valley Chamber of Commerce at the PV Stars, Best of the Valley event. The award, to honor small businesses having exceptional performance and community involvement, was presented at the First Annual Chamber “Gala of the Stars,” held at River Crest Country Club in Collegeville, PA. Eagle Eye Home Inspection Services’ owner, Lou Rinaldi, was honored for exemplary service to homeowners and real estate offices. He was also recognized for donating his time and services to those less fortunate. Lou has brought his 34-year background as a general contractor forward into home inspections, delivering peace of mind to home buyers with services that include comprehensive home inspection reports, radon testing, and wood infestation services.

Mr. Rinaldi is a member in good standing with ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors).

Eagle Eye is an affiliate member of MCAR (Montgomery County Association of Realtors) and a member of the Spring-Ford Chamber of Commerce, the Perkiomen Valley Chamber of Commerce and BNI (Business Network International) of Collegeville, where Lou serves on the Leadership Committee. 

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ASHI Reporter | May 2015

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The ASHI School: Taking a Look Back While Looking Forward

I WANT TO TRAIN YOUR NEXT EMPLOY EE WITH G.I. BILL BENEFITS Calling all U.S. Veterans ! Use your qualified G.I. benefits at our Illinois Location.

The ASHI School has been approved by the Illinois State Approving Agency for the enrollment of qualified veterans to receive G.I. Bill Educational Benefits.

w w w. t h e a s h i s c h o o l. c o m 1- 8 8 8 - 8 8 4 - 0 4 4 0

The ASHI School Taking a Look Back While Looking Forward

BY JACK MCGRAW, NATIONAL DIRECTOR OF THE ASHI SCHOOL

Phrases & Comments book* with the purchase of 3D Inspection System Premier edition software OFFER CODE ASHIPC Contact us 800-745-6126

TAS continues to increase registration in its nine locations and is actively marketing in NY, our tenth location. Two employees were hired at the school: Steve Reilly, Sales Manager in 2012; and Kendra Eiermann, Administrative Assistant in 2013.

2015 – The ASHI School has registered students in CA, CO, WHILE WE TEND TO CONCENTRATE ON WHAT’S NEXT, The ASHI School (TAS) would like to look back on the past five years of progress and change.

Beginning in: 2010 – The ASHI School, in a joint venture with Casey

O’Malley & Associates, issued certificates for students who attended classes in FL, Northern CA, Southern CA, IL, CT, CO and MO.

2011 – Jack McGraw was appointed director of The ASHI

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registration from veterans using this benefit. The school was approved for its home inspection pre-license instruction in the states of AK, OK, WV, TN, KY and VT. The school has also been approved by the State Board of Career Colleges and Schools in OH. With this approval, the school has moved forward with submitting the paperwork to begin the process of gaining approval for the G.I. Bill in OH.

School. The school ended its joint venture with Casey O’Malley & Associates. TAS issued certificates for students who attended classes in CA, CO, OH, MO, CT, IL, FL and CA, which moved from locations in Southern and Northern CA to one location in Cypress, CA.

2012 – The ASHI School issued certificates for students who

attended classes in CA, CO, CT, GA, IL, VA and OH, which moved from Columbus to Cincinnati State Technical Community College (CSTCC). CSTCC, in partnership with TAS, issues five college credits to students attending home inspection classes at the college. TAS also was approved for Chapter 31, Vocational Rehab and Employment for veterans in all of the school locations.

The school also held additional classes in commercial and mold instruction.

OH, FL, GA, IL, MO, VA and WA. TAS has also held a commercial class and has upcoming classes for mold and infrared. The class curriculum has been updated as of February 2015 and is now being used by all instructors.

TAS has many goals for 2015 and beyond. These include additional state approvals, website improvements, more classes, continued excellence in training of home inspectors, and many more. 

Upcoming 120-Hr. Home Inspection Classes Bellevue, WA – May 11–22, 2015 Lakewood, CO – June – 2, 2015 Cypress, CA – June 15–26, 2015

Additional Classes Infrared Class – June 24–25, 2015 in Bellevue, WA July 31– Aug 1, 2015 in Leesburg, VA Mold Class – May 2–3, 2015 in Des Plaines, IL

2013 – The ASHI School issued certificates for students who

attended classes in CA, CO, GA, IL, MO, FL, OH and VA. The school closed the site in Stamford, CT. The school also held additional classes in Commercial, Mold and Infrared instruction.

The school opened a new location in NY.

2014 – The ASHI School issued certificates for students who www.3dinspection.com *Book value of $95. Contains over 6000 comments from full time ASHI certified inspectors.

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ASHI Reporter | May 2015

attended classes in CA, CO, GA, IL, MO, FL, OH, VA, and a new location in WA. TAS was approved for the G.I. Bill for the Des Plaines, IL location. We continue to have high interest and 9

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444Oil Storage Tank s

Oil Storage Tank s

alarm, warning that the tank is full. Overfilling the tank may result in an oil spill.

Fill and Vent Piping Fill and vent pipes are most often steel and terminate at least 2 feet from any building openings. Fill pipes should have a tightfitting cap. Vent pipes should slope back to the tank with no low spots and should enter the top of the tank.

Oil Storage Tanks

BY ALAN CARSON – CARSON DUNLOP, WWW.CARSONDUNLOP.COM

Abandoned fill and vent piping should be removed or plugged to prevent accidental oil delivery.

Introduction Approximately 8 million homes in the United States heat their homes with oil. We do have to inspect oil tanks as part of our home inspection, so let's have a look.

What's Required?

Before we start our discussion, let's review what the ASHI Standard of Practice calls for with respect to inspecting fuel oil storage tanks.

In the Heating section, we are required to inspect installed heating equipment and to describe energy sources. Oil tanks are not on the list of items not required to be inspected. The conclusion is that we inspect oil tanks. However, if the tank is underground, we cannot inspect it. The Standard makes it clear we are not required to inspect it. In the General Limitations and Exclusion sections, we find this: Inspectors are NOT required to inspect underground items including, but not limited to, underground storage tanks or other underground indications of their presence, whether abandoned or active.

Despite this, in our experience, many inspectors do report the possibility of an underground tank if they see evidence. We can also say from firsthand experience that 10

ASHI Reporter | May 2015

clients may expect you to identify such things. You have a business decision to make here.

About Oil Storage Tanks The typical oil-heated house has a steel (12-or 14-gauge) tank, which commonly has a 275-gallon capacity. There are many variations including fiberglass tanks, epoxy-coated tanks, stainless steel tanks and double-walled tanks. For any tank, you’re going to be looking for a data plate that includes a listing from an agency such as UL, ULC, CSA or Warnock Hersey.

If you can't find a data plate or are not convinced it is an approved tank, recommend further evaluation by a specialist.

Outdoor Tanks Many areas now require that outdoor, above-ground tanks be cylindrical rather than the traditional tall, oval shape (see photo below). Cylindrical tanks are less likely to tip over in high winds. The tall, oval-shaped tanks were designed to fit through doors for indoor installations.

They are by nature top-heavy and not well suited to outdoor installations.

Life Expectancy While tanks typically last from 15 to 30 years, some home insurance companies insist on replacement after 15 to 25 years.

Things to Watch for Here's a partial list of things to check when looking at an oil tank, in no particular order: •N on-standard tank - (no UL, ULC, CSA, Warnock Hersey label)

The tanks are commonly; • inside the home • outside, above ground • outside underground (often 550 gallons) Indoor Tanks Many say that tanks are best located indoors, where they are protected from the elements and accessible for inspection and maintenance. Warm oil also flows better than cold. Indoor tanks should be at least 5 feet away from ignition sources, including the oil burner. Some areas require a secondary containment system for indoor tanks.

Oil Supply Piping to Burner The pipes carrying oil from the tank to the burner (and back, in some cases) should be corrosion-resistant and protected from mechanical damage. The piping is typically steel or copper. Aluminum is not permitted.

New tanks should typically be at least 5 feet from property lines, although municipalities may have different rules.

Tanks should be protected from weather and physical damage. They should not be installed under the edge of eaves, for example. They should not be touching buildings or anchored to building walls.

How Much Oil is in the Tank?

Indoor tanks typically have a fuel gauge to indicate the amount of liquid in the tank.

Many tanks have an audible vent whistle

•O utdoor tank partially under eaves exposed to vehicle impact, too close to the property line, etc.

• Indoor tank too close to source of ignition - (< 5 ft.)

•O ld tank - some insurers may require replacement •L ack of restraint against earthquake where required •P resence of buried/abandoned tank fill and vent lines outside, oil supply lines inside Most of these are fairly straightforward, but we will have a quick look at the rust issue and then at the tricky, high-cost one - the buried oil tank.

Rust - Where do Tanks Typically Fail?

When tanks rust, they will often fail at the bottom first. While the outside of tanks often shows rust, the most damaging rust comes from the inside out, as a result of water in the tank.

Look at the bottom of the tank. The one below would be hard to miss. Don’t touch rusty surfaces, especially if they are exfoliating or if there are protruding bumps. You may cause a leak.

• Rust on tank or legs - check the underside and welded seams at ends of tanks

• Poor fill or vent pipe arrangement - too close to grade or building openings, etc.

•P oor supply line arrangement - exposed to damage, material, etc.

Rusted lag ready to collapse. Photo courtsey of NY inspector and ASHI Member Arlene Puentes.

Underground Tanks (Buried Tanks) These are important due to the risk of environmental contamination and expensive remediation. The costs can be six figures. Let's assume you're going to look for evidence of an underground oil tank, irrespective of the ASHI Standard.

Remember, if it's an older home with gas heating, it may have had oil previously.

• Evidence of leakage - at the tank; at all fittings; at all piping, on the pad, ground or floor below; and at foundation walls in the basement adjacent to buried tanks outside (oil smells)

•E vidence of tank movement/settlement - should be on a solid concrete pad

Rusty and poorly supported.

Tank rusted at the bottom.

Watch for staining on the pad below and the soil around outdoor tanks and on the flooring below indoor tanks. Follow the fuel lines where visible, looking for evidence of leakage as well.

Identifying Underground Tanks If the tank is still in service, it is fairly easy to identify. The furnace or boiler will have an oil burner and you can typically follow the path of the oil supply line to where it disappears through a foundation wall, indicating the potential for a buried tank.

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444Oil Storage Tank s

Identifying abandoned underground tanks is more difficult. While many jurisdictions call for the removal of abandoned oil tanks, some do get left in place. In some cases, the tanks can be filled with polyurethane foam, sand or concrete slurry and left in place.

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Oil lines Sometimes the copper lines are cut off and this is all you see.

What to Look for Interior fuel supply lines to the burner may have been removed, although sometimes you will see abandoned piping, filters and valves. The piping is often 3/8-inch copper or steel. It may be largely covered in concrete on the basement floor.

Exterior fill and vent lines may or may not be visible. They may be against the house wall or in the yard. If the fill and vent pipes are still there, the tank is almost certainly there, too. Tanks are usually close to the house and accessible for an oil delivery truck.

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ASHI Reporter | May 2015

Prepare now for 2015 IRC certification exams coming this July!

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444Oil Storage Tank s

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— Alan, HousePro Home Inspections

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A Tricky One: This one is courtesy of Kenny Hart.

Do you see anything unusual here?

Most inspectors would focus on the oil tank, understandably. However, to the right of the oil tank, you can see an extra vent pipe coming out of the ground and extending above the top of the tank. This vent line was for a buried oil tank that has been abandoned and replaced with the above-ground tank we can see.

You might also wonder from this photo whether the tank is sitting on a solid pad.

This is a good example of the importance of taking both a micro and macro approach to home inspection.

While you spend most of your time looking at the evidence in front of you, and seeing what you expect to see, you also need to stop, clear your mind, step back and let the house tell you its story. What's unusual? What's missing? What's there that shouldn't be there? These are the things that don't show up on checklists, but are identified by the home inspector who is a true professional consultant.

Kevin O’Hornett, a respected source, refers to spotlight and floodlight rather than micro and macro.

Another Tricky One — Neighborhood Oil Distribution System Some neighborhoods were built with underground oil supply lines, similar to the natural gas distribution network, but on a smaller scale. In these areas, the fuel line comes in through the foundation wall, usually near the furnace. You can recognize these by the absence of a tank and the presence of a meter and a shut-off valve on the piping where it enters the house. Many of these systems have been abandoned in areas where natural gas has become available. It's easy to look at this and mistakenly report a potential buried oil tank.

What to put in Report Where you have reason to suspect a buried oil tank, you might say, “Possible buried oil tank on the property, based on the apparent fill and vent pipes noted (or

whatever evidence you saw). Further evaluation by a specialist is recommended to determine whether there is a tank and/or contaminated soil, which may be a high-cost issue.”

Summary We have looked at oil tanks and outlined some of the common problems, including buried tanks. More information can be found in the ASHI@HOME training program.

Alan Carson: Thanks to our contributing authors: Daniel Friedman, Kevin O'Hornett, Roger Hankey and Kenny Hart. www.carsondunlop.com 

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4/10/15 3:36 PM

Herspective

People Driven PR — First Time Buyers‘ Seminar

From the Women of ASHI

Herspective

BY PAM PYBAS, INSPECT IT LIKE A GIRL INSPECTITLIKEAGIRL.COM

I GREW UP ON CONSTRUCTION SITES. My earliest memories are of sweeping up sawdust and listening to subcontractors argue.

My dad was a builder and our family was heavily involved in the day to day operations. My mom was the master organizer and my brother developed into a high-end trim carpenter. On the weekends we would pile into the car and drive around to job sites. My dad was constantly quizzing us on components and how things were put together.

My mother read an article in the newspaper in the spring of 2003 about home inspectors and immediately called me and said, “Pammie, you can do that!” Mississippi had just passed legislation that required licensure for home inspectors. The first few years were tough. I was met with some resistance from my male counterparts. However, the president of our local Home Inspector Association was welcoming and very helpful. He taught me that there are enough houses for everyone to inspect. I became committed to raising the standards of the home inspection industry. From the beginning, I wanted to bring a higher level of professionalism, and I’ve always been available to anyone wanting to know how to get into the business. I believe the more good inspectors we have, the better off the entire industry is.

After a few years, I noticed I was getting a lot of return business from clients who wanted “that gray-haired lady” to do their inspection. I began to realize that I was automatically different from my competition just by being female. So I changed my business name to Pam’s Inspections.

During a women’s softball game, I heard someone yell, “You throw it like a girl!” My first thought was, “I inspect it like a girl!”

The tag line was added to my business and eventually evolved

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ASHI Reporter | May 2015

”To be honest, I didn’t start out to run a business, but the potential of growing the female inspection industry is enormous. Less than 5% of home inspectors are female.“

into the name of the business. With the help of my partner, we have trademarked the name and the logo. We added eyelashes to the business car, a Mini Cooper, and began to aggressively market that we were women inspectors.

At this time, we can’t keep up with the increased sales. We have hired two more female inspectors, are in the process of hiring someone to take the phone calls and have part-time office help.

And just for the record, we will hire men. If they are willing to wear the logo, Inspect It Like A Girl, then they are welcome!

To be honest, I didn’t start out to run a business, but the potential of growing the female inspection industry is enormous. Less than 5% of home inspectors are female; however, the National Association of Realtors market research shows that 91% of homebuying decisions are made or influenced by women. Over 70% of Realtors are women. We are proof that women like doing business with women. And, as a side note, one of the funniest things I hear from men is, “if you are anything like my wife, I want you inspecting my house.”

Our current business is based heavily on meeting the needs of our clients. We aren’t trying to impress anyone with how much we know. We are trying to listen to what they want to know about their new home. We stress the importance of communication, not only with our clients, but also with the Realtors and with each other. I personally have had to open up my mind to new ways of doing things. The inspection business is so much more than inspecting the house. It’s all about building and maintaining relationships, something, we believe as women, we do quite well.

Our vision is to grow nationally. We’d like to be a platform for other female inspectors to stand on. We are working diligently to build systems that can be duplicated by women nationally and internationally. We are currently networking with inspection companies around the United States and Canada, soaking up as much knowledge as we can. Just like Rosie the Riveter claimed, “We Can Do It!” 

People-Driven PR — First-Time Buyers’ Seminar

BY ALAN CARSON CARSON DUNLOP, WWW.CARSONDUNLOP.COM

Introduction The first-time buyers’ seminar is a powerful way to acquire new clients and build relationships with allied professionals – real estate agents, bankers, mortgage brokers, title companies and real estate lawyers.

Provide Good, Relevant Information The seminar speakers are typically involved in the real estate transaction. Each gives a brief overview of what they do, some practical advice and, very often, their competitive advantage. The seminar is a business development opportunity for the service providers, and an opportunity for homebuyers to learn a lot very quickly.

There is no need to promote your company during your talk. Your participation as the guest expert establishes your credibility. You gain trust by position and association, but more importantly, by providing something of value to the audience. That might include tips on things to watch for, providing perspective for items that frighten most people unnecessarily, etc.

A real estate agent or lender often hosts the first-time buyers’ seminar. The bank and the real estate agent are in the best position to find participants, and they have more to gain financially from the event than other service providers. The bank may put up a sign or poster in the bank advertising the event. Agents often advertise seminars in magazines, websites, newsletters, postcards or flyers that list homes for sale. Agents often have a database of people interested in purchasing a house.

Offer to Speak We have participated in first-time buyers’ seminars for years and don’t pay anything. Instead, our contribution is our presentation.

The very nature of our business ensures a compelling presentation because people learn something new about the systems of a house. If you have visuals that combine things to watch for with some entertainment value, your presentation will be valuable and

memorable. It’s easy to capture attention with a few well-chosen pictures. If there have been home-related issues prominent in the news recently, there is often a good chance to shed more light and clear up misinformation. When the media sensationalizes things, the home inspector can be the calm, professional expert and the voice of reason.

PRESENTATION FORMATS Visual Presentations Pack a Punch If you have a presentation with visuals, you need an overhead projector or a media projector, a screen and portable computer. The host often provides these. A PowerPoint presentation is a great way to show interesting pictures of house system performance (or nonperformance!). The goal is not to put on a horror show, but to pose issues and then solve them. Be sensitive and courteous to all parties ,with respect to time. Check with your host.

Make a lasting impression: Give the audience a copy of your presentation — on paper, CD, DVD, memory stick or through a link to your website. We like things that are inexpensive, tangible and can be branded easily. Business cards and brochures are old-school, but effective.

Non-Visual Presentations Are Portable We like to use visuals where we can, but that's not always possible.

You may have to present without the visual aids. You can use handouts that leverage your PowerPoint presentation and include useful content and promotional materials, but don't overdo the promotion. Your presentation should be focused, high-energy, and brief.

Inviting questions is a great way to build rapport with an audience.

Make it interactive!

Whether or not your presentation includes visuals, be sure to touch on any ancillary services you provide such as radon, termites, pools and spas, infrared thermography, etc. People appreciate one-stop shopping. Offer to answer the attendees' questions any time, including months after the presentation.

Long Presentations Bore Attendees and Alienate Other Presenters When using visuals, speakers often find themselves doing too much. The lender makes a slide for every possible mortgage option, the agent projects a copy of an offer to purchase and goes through each detail, and the lawyer puts up a list of conditions that should be added to the offer to purchase. This level of detail is unnecessary.

Most first-time buyers don’t want to commit to an entire evening of presentations. They would prefer a quick, informative session. Be helpful, be dramatic and be brief. Your audience will love you.

What Is a Home Inspection?

Buyers’ seminars are a great way to educate other presenters as 17

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444People -Driven PR — First-Time Buyers’ Seminar

well as your audience on the scope of a home inspection. You need to provide a balanced view of the tremendous value of the home inspection, framed within an appropriate scope of work.

It's amazing what people think you will do unless you adjust their expectations.

Discuss the importance of the client attending the inspection and describe the inspection as a course in homeownership by showing clients how to maintain their home and how to shut off gas, electricity and water in an emergency. You should also touch on report format, report delivery time and perspective – all homes will have some adverse conditions.

ELEMENTS OF A SUCCESSFUL SEMINAR This section outlines the key features of a first-time buyers’ seminar. Whether you are invited as a guest speaker, are involved in the planning stage or decide to organize the players yourself, keep these points in mind.

Create Relationship with Other Presenters If you have any input, make sure all your seminar speakers think in terms of goals. Each presenter’s goal is to be recognized as an expert or leader in their field. As a home inspector, you have the advantage of highlighting the independent, unbiased nature of our work. We receive our fee whether or not the transaction goes through. However, be careful not to make this point at the expense of other presenters.

Recognition is an important goal, but it’s not the only goal.

The other goal is to create a relationship with the other presenters.

In the long run, their referrals may be worth more than the attendees’ inspection business.

Know Attendees’ Goals The main goal of the attendees is to get some advice that will help them make a great decision. They also want to walk away with something. Your educational material and one piece of promotional material may be ideal. These allow the attendees and the other presenters to absorb your message. The material also makes it easy for the attendees to contact you. Also, be sure to give your materials to the other presenters.

OVERALL SEMINAR OUTLINE Golden Rule: Keep It Short Everyone’s goals are best served by a short presentation, followed by a question and answer period. We have consolidated our experiences over the years and put together this outline for success: 1. Introductions (five minutes): The host introduces all of the guest speakers and gives an overview of topics. They should also be clear about the session duration. An uncertain audience is a distracted audience.

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ASHI Reporter | May 2015

2. Mortgage lender or broker (ten minutes): He or she gives an overview of the pre-approval process, why pre-approval is preferable to applying after finding the house and what information the bank needs to approve someone.

3. Real estate agent (ten minutes): What the agent does for you.

Who pays the real estate agent? Who the agent is representing, how you choose an agent, some comments on current market conditions and a few tips on house hunting.

4. Home inspector (ten minutes): What is a home inspection?

How much does it cost? (Best to cover this early because the audience will be waiting for it.) When is the inspection performed?

What should people watch for? What questions should a homebuyer ask a home inspector?

5. Real estate lawyer or title company (ten minutes): When does the lawyer enter the picture? How much does it cost? What is title insurance? A few tips for your offer to purchase.

6. Question-and-answer period (fifteen minutes): Attendees are invited to ask questions. If the answer is too long and complicated, the subject expert offers to discuss it with the attendee afterwards.

7. Snacks and discussion: The entire seminar is roughly one hour, plus any discussion after the seminar over coffee.

Closing Advice As a home inspector, you are in the communications business.

However, presenting to a group is different from talking to clients as you go through a home. Like so many things, practice makes perfect. To get started, create your presentation and practice in front of a mirror; practice it in front of a video camera and watch yourself; practice it with friends and family; polish it and practice some more. It's not enough to be the expert. You have to look and act the part.

Public Relations Follow-Up Last month, we talked about public relations. Roger Hankey provided this great advice: “Get to know the real estate reporters in your local press/media. By providing them information about real estate, home inspection and other topics of interest, you create an opportunity to be quoted as an expert. Local press often needs content to support the real estate ads they carry. Be a source of content. Over time, you can become their home expert, and they will reach out looking for your opinion. This may also lead to a local news piece on inspectors, where you are featured as the expert inspector. This type of PR has long lasting-benefits. People remember who they read about or who they saw on TV.” Thank you Roger! 

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Alan Carson, Carson Dunlop www.carsondunlop.com 19May 2015

| www.ASHIReporter.org

19

Insider Tips

Pain in the Sump Pump

for Smart Inspectors

Lintels – A Visible Means of Support

Pain in the Sump Pump

BY MICHAEL LEIDEN, ACI, SPECTRO HOME INSPECTIONS

BY TOM FEIZA, MR. FIX-IT, INC. HOWTOOPERATEYOURHOME.COM

MOST BRICK OR STONE HOME EXTERIORS ARE SKIN DEEP. The house is framed in wood; then the builder uses brick or stone (masonry) to create a cladding or veneer, similar to the way other homes are clad in wood, fiber cement or vinyl siding.

Although they’re just a veneer, heavy masonry materials need support over door and window openings. That’s where lintels come in. Lintels require a visual inspection because of the heavy weight they’re asked to carry.

In home construction, lintels can be made of cast concrete, stone or angular steel. In most residential construction involving stone or brick veneer, an angular steel lintel supports the masonry above windows and doors.

water drainage. This area is a common site of incorrect caulking and painting.

Watch out for rust Seriously rusted lintels will expand – in fact, metal expands to as much as 10 times thicker when rusted. Expansion leads to cracking of the masonry edge and you may discover step cracks.

Extensive cracking requires replacement of the lintel, which is a costly repair.

Badly rusted lintels will also sag and fail beneath the weight of the masonry. This serious defect requires another costly repair: lintel replacement by a mason.

Unpainted lintels that are otherwise in good condition constitute Typical installation a maintenance item for the seller or buyer.  Usually, a steel angle extends over the opening and is supported at the edges of the openings. In the ideal situation, installers allow an Tom Feiza has been a professional home inspector since 1992 and has a air space between the masonry and the wood frame, and the wood degree in engineering. Through HowToOperateYourHome.com, he provides high-quality marketing materials that help professional home inspectors frame is covered by a moisture-resistant barrier. Builder’s paper was boost their business. Copyright © 2015 by Tom Feiza, Mr. Fix-It, Inc. the barrier used in older homes. In newer homes, the barrier conReproduced with permission. sists of a housewrap such as Tyvek HomeWrap.

This moisture barrier is lapped over the lintel, perhaps with a flashing that drains water over the top of the lintel to the outside. In some cases, you will see lintels with weep holes and visible flashing.

Some experts recommend flexible neoprene flashing, which adapts to differing expansion rates between the masonry veneer and the underlying material.

Inspection essentials During inspection, you’ll see the outer edge and the lower side of the lintel over the opening. The lintel should be painted to limit rust. Rusted lintels should be reported as an issue.

Caulk should not be placed between the top edge of the lintel and the masonry it supports because caulk interferes with necessary 20

ASHI Reporter | May 2015

ALL HOMES WITH A SUMP PUMP SYSTEM SHOULD HAVE a backup system in place for when the primary pump fails.

Everyone knows an electrical primary pump will not operate if the power is cut off. Using Murphy’s Law, this can happen during a storm when the system is needed the most. There are also other reasons pumps fail, for which a backup system can provide you time to make repairs. Some of the breakdowns include: float switch gets stuck or breaks, pump intake gets blocked with mud or stone, waterlogged float, broken impeller or drive shaft, an air-locked pump not pumping, blocked or frozen discharge line.

There are several different backup systems you may see out in the field, and each of them has its own pros and pains.

First, I want to talk about an inverter system which gives backup power to the primary pump when the power goes out. This works on a D/C battery connected to a controller that converts the house A/C power to charge and run the primary pump. This power backup usually uses multiple batteries and may only provide a few hours of operation on an average-sized primary pump. As you can see, even if the home has a power inverter backup or even an automatic home generator, the house is still not protected from many of the problems listed above.

Having a secondary pump is always better, but may be a tough install in a narrow basin.

Water-Powered You may have seen water-powered sump pumps. I have seen these used as primary pumps or as secondary pumps. These work on the principle of the venturi effect. Water rushes through an ejector designed to create a pressure drop inside a nozzle to draw water up an inlet line. Water-powered pumps need a back-flow preventer to keep dirty sump water from contaminating the fresh water supply. If you receive your potable water from a well with an electric pump and the power goes out, this system soon goes down, too.

These are really not the best choice when assisting a primary pump, which is overwhelmed with too much inflow water entering the sump pit.

Many use over 3 gallons of household water to draw out 1 gallon of sump water. This is then sent to an over-saturated daylight area or storm sewer. Most of these installs do not have an alarm to notify you when the pump is activated. It is also very important to know that if the float switch gets stuck in the “on” position, it is like leaving a faucet running and can be costly.

Water powered: Photo courtesy of Zoller Company,© 2015.

Photo courtesy of Basement Watch Dog,© 2015.

Battery-Powered Battery-powered pumps appear to be the favorite choice for a backup system. These units, along with the inverter system, trickle-charge themselves using a house branch circuit or solar cells. There are two types: AC/DC and DC. The units which run exclusively DC power will only operate from the battery power.

AC/DC battery backup systems will switch to DC battery power when the AC power is out or when the primary pump fails. When the power is on, these pumps can run directly off the AC house power without depleting the battery. The AC/DC backup is a valuable assistant for an overwhelmed primary pump. Both of these systems can have many bells and whistles. They can tell you if they were activated, battery condition, if water is nearing the May 2015 | www.ASHIReporter.org

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444Pain in the Sump Pump

rim of the pit, and some will even text your phone to let you know of any status changes. Moreover, problems with these, as with other systems, include the lack of maintenance and the neatness of installation; floats tend to get restricted when wires are moving around loose. Choice in sizing to an existing primary is also something that should be considered.

Because a pain in the sump is always present, always know what you have and what the limits are. The security of having a backup sump pump can be a valuable asset when the time comes. A properly installed and understood system can rescue a home from costly water damage and cleanup.  Michael Leiden, ACI, of Spectro Home Inspections, has been an ASHI Certified Inspector since 1998 and has been in the building trades for 26 years.

He is the current Secretary of the North Central Ohio ASHI Chapter.

Battery-powered: © WAYNE Water Systems/ Scott Fetzer Company

ASHI Western Washington 2015 Spring Seminar The ASHI Western Washington chapter held its 2015 Spring Seminar at the Red Lion Tacoma March 7, 2015. More than 80 licensed home inspectors were in attendance from across the state, with several traveling up from Oregon to hear several speakers throughout the day. GAF Commercial Roof Consultants Shawn Nolte and John Forest kicked off the day with discussions about roof systems. Dan McDonald, LiftMaster Safety Ambassador, traveled out to talk about garage door opener installations, repairs and maintenance.

After a hearty buffet lunch, the group was regaled with discussions from Brad Cyrier, ASHI chapter member, and Corey Chantry about damage found during home inspections due to wood-destroying insects. Don McFeron and Hugh Kelso, both long-time chapter members, wrapped things up with an ASHI seminar module about steep roof flashings. The chapter spring seminars are always well-attended, preparing folks for the start of a very busy season.

All-in-One: Photo courtesy of Basement Watch Dog, © 2015.

Battery-powered: Photo courtesy of Zoller Company,© 2015.

All-in-One Lastly, I would like to mention the all-in-one sump pump units.

These systems are a combination of a primary sump pump and a battery backup pump. Two pumps are rolled into one selfcontained package having their own power and controls. These systems are easy to install and have all the bells and whistles you may want to find. The design of these systems does tend to give their floats minimal vertical travel distance. Restricting the float in this way can make them cycle on and off more when set at an improper level in your basin. All-in-one units are built with more plastic parts that tend to wear more quickly. Even though the canister or sump liner is made of high-quality plastic, it can nevertheless begin to deteriorate. Repeated use and movement take a toll on these units, causing wear and tear – cracks and splits are the most common signs of damage.

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ASHI Reporter | May 2015

ASHI Western Washington sponsors two educational events each year: the one-day spring seminar in early March, and our two-day Fall Education Seminar held in Seattle in September. This year the seminar is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, September 11 and 12, 2015. The weather in September is generally the best of the year. Plan ahead and join chapter members for a great seminar and stick around to enjoy the Pacific Northwest. 

All-in-One: © WAYNE Water Systems/ Scott Fetzer Company

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Deck Safet y Month

Photo/Image courtesy of Simpson Strong-Tie Co. Inc.

Deck Safety Month Education Addresses Challenges and Increases Safety

BY SALLY CHAPRALIS

IT’S MAY, THE BEGINNING OF HOME INSPECTORS’ BUSIEST season. It also follows another brutal winter that requires even more attention to safety issues, particularly decks. Deck injury news underscores the continuing need to increase public awareness, the importance of ongoing maintenance and of professionally certified home inspectors. Education is a rewarding and life-saving experience for consumers and inspectors.

May is Deck Safety Month, introduced by the North American Deck and Rail Association in 2006, two years after it was established. “NADRA has worked with ASHI for seven years on education and certification, and we’re delighted that we formalized our collaboration at this year’s InspectionWorld 2015.

We held an all-day Deck Inspection Certification Course, which is approved as an ASHI Continuing Education program,” explains Michael Beaudry, Executive Vice President, NADRA. “The first half of the course covered existing structures as they relate to decks and other walking surfaces. The second half introduced the NADRA Deck Evaluation Checklist. The Checklist ensures that every part of the deck is appropriately reviewed: Stairs, Footings/Deck Support and Posts/Columns; Beams and Joists; Ledger; Deck Boards; Hand Rail Assemblies and Guards.”

“ASHI inspectors now have the educational resources through this first-of-its kind collaboration with ASHI to utilize the NADRA Deck Evaluation Form and truly make a difference in deck safety and deck safety awareness for consumers across North America.”

While deck-related injuries occur every year, decks do not have to fail. “With consistent inspections and evaluations, proper maintenance and skilled preventive care, an exterior deck is a great feature,” Mike adds. “Decks, like roofs, have life expectancies, 15 to 20 years on average in most areas of the country.”

“This is why it is very important to have a deck inspected by a NADRA-certified home inspector, who is trained on what to look for on a regular basis. Standards have also changed during the last 10 years. Thus, when a repair is needed, have it done by a licensed, well-trained professional.”

Improper connection.

Photo/Image courtesy of Simpson Strong-Tie Co. Inc.

NADRA has created an Inspectors section on its website that will give consumers across North America direct access to professional inspectors who specialize in deck inspections.

“Our 10th anniversary was last year, 2014, and this collaboration is a wonderful milestone.” You can see more on NADRA’s home page, including videos about inspecting decks and deck safety, at www.nadra.org/consumers/deck_safety_month.html, and at Deck Inspections www.nadra.org/consumers/deck_inspections.html

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ASHI Reporter | May 2015

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25

Peer Review

444 D eck Safet y Month

Loose connections.

Photo/Image courtesy of Simpson Strong-Tie Co. Inc.

PRO-ASHI Peer Review PRO-ASHI's Peer Review took place in Triadelphia, West Virginia. It was a central location for the Pittsburgh chapter and the Ohio chapter. George Basitas and I are the Chapter Presidents.

NADRA’s goals include reducing injuries, increasing awareness of potentially unsafe structures and offering solutions on how to best resolve and prevent unsafe situations. NADRA approaches these goals through continuing education for inspectors and connecting consumers with reputable, trained installers.

Corrosion.

Photo/Image courtesy of Simpson Strong-Tie Co. Inc.

Our busiest season can be considered an opportunity and commitment to deliver positive news by addressing deck-safety challenges and reducing injury statistics.

George Kasmirsky, Bryan Cole, John Vacarello, Kelly Beveridge, Dan Howard, John Fleenor, Tom Laurato, Scott Kelly, Shawn Bruce and John Socher attended the review.

We basically did a mini-review to discover different options and methods for inspecting an entire home. We met about 9 o'clock and finished around 2 pm. It was an excellent experience for the senior inspectors as well as some of the new ones who shadowed.

We had a wonderful discussion about older building methods, newer building methods, structural concerns and exteriors. Everything was wonderful. We cannot wait to do it again.

At a leadership meeting a few years ago, George, from the Ohio Chapter, and I had discussed having a joint meeting. It took us quite some time to find a good location and the proper house. George did the majority of the work locating the house and getting that set up.  Michael J. Ashburn, ACI, Pro-ASHI President

“Providing quality deck, stairs and railing inspections as a Certified NADRA Home Inspector grows your brand and business and truly helps to prevent injuries and save lives.”  Sally Chapralis is the Consulting Editor for the ASHI Reporter. Her writing, business communications and PR experience includes working with construction and real estate industry publications.

Rot. Photo/Image courtesy of Simpson Strong-Tie Co. Inc.

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ASHI Reporter | May 2015

Cracks Photo/Image courtesy of Simpson Strong-Tie Co. Inc.

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ASHI Community New Inspector Status, ASHI Chapters, Council News

New ASHI Associates

New ASHI Inspectors

As of March 1, 2015.

H D enotes graduate of The ASHI School Terry Tvrdik

Michael Pillion

William Wake

Huntsville, AL

Total Home Inspections of New England, LLC Bolton, MA

Pillar to Post Bridgewater, NJ

US Inspect Richmond, VA

Bradley Hopkin

Robert Peoples

Martin Amadon

Cinnaminson, NJ

Amadon Home Inspection LLC Hampton, VA

Mobile Bay Home Inspection LLC Mobile, AL

Vincent Sferruzza Property Pro Home Inspection Phoenix, AZ

Chris Frye Frye Home Inspections Roseville, CA

Arif Baig HomeGuard Incorporated San Jose, CA

Ingram Griffin HomeGuard Incorporated San Jose, CA

John Daniel HomeGuard Incorporated San Jose, CA

David Picone HomeGuard Incorporated San Jose, CA

Scott Highland S&S Home Inspections LLC Johnstown, CO

Kenneth Butler Above Grade Home Inspections Naugatuck, CT

John Nolan Bristol, CT

Robert Southard HouseMaster Plant City, FL

William Loyd Mickey and More Home Inspections LLC Tucker, GA

James Van Winkle Locust Grove, GA

Britton Thomas

Bob Gossman OC Home Care LLC Bel Air, MD

Charles Brown Prestige Home Inspection Services Huntingtown,MD

Robert Goldberg The Home Detective Chevy Chase, MD

Peter Farman Farman Home Inspection Services Sunfield, MI

Kenneth Kalkbrenner BrickKicker of Missouri St. Louis Florissant, MO

Brandon Caldwell R. Heyl and Associates O'Fallon, MO

Mark Armstrong Buyers Protection Group Chesterfield, MO

Paul Peterson Self Employed Lake St. Louis, MO

Brandon Miller A-Pro Home Inspection Services Kansas City, MO

Jesse Morgan Prime Time Inspections, LLC Blue Springs, MO

Gregory Schmit Asheville Home Inspections Asheville, NC

Atlanta, GA

John Thompson

Phillip Swanson

SureHome Inspection Company Platsmouth, NE

Phillip Alan Swanson Home Inspections Monticello, IL

Charles Bruno

David Six

Premier Home Inspections Wichita, KS

Home Standards Inspection Services Decator, NE

Jason Brozen

David Haigh

Tann Electric Lenexa, KS

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Protech Inspection Poolesville, MD

ASHI Reporter | May 2015

Garden State Home Inspectors, LLC Basking Ridge, NJ

ASHI Chapter Education

As of March 1, 2015

Jeff Hipp Ross Vandenberg

New ASHI Certified Home Inspectors

As of March 1, 2015

David Waeschle

Paul Stratton

Wayne Rademacher

Cactus Coastie Home Inspections Chandler, AZ

Stratton Inspection Services Mesa, AZ

Structure Tech Home Inspections Minneapolis, MN

Shawn Thomas

LaVaine Murphy

Loyalty Home Inspections New Castle, DE

AmeriSpec Wilmington, DE

Michelle Belknap

Mark Flanzbaum

Nook-n-Kranny Home Inspection Webb City, MO

The Archwood Studio and Champia Atlanta, GA

National Property Inspections New Port Richy, FL

Bill Nast

Culpeper, VA

Roger Weaver

Edward Lai

Christopher Pelster

Sherlock Homes Independent Inspection Wadsworth, OH

Charlie Caldwell

A1 Home Inspection LLC White Haven, PA

Waypoint Property Inspection LLC Riverview, FL

AmeriSpec Inspection Services Omaha, NE

Joe Iacona

Paul Barnhart

Chad Bridwell

Todd Rensch

Icon Home Inspectors Mentor, OH

Home Inspections of VA and WV, LLC Front Royal, VA

Pillar To Post Professional Home Inspection Athens, GA

Rensch Property Inspection Elkhorn, NE

Alex Smith

Kevin Wiley

Amerispec Acworth, GA

Amerispec Inspections Omaha, NE

Zac Lesh

Michael Mulholland

Zac Of All Trades Darien, IL

Caveat Emptor Home Inspectors LLC Glen Rock, NJ

James Parra AmeriSpec Albuquerque, NM

Martin Eblin First Choice Home Inspections Chillicothe, OH

Douglas Curfman

Thomas Jankovic

Franco Palombi Insight Residential Inspections LLC Arlington, VA

Robert Mennitt

C3 Home Services Herndon, VA

Pillar to Post North Ridgeville, OH

Wade Moore

Eric Limper

James France

American Verified Home Inspections Cincinnati, OH

Jon's Quality Inspection Services Shelton, WA

Andrew Mills

Joel Garlinghouse

Pillar to Post Junction City, OR

Olympia, WA

John Bevich

Puyallup, WA

Affordable Home Inspections Alburtis, PA

Timothy Lewis Sligo, PA

Kevin Miller WIN Home Inspection Cranberry Cranberry Twp., PA

Matt Taylor WIN Home Inspection Cranberry Cranberry Twp., PA

Daniel Goodson Pillar to Post Knoxville, TN

Larry Pruitt Amerispec Home Inspections Collierville, TN

Joseph Costantini

Nine Mile Falls, WA

Amanda Crouch Chad Parrott Puyallup, WA

Russell Tolle 45th Parallel Home Inspection Vancouver, WA

Jeffrey Araujo AAdvantage Home Inspection Union, WA

Matt Lawrence South Sound Inspection Gig Harbor, WA

John Keener Mountaineer Inspection Services, LLC Flemington, WV

Sam Quraini Kirkland, PQ Canada

INSPECTOR Kenneth A. Rodriguez

Mark A. McCauley Fighter Pilot Home Inspection & Repair, LLC Mechanicsville, VA

Chris Weinberger Pillar To Post Oakton, VA

To submit your materials for moving up, please contact Janet George at: 847-954-3180 or janetg@ashi.org To have your chapter seminar listed here: Email all information about your chapter seminar to micheleg@ashi.org.

Be sure to include all information: when, where, CEUs & a link for more information or contact information.

Manassas, VA

Colin Miley Virginia Beach, VA

Information also will be picked up from CE applications.

Joshua McDanel

BPG Webster Groves, MO

Greater Gateway Inspections LLC. dba Pillar To Post Alton, IL

Mark Noble

Paul Anderson

Anthony Christoforou

Good Protection Home Inspection Aurora, IL

Touchstone Home Inspection New Hyde Park, NY

Brian McCullough

Tom Carano

HouseMaster Salina, KS

Apex Inspection Services, LLC Akron, OH

Patrick Smith

Nobility Home Inspection Services L.L.C. West Milford, NJ

McKinney Home Inspection Lawrence, KS

Jason Greenawalt

Jose Roberto Montiel

Jason Daley

Metropolitan Residential Inspection Silver Spring, MD

Daley Home Inspections, LLC Mount Juliet, TN

John Foley

Shane Rittenhouse

OC Home Care LLC Belcamp, MD

HWS Inspections LLC Earlysville, VA

VBInspect.com Pittsburgh, PA

MAC ASHI Chapter Technical Seminar When: May 16, 2015 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Where: John Hopkins University, Rockville, MD CEUs: 8 ASHI CEs Contact: www.mac-ashi.org

MAC-ASHI Technical Seminar When: May 16, 2015 8am - 5pm CEUs: Proposed 8.

Where: John’s Hopkins University 9601 Medical Center Dr. Rockville, MD 20850 Featuring: John S. Rossi, P.E. Presenting: “Settling Cracks and Foundation Failures” and Cecil Johnson Presenting: “Thermodynamics and Design/ Operation/Evaluation of HVAC Equipment”

ASHI Great Lakes Chapter Spring Conference

ASHI New England 266 CMR 6.00 Standard of Practice When: September 14-15, 2015 CEUs: 4 ASHI CEs Contact: rmulloy@verizon.net

ASHI Great Lakes Chapter Fall Conference When: September 25-26 Where: Holiday Inn 17201 Northline Road Southgate, MI Contact: carol@greatinspectors.com 734-283-4400

Mid-Missouri ASHI Chapter Educational Seminar When: November 6, 2015 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Where: Columbia Board of Realtors Office, Columbia, MO CEUs: 8 ASHI CEs Contact: www.midmoashi.com

When: July 10-11 Where: Holiday Inn 200 E. Rand Road Mt. Prospect, IL Contact: carol@greatinspectors.com 847-392-0123

Randy Cottrell OC Home Care LLC Joppa, MD

Richard Saylor RCS Home Inspections, LLC Westminster, MD May 2015 | www.ASHIReporter.org

29

ASHI Chapters

Find the Chapter Nearest You and Join Today

444ASHI Of f icers for 2015

Chapter meetings and contacts are subject to change. Please contact the chapter to confirm meeting time and location.

NEW ENGLAND/CANADA British Columbia

www.cahpi.bc.ca Gary Poirer, 604-220-0305 gary@walkaboutinspections.com

CAHPI Atlantic

www.cahpi-alt.com Blaine Swan, 902-890-0710 goodeyeinspections@gmail.com

Central New York

www.cnyashi.com Second Wednesday, 6 pm, Tony’s Family Restaurant, Syracuse Peter Apgar, 315-278-3143 peter@craftsmanhomeinspection. net

First State (DE)

www.oahi.com Donald Beneteau, 519-995-0235 don@beneteauinspections.com

www.firststateashi.org Third Wednesday, 7 pm The Buzz Ware Center, 2121 The Highway, Arden Mark Desmond, 302-494-1294 mark@delvalleyhome.com

Coastal Connecticut

Garden State (NJ)

CAHPI Ontario

www.coastalctashi.org Third Thursday, 6 pm, Westport VFW Lodge, 465 Riverside Avenue, Westport Gene Autore, 203-216-2516 gene.autore@gmail.com

www.gardenstateashi.com Second Thursday, The Westwood, Garwood Bret Kaufmann, 973-377-4747 bretkaufmann@optonline.net

New England (ME, MA, NH, RI, VT)

www.ashirochester.com Second Tuesday, 6 pm, Murph’s Irondequoit Pub, Irondequoit John White, 585-431-0067 john@iihomeinspections.com

www.ashinewengland.org Fourth Thursday, 5 pm The Lantana, Randoph, MA Michael Atwell, 617-630-5629 mike@jmhi.com

Greater Rochester (NY)

Hudson Valley (NY)

www.nnec-ashi.org Bob McDonald, 207-475-7758 omnispect@gmail.com

SecondTuesday, 6 pm, Daddy O’s Restaurant 3 Turner Street Hopewell Junction, NY 12533 Michael Skok, 845-592-1442 ashistatewide@yahoo.com

Prairies (Alberta) (CAHI)

Long Island (NY)

Northern New England (ME, MA, NH, VT)

www.cahpi-ab.ca Bert Bruinsma, 403-348-5550 Red.deer@homealyze.com

Quebec AIBQ

www.aibq.qc.ca Germain Frechette, 514-694-4350 Insp.glf@sympatico.ca

Southern New England (CT)

www.snecashi.org First Tuesdays, 6:30 pm Billy T’s, 150 Sebethe Dr. Cromwell, CT Richard W. Hall, 860-281-4238 rhall@usinspect.com

NEW YORK/JERSEY/ DELAWARE Capitol Region (NY)

www.goashi.com Third Thursday, 7 pm, Doratos Steakhouse and Pub, Guilderland Robert Davis, 518-885-7949 rdavis@home-inspection.com

www.liashi.com Third Monday, 6 pm, Domenico’s Restaurant, Levittown Steven Rosenbaum, 516-361-0658 inspector@optonline.net

New York Metro

www.nyashi.com Last Thursday, Eldorado West Restaurant-Diner, Tarrytown Raymond Perron, 914-329-2584 pres@nyashi.com

Southern New Jersey (NJ)

www.southernnjashi.com Third Wednesday, 6:30 pm Ramada Inn, Bordentown Rick Lobley, 609-208-9798 rick@doublecheckhi.com

Western New York Second Thursday, 6:30 pm Tony Rome’s West Seneca Andy Utnik, 716-636-9676 esimail@aol.com

MID-ATLANTIC Central Virginia

www.cvashi.org Continues top of next column ...

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ASHI Reporter | May 2015

First Thursday, 6:30 pm, Independence Golf Club, Midlothian Ray McMurdy, 804-639-1171 ray@capitolinspections.com

Greater Baltimore (MD)

www.greaterbaltimoreashi.org Third Thursday except July & Aug., 6:30 pm, Snyder Willow Grove Restaurant, Linthicum Stephen R. Dallmus, 410-323-7600 dallmus2inspect@yahoo.com

Hampton Roads (VA) Second Thursday, 7 pm, Cypress Point Country Club, Virginia Beach Guillermo Hunt, 757-245-3100 huntshomeinspections@gmail.com

MAC-ASHI (MD, VA)

www.mac-ashi.com Second Wednesday, Rockville Senior Center, Rockville John Vaughn, 800-767-5904 John.vaughn@yahoo.com

NOVA-ASHI (MD, VA)

www.novaashi.com Fourth Tuesday, Associate hour 6-7 pm, Membership meeting 7-9 pm Northern Virginia Resources Center, Fairfax Ferando Barrientos 703-255-6622 fernando@abodecheck.com

Piedmont ASHI (VA) Robert Huntley, 540-354-2135 rwhuntley@cox.net

SOUTH ATLANTIC ASHI Georgia

www.ashigeorgia.com Gregg Allen, 770-745-7574 gregg@totalhomeinspections atlanta.com

East Tennessee

South Carolina First Saturday of Feb., May, Aug. & Nov., 8 am Roger Herdt, 843-669-3757 herdtworks@msn.com

GULF ASHI South (AL)

www.ashisouth.org Quarterly, Homewood Library, Homewood Derl Nelson, 205-529-1657 dbnelson@bellsouth.net

Central Florida

www.centralfloridaashi.org Second Tuesday, 6:30 pm Bill Labita, 407-977-9182 hbis@cfl.rr.com

FLASHI (FL) First Tuesday except July, 6 pm Golden China, 11112 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville David Sorge, 904-484-4847 safetekk@comcast.net

Florida Wiregrass

www.ashiwiregrass.org Second Wednesday, 6:30 pm Hyundai of Wesley Chapel Nancy Janosz, 813-546-6090 ProTeamInsp@aol.com

Gulfcoast (FL) First Thursday, 7 pm, The Forest Country Club, Fort Myers Len Gluckstal, 239-432-0178 goldenrulehi@comcast.net

Gulfstream (FL) Ralph Cabal, 305-256-7369 info@cabalinspections.com

Lone Star (TX)

www.ashitexas.org Craig Lemmon, 817-291-9056 craig@reioftexas.com

www.etashi.org Third Saturday of Feb., May, Aug. and Nov. Paul Perry, 866-522-7708 cio@frontiernet.net

Louisiana

Mid-Tennessee

Suncoast (FL)

Ray Baird, 615-371-5888 bairdr@comcast.net

Quarterly Michael Burroughs, 318-324-0661 Mburroughs2@comcast.net

Steven Campbell, 901-734-0555 steve@memphisinspections.com

www.ashisuncoast.com First Tuesday, 6:30 pm, Please see our website for meeting locations.

Steve Acker, 727-712-3089 steve@buyersally.com

North Carolina

Southwest Florida

Mid-South (TN)

www.ncashi.com Third Wednesday, 3 pm, Quality Inn at Guilford Convention Center, Greensboro Larry Conway, 336-669-0679 ncashi@triad.rr.com

www.swashi.com Second Wednesday, 6 pm Holiday Inn, Lakewood Ranch 6321 Lake Osprey Drive, Sarasota Michael Meesit, 941-321-6962 mike@acu-spect.com

NORTH CENTRAL ASHI Central PA

www.ashicentralpa.com Second Monday, 6 pm, except Jan. & July, Bonanza Steak House, Walnut Bottom Rd., Carlisle William Weitzel, 717-919-5087 bill@centralhomeinspections.com

Keystone (PA)

www.keystoneashi.org First Monday, 5:30 pm The Crowne Plaza, Reading David Artigliere, 610-220-1907 artihi@gmail.com

Ohio

www.ohioashi.com Howard Snyder, 330-929-5239 ohashi@neo.rr.com

North Central Ohio

www.ncohioashi.com William Stone, 216 308-9663 wstonehomeinspection@gmail.com

Pocono-Lehigh (PA)

www.pocono-lehighashi.org Third Tuesday, Tannersville Inn, Tannersville Ronald Crescente, 570-646-7546 amerispec@pa.metrocast.net

PRO ASHI (PA)

www.proashi.com Second Wednesday of Jan., March, May, July & Nov. John Fleenor, 412-862-1443 jthefleenor@gmail.com

Tri-State (DE, NJ, PA)

www.tristateashi.org Second Tuesday except April, Aug. & Dec., Dave & Buster's Plymouth Meeting, PA Vince Tecca 215-527-5710 bioainsp@aol.com

MIDWEST Central Illinois

www.cicashi.com Second Monday, 6 pm Kevan Zinn, 309-262-5006 info@inspectwithzinn.com

Great Lakes (IL, IN, IA, KY, MI, MN, OH, WI) For monthly meetings: www.greatinspectors.com/ schedule-of-events/ Carol Case, 734-284-4501 carol@greatinspectors.com

Greater Omaha (NE)

www.ashiomaha.com Rick Crnkovich, 402-779-2529 Rick2@cox.net

Heartland (IA, MN, ND, SD, WI)

www.ashiheartland.com Reuben Saltzman, 612-205-5600 info@ash.heartland.org

Indiana ASHI

www.inashi.com Quarterly Danny Maynard, 317-319-7209 danny@inspectinc.net

Iowa ASHI

www.iowaashichapter.org Fourth Tuesday, 5:30 pm Clarion Inn, Cedar Rapids Mike Tomash, 319-310-1557 tomashprohome@mchsi.com

Kentuckiana (IN, KY)

www.ashikentuckiana.org Allan Davis, 502-648-9294 elitehomeinspections@ insightbb.com

Mid-Missouri

www.midmoashi.com Second Tuesday, 12:00 pm Daniel Boone Regional Library 100 W. Broadway, Columbia, MO Joe Pangborn, 573-228-4509 jpangborn@mchsi.com

Northern Illinois

www.nicashi.com Second Wednesday, 5:30 pm Associate Corner Dinner, 6:30 pm, Main Presentation, 7:00 pm Crazypour,105 E. North Ave. Villa Park, IL Steve Reilly, 630-248-6500 owlinspection@comcast.net

SOUTH MIDWEST

MOUNTAIN Arizona

www.azashi.org Tony Hecht, 480-507-0837 tony@tonyhecht.com

New Mexico First Saturday, 10 am Charles Smith, 505-670-4442 prevuesf@gmail.com

Northern Colorado

www.ncc-ashi.org Second Thursday, 6:30 pm Fairfield Inn, Loveland Chris Elliott, 970-567-7393 chris@homelandinspectionservices. com

Northern Rockies (ID, MT) Lamar Rase, 406-531-4848 completehomeinspectionsinc@ msn.com

Rocky Mountain

Great Plains (KS, MO)

www.ashikc.org Second Wednesday of even months, The Great Wolf Lodge, Kansas City Miki Mertz, 913-268-0222 mikimertz@aol.com

Midwest PRO ASHI (KS) Jack Koelling, 316-744-9990 jackkoelling@cox.net

St. Louis (MO)

www.stlashi.org Second Tuesday, 6:30 pm Spazio’s at Westport Frank Copanas, 314-456-0783 Acropolis-inspection@live.com

Chris Munro, 208-290-2472 chris@peakinspections.net

Orange County CREIA-ASHI (CA) Third Monday, 5:30 pm Hometown Buffet, 2321 S. Bristol, Santa Ana Ralph Bertke, 714-317-3792 ralphbertke@msn.com

Oregon

www.oahi.org Fourth Tuesday, 6:30 pm The East Bank Saloon, Portland Jon Nichols, 503-324-2000 housedetective@hotmail.com

San Diego CREIA-ASHI First Tuesday each month Dave and Buster's, San Diego Sean Blasius, 619-804-8111 sean@bestpropertyinspections.com

San Joaquin Valley (CA)

Fourth Tuesday, 6:30 pm Kathleen Barbee, 303-646-3413 info@ab-inspections.com

Third Tuesday, 6 pm Rice Bowl, Bakersfield, CA Sam Jabuka, 661-664-8629 jabuka@sbcglobal.net

Southern Colorado

Silicon Valley ASHI-CREIA (CA)

www.ashi-southerncolorado.org Second Thursday, 6:30 pm Valley Hi Golf Club, Colo. Springs Mike Meyer, 719-686-8282 mikehome07@msn.com

Utah

www.ashiutah.com First Tuesday, 7 pm Marie Callender’s, Midvale Fred Larsen, 801-201-9583 Fred.larsen@pillartopost.com

PACIFIC

Arkansas Richard Kirkman, 501-327-9794 homeinspectionplus@conwaycorp. net

Inland Northwest (ID, WA)

Alaska Second Thursday, Jitters Coffee House, Eagle River Jim Foss, 907-522-2378 jim@inspectbest.com

ASHI Hawaii

www.ashihawaii.com Alex Woodbury, 808-322-5174 Woodburya001@hawaii.rr.com

California Randy Pierson, 310-265-0833 randy@southbayinspector.com

Central Valley CREIA-ASHI Peter Boyd, 530-673-5800 Boyd.p@comcast.net

www.siliconvalleyinspector.com Felix A. Pena, 510-573-0367 homesavvyinspections@comcast.net

Southwestern Idaho Second Monday David Reish, 208-941-5760 dave@antheminspections.com

Los Angeles-Greater San Gabriel Valley Second Tuesday, 6 pm Old Spaghetti Factory, Duarte Larry Habben, 714-685-0321 habbenshome@earthlink.net

Los Angeles-Ventura County ASHI-CREIA First Thursday, 5 pm Holiday Inn, Woodland Hills Bob Fuywe, 805-501-0733 guyerinspections@roadrunner.com

South Bay (CA) Webinar meetings Randy Pierson, 310-265-0833 randy@southbayinspector.com

Western Washington

www.ashiww.com Michael Brisbin, 425-742-1735 seaviewinspections@comcast.net

Golden Gate (CA)

www.ggashi.com John Fryer, 510-682-4908 johnfryer@gmail.com

31May 2015

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Your ASHI

444Your ASHI

Your Link to Membership News and Information

Did you Know ASHI has a New Online Learning Center?

• Recorded sessions from 2015 ASHI InspectionWorld Philadelphia and past IWs are now available online through the ASHI Online Learning Center.

Current ASHI Membership ASHI Certified Inspectors: 3,253

• Great online education resource, available FREE to ASHI Members.

• Non-members: $29/per module for purchase.

Inspectors/Logo: 99

• Earn 2 ASHI CEs upon successful completion. Session recordings make great training tools, keeping you at the forefront of your industry year-round.

Affiliates: 73

Associates: 1,780

ASHI Event Calendar

J uly 23-25, 2015 Finance Committee, AEI and ASHI Board Meetings Des Plaines, IL

Retired Members: 90 TOTAL: 5,295

as of April 11, 2015

October 22-24, 2015 LTC and ASHI Board Meetings Des Plaines, IL

January 24-27, 2016 InspectionWorld® and ASHI

Board Meetings

San Diego, CA

• Many of the past IWs recordings have been approved for state CEs. View a list of state-approved online education under each of the Past IW course descriptions.

• Go to the ASHI Online Learning Center: View the two-hour module and then successfully complete the exam. A certificate of completion will be available to print out. 

1. Go to www.ASHI.org 2. Under Education & Training 3. Click on:

Continue learning at the click of a button!

ASHI ONLINE LEARNING CENTER

FREE ASHI Member access to past IW sessions.

Ron Wells

Twenty-Five Years Dewey Campbell Bruce White Jerry Fehr Richard Routson James Rooney James Murphy Craig Holden Albert Mushinsky Norm Richert Tore Knos Thomas Kraeutler Rudolph Platzer William Hogue

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ASHI Reporter | May 2015

Fifteen Years Ron Entwistle Stephen Erickson Garet Denise Mark Damon Glen Brown Lloyd Scarborough Ryan Kraus Michael Bryan Arthur Bagirov Michael Legatt Joseph Donnelly

Ten Years

Alexx Anne Rex Richard Spencer Dale McNutt Robert Raishart

Gregg Forscher Edward Zirzow Vince Vargas Christopher Munro John Kavanaugh Jeffrey Adler Kenneth Pinera Delford Murphy

Five Years

Gilles Larin Thomas Sutko Ernie Thomas Kevin Harper Rafael Vazquez Walter Gorney Maureen (Molly) Grady

ASHI’s E&O Insurance Program: Business Risk Partners (BRP) www.inspectorinsurance.com 866-268-1327 ASHI Personal Lines Insurance Program: Liberty Mutual www.libertymutual.com/ashi ASHI Service Program BuildFax Susan Ward, 855-237-8711 http://land.buildfax.com/buildfax-specialpricing-for-ashi-members/ support@buildfax.com ASHI Customer Appreciation Program: Moverthankyou.com Brent Skidmore, 864-386-2763 www.moverthankyou.com Brent@POWRsoft.com HomeAdvisor.com Brett Symes, 913-529-2683 www.homeadvisor.com ashi@homeadvisor.com

MAY ANNIVERSARIES Thirty Years

ASHI-ENDORSED MEMBERSHIP BENEFIT PROGRAMS

Michael Barry Rick Page Erik Zerrenner Chris Knack Gregg Miller Mike Twitty Bob Davidson Bradley Longosky Patrick Caverley Paul DeFelice Raymond Socha Austin Roewe Mark Baxley Larry Messner, CRI Milind Angolkar

LegalShield Joan Buckner, 505-821-3971 buckner.legalshieldassociate.com buckner@legalshieldassociate.com InspectionContracts.com Dave Goldstein, 800-882-6242 www.inspectioncontracts.com david@inspectoreducation.com OneSource Solutions 877-274-8632 http://www.osconnects.com/ashi/ Porch.com Eliab Sisay, 206-218-3920 www.porch.com Eliab@porch.com

ASHI Rebate Program Quill.com Dana Fishman, 800-634-0320 x1417 www.quill.com/ashi dana.fishman@quill.com Platinum Provider Millionaire Inspector Community Mike Crow www.mikecrow.com dreamtime@mikecrow.com Mention that you are an ASHI member

ASHI-ENDORSED EXAMS ASHI Standard and Ethics Education Module Go to www.homeinspector.org, click on Education and Training, then click on the link for the ASHI Standard of Practice Education Module.

NHIE Exam: 847-298-7750 www.homeinspectionexam.org

ASHI-ENDORSED TRAINING PROGRAMS ASHI@Home Training System 800-268-7070 education@carsondunlop.com The ASHI School Jack McGraw, 888-884-0440 jack@theashischool.com www.TheASHISchool.com

ASHI Council of Representatives and Group Leaders Speaker: Jim Funkhouser 571-214-4039 jfunkhousr@aol.com

South Atlantic: Richard Hart 770-827-2200 ashi1@comcast.net

Alternate Speaker: John Wessling St. Louis, MO 314-520-1103 John@wesslinginspections.com

Gulf: John Knudsen 334-221-0876 jgknudsen111@elmore. rr.com

Secretary: Brendan Ryan 724-898-1414 brendan@csahomeinspection.com

GROUP LEADERS New England/Canada: Mike Atwell 617-285-8554 mike@jmhi.com New York/New Jersey: Jerry Sanangini 856-232-6607 jsantangini@comcast.net Mid-Atlantic: Jim Funkhouser 571-214-4039 jfunkhousr@aol.com

South Midwest: Paul MacNeill 314-392-9313 paul@appleinspections. com North Central: Brendan Ryan 724-898-1414 brendan@csahomeinspection.com Mountain: Marcus Richter 520-271-8582 info@handsonhome inspection.com Pacific: Scott Swickard 949-454-1389 scott@inspectoc.com

Midwest: Michael J. Von Gunten 262-945-2446 mike@ashigroup.com

33May 2015

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444 Preparing for an IRS Audit

NEW POSTCARDS EMAIL!! Please send your name, city, state, photos, headings & captions to: postcards@ashi.org

Innovations in Water Heater Technology

If Only the Wires had Been Tighter The FPE (Federal Pacific Electric) panel literally fell out when I removed the panel's cover.

Let's preheat the water with the exhaust before it enters the water heater.

Matthew Steger, ACI WIN Home Inspection Lancaster, PA

Kyle D. Rodgers A+ Home Inspections, LLC Siloam Springs, AR

How Many are too Many?

Not too Cool No wonder the bathroom didn't get cool when the A/C was running.

Thomas Dabb Immaculate Home Inspections Plainfield, NJ

Matthew Steger, ACI WIN Home Inspection Lancaster, PA

Don't Need a Flashlight to Inspect This Attic Fred Fields Fred Fields Services Berlin, MD

Lock and Load In the basement, I found a door with a concrete sono-tube tunnel, rope and pulley to transfer the target to the other end, a light and several bullet casings. This tunnel passed underneath the patio some 30-49 feet!

J. Vince Busnardo Precision Home Inspection LLC Centennial, CO

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ASHI Reporter | May 2015

35May 2015

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NEW POSTCARDS EMAIL!! Please send your name, city, state, photos, headings & captions to: postcards@ashi.org

444 Preparing for an IRS Audit

You will Either Laugh or Shake Your Head.

Modification by a Misguided Person

Can you find the carpenter mistake?

Clue: The end is not painted.

The yellow cables in the top portion of this panel are used to JUMPER around the main circuit breaker. A qualified electrician is recommended to remove the jumper as soon as possible.

Roger Hankey, ACI Hankey & Brown Inspection Services Eden Prairie, MN

Roger Hankey, ACI Hankey & Brown Inspection Services Eden Prairie, MN

© 2011, HankeyandBrown.com

© 2011, HankeyandBrown.com

So, That's What's Hiding Under the Bag! Thomas Dabb Immaculate Home Inspections Plainfield, NJ

Thomas Dabb Immaculate Home Inspections Plainfield, NJ

ASHI Reporter | May 2015

... now the cone has been re-purposed.

Thomas Dabb Immaculate Home Inspections Plainfield, NJ

The Owner Admits he Truly is a Gear-head

Gutter-Cleaning Time

36

OOOPS ...

Thomas Dabb Immaculate Home Inspections Plainfield, NJ

ASHI Ad.indd 6

37May 2015

3/25/15 10:33 AM | www.ASHIReporter.org

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On My Mind

By ASHI President Alden Gibson

Safety JUNE IS NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH and Home Inspection safety cannot be emphasized enough. It must be the number one priority and must remain ever-present on your mind especially during the inspection process. The majority of home inspectors are independent business owners, so if injured on the job, every aspect of their life and business is in jeopardy. I encourage all home inspectors to acquire an insurance policy that will cover some expenses if you are unable to continue inspections due to an injury or accident.

Luckily, nothing was broken except my pride. The lesson was learned to never step on plastic on stairs unless holding the rail.

An injury experience during a home inspection left me with a sprained ankle, all caused simply by a misstep while walking around the house. No work/job time was lost, but the sprain caused several days of pain and discomfort as I continued to perform inspections through the process. On another occasion, while walking back to the truck for some additional equipment, I tripped on a lip from the driveway to the curb and went down like a rock, striking my head and shoulder on the road and throwing my glasses across the road. After having a sore shoulder for a few days, I visited the doctor to find out that I tore ligaments in my shoulder and had to go for therapy for several weeks. It is still sore from time to time, so watch your step and look where you are walking. Keep safety at the forefront of your mind.

• Helmet – contains electric arc flash, shield that meets NFPA70E • Inside rubber gloves, 10 Novax by GB Industries, D120 type 1, max use voltage 1000 V AC • Outside gloves, O.A.L. low-voltage protector, worn over inside rubber gloves • Flame-resistant coverall suit

The Standard of Practice does not require ASHI inspectors to walk on roofs during home inspections; however, I walk on every roof that I feel is safe. The first thing I do before going from the ladder to the roof is tie off the ladder with a bungee cord. This will prevent the ladder from moving when getting on and off and prevent the ladder from falling if a big gust of wind unexpectedly occurs. In my area I am required to take a course on fall protection if I climb a ladder longer than 7 feet. Once the course is completed, participants receive a certificate for the course. Presentation of the certificate may be required if questioned by the Ministry of Labor as the result of the fall. Find out if you are required to have this or similar training in your area.

The ESA (Electrical Safety Authority in Ontario) mandates that electrical workers need to have the bare minimum in terms of safety equipment when inspecting and working with electrical panels. Home inspectors should maintain at least this minimum requirement. The following is a list of some of the specifications required for personnel inspecting electrical equipment:

I have been wearing this equipment for years and will not remove a cover without it. In my 22 years of inspecting, I have had three arc flashes with no injuries. All of my safety equipment is made in the USA, so there is no excuse for anyone not to wear it.

During inspections, the last place I examine is the attic. I always wear a respirator when entering an attic or crawl space. Many years ago, I entered a walk-up attic that was full of bat droppings (guano). I was there for less than two minutes, yet contracted a lung infection. That experience has caused me to use a respirator since that time. I also provide paper disposable dust masks for clients if they accompany me into the attic or crawl space. Think safe. Work safe. Be safe. You can’t afford not to. 

Another example of a lesson learned as the result of a safety mishap occurred a few years ago. I was conducting a framing inspection on a new house. I arrived early and had permission from the builder to be on the property. I proceeded down the basement stairs and noticed plastic on the stairs. The builder put plastic on the stairs to protect them from paint and dirt from boots.

I stepped on the first step and the next thing I remember was waking up on the basement floor in pain and out of breath.

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ASHI Reporter | May 2015

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