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Inspection News & Views from the American Society of Home Inspectors, Inc.
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Being Frank: Who Moved my Cheese?
AL U Q R R AI O O D IN
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The Word: Deck Stairs
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Your Company Image, Part 2
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Super Summertime Sessions at The ASHI School!
Indoor Air Quality Testing for Home Inspectors
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Finding Your Army of Volunteers
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Features
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The Word: Deck Stairs Bruce Barker, ACI Your Company Image, Part 2
Alan Carson, Carson Dunlop
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The Air we Breathe—Indoor Air Quality Testing for Home Inspectors Steve Froelicher, Ph.D.
Can you Apply ASHI’s Purpose and Scope to Your own Health? Dr. Sandy says yes, you can! Dr. Sandy Goldberg
Finding Your Army of Volunteers Timothy Hosey
Departments
6 Around the CoRner Jim Funkhouser, Speaker of the CoR 8 Being Frank From ASHI’s Executive Director
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Herspective Inside Out Building Inspection, Reis Pearson
25 Recommended Reading Jeff May’s Healthy Home Tips: Indoor Air Quality
26 The ASHI School Super Summertime Sessions at The ASHI School!
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ASHI Community
Chapter Listing, New Inspector Status, Chapter Events, Council News and Education
Membership News, Event Calendar, Endorsed Member Programs & Anniversaries
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Leviton Healthy Home Checkup Target Professional Programs InspectIT OREP US Inspect Fort Reports America’s Call Center 3D Inspection System Prism Analytical Technologies Wagner Meters RTCA How to Operate Your Home ASHI Members Free Logos The ASHI School Allen Insurance Group Joe Ferry NHIE Study Guide Business Risk Partners American Home Warranty Perma-Boot Sun Nuclear HomeGauge
2 leviton.com/afci 5 healthyhomescheckup.com 7 www.TargetProIns.com 11 InspectIT.com 13 www.OREP.org 15 844-268-2677 15 fortreports.com 17 AmericasCallCenter.com 19 3Dinspection.com 19 www.pati-air.com 21 wagnermeters.com 23 RTCA.com 23 htoyh.com 23 homeinspector.org/LogoDesign 26 www.theASHIschool.com 27 allenins.com 33 www.joeferry.com 34 NHIEStudyGuide.org 37 inspectorinsurance.com 39 ahomewarranty.com 41 perma-boot.com 43 sunradon.com 44 HomeGauge.com
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Your ASHI
Postcards From the Field
It’s Wacky Out There
On My Mind
Randy Sipe, ASHI President
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ASHI National Officers and Board of Directors Educated. Tested. Verified. Certified.
A SH I M ission S tatement 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.
Randy Sipe, President Spring Hill, KS, 913-856-4515 randy@familyhomeinspections.com
Tim Buell, Treasurer Marysville, OH, 614-746-7485 tim.buell@gmail.com
Howard Pegelow, President-Elect Gilbert, AZ, 414-379-4186 hpegelow@yahoo.com
Scott Patterson, Secretary Spring Hill, TN, 615-302-1113 scott@traceinspections.com
Robert Walstead, Vice President Sun City Arizona, 623-695-4789 rwalstead@aol.com
Alden Gibson, Immediate Past-President Breslau, ON, 519-648-3963 alden@inspectgib.com
Directors Bruce Barker 2015-2017 Cary, NC, 919-322-4491 bruce@dreamhomeconsultants.com
Donald Lovering 2015-2016 Auburndale, MA, 617-928-1942 lovering@earthlink.net
Shannon E. Cory 2015-2017 Fayetteville, GA, 770-461-3408 Shannon@rainbowhomeinspections.com
Blaine Swan 2016-2018 Columbus, OH 614-506-0647 goodeyeinspections@gmail.com
Richard Hart 2016-2018 Conyers, GA, 770-827-2200 ashi1@comcast.net David Haught 2016-2018 Huntington, WV, 304-417-1247 inspector@wvchi.com Keven Kossler 2015-2017 Huntersville, NC, 704-875-3200 Team@CastleCheck.com Bruce Labell 2015-2017 Scottsdale, AZ, 602-765-2140 inspect@cox.net
Tony Smith 2015-2017 Cedar Rapids, IA, 319-533-4565 inspecthathouse@netscape.net Mike Wagner 2014-2016 Westfield, IN, 317-867-7688 mwagner@ralis.com John Wessling 2016-2018 St. Louis, MO, 314-520-1103 john@wesslinginspections.com Kevin Westendorf 2014-2016 Mt. Pleasant, SC, 843-881-7842 kevinw@lowcountryhome inspection.com
Frank Lesh, Executive Director, 847-954-3182, frankl@ashi.org Jen Gallegos, Executive Assistant, 847-954-3177 jeng@ashi.org Education, CE Approval, ASHI Online Learning Center, InspectionWorld
Michele George, Director of Education & Events, 847-954-3188 micheleg@ashi.org Membership, Chapter Relations, Booth Rental, Product Orders
Russell Daniels, Assistant Executive Director, Director Membership & Chapter Relations, 847-954-3185, russelld@ashi.org Janet George, Membership Services Supervisor, 847-954-3180 janetg@ashi.org Kathy Harris, Membership Administrator, 847-954-3175 Kathyh@ashi.org Mark Lester, Membership Services Coordinator, 847-954-3176 markl@ashi.org Accounting
Toni Fanizza, Accounting & Human Resources Manager 847-954-3190, tonif@ashi.org Beverly Canham, Financial Assistant, 847-954-3184 beverlyc@ashi.org Website, Information Systems, Database
Mike Rostescu, Director IT & Internet Communications 847-954-3189, miker@ashi.org Advertising, Marketing, IW Expo Hall, Public Relations
Speaker, Council of Representatives: James Funkhouser 2015-2016 Mark Londner 2014-2016 Manassas Park, VA, 703-791-2360 Purcellville, VA, 540-668-6339 jfunkhousr@aol.com mark@LBIhome.com
Dave Kogan, Manager of Marketing & Business Development 847-954-3187, davek@ashi.org
Publisher: Frank Lesh Editor: Carol Dikelsky Art Director: Arlene Zapata, Jr. Designer: Kate Laurent
Kate Laurent, Junior Graphic Designer & Administrative Assistant 847-954-3179, Katel@ashi.org
American Society of Home Inspectors, Inc. 932 Lee Street, Suite 101 Des Plaines, IL 60016
847-954-3186 Reporter calls only 847-299-2505 (fax) Reporter only E-mail: frankl@ashi.org 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© 2016, 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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Main Phone: 847-759-2820, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm Mon. - Fri., CST Executive Director
Officers
Ken Harrington 2015-2017 Delaware, OH, 614-507-1061 inspectorken@rrohio.com
ASHI Staff
ASHI Reporter • July 2016
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Arlene Zapata, Graphic Design Manager & “ASHI Reporter” Managing Editor, 847-954-3186, arlenez@ashi.org
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Bonnie Bruno, Manager, 888-884-0440 or 847-954-3178 bonnie@theashischool.com Steve Reilly, Senior Sales Representative, 888-884-0440 or 847-954-3181, steve@theashischool.com Kimberly McGraw, Administrative Assistant & Sales Representative 847-954-3198, kim@theashischool.com
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If ASHI Were Amazon If I offer you a choice of getting a candy bar for every hour of online classes you take OR getting a candy bar at each chapter meeting you attend, with the total potential number of candy bars being equal, which would you choose? Chances are you’d choose the online classes. This is almost certainly true for millennials who were born “hard-wired” to all things electronic. Why? Because, as Meryl Streep once quipped, “Instant gratification is not soon enough.” Why drive to the store when you can order it on Amazon? So, how can ASHI and its chapters remain relevant in an “on-demand” world? It’s not as hard as you might think.
First, we acknowledge our formation and importance in this profession. We reflect on how ASHI blazed the trail, wrote the ASHI Standard, envisioned a Society that stands for protection of the home-buying public and raised the national awareness of the vital function that we ASHI Inspectors perform. This will always be our foundation, but now we must turn and leave our 1970s model to the history books. Second, the chapter system has been and continues to be an amazing benefit to membership. Unfortunately, not all of us live close enough to a chapter’s meeting place to regularly participate
ASHI Council of Representatives Speakers and Group Leaders Speaker: Jim Funkhouser 571-214-4039 jfunkhousr@aol.com Alternate Speaker: Hollis Brown St. Louis, MO 703-856-7567 JHollis@thorospec.com Secretary: Brendan Ryan 724-898-1414 brendan@csahomeinspection.com Group Leaders
New England/ Canada Mike Atwell 617-630-5629 mike@jmhi.com
New York/ New Jersey Kevin Vargo 732-271-1887 kpvargo@comcast.net
Mid-Atlantic Hollis Brown 703-856-7567 Hollis@thorospec.com
Midwest Eric Barker 847-408-7238 ebarker@morainewoods.com
ASHI Reporter • July 2016
Joe Pagborn 573-228-4509 Joe@Pangborn Inspections.com
North Central George Basista 330-565-3760 GeorgeBasista@ yahoo.com
Mountain Bryck Guibor 520-419-1313 bryck@msn.com
South Atlantic
Pacific
Ray Baird 615-371-5888 bairdr@comcast.net
Darrell Hay 206-226-3205 darrellhay@aol.com
Gulf Jim Dickey 972-907-0202 jim@jjdickey.com
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South Midwest
Around the CoRner
From the Speaker of the CoR
and even more unfortunately, many who do live close enough don’t join. Rather than strike the drum again, extolling the wonderful benefits of chapter participation, we must blend the analog chapter system into an analog/digital form. At the Northern Virginia (NOVA) chapter of ASHI, we are beginning this metamorphosis by webcasting our monthly meetings and offering a special “Satellite Member” classification. Now, those who can’t or choose not to attend the meetings in person can attend from home and get continuing education units (CEUs) and other benefits of chapter membership. ASHI will be holding a “how to” class on webcasting meetings at the Leadership Training Conference (LTC) in October. Third, Michele George at ASHI headquarters has been hard at working creating a wonderful online venue for state-approved classes that you, as members, can watch and get your CEUs. Also, there are the conceptual beginnings of virtual seminars held around the country at which local chapters and ASHI National work together to provide top-notch speakers delivered at little to no cost to regions for on-site seminars via the web.
Fourth, the ASHI website has been completely overhauled, thanks to Mike Rostescu at ASHI HQ. ASHI offers many online services and opportunities that are just a click away, and soon there will be videos on the website that will walk you, step by step, through all of the online features that you might not know about. Finally, ASHI belongs to you. It does not “belong” to the leadership, nor to the staff. The leadership and staff are the “building maintenance engineers”…we unclog the toilets and patch the roof, so to speak. But ASHI will (and should) never become “an Amazon,” because what’s special about ASHI are the connections, the relationships, the face-to-face, hands-on education. There’s an emptiness that can never be filled by an online-only organization, but we have to be available 24/7 to everyone who needs us. UItimately, what ASHI can be is up to you. If you need help with anything, write me (Speaker@ASHI.org). If your chapter wants to start webcasting its meetings, let me know. If you have a suggestion, tell your chapter’s Council Rep or, if you don’t belong to a chapter, I’m just an email away. The point is, we can do just about anything…but we have to hear from you. H ~ Jim James Funkhouser, Speaker, ASHI Council of Representatives speaker@ashi.org
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From ASHI’s Executive Director
Who Moved my Cheese? I
’m going to make you work for this column. Even though I like to read, I know many inspectors don’t. And, as a matter of fact, even I barely scan most of the gibberish sent to me every day. So, I’m going to entice you to both view and listen to a couple of things so that you may better understand my points. Who Moved My Cheese is a book about change. It was brought to my attention by CoR Speaker Jim Funkhouser and Vice President Bob Walstead. We have told this story to the ASHI Board of Directors and to ASHI staff. Deep down, on a personal level, I think we all know that change is inevitable, but some of us are better at adapting to it than others. Please go to this link to watch this short video that tells you the book’s message about change: https://youtu.be/ VsSNMzgsE7U.
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After viewing it, just substitute Amazon for a large real estate firm you receive (or used to receive) referrals from which. A month or so ago, I mentioned that I became a “deal killer” in the eyes of some agents in my area. When I heard that statement, I decided to seek new cheese by warning agents NOT to use me…unless the inspection was for relatives or close friends. I learned that slice-of-cheese chutzpah from long-long-longtime ASHI member Lon Grossman. At the time, his advice seemed risky, but that audacity became very profitable for me because I was now the go-to guy who provided a premium service at a premium price!
You may not want to use such an in-your-face approach, but you may be able to justify pursuing specialized inspections such as radon, thermography, pool and spa, EIFS, lead testing or many other disciplines available to you as your new cheese…if you’re willing to invest a little time, money and effort. It just may be the change of direction you need to reach your new cheese. One thing that will never change, though, is realizing that being in a business as rough as ours means that you’re not guaranteed a steady paycheck. Nobody looks the other way when they disagree with your inspection report. They let you know when they perceive what you say is not true or not to their liking. Most of us (or at least those of us who were not born with a silver spoon and are in the baby boomer generation) can relate to this song: http:// ultimateclassicrock.com/creedence-clearwater-revival-fortunate-son-top-100-classic-rock-songs/?trackback=email_flat_3. Take a listen for yourself. Since you’re not likely a senator’s son, let’s move the cheese from a personal level to an association level. This is the goal of the upcoming Leadership Training Conference (LTC), which will be held on October 20-21. We will have a brand new, action-packed agenda. Our keynote speaker will help you learn how to recruit, motivate and retain volunteers. Other speakers will train your membership and education volunteers to use proven techniques that will help make their jobs successful. We also will have training for your treasurer and secretary. We strongly encourage you to send your CoR representative, education, membership and secretary this year. LTC will be fastpaced with incentives that will blow your socks off. Well, you may want to keep your socks firmly on your feet…remember, we will be in Chicago in October. But you get the idea. The Chapter Relations Committee is really gearing up to give you the best leadership training ASHI has ever conducted. Have a great summer and be sure to rest up for an exciting time this fall at LTC! H
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ASHI Reporter • July 2016
Figure 1
Deck Stairs By Bruce Barker, ACI
O
nce again, The Word invites you to travel into the dark realm of subjects that are sometimes misunderstood by home inspectors. The Word hopes you will find this trip informative and maybe a little entertaining. Our subject this month is decks. The scariest deck demons are deck flashing and deck ledger attachments, which The Word will discuss in an upcoming column about decks. Meanwhile, there are other deck demons that are almost as scary; one of them is stairs. Stair Safety Inspectors should remember two important facts about stairs. The first fact is that stairs are one of the most dangerous systems we inspect. Falls involving stairs can result in serious personal injury; that is where the big money lies for attorneys. The second fact is that interior and exterior stairs share almost all of the same requirements. If anything, we should be more careful about applying current safety and structural requirements to exterior stairs because exterior stairs are subject to harsh environmental conditions that may exacerbate safety and structural problems. We should spend time inspecting all stairs, especially exterior stairs. Inspection of stairs begins by determining if the stairs are safe for you and your client to use. Perform a quick visual check of the stringers, including their condition, length and attachment to the deck. Check the condition of the treads. You do not want anyone on the stairs if they collapse, and you do not want anyone to trip on deteriorated treads. “Failed under test” is not a good explanation for stair-related injuries during an inspection.
Stringer Bearing on Support Stringers usually have two bearing points. The plumb (vertical) cut usually bears on a rim joist or on a beam. The seat (horizontal) cut should, at a minimum, bear on a solid landing. The stringers should be supported at grade level by posts that bear on footings, but The Word does not recall ever seeing this installation detail. If there is good stringer bearing on a solid landing, The Word declares victory and moves on. Those who live in cold climates might consider being stricter about stringer footings because frost heave could move the stringers and loosen the connection at the plumb cut. Refer to Figure 1 for a summary of stringer installation recommendations.
a connector, such as a Simpson LSC or LSSU, installed according to manufacturer’s instructions, including using the recommended fasteners. Connectors provide both the vertical and lateral support for the stringer. Photo 1 shows an attempt to attach a stringer using a connector. Good try, but there are still problems. The stringer should fully bear on the connector seat. Screws are not allowed unless specifically allowed by manufacturer’s instructions, and then, only manufacturer-supplied screws may be used. Deck screws and drywall screws are not allowed.
Stringer attachment at bearing points must help the stringer resist both vertical and lateral loads. The vertical load (gravity) pulls the stringer down from the bearing point. This is the load inspectors think about more often. The lateral (horizontal) load pulls the stringer away from the bearing point. The lateral load is often the cause of the stair collapse; the nails withdraw from the bearing point, then gravity takes over. There are three ways to attach stringers to the rim joist or beam to resist both vertical and lateral loads: the right way, the wrong way and the wrong way that might work. The right way is uncommon. The wrong way is the norm. The wrong way that might work is the scariest because it might work or it might not. The right way to attach the stringer plumb cut to the rim joist or beam is by using
Photo 1
The wrong way to attach the stringer plumb cut to the rim joist or beam is using nails that are subject to withdrawal. 9July 2016
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This is always wrong. Nails are subject to withdrawal unless the stringer is secured somewhere against lateral movement. If the stringers are bearing on a landing with no attachment to the landing and no other attachment that resists lateral loads, then the nails are subject to withdrawal. If the stringers are bearing on the ground, that is even worse. Photo 2 shows a stringer that is pulling away from the rim joist after less than one year.
Photo 2
The wrong way that might work is when stringers are attached using nails that may not be subject to withdrawal. This method usually involves installing the nails at an angle through the stringer into the rim joist, a method called toe-nailing in some areas. This method sometimes involves installing the nails through the rim joist into the stringer plumb cut, a method called end-nailing in some areas. Stringer attachment using nails that are not subject to withdrawal might work if an adequate quantity of the correct nails is installed, if the nails are properly installed (there are rules about how to correctly install toenails), and if the wood and the nails maintain their integrity over the life of the deck. That is a lot of ifs—more than The Word is comfortable with. The Word recommends installing stringer connectors on all stringers that are nailed at the rim joist, beam or a drop header. As we have discussed, the right way to attach a stringer is to use a connector. A 10
ASHI Reporter • July 2016
Photo 3
to withdrawal over time. Photo 4 shows a drop header secured using only nails. Proper attachment of the drop header to the rim joist or beam involves installing bolts through lumber to connect the drop header and rim joist or beam.
properly installed connector makes stringer installation easy and can eliminate complications such as a drop header. Perhaps carpenters have not received the memo about these connectors or perhaps they like to do things the hard way. In either case, there are two common methods of positioning the stringer relative to deck flooring. The best place to position a stringer, from a stringer attachment perspective, is to place the top tread even with the deck flooring. This allows the stringer plumb cut to fully bear on the rim joist or beam, and it provides the maximum fastening area. Carpenters do not like this method because they claim it makes installing the stair guards and handrails more difficult. A common stringer placement, therefore, is to place the top tread one riser below the deck flooring. There are two common ways to accomplish this. Photo 3 shows one method, which is clearly a job for Obviousman. The other method is to use a drop header.
The Word is not aware of a prescriptive detail for connecting a drop header to a rim joist or beam. The following is a common detail that is accepted in some areas. Use at least two 2x4s. Install at least a ⅜-inch diameter bolt through the drop header and through the rim joist or beam. The bolts should be located as close as possible to the center of the 2x4, horizontally, so there is enough wood between the bolt and edge of the wood to resist wood splitting and shearing. 2 inches is a safe distance in this case.
Photo 5
Photo 4
A drop header is a piece of lumber installed below the rim joist or beam. The stringer plumb cut bears partly on the drop header and partly on the rim joist or beam. If a drop header is used, the attachment of the drop header to the rim joist or beam is important. Attachment using nails is always wrong because the nails are subject
Photo 5 shows a bolted drop header. The top bolt is too close to the right edge of the 2x4; if you look closely, the 2x4 is split. Otherwise, it is a decent effort at a drop header installation. Assuming that the stringers are not supported at the bottom by posts and footings, the next best stringer seat cut bearing on support is to have the entire area of the seat cut below the bottom tread bearing on support. The stringer is better able to support the imposed loads with more wood on a
ASHI Ad.indd 6
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bearing surface. At a minimum, 1½ inches of the seat cut heel should bear on support. The seat cut toe should not be the only part of the stringer bearing on support. We should report configurations such as shown in Photo 6 as significant deficiencies requiring correction. These configurations can allow the stringer to shear along the wood grain, resulting in stair collapse.
Photo 6
Stringer Construction There are two styles of stringers. The cut stringer is by far the most common style. A cut stringer is made by cutting triangles into the stringer to obtain the risers and treads. The other, less common style is the solid stringer. Solid stringer treads bear on manufactured brackets or on lumber fastened to the stringer. A solid stringer is stronger than a cut stringer; thus, a solid stringer may span farther without support. A cut stringer made from Southern pine may only span six feet between supports. A solid stringer may span 13 feet, 3 inches. A stringer should be made using at least a 2x12 and the spans noted in the previous paragraph assume this. A stringer made using a 2x10 may work, but it is difficult to obtain the recommended stringer throat depth when cutting a 2x10. The throat is the area of uncut wood at the smallest
point. The throat should be at least 5 inches deep. If a saw kerf extends past the riser/ tread triangle, the measurement is to the saw kerf. Photo 7 shows a stringer throat that is way too small. Refer to Figure 1. Risers and Treads As we discussed earlier, deck stairs share the same requirements as interior stairs. The maximum riser height depends on local rules and on when the stairs were built. The current maximum riser height in most areas is 7¾ inches. The Word does not get concerned unless the riser height is more than about 8 inches. Riser height difference is more of a concern because having different heights between risers is a trip hazard. The maximum riser height difference between any two risers in a flight of stairs is ⅜ inch. The Word is strict about reporting riser height differences. Deck stairs are more likely to have open risers than are interior stairs. Open risers that are more than 30 inches above grade should not allow a 4-inch diameter sphere to pass. The most common deck stair tread problem that The Word sees is loose and deteriorated treads. Loose and deteriorated treads should not surprise anyone. If there is any surprise, it is that treads last as long as they do. Treads are usually nailed and even deformed shank-type nails will withdraw eventually when the cut part of the stringer deteriorates because of weather exposure (the cut is almost always not preservative-treated). Treads are installed horizontally and may be subjected to prolonged exposure to moisture. Exposure to moisture can cause wood deterioration and distortion such as cupping. Southern pine sizes Photo 7
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ASHI Reporter • July 2016
2x6 and larger can be especially prone to deterioration and cupping. The minimum tread depth is 10 inches in most parts of the country. The easy way to achieve the 10-inch depth with deck stairs is to use two 2x6s or two 5/4x6s, which produce a tread depth of a little over 11 inches (assuming the recommended ⅛-inch space is left between the two boards). Treads that are 6 inches or less nominal depth should not span more than 18 inches between supports. Tread span is usually not an issue for the common 36-inch wide stairway with cut stringers and lumber treads. The Bottom Line
The lesson for this column is this: Do not be the inspector who fails to report deck defects. The deck demons may haunt you if you do not find them and report them. Memo to Hestia (goddess of the home and hearth): The Word does not reside on Mt. Olympus (just at its base) and welcomes other viewpoints. Send your lightning bolts or emails to Bruce@DreamHomeConsultants.com. The thoughts contained herein are those of The Word; they are not ASHI standards or policies. Bruce Barker is the founder and president of Dream Home Consultants, and the author of Everybody’s Building Code, written to help home inspectors understand the International Residential Code. Bruce has been building and inspecting homes since 1987. He currently serves on the ASHI Board of Directors. He is a certified Residential Combination Inspector and a licensed contractor in Arizona, Florida and North Carolina. To read more of Bruce’s articles or if you need a presenter at your next chapter event, go to www.dreamhomeconsultants. com. H
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Your Company Image Part 2
Your Company Image, Part 2 By Alan Carson, Carson Dunlop, www.carsondunlop.com, 800-268-7070
I
n Part 1 of this series about your company image (published in the June issue of the Reporter), we described how clients will perceive your company and outlined some strategies for success. In this article, we continue the discussion with the importance of first impressions and how to build a relationship during and after the inspection. If you have been inspecting for years, this will be a quick checkup for you, and if you are newer to home inspection, you may learn some useful tips.
Make a Positive First Impression in Person The first few seconds with the client are more important than the rest of the inspection. We all form opinions on the basis of first impressions. Your clients will have an expectation before the inspection and an immediate perception when they first meet you. They are hoping to meet someone who is experienced and competent, as well as friendly and approachable.
Be Presentable Clients want someone who has their interests at heart and someone who will provide expert, unbiased advice. You should look the part and fit the role—from your vehicle to your clothing and from your business card to your personality. Be the professional your clients are hoping to meet.
Introductions
The next step is to put your clients at ease and gather some information. Ask questions about them and find out where they are moving from. People are typically most comfortable talking about themselves—it’s a subject they know better than anyone. Ask your clients if they have any specific concerns about the home or if they are just looking for an overall checkup. Ask them to point out their concerns when you arrive so that you can address them during the inspection. This will help you remember to point out the issues that are especially important to them. You have now set the stage for a professional, friendly, consultative inspection with the client’s participation.
The Inspection Process It is ideal for your clients to follow you around the home while you inspect it, although you cannot force them to do so. You can remind them that if they come with you on the inspection, then you will be able to discuss your findings and answer their questions as you go. The benefits to the client are significant. They get a much better understanding of the home. You get to develop a rapport with the client that can help reduce your liability. Clients who join you on the inspection and see how hard you work on their behalf are far less likely to complain. Most of our complaints come from clients who did not attend the inspection.
Smile when you introduce yourself to your clients. Let them know you’re glad to meet them and that you appreciate the opportunity to help them with their decision. For the next few hours, your clients should be the most important people in the world to you.
Your clients will be refining their opinion of you during the inspection. Most will not be able to evaluate your technical skills, so they will judge your communication skills. That is why the way you say something is as important as what you say.
Scripting and practicing your opening communication can be helpful, but be sure that you sound genuine. Your tone should be conversational and your first comments should be welcoming.
Dos and Don’ts for Communication
The introduction process should not take more than a minute or two. Introduce yourself and give the client a business card. A short statement about your credentials or experience working with homes in this neighborhood will reinforce the feeling that they are working with a well-trained professional and that they have made a good decision in choosing you. Some inspectors offer a positive comment about the neighborhood if it seems appropriate. Explain the inspection process, including how long the inspection will take and when they will get the report. Encourage the client to accompany you on the inspection and ask questions. Assure your clients that they do not need to take notes; everything will be in the report.
The Contract We are assuming that the client has accepted the inspection agreement before the inspection. Most inspectors electronically send this agreement when the inspection is booked and clients typically accept the terms online. If this has not been done, however, you should present and explain the contract and get the client’s acceptance before the inspection begins. To minimize liability, this needs to be done before you get started.
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Get Them Talking
ASHI Reporter • July 2016
It’s a conversation, not a lecture. As you point things out, ask for feedback. You could say, “Does that make sense?” Make sure that your clients feel engaged and respected. Be sure to answer their questions patiently and completely. No matter how silly a person’s question may seem to you, you should take it seriously and answer it fully. The knowledge dilemma. Our challenge is that we cannot know everything. We do not get to take the house apart. We do not “get to live in it for three years to learn how it works. Remember, physicians don’t know everything either. They have to recommend testing or provide referrals to specialists. In this way, you are like a family doctor. Here are some suggestions for what to say (or what not to say) when you cannot be definitive: Avoid saying, “I don’t know,” “I’m not sure” or “I think.” You want to sound experienced and professional and you want to inspire confidence. Try saying things along the lines of these examples: • “We don’t have enough evidence...” • “We can only see part of the story here...” • “Based on the partial evidence we can see,...” • “ Although I’d love to see what’s going on behind, we are not allowed to take the house apart.”
The next step is to provide some direction. It may be recommending a further evaluation by a specialist or monitoring with an explanation of what the client should watch for. You will be definitive in some cases. In other cases, you will be drawing conclusions on the basis of incomplete information and deduction. Make sure that you distinguish between fact and opinion. For example, you might say, “Based on the little we can see and my experience, there may be considerable concealed damage behind this wall.” After offering your opinion, you should provide the client some direction such as, “I recommend the drywall be removed to determine the condition of the structure behind it and to determine whether repairs are needed.”
Your Final Report is Important The only thing more important than the first impression you make is the last impression. The inspection report is the last part of the inspection process and it’s the only tangible evidence of your inspection. The report has to knock your client’s socks off. It is the material proof that they have
received a professional assessment. From a marketing perspective, the report is what will get you future referrals. If your report is unimpressive, your client’s image of you and your whole business will be unimpressive. A great inspection can be wasted by a mediocre report. Reports should look professional, with relevant color photographs to help tell the story. It’s hard to look great with handwritten reports and checkboxes on a form. A lot of great software is available that can help make you look good. Whatever you use to create your reports, put forth your best effort and ensure that your report reflects how you would like your company to be perceived.
Closing Comments Your report is important, but it is not the only opportunity to showcase your skill as an inspector. Perception is reality, and a professional and friendly demeanor at the inspection that puts your client at ease can turn a customer into a referrer. A positive impression is good for your business and good for our profession! H
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Inside Out Building Inspection, Seattle, WA by Reis Pearson 206-431-5807 reis@insideoutbi.com http://insideoutbi.com
R
eis Pearson likes to tell her clients, “The inspection process is like dumping a puzzle box so all the pieces spill on the floor. You start with the edges and corners, and eventually you say, ‘Oh, it’s a little red house!’ Yet, some pieces still might not fit until the end. I try to honor the process of filling it all in.” Pearson’s process includes talking with her clients about all the elements involved. She says, “Within about 20 minutes of most inspections, I know what the biggest issues will be. But even though I know something’s wrong, it might look normal to my client. This gives me a chance to explain details, and they often react with that ‘aha’ moment.” You could say that Pearson’s career puzzle fell into place when she began inspecting homes 10 years ago. Laid off from a position in higher education where she’d applied her skills in educational leadership and policy studies, she took a job as a go-pher for two contractors and learned about electrical and plumbing systems, and how to find and fix trouble spots in homes. At the same time, she remodeled some properties, including her own home. But, she said, “Construction work was awful on the body, so when I had the opportunity to purchase a home inspection business, I took it.” ext, she immersed herself in training. She said, “I was horrified N that the state of Washington didn’t have licensing laws in place. It seemed that anyone could inspect a home and give opinions without credentials ensuring that the information provided was reliable. That led to me to get involved with ASHI. I was impressed with ASHI’s focus on education and Standard of Practice.” Preparing for the National Home Inspector Examination validated that she already knew a lot. “My first two years were rough. It was a crazy market with people waiving inspections and many people trying to become inspectors. Then, in 2010, Washington required that inspectors pass an examination and become licensed. I was prepared, so when the number of inspectors dropped from more than 4,500 to 800 over the course of about a year, my business thrived.” She said, “I’ve actually found that thing that combines the best parts of my personality. I love educating people and I enjoy showing my clients the ‘system’ of the house, even down to the physics of it all. Doctors are some of my favorite clients because I like to joke with them, saying, ‘Now we’re examining the neurological part of the house—the electrical systems’—and so on. I appreciate the acknowledgment that comes as clients begin to understand.” She continued, “I love figuring out why something doesn’t work and understanding the science behind the system—and then being able to explain it technically and in layman’s terms. I eat up all the reading it takes to stay up to date, and I like talking with service providers to learn how and why things work the way they do.”
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ASHI Reporter • July 2016
Pearson noted, “I can tell when a client might be skeptical of my abilities.” She makes this intuition work to her advantage. “When someone is thinking, ‘What will she know?’, I start the conversation by showing my command of technical knowledge. I find that approach quickly addresses doubts or misconceptions.” This year, Pearson attended her third InspectionWorld®. At each IW she’s attended, she’s gathered insights about technical and business-related topics. She commented, “I like getting that new perspective that comes from talking with people outside of my region of the country.” Also, playing a part in helping single women buy a house is important to her. She said, “They typically have a look of fear, and I’m glad I can instill confidence by giving them information and the feeling that ‘You got this, girl.’” Pearson also has leveraged her education background by becoming a licensed provider of continuing education units for home inspectors. “I teach these topics with the understanding that the way I inspect a home might be different from your approach. Each person has unique specialties or interests; some are great with roofing, others are experts with HVAC systems. By sharing my knowledge, I can help others develop their process. It’s important to educate inspectors who will reflect well on our profession.”
( “toInwomen my area, community colleges advertise directly to join trades. I feel that if female students see women teaching courses, they might be more encouraged. I’ve partnered with the owner of a handywoman business, and we offer two-week sessions of classes.” Pearson reflected, “When I started out in 2006, I knew five women inspectors. Now there are at least 20 women inspectors in this area.” With numbers like that, women like Reis Pearson will increasingly represent significant pieces of the home inspection puzzle. H
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Indoor Air Quality Testing for Home Inspectors
The Air we Breathe— Indoor Air Quality Testing for Home Inspectors
IN D O
Q UA L O R A IR
IT Y
By Steve Froelicher, PhD
“All I need is the air that I breathe”
was a popular lyric from a song by The Hollies in 1974. We expect that each breath we take will be esthetically pleasing and healthy. Since the majority of our time is spent indoors, we are essentially “trapped” with the quality of the indoor air that is characteristic of our surroundings. Indoor air quality (IAQ ) encompasses everything that contributes to the level of occupant comfort. As Figure 1 illustrates, besides the usual temperature and humidity concerns in an indoor setting, occupants must be concerned about particulates, molds and mycotoxins, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, allergens, radon and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Home inspectors must consider many facets of air quality when performing an inspection. Rules and regulations exist for outdoor air quality. For instance, the United States has made significant improvements to combat pollution, beginning with the Clean Air Act of 1970, which led to the use of catalytic converters in automobiles and resulted in a significant reduction of carbon monoxide. The Kyoto Protocol of 1995 began to address manmade emissions of carbon dioxide and the possible global-warming implications of increasing CO2 levels. The Montreal Protocol in 1987 addressed the manufacture and use of chlorofluorocarbons that impacted stratospheric ozone levels. Conversely, IAQ is largely unregulated, but some guidelines do exist. The U.S. Green Building Council was founded in 1993 to promote the construction or renovation of homes and businesses with the goal of energy-efficient and healthy buildings.1 New buildings are constructed with the intent of being LEED-certified, a goal that usually 18
ASHI Reporter • July 2016
is achieved before the building is occupied (Note: LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.) However, once any building is occupied, indoor air becomes mixed with “contaminants,” which can include particulate matter, molds and mycotoxins, allergens and VOCs (Figure 1). In the United Kingdom and other countries, similar guidelines (such as BREEAM) exist.2 The main focus of this article will be on the volatile aspects of IAQ (that is, radon, carbon monoxide [CO], carbon dioxide [CO2] and VOCs). Radon Radon is a silent killer. Radon is unique in the list of IAQ issues because this radioactive gas is not present in indoor air because of activities or products introduced by the occupant, but instead it can be present as a consequence of the area of the country in which the structure is located or the type of bedrock or soil on which a structure is built. Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers and it causes about 21,000 deaths per year.3 Radon gas
is generated from the natural breakdown of uranium in soil, rock and water. The average indoor level is 1.3 picoCuries per liter (pCi/L). A level of 4.0 pCi/L is considered the “action level” for remediation. Testing usually requires several days because of the low levels of radioactive events resulting from radon gas decay. Devices can range from simple single-use kits to continuous radon monitors. Radon testing often is requested by homebuyers before they finalize real estate transactions. Carbon Monoxide and Carbon Dioxide Carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO2) can be monitored as part of IAQ testing. Most homes have CO alarms, but many of these alarms will sound only after the monitor reaches a level of 30 ppm. However, symptoms that indicate CO poisoning can start appearing when CO levels fall between 2 and 30 ppm. Therefore, monitoring CO can help to activate early remediation efforts in the event of a CO leak. Carbon dioxide is generated by the respiration of occupants. CO2 levels can be easily monitored using inexpensive detectors. Many inspectors consider CO2 levels to give a reasonable estimation of IAQ and comfort levels. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) provides ventilation guidelines4 for indoor air quality stating that indoor levels should not exceed 1,030 ppm. Ventilation should be reconsidered in areas where these levels are exceeded. Figure 1
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Indoor Air Quality Testing for Home Inspectors
Expand Without Risk
VOCs The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines a volatile organic compound (VOC) as any compound that participates in atmospheric photochemical reactions.5 Although photochemical reactivity is important in outdoor air, indoor air typically uses the definition of VOCs as any chemical that easily vaporizes at room temperature. VOCs encompass many chemical categories such as hydrocarbons, aromatics and aldehydes, just to name a few. VOCs are emitted from common household products and from surfaces that have been chemically treated (for example, painted, varnished or laminated, among other treatments).
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Indoor Air Quality Testing for Home Inspectors
According to the EPA, the level of VOCs indoors is typically two to five times higher than the amount of VOCs in outdoor air.5 If you could take a “snapshot in time” of the VOCs present in a room, the amounts would vary depending on occupant behavior. For instance, VOC levels can dramatically increase when a person uses personal care products (deodorants and perfumes) or household products (paint, caulk and PVC cement). The amounts present can be even higher in the winter months because people keep rooms warmer in the winter. Volatility increases and decreases with corresponding temperature changes. With people spending more time indoors, the necessity for understanding IAQ becomes important. The U.S. Green Building Council recommends that VOC levels be less than 500 nanograms per liter (ng/L).1 These units are equivalent to micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m3), which are the units typically reported for LEED testing. Molhave6 suggested that the recommended comfort range for total VOC (TVOC) is <200 ng/L, and that values of 200 to 3,000 ng/L are generally acceptable unless levels of individual VOCs are very high. He suggested people experience discomfort when VOC levels are between 3,000 and 25,000 ng/L, and that the TVOC level is toxic at >25,000 ng/L. In general, these VOC levels are still at an order of magnitude that is lower than most OSHA levels associated with individual exposure to chemicals in the workplace. However, one must be cognizant of the fact that people spend most of their time indoors during the workday or at home during nonbusiness hours, and that they want their indoor air to be both esthetically pleasing and healthy. Why VOC Analysis? Many home inspectors incorporate a VOC analysis into their everyday service offerings. For others, this is not the case. For these inspectors, the question is, “In what types of situations would it be beneficial for the client to have an understanding of the level of VOCs present?” The most common opportunities for VOC testing come from clients who are undergoing a major life event. For instance, having a new baby is a good time for consumers to understand the level of VOCs in their home, especially in the infant’s bedroom. Infants, young 20
ASHI Reporter • July 2016
Figure 2
children and senior citizens are the most susceptible to the effects of elevated levels of VOCs. Likewise, a person who is facing new health challenges may want to request a VOC IAQ test. Clients are also interested in VOC levels when they purchase a new home so they can have an idea of the indoor environment they are moving into. Many homes are remodeled just before the sale, so lingering VOCs from materials of construction can be a concern. New furniture purchases, carpet installation and other additions to the home also can lead to major IAQ changes and lingering VOC problems. VOC Testing VOC testing can be achieved using several Figure 3
sampling devices. Bag sampling, canister sampling and thermal desorption tubes equipped with a pump are the most common choices. Bag sampling is achieved either using an evacuated bag or a positive displacement pump to push air into the bag for a whole air sample. The VOC range is typically on the order of C1-C12 and the bags are typically single use. Canister sampling involves using an evacuated steel vessel to collect whole air samples. Sampling times can vary from a few minutes to 24 hours, depending on the valve setting. The canisters have a VOC range of C1-C12, and they can be conditioned and reused. Finally, the thermal desorption tube (TDT) (Figure 2) is a glass or stainless steel tube filled with sorbent material(s). Compounds are captured by the sorbents as air passes through the TDT;
> typically, air is drawn through the tube using a low-flow collection pump (100-200 mL/min). Multiple sorbents may be used to achieve the collection of a range of chemical classes. These tubes can have a VOC range of C3-C20, depending on the desorption temperature used. Figure 3 illustrates the differences between the sampling media. Figures 4 and 5 illustrate the various sources of VOCs observed in indoor air samples. These VOCs can be categorized according to the type or classification of VOCs present. As you can see, VOCs can originate from many different sources. Most notably, the VOCs can be associated with building materials (Figure 4) and occupant lifestyle choices (Figure 5). The average TVOC in a home setting is approximately 1,900 ng/L; this average is based on TVOCs in approximately 8,000 homes that were tested. VOC levels are usually the highest after remodeling projects or construction processes, and they also are elevated when occupants use alcohol-based products and personal care products.
Mold VOCs (MVOCs) Other VOCs that can be detected from indoor air samples are mold VOCs (MVOCs). MVOCs are produced by the digestive processes of mold and are an indication of active mold growth. Mold
Indoor Air Quality Testing for Home Inspectors
VOCs include furans and alcohols. A mold spore test may reveal the presence of spores, but the air sample may prove negative for the presence of MVOCs if the mold isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t actively growing in dry conditions, where mold spores could be temporarily dormant.
VOCs FROM BUILDING MATERIALS
Figure 4
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Indoor Air Quality Testing for Home Inspectors
VOCs FROM OCCUPANT LIFESTYLE
Figure 5
Conversely, you can observe MVOCs, which can indicate the initiation of mold growth, without seeing any visible presence of mold spores. Formaldehyde Formaldehyde is the simplest VOC that is present in indoor air samples. Elevated levels of formaldehyde can lead to throat irritation and respiratory distress, and it can exacerbate asthmatic conditions. You can sample the level of formaldehyde by using passive badges or active air samples. Passive badge sampling involves collecting airborne formaldehyde by diffusion, either through a static air layer or by permeation through a membrane into a collection media. Typically, a badge filled with sorbent material is placed or worn in an environment for a recommended period of time (24-48 hours). The primary advantage of passive sampling is the ease and low cost of collection. However, when performing passive sampling, it is important to understand that environmental factors can impact the sampling. Stagnant air, with minimal air movement, will significantly reduce the effective sample volume and potentially generate a sample result that does not accurately represent the level. The primary advantage of active sampling is the collection of a known large sample volume. A large sample volume also provides the ability to detect lower levels of formaldehyde. 22
ASHI Reporter • July 2016
All wood products naturally emit formaldehyde. The presence of wood products in a home, such as wood flooring and cabinetry, can lead to elevated levels of formaldehyde. Higher emissions can be observed from pressed woods such as plywood and oriented strand board (OSB). Formaldehyde is also present in older insulations that were manufactured from phenol-formaldehyde resins. There is much confusion regarding testing wood flooring for formaldehyde emissions. This typically requires a laboratory that can perform chamber testing according to guidelines established by the California Air Resources Board (CARB).7 Room testing of formaldehyde leads to test results that take into account all sources of formaldehyde in the room.
References 1. U.S. Green Building Council. Washington, DC. http://www.usgbc.org/. 2. B REEAM. Watford, United Kingdom. http:// www.breeam.com/. 3. U .S. Environmental Protection Agency. Health Risk of Radon. https://www.epa.gov/radon/ health-risk-radon. 4. A NSI/ASHRAE Addendum n to ANSI/ ASHRAE Standard 62-2001. Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality. Atlanta, GA: American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc.; 2003. https://www.ashrae.org/file%20library/doclib/ public/200418145036_347.pdf. 5. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ ). Volatile Organic Compounds’ Impact on Indoor Air Quality. https://www.epa. gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/volatile-organic-compounds-impact-indoor-air-quality. 6. Molhave L. Volatile Organic Compounds, Indoor Air Quality and Health. Indoor Air. 1991;1(4): 357-376. 7. C A.gov. California Environmental Protection Agency, California Air Resources Board. Formaldehyde. http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/indoor/ formaldehyde.htm. Dr. Steve Froelicher is a Senior Chemist at Prism Analytical Technologies. He received a BS in Chemistry from Northern Kentucky University and a PhD in Analytical Chemistry from Purdue University. His thesis work involved the use of Fourier Transform Mass Spectrometry to study gas phase ion-molecule reactions. Steve has worked at Prism since 2011, and his interests include understanding and correlating VOC sources, improving and developing new methods for VOC and semi-volatile (SVOC) detection and educational awareness of VOCs for the air testing community. He has also been an adjunct chemistry lecturer at local universities for the past 20 years. H
Conclusions
By including VOC testing as part of a comprehensive IAQ test, home inspectors can provide information to clients about unseen chemicals that may be present due to construction, remodeling or occupant choices. This information can be useful to clients who want to understand IAQ’s impact on their family’s health, identify problem odors that may exist or gain useful information for completing real estate transactions.
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Can you Apply ASHI’s Purpose to Your Health?
Can you Apply ASHI’s Purpose and Scope to Your own Health? Dr. Sandy says yes, you can! By Dr. Sandy Goldberg
W
hen ASHI Executive Director Frank Lesh asked me to write an article for the Reporter, I thought, “Wait a minute, my husband’s the home inspector, not me!” But then as we talked, it became clear what topic he was getting at…nutrition and weight control for a community that might not put these concerns at the top of the list. Before you say “Lettuce is not my thing” and stop reading, please take a look at these phrases (excerpted and adapted) from ASHI’s purpose and scope: > establish a minimum standard > identify systems and components that are not functioning properly, are significantly deficient or are unsafe > provide recommendations to correct, or monitor for future correction Are you using these parameters for yourself? Ask yourself the following questions: • How often have I received that lecture— whether from a health professional or a loved one—about weight, blood pressure, cholesterol or diabetes? • Have I heard this statement recently: “You wouldn’t need this medication if your weight was under control.” • Am I on the couch when I’m not on the job?
Here are a few rules to get you started: Rule 1: There is no magic bullet. It takes work to nudge that scale down and the quality of your health up. You need to participate in the process. Rule 2: Take it slow. Who hasn’t tried to lose weight? Most everyone has been spectacularly unsuccessful at some point. Why? Because we’re impatient and the methods we choose to lose weight can be unrealistic. Just as Rome wasn’t built in a day, developing healthy habits takes time. Rule 3: Create your structure. Everyone’s different, and everyone’s needs are different. Can’t stand fish? Don’t eat it. Love chicken? Great—make it white meat and definitely not fried or covered in gravy. You know you shouldn’t smoke, so stop. Regarding “libations,” if you enjoy that beer or cocktail at the end of the day, how about limiting yourself to one drink instead of two? I lost 183 pounds over 40 years ago, so the following recommendations come from my personal experience: • Drink water first. Unless your health professional has told you otherwise, take eight gulps of water before every meal. • Use the fork method for salad dressing. Put your salad on one plate and the
dressing on the side. Dip your fork into the dressing first, then spear the salad (and, yes, you should eat it!). The salad dressing taste will come through loud and clear. • Love fast food? It’s not like the old days; now there’s a wide variety of choices. Even if you don’t choose salad and opt for that burger, subtract either one-half of the bun, the cheese or the bacon. If fries are your thing, have a small order. No more supersizing! • Vary your snack foods. Of course, fruit is best. These days, it’s hard to find a place that doesn’t sell fruit. But if you insist on eating processed snack foods, get the smallest container (a single serving) and make it last. • Leave a bite of everything on your plate. Doing this can save you approximately 75 calories at every meal and it’s painless! Precision and looking at the details are hallmarks of ASHI home inspectors on the job. Raising awareness of what’s down the road is as well. So, don’t put on blinders when you are not at work—read those labels! It will be a real eye-opener. For example, do you like regular soda? That’s 140 calories. Do you drink three in a day? Without changing anything else, you’ll gain one pound every 10 days. Refer to the box below for some additional adjustments that could make your road a little “less heavy.” I know what you’re thinking: “Everything in this article has been about weight. When is she going to drop the hammer about exercise?” Exercise—or “movement” as I call it—is a component of good health. That’s not rocket science. What I don’t believe in is a one-sizefits-all recommendation. Everyone’s situation is different and everyone’s health history is different, so it is not advisable to jump into exercise without making sure what you’re doing is physiologically sound for you. An alert: You should consult with your health professional before starting an exercise regimen. Then, remember that adage (and yes, I know I’m repeating myself), Rome wasn’t built in a day.
• Did I just or will I soon celebrate a “significant decade” birthday? If you’ve answered yes to any or all of these questions, you are my audience! As a clinical nutritionist in private practice and a media contributor, I’ve learned a lot over the years. At the head of that list is how to get people to do what they should do as it relates to their health. Time’s going by (think about that birthday) and we need to pay attention to the quality of our lives. For at least 90 percent of us, this involves adopting healthier eating habits and managing our weight.
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ASHI Reporter • July 2016
ADJUSTMENT
CALORIE SAVINGS
Dr. Sandy’s fork method for salad dressing
200 calories
1/2 hamburger bun
75 calories
Cut the cheese
100 calories
Skim milk instead of cream
100 calories
One beer instead of two
160 calories
Leave one bite on your plate twice daily
150 calories
Congratulations! You’ve just saved 785 calories a day!
One more math calculation before I close. Do your hips, knees or ankles ache at the end of the day? Think it might have something to do with your weight? You’re right. For every 10 pounds you lose, you’ll take 26 pounds of pressure off those joints. Sounds like a great way to “correct for the future,” doesn’t it? Dr. Sandy Goldberg, a clinical nutritionist in private practice since 1988, specializes in medically related nutrition counseling and the treatment of eating disorders. Recently retired after 21 years as NBC Chicago’s on-air Health and Nutrition Contributor, her weekly “Food for Thought” segments garnered a broad and loyal viewership. She now serves as the station’s Health and Nutrition Consultant. As a breast cancer survivor and an advocate for people who are medically underserved, Dr. Sandy now focuses on her foundation and raising awareness of and access to breast health testing. She also appears as a guest expert on television and radio, covering nutrition and weight-related topics. Dr. Sandy is an admired emcee and motivational speaker who inspires audiences with her unique brand of pragmatism and hope. You can contact her at 312-345-1321, email drsandy@asilverliningfoundation.org. H
Looking for More Useful Resources on the Topic of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)? ASHI Executive Director Frank Lesh recommends checking this resource:
Jeff May’s Healthy Home Tips: A Workbook for Detecting, Diagnosing and Eliminating Pesky Pets, Stinky Stenches, Musty Mold, and Other Aggravating Home Problems Written by Jeffrey C. May and Connie L. May. Published in 2008 by Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltimore, MD. Available on Amazon.com for $15.14. This handy book provides useful information and checklists related to indoor pollutants and IAQ that can benefit both homeowners and home inspectors. The authors advise readers to keep detailed notes about the steps they’ve taken to improve IAQ, and the book’s design offers space to record those observations and concerns. Another excellent feature of this book are “Jeff’s Gems.” Here are a couple excerpts: “Mildew can grow within 24 to 48 hours whenever moisture (from leaks, spills, high relative humidity, or condensation), air and food sources (skin scales, wood, and starch in drywall, cardboard, and paper, among others) are present. You can’t get rid of air, and biodegradable dust is everywhere. You can, however, minimize moisture, which is the key to preventing mildew growth” (Page 11). “Mold can grow in an attic when excess moisture is present. In cooler climates, pull-down attic stairs that aren’t tight-fitting and recessed lights in rooms below that attic can allow warm, moist house air to infiltrate the attic. Then moisture condenses on cooler attic surfaces. In air-conditioned buildings in warm humid climates, air from the exterior used to ventilate the attic carries moisture, which can condense on any inadequately insulated, and thus cooler, air conditioning ducts or equipment. In some very humid climates, attic ventilation may have to be reduced.” So, “don’t over-ventilate your attic if you live in a hot, very humid climate, such as in the Southeast,” and “don’t install circular soffit vents, which have little area for ventilation and often get clogged with paint” (Page 36). The authors enhance this and many other sections by providing lists of “Dos and Don’ts” designed for homeowners. Another example appears in a section addressing the issue of excess moisture. The authors provide graphics that emphasize how “in houses without over hangs, water will run down siding and windows, causing damage and rot, and enter the basement,” (this is bad) and “in houses with over hangs and drip edge, water drips away from the framing and basement” (this is good). The overall message is that “rainwater from roofs, gutters, or downspouts should never stream down the exterior of a building” (Page 91). Need another reason to add this book to a list of useful resources on your business website? The authors repeatedly suggest that homeowners should “call in a professional home inspector” to assess various situations. This kind of whole-hearted support for home inspection appears throughout the book, so why not read this resource yourself so you can internalize a few more reasons to validate your services with your clients. By listing this handbook along with other resources about homeownership on your business website, you can help enhance your clients’ knowledge and spread the message that home inspectors are exceptional resources for professional advice and information. Jeff May also publishes an online newsletter. Check out his website at www.mayindoorair.com. Articles from the ASHI Reporter Archives… • Maintaining Air Quality During Winter Months, by Jay Gregg. ASHI Reporter, December 2013. http://www.ashireporter.org/homeinspection/articles/maintaining-airquality-during-winter-months/4605. • Environmental Air Quality: What Is Indoor airPLUS? Edited by ASHI Staff. ASHI Reporter, December 2013. http://www.ashireporter.org/HomeInspection/Articles/Environmental-AirQuality/1990. H
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Super Summertime Sessions at The ASHI School! By The ASHI School Staff
W
hat did you do to prepare for the summer? Switch out your cold-weather clothes for warm-weather clothes, prep your lawn mower or boat, or plan a BBQ or a vacation? At The ASHI School, we prepared for the summer—but our plans don’t include swim trunks or sunscreen. And even though we won’t be unveiling any “toned bods” ready for the beach, we’ve uncovered some “sexy” new additions to our school while keeping our great traditions of excellent course offerings going strong!
Lucky Number 13 As of July 1, our 13th location—Austintown, OH—is up and running! (By the way, one of our 13 locations is our online course offering.) Austintown is located near Pittsburgh, PA, to the southeast; Cleveland, OH, to the northwest; Canton, OH, to the west; and Wheeling, WV, to the south. This great location should make it easy for inspectors from across the region to get classroom training at The ASHI School. The Austintown site is our third location in Ohio, along with sites in Cincinnati and Columbus, and it will feature our “fast track to learning” program, which is a 93-hour course—40 hours of home study, five days in the classroom and a sixth day for in-field training.
tion career and business, as well as teaching you how to perform home inspections. The content is especially geared toward compliance with the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) Standard of Practice and Code of Ethics. You can enroll in any of our online or in-classroom courses by visiting us at www.theashischool.com!
Sprucing up our Offerings We also offer courses from experts in the field, and we’ve teamed up with Spruce Environmental Technologies to offer a twoDay Radon Measurement Webinar at the low price of $184. These webinars will be held on specific dates, starting this summer (see list below). This certification prep course has been approved by the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) and by most states, with approval pending in Florida and New Jersey. Sign up now! • July 12-13 • August 9-10 • August 31-September 1 • October 11-12 • November 15-16 • December 5-6
A Summer Crush? We’re not guaranteeing that you’ll fall in love with your instructor; however, you just might get a little crush on George Basista, who is the latest addition to our highly educated training staff. George has nearly 25 years of experience as a home inspector in Ohio, so he brings a wealth of knowledge to the classroom and expertise in fieldwork. To learn more about George or any of the instructors for our classes, contact us at 888-884-0440 or info@theashischool.com.
The Summer Slim-Down What do many people try to do in the summer? Show off a slimmer version of themselves! The ASHI School is doing that, too, by offering a streamlined, 60-hour online course that focuses on starting and operating your own successful home inspec-
26
ASHI Reporter • July 2016
Make More Money This is no summertime joke—you can make up to 80% more revenue for your home inspection business by adding commercial inspections to your toolkit. Join us for this upcoming class and find out how. Whether you’re looking to become a home inspector or if you want to increase your revenue stream, The ASHI School has everything you need to become the best home inspector you can be. ASHI’s Standard of Practice is what everyone lives by and looks up to in the home inspection profession. Become a part of something great and enroll at The ASHI School today! H
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.
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 Sign up now Before the Summer Flies Away!
Commercial Class: September 21-23, 2016 • Los Angeles. CA
Upcoming Classes Across the Country July 11-22, 2016 • Leesburg, VA July 18-23, 2016 • Austintown, OH NEW August 1-12, 2016 • Cypress, CA August 15-26, 2016 • Des Plaines, IL • St. Louis, MO • Columbus, OH September 12-23, 2016 • Lakewood, CO • Tampa, FL September 19-30, 2016 • Cincinnati, OH
Upcoming Pre-License Classes July 11–22, 2016 • Leesburg, VA July 18-29, 2016 • Columbus, OH August 1-12, 2016 • Cypress, CA August 15-26, 2016 • Des Plaines, IL • St. Louis, MO
27July 2016
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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 Peter Muehlbronner, 215-8527319, peter@ahiconsulting.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
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ASHI Reporter • July 2016
Heartland (IA, MN, ND, SD, WI)
www.ashiheartland.org Reuben Saltzman, 612-205-5600 reuben@ashiheartland.org
Indiana ASHI
www.inashi.com Quarterly Danny Maynard, 317-319-7209 danny@inspectinc.net
Iowa ASHI
www.iowaashichapter.org Fourth Tuesday, 7:00 - 9:00 pm Clarion Inn, Cedar Rapids Craig Chmelicek, 319-389-7379 elitehomeandradon@gmail.com
Kentuckiana (IN, KY)
www.ashikentuckiana.org Allan Davis, 502-648-9294 elitehomeinspections@ insightbb.com
Mid-Missouri
www.midmoashi.com Second Thursday, 12:00 pm, Even months of the year; Columbia Board of Realtors office. 2309 I-70 Drive NW, Columbia, MO Bobbi Wilson, 573-881-8585 Bobbi@wilsonhomeinspectors.com
Northern Illinois
www.nicashi.com Second Wednesday (except Dec.) 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm Crazypour, 105 E. North Ave., Villa Park, IL Jeremy Meek, 630-854-2454 jeremy@discoveryinspector.com
Mountain Arizona
www.azashi.org Tony Hecht, 480-507-0837 tony@tonyhecht.com
New Mexico
www.ashinm.org Every other month, Second Saturday, (Jan., May., Sept.) Mimi’s Cafe Albuquerque - 9:15 am Bodega Burger Co., (March, July) Socorro - 11 am Lance Ellis, 505-977-3915 lellis@amerispce.net
Northern Rockies (ID, MT) Lamar Rase, 406-531-4848 completehomeinspectionsinc@ msn.com
Rocky Mountain Fourth Tuesday, 6:30 pm Kathleen Barbee, 303-646-3413 info@ab-inspections.com
Southern Colorado
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
SOUTH MIDWEST Arkansas Lonnie Moore, 479-503-5792 mhinsp@cox.net
Great Plains (KS, MO)
www.ashikc.org Second Wednesday of even months The Great Wolf Lodge, Kansas City Doug Hord, 816-215-2329 doug@firstchoice.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
Alaska Meeting dates: Jan 1, March 1, Aug 1, Nov 1 Location varies each meeting David Mortensen, 907-243-4476 dave@discoveryinspect.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
Golden Gate (CA)
www.ggashi.com John Fryer, 510-682-4908 johnfryer@gmail.com
Inland Northwest (ID, WA) 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 4534 SE McLoughlin Blvd., Portland Jay Hensley, 503-312-2105 jay@carsonconstruction.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) Third Tuesday, 6 pm Rice Bowl, Bakersfield, CA Raymond Beasley, 661-805-5947 rbinspector@aol.com Mail: 3305 Colony Oak St. Bakersfield, CA 93311
Silicon Valley ASHI-CREIA (CA)
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 Guyer, 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
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
CAHPI Ontario
www.oahi.com Rob Cornish, 613-858-5000 robc@homexam.ca Coastal Connecticut www.coastalctashi.org Third Thursday, 6 pm, Westport VFW Lodge, 465 Riverside Avenue, Westport Gene Autore, 203-216-2516 gene.autore@gmail.com
New England (ME, MA, NH, RI, VT)
www.ashinewengland.org Fourth Thursday, 5 pm The Lantana, Randoph, MA Michael Atwell, 617-630-5629 mike@jmhi.com
First State (DE)
www.firststateashi.org Third Wednesday, 7 pm The Buzz Ware Center, 2121 The Highway, Arden Mark Desmond, 302-494-1294 mark@delvalleyhome.com
Garden State (NJ)
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
Central New York
www.cnyashi.com Second Wednesday, 6 pm, Tony’s Family Restaurant, Syracuse Peter Apgar, 315-278-3143 peter@craftsmanhomeinspection. net
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
Greater Rochester (NY)
MAC-ASHI (MD, VA)
FLASHI (FL)
www.mac-ashi.com Second Wednesday, Rockville Senior Center, Rockville John Vaughn, 800-767-5904 John.vaughn@yahoo.com
First Tuesday except July, 6 pm Golden China, 11112 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville David Sorge, 904-484-4847 safetekk@comcast.net
Hudson Valley (NY)
NOVA-ASHI (MD, VA)
Florida Wiregrass
www.ashirochester.com Second Tuesday, 6 pm, Murph’s Irondequoit Pub, Irondequoit John White, 585-431-0067 john@iihomeinspections.com Second Tuesday, 6 pm Daddy O’s Restaurant, 3 Turner Street, Hopewell Junction, NY 12533 Michael Skok, 845-592-1442 ashistatewide@yahoo.com
Long Island (NY)
New York Metro
www.aibq.qc.ca Germain Frechette, 514-694-4350 Insp.glf@sympatico.ca
ASHI South (AL)
Second Thursday, 7 pm, Cypress Point Country Club, Virginia Beach Guillermo Hunt, 757-245-3100 huntshomeinspections@gmail.com
Prairies (Alberta) (CAHI)
Quebec AIBQ
Gulf
Hampton Roads (VA)
www.nnec-ashi.org Tim Rooney, 603-770-0444 homeviewnh@comcast.net www.cahpi-ab.ca Chris Bottriell, 780-486-4412 api94@shaw.ca
www.greaterbaltimoreashi.org Third Thursday except July & Aug., 6:30 pm, Maritime Institute Conference Center, 5700 N. Hammonds Ferry Rd., Linthicum Heights, MD George Fair, gfair2004@yahoo.com
www.gardenstateashi.com Second Thursday, The Westwood, Garwood Bret Kaufmann, 973-377-4747 bretkaufmann@optonline.net
www.liashi.com Third Monday, 6 pm, Domenico’s Restaurant, Levittown Steven Rosenbaum 516-361-0658 inspector@optonline.net
Northern New England (ME, MA, NH, VT)
Greater Baltimore (MD)
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 Second Tuesday, 6:30 pm, Capital Ale House, Midlothian, VA Jim Wilson 804-237-9523 fchi@comcast.net
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 Shannon Cory, 404-316-4876 shannon1943@comcast.net
East Tennessee
www.etashi.org Third Saturday of Feb., May, Aug. and Nov. Paul Perry, 866-522-7708 cio@frontiernet.net
Mid-Tennessee Ray Baird, 615-371-5888 bairdr@comcast.net
Mid-South (TN) Steven Campbell, 901-734-0555 steve@memphisinspections.com
North Carolina
www.ncashi.com Third Wednesday, 3 pm, Quality Inn at Guilford Convention Center, Greensboro Andy Hilton, 336-682-2197 hiltonhomeinspection@gmail.com
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
Louisiana Quarterly Michael Burroughs 318-324-0661 Mburroughs2@comcast.net
Suncoast (FL)
www.ashisuncoast.com First Tuesday, 6:30 pm, Please see our website for meeting locations. Steve Acker, 727-712-3089 steve@buyersally.com
Southwest Florida
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
South Carolina First Saturday of Feb., May, Aug. & Nov., 8 am Roger Herdt, 843-669-3757 herdtworks@msn.com
29July 2016
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To submit your materials for moving up, please contact Janet George at 847-954-3180 or janetg@ashi.org
New ASHI Associates
Danny Christensen
Thomas Gooch
Timothy Sherman
As of May 1, 2016
North Vernon, IN
Waynesburges, KY
North Attleboro, MA
H Denotes graduate of The ASHI School
Garret Creason
Donald Hamblin
William Singleton
Markleville, IN
Williamsburg, KY
Dorchester, MA
Thomas Downs
Jason Harris
Kyle Steinbock
Indianapolis, IN
Mt. Sterling, KY
South Hadley, MA
Brendan Farrington
Nick Hayes
Sean Waldron
West Bend, IN
FT Mitchell, KY
Medford, MA
Jack Hawkins
Joseph Hood
Calvin Wheat
Noblesville, IN
Harrodsburg, KY
Pikeville, MA
Daniel Hayes
Kevin Martin
Jason Winchell
Pikeville, KY
West Bridgewater, MA
Terry Mcqueen
David Dickson
London, KY
Dickson Construction and Inspection Services Salisbury, MD
MEMBER
Tom Bolding
Bradley Zewe
Helena, AL
Top Tier Home Solutions Westminster, CO
Ricky Farley Birmingham, AL
Solomon Steward
Peter Aquilina Seymour, CT
Insideview Inspections, LLC Scottsdale, AZ
Lance Evans
Jerame Tassoul
Matthew Hardy
Chandler, AZ
Niantic, CT
His Specialist LaPorte, IN
Shawn Walsh
Andi Pengu
Diligent Home Inspections, LLC Mesa, AZ
Waterbury, CT
Brian Higdon
Gabriel Amparan
New Canaan, CT
Yacaipa, CA
Bill Carpenter Carpenter’s Home Inspections Phelan, CA
Clinton Dye WIN Home Inspection San Leandro, CA
Ryan Horton Sunland, CA
David Nicolosi Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Matt Shields HomeGuard San Jose, CA
Terry Ackelson Rocky Mountain Home Inspections Longmont, CO
H Craig Allen Littleton, CO
Stafford Springs, CT
Fabio Xavier Edgar Martinez Pro-Spect Dover, DE
Daniel Ekberg Howey In The Hills, FL
Matthew House Jacksonville, FL
Robert Miller
Indianapolis , IN
Henry Imer Monticello, IN
Jeff Kieffer Greenwood, IN
Todd Mayer Valparaiso, IN
Ashley McElroy Indianapolis, IN
David Meyer
Mark Pennington
Indiana Professional Home Inspections Fort Wayne, IN
Jacksonville, FL
Roger Myers
Jonathan Smoil
Mooresville, IN
Seacoast Inspection Port St. Lucie, FL
James Pruitt
Deanne Talbot
Danny Stuttle
Cape Coral, FL
Patriot Home Inspection & Services, LLC Ocala, FL
Albert Cheatham
Lawrenceburg, IN Upland, IN
Anthony Weaver Warsaw, IN
Georgia Quality Home Inspections, LLC Duluth, GA
Scott Hancock
H Stephen Dorman
Douglas Jones
Best Assured Home Inspections Castlerock, CO
Quality Engineering Inspections Rydal, GA
Housemaster Salina, KS
Evan Deckard Brighton, CO
Brett Hudson
Willis Home Inspections Thorton, CO
ASHI Reporter • July 2016
Paul Wharton Construction Services Jessup, MD
Georgetown, KY
Mark Dierckes
Scott Weatherly
Mark E. Dierckes, Building Services & Inspections Hope, ME
Kirskey, KY
Rich Williams Berea, KY
Victor Alvarado Jamaica Plain, MA
Destinee Bosa Lowell, MA
Jeffrey Clark Lowell, MA
Joesph Driscoll
H Eric Hase Buxton, ME
Christopher Daggy Property Engineers, LLC Franklin, MI
Kyle Long North Manakato, MN
Mike Ritter
Pembroke, MA
Up North Home Inspector Bigfork, MN
Bern Galat
David Lanemann
Newburyport, MA
John Bentley
7 Oaks Home Inspection, LLC Wentzville, MO
Georgetown, KY
Steven Lockwood
Brian Sulltrop
Daniel Blevins
Halifax, MA
Columbia, MO
Catlettsburg, KY
Wallace Long
Keith Stewart
Jeremy Buchanan
Millis, MA
Lexington, KY
Craig Miles
Mike Childers
Groton, MA
Irvine, KY
Mikhael Mundrenuenko
Michael Dennewitz
Feeding Hills, MA
Better Inspections Services, LLC Raleigh, NC
Taylorsville, KY
Jeremy Murphy
Mark Dickerson
Leominster, MA
Richard Stinson
The Clue Home Inspection, LLC Addison, IL
Crestwood, KY
Melvin Reyes
Smart Look Inspections Mebane, NC
Bedford, MA
Aaron Houlne
Zac Knoblauch
Charles Ferrell Jr Lexington, KY
Kurt Schadhauser
Jason Gaddis
Quincy, MA
Covered Bridge Professional Home Inspections Pelham, NH
William Linahon Guthrie Center, IA
H John Byal Athol, ID
Sidad Beebee
Cottage Hills, IL
Corbin, KY
30
Chad Tuttle
Paul Wharton
Everett, MA
Pillar to Post Chubbuck, ID
Justin Willis
Georgetown, KY
Jason Ratliff
Todd Raffaeli
Castlerock, CO
David Springston
Waldorf, MD
Luis Lick
Jake Barry
H Michael Trudeau
Shelbyville, KY
Theodore Riddick
Worcester, MA
Wheat Ridge, CO
Colorado Springs, CO
John Russell
Columbia, MD
Olathe, KS
Building Specs Hawaii, LLC Kailua, HI
H Christopher Sparks
Irvine, KY
Andrew Filson
Ryan Nelson
H Brian Huth
Loveland, CO
Myron Rader
Precision Home Inspections, LLC Saint Charles, MO
Vance Morimoto
H Monte Kuxhausen
Jack Mitchell
East Bernstadt, KY
Santos Garcia
Castle Rock, CO Manus Inspection Colorado Springs, CO
Shawnee, KS
Mark Pruitt
Keith Stewart - Home Inspection Madison, MS
Michel Charbonnier
See page 32 for chapter education.
Jeffrey Gaspar
Jack Hearn
Cortlandt Manor, NY
Addison, TX
Nicholas Kurek
Kimel Hensley
New City, NY
San Leon, TX
Nicolae Rusan
H Raymond Creely
Brooklyn, NY
Falls Church, VA
Jesse Taub
Michael Domanski
A-Z Family Home Inspection Mineola, NY
The Plains, VA
Julie George
Reston, VA
Erie Inspection Service, Inc. Bellevue, OH
Wynn Henry Enlightener Home Inspection Avon Lake, OH
Jeffrey Johansen Sr Strongsville, OH
Thomas Liedtke Tom’s Home Inspection Marysville, OH
H Brian Jensen Michael Zuehlke
Michael Dyer
Courtland, VA
Robert Malbon Sterling Home Inspection, LLC Hyde Park, VT
Barry Sikes
Robert Ayling
Lynden, WA
Todd Stevens
Pillar to Post Colbert, WA
Bolton, ON
Keith Cannon Cannon Comprehensive Home Inspection West Pittsburg, PA
Daniel Chiffens Croydon, PA
Richard Odato ProTech Inspection Services, LLC Pittsburgh, PA
Scott Home Inspection, LLC Longmont, CO
Roland Woodard
Home Team Inspection Service Milford, OH
Spiro Makrigiannis
David Spielman
Jeff Kinton
Kenneth Pike
Cincinnati, OH
Blackstone Home Inspections Aurora, CO
Covered Bridge Professional Home Inspections Newport, VT
H Walter Stark
John Woodall
Eric Meyer
Charlotteville, VA
Columbus, OH
TCS Enterprises Lancaster, OH
INSPECTOR
Marell Inspection Services, Inc. Oakland, CA
Woodard Home Inspection Services Rutland, VT
Janna Michael
As of May 1, 2016
H Robert Eadie
Fair Winds Home Inspections, LLC Westlake, OH
H Michael Haase
New ASHI Inspectors
Keith Robertson
Cornerstone Inspection Group Atlanta, GA Home Inspection Connection, LLC Glassboro, NJ
John Ragno Hamilton, NJ
Chris Letson
Patrick Bergmann
Certified Home & Property Inspection, LLC Stow, OH
Waukesha, WI
Mel Benedict
Eric Foster Menomoncee, WI
Island Tech, LLC Tigard, OR
Richard Lebakken
Bill Burross
Hartford, WI
Tony Pergande Grafton, WI
Dennis Schramer Wauwatosa, WI
Joseph Tutkowski Franklin, WI
Burross & Associates, Inc. Lakeland, TN
Daniel Davy The Home Front, LLC Fredericksburg, VA
New ASHI Certified Home Inspectors As of May 1, 2016
Joe Bower
Natalie Sucic
Inspection Specialists Surprise, AZ
Pillar to Post St. Louis, MO
Bo Passen
Timothy Pressley
Passen Inspections and Thermal Imaging Mount Dora, FL
Mount Holly, NC
Andy Smith
Jess Hodges AmeriSpec Inspection Services Loganville, GA
Daniel Hodges AmeriSpec Inspection Services Loganville, GA
Rusty Gear
Pillar to Post The Chad Borah Team St. Louis, MO
Scott Goddard
Istvan Zsako
First Rate Inspections Trenton, OH
Sherwood Inspection Services Southbridge, MA
Kurt Bethel
Inspections by Dennehy Nogal, NM
Todd Myers
Nicholas Onega
Pivotal Inspections, LLC Darnestown, MD
Patrick Dennehy
Zsako Home Inspections Santa Fe, NM
Top Gear Home Inspections, LLC Mulvane, KS
Mark Mostrom
SMS, Inc. dba National Property Inspections Omaha, NE
Austen Jordan Nshore Home Services Chesapeake, VA
Michael Mallott Checkmark Home Inspections Services, LLC Leesburg, VA
Timothy Smith Pillar to Post Home Inspections Moseley, VA
Pillar to Post The Chad Borah Team St. Louis, MO
Phil Howard Pillar to Post The Chad Borah Team St. Louis, MO
Anthony Kelly ProSpect Inspection Services, LLC McLean, VA
Michael Yoder Coraopolis, PA
Dave Adams Pro Tech Inspections Greenville, SC
Jim Hudson Timmonsville, SC
Jamie Spencer Red Clay Homes Greer, SC
Christopher Gunnels Pillar to Post Hixson, TN
Derk Phinizy
Continue learning at the click of a button! FREE ASHI Member access to past IW sessions.
1. Go to www.ASHI.org 2. Under Education & Training 3. C lick on:
ASHI ONLINE LEARNING CENTER
Cosby, TN
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ASHI Chapter Education Great Lakes Chapter When: July 22-23, 2016 Where: Holiday Inn - Mt. Prospect, IL (near Chicago O’Hare Airport) Subjects: Friday: Peer Review, Board Meeting, Hospitality Suite Saturday: Vendors, Asphalt Shingle Roofs/Attics – Proper Inspection and Reporting/Tom Feiza, Business & Marketing/Toby Adamson, IL CE Approved Course/Speaker TBD Contact: 734-284-4501 www.greatinspectors.com
Tri-State ASHI Fall Conference How do Construction Changes Over Time Affect Your Inspection Today? When: September 30, 2016 Where: Temple Ambler Campus, Ambler, PA CEUs: 8 ASHI CEs Contact: Gerry Gavin, 620-717-2181 www.tristateashi.org
Southeastern Home Inspector Conference When: September 7-11, 2016 Please go to the website for location and additional information. Contact: www.sehomeinspectorconference.com
ASHI New England Educational Conference When: September 11-12, 2016 Where: Hilton Mystic Hotel Mystic Seaport, CT Contact: www.ashinewengland.org mike@jmhi.com
ASHI Event Calendar July 21-23, 2016 AEI, Finance Committee, ASHI Foundation and ASHI Board Meeting Des Plaines, IL
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ASHI Reporter • July 2016
Great Plaines ASHI Fall Conference When: September 16-17, 2016 Where: Kansas City Expo Center 11728 NW Ambassador Dr., KC, MO Speakers: Tom Feiza, Mr. Fixit; Jason Brozen, Tann Electric; Joe Ferry, Ferry Law Practice; Joe Konopacki, Insight Inspections; Bruce Chyka, Performance Plus Homes; Tony Hyatt, National Cedar Shake Shingle Bureau; Bob Berry, Full Service Chimney; and Mike Westerhouse, Westerhouse Heating and Air. Contact: www.ashikc.org doug@firstchoice.com
Great Lakes Chapter When: September 23-24, 2016 Where: Grand Rapids, MI Subjects: Friday: Peer Review, Board Meeting, Hospitality Suite Saturday: Vendors, Furnace Inspections/ John McAuliffe, Infrared Technology/Bill Fabian, Exploring the Metal Roof/ Mike Griffin Contact: 734-284-4501 www.greatinspectors.com
OHIO ASHI Chapter When: October 1, 2016 Where: Ruth Smucker Home, Salem, OH Subject: Historic Home Inspections Speaker: Presenter: Bryck Guibor CEUs: 8 ASHI CEs Contact: georgebasista@yahoo.com 330-565-3760 ohioashi.com/events
October 20-21 , 2016 Leadership Training Conference Des Plaines, IL October 22, 2016 ASHI Foundation and ASHI Board Meeting Des Plaines, IL
Keystone ASHI Inspection Seminar When: October 14-15, 2016 Where: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Reading 701 Penn Street, Reading, PA Subject: 2014 NEC updates, Stucco & AMSV, Fuel & Appliance Venting, Reporting, Attic Ventilation, Roofing, Infrared and Mold CEUs: Up to 16 ASHI CEs Contact: www.keystoneashi.org
Mid-Missouri ASHI Chapter Educational Seminar When: November 4, 2016 Where: Columbia Board of Realtors Office Columbia, MO Speaker: Shannon Cory CEUs: 8 ASHI CEs Contact: mark@inspectcolumbia.com
To have your chapter seminar listed in this section, email all information about your chapter seminar to: micheleg@ashi.org. Be sure to include all information: seminar subject, when, where, CEUs & a link for more information or contact information.
IMPORTANT Reporter Deadlines: • SEPTEMBER ISSUE - 7/20/16 • OCTOBER ISSUE - 8/19/16 • NOVEMBER ISSUE - 9/15/16 • DECEMBER ISSUE - 10/14/16 • JANUARY ISSUE - 11/15/16 • FEBRUARY ISSUE - 12/15/16 The Reporter is produced 6-8 weeks ahead of the week it arrives in your mailbox.
January 22-25, 2017 InspectionWorld® and ASHI Board Meeting Las Vegas, NV
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Be on the Lookout: ASHI Membership Dues Notices Coming Soon It’s that time of year when you start hearing about ASHI’s Membership Renewals going out. So, skip this section (and all upcoming news about dues renewal) by renewing your dues today! If you’re planning to continue paying monthly, kudos to you! Ignore this section and enjoy the rest of the magazine. If you have any questions about your dues, feel free to reach out to us athq@ashi.org. H
Leadership Training Conference Chapter Leaders, this year we are starting early to put together a great program for the Leadership Training Conference being held in Des Plaines, Illinois, October 20–21. This action-packed conference will feature how to get volunteers, effective communication, recruiting members for your chapter, running education events, break-out sessions and much more.
New this year, the attendees of LTC will have the pleasure of sitting in on a partial national board meeting. This will be an invaluable experience toward your leadership growth. Who should attend this conference: Presidents, CoR Representatives, Education Chairs, Treasurers, Secretaries and whomever you feel are your up-and-coming leaders. This year, we have a special incentive for the chapters if they send these people.
Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors
Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors
The National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE) is developed and maintained by the Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors (EBPHI). This board has received many requests over the years for a study guide to assist those taking the NHIE. This study guide, and the associated NHIE Home Inspection Manual, were developed to address this need.
The National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE) is devel oped and maintained by the Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors (EBPHI). This board has received many requests over the years for a study guide to assist those taking the NHIE. This manual, and the associated NHIE Study Guide, were developed to address this need.
The NHIE Home Inspection Manual addresses the technical aspects of the NHIE. This NHIE Study Guide addresses the non-technical aspects. Many come to the home inspection profession as a second or a third career, and may not have taken a professional entrance exam for many years, if ever. This study guide helps to familiarize the candidate with the examination itself, and with the associated administrative procedures. It also includes helpful insights into the types of questions the exam contains, and techniques for success.
This NHIE Home Inspection Manual is based on the most recent Role Delineation Study (RDS). This study surveys thousands of home inspectors in order to determine the services they provide, and the components they inspect. The questions in the NHIE are derived directly from this survey, Exam Administration and constitute the knowledge base for an entry level home inspector. This manual is the Content first of its kind to follow this Exam Outline format. It also informs the candidate about the knowledge base behind the current examination questions, and proHow to Take an Exam vides a technical reference for the experienced home inspector. $98.50
Remember, there is no limit to how many people can sign up for your chapter to take advantage of this coupon. H HomeInspectionExam.org
ISBN 978-0-9964518-1-9
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$29.95
52995>
NHIE Study Guide
100 Review Questions
ISBN 978-0-9964518-0-2
HomeInspectionExam.org HomeInspectionExam.org
9 780996 451802
59850>
Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors
NHIE Home Inspection Manual
Don’t forget about the $30.00 chapter rebate coupon. If a member of ASHI joins your chapter, the chapter can offer the new chapter member a $30.00 discount on their chapter dues. The chapter simply goes to the ASHI website, downloads the chapter incentive form and emails it to russelld@ashi.org and headquarters will send back the $30.00 to the chapter.
NHIE Home Inspection Manual Components and Systems Typical Defects Maintenance and Safety Issues Industry Standards References 100 Review Questions HomeInspectionExam.org
The NHIE Study Guide and the NHIE Home Inspection Manual together contain over 750 pages of technical and administrative information and are produced by the Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors. They will benefit the exam candidate along with being a great technical reference for the experienced home inspector.
Be prepared. Get the NEW
Study Guide and Home Inspection Manual Available from the
Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors
www.NHIEStudyGuide.org 34
ASHI Reporter • July 2016
Twenty-five Years David Wood
Twenty Years
July rsaries e v i n n A
Donn Anderson John Biegalski Leroy Byler Jim Gannon Andy Hilton Merrill Johnson Kim Nutting Mark Oldfield David Richardson William Stanley Daryl Steele Robert Sterner Barry Whitehead George Wolf
Fifteen Years
Tom Berardelli Jake Bierman Michael Bilyk Steve Busey John Butler Rick Carlberg James Dickey Mark Dolph Michael Hoeser David Kent Frank “Tony” Lombardo Edward Martin Steven Messerschmidt Scott Messner Fred Rathjen David Steinman Matthew Wynne
Ten Years
Shane Blankenship Kenneth Carr Ron Costigan Dave Goedecke Sam Hung David Hunter Stephen Jones Brad Labute Joseph Lang Jeremy Martin David Mason Donato Mazza Mike Owdeh Jimmy Rogers Ted Sanchez Patrick Skeffington Ron Tipton Robert Wills Stephen Wrought
Five Years
Pascal Baudaux Russell Capps Brian Harwood Saad Hasani Thomas Lewis Paddy Mulloy Shane Rittenhouse
ASHI Membership Benefit Programs ASHI-Endorsed Programs ASHI’s E&O Insurance Program: Target Professional Programs www.targetproins.com 860-899-1862 ASHI Personal Lines Insurance Program: Liberty Mutual www.libertymutual.com/ashi ASHI Service Program BuildFax Tricia Julian, 877-600-BFAX x161 TJulian@BuildFax.com www.buildfax.com http://go.buildfax.com/ASHI 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 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 www.osconnects.com/ashi/
ASHI Rebate Program Quill.com Dana Fishman, 800-634-0320 x1417 www.quill.com/ashi dana.fishman@quill.com ASHI-ENDORSED Exams ASHI Standard and Ethics Education Module Go to www.homeinspector.org, click on the Education tab, then click on the link for the ASHI Standard of Practice Education Module. National Home Inspector Examination Office: 847-298-7750 www.homeinspectionexam.org ASHI-Endorsed Training Programs ASHI@Home Training System 800-268-7070 education@carsondunlop.com The ASHI School Bonnie Bruno, 888-884-0440 Bonnie@theashischool.com www.TheASHISchool.com Platinum Provider Millionaire Inspector Community Mike Crow www.mikecrow.com dreamtime@mikecrow.com Mention that you are an ASHI member
CURRENT ASHI Membership ASHI Certified Inspectors: 3,320 Inspectors/Logo: 124 Associates: 3,153 Retired Members: 112 Affiliates: 71 Total: 6,780 Members as of 6/3/2016
Education–ASHI Online Learning Center Now available: Unlimited free continuing education hours for your ASHI CE requirements. Just log on to the ASHI website, put the mouse on the Education tab, click on the ASHI Online Learning Center, log on to the Learning Center with your member number and the word “password,” and begin taking these exciting education modules. You earn two CEs upon successful completion of each module. You can also view a list of state-approved online education under each of the past IW course descriptions. A certificate of completion will be available to print out. H
Porch.com Eliab Sisay, 206-218-3920 www.porch.com Eliab@porch.com
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Finding Your Army of Volunteers
Finding Your Army of Volunteers By Timothy Hosey
Believe it or not, they are out there—an army of volunteers who can help your chapter in every way. But they are not going to come running to you. You have to target them, go up to them and sell them on volunteering. The key to the whole process is recruiting volunteers on the level of one human being to another human being. In other words, treat your volunteers as precious people, not volunteers. Here are some helpful guidelines to find great volunteers and sell them on joining your battle. Be Proactive. Don’t wait for potential volunteers to contact you. Target them and then ask them for their help. Go to their office, talk to them at chapter meetings, take them to lunch, buy them a cup of coffee or a beer, stop them to say hello in the street or a parking lot, but contact them face to face. You should initiate contact with potential volunteers. Forget the Cause, Sell the Relationships. Do not try to sell the cause—like the glory of the chapter, the greater good, altruism or anything like that. Sell the relationships the person will gain. Sell the idea that they will be working with people they’ll enjoy. Sell the idea that you’re creating your own little work community. Sell the idea that they’ll be doing something different and enjoyable, and that they’ll learn something new and helpful. Sell the sense of belonging and purpose that they’ll gain. Sell the idea that they’ll develop new abilities and meet future business allies on whom they’ll be able to call in the never-ending “Battle of Small Business.” Do not talk about volunteer work in terms of it being a donation of time that a person owes to you or to your chapter. Focus on how volunteering is a transaction in which the volunteer gives their precious time but receives equally precious rewards in return.
Get to Know Them as Human Beings. Learn about your volunteers’ business situations, their hopes and fears and dreams, their families, their weaknesses and strengths, their life history and more. Talk often about these topics with them. Use Volunteers to Recruit Other Volunteers. Once you’ve got volunteers helping you, ask them to help you find more volunteers. Talk “Team” at all Times. You can call your volunteers what you like—officers, board members, committee or workgroup members or whatever. But in the end, your volunteers are your team members. Remember these five core traits of a good team and build these ideas into the mindset of the group: • common goals and vision • high level of internal trust • high level of competency • high level of coordination • high level of internal communication Express Clearly Defined Roles and Expectations. Don’t throw new volunteers into battle before they even know what’s going on. Create a reporting structure so that they can ask questions and give feedback. Train often, coach constantly. Interact Personally and Listen Actively. Talk with every single one of your volunteers on a personal level and listen closely to what they say.
Reward Volunteers on a Personal Level. Do not give volunteers paper certificates of recognition to hang on the walls of their offices. Instead, constantly praise your volunteers in real-time. Tell them how lucky you are to have them helping you. Send them thank-you notes, buy them pizza when you’re working together, help them solve one or two of their own personal or business problems. Do anything to make them feel recognized, treasured and validated. Have Fun! Grumpiness runs downhill and so does fun. Turn on the music, bring in the videos, laugh, cut up, tell inspection business war stories, turn work into games and do everything else you can to make sure that you all have fun…and that includes you. To get anything done quickly and efficiently, every nonprofit group needs a horde of volunteers. It doesn’t matter whether you’re running a Kiwanis or Rotary Club, a Chamber of Commerce, a 4-H group or an ASHI chapter. If you try some of these ideas in your search for volunteers, you’re going to be surprised at how many talented people will help you with everything and have a good time doing it. And so will you. Timothy Hosey, Bloomington, IN, 812-332-0772, email: twhosey@att.net
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ASHI Reporter • July 2016
H
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NEW POSTCARDS EMAIL!! Please send your name, city, state, photos, headings & captions to: postcards@ashi.org Wired for Sound
Floodlight: Step in the Right Direction
Home in Bethel, Alaska.
...The duct wrapped on the junction box and around the base of the bulb qualifies as watertight! Right?!
Eric Whitney Whitney Home and Energy Bethel, AK
Thomas Maloney Goshen Inspection Service Worden, IL
Ahhhh...NO!
Hopscotch Anyone? Don’t let the seller fix it.
Randy Via C.L. Gleich & Assoc. Inc. Columbus, OH
Randy Via C.L. Gleich & Assoc. Inc. Columbus, OH
A Carpenter, Electrician and Plumber Walk Into a Basement...
Yea, we Leave the Coffee pot on all day Randy Via C.L. Gleich & Assoc. Inc. Columbus, OH
Push-matic...are you kidding me? Put there by an electrician until he had time to change it out, four weeks later! Randy Via C.L. Gleich & Assoc. Inc. Columbus, OH
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ASHI Reporter • July 2016
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NEW POSTCARDS EMAIL!! Please send your name, city, state, photos, headings & captions to: postcards@ashi.org
Just Hanging out in the Electrical Panel...
Its for Sale!
I’ll be right there, dear. I’ve only got a few more bites of insulation to finish before I’m done.
Charles Nance CHN Inspections, LLC Wildwood, MO
High Energy Breakfast Saw this 12’ x 8’ mural during a home inspection. It is made with 83,000 Legos!
I guess these termites were looking for a way to charge their eating habits.
Tim Buell Pillar to Post Professional Home Inspection Marysville, OH
Gary Otten Buyers Protection Group Cincinnati, OH
WHO KNEW??
I’m no Doctor... ...But the 25-yearold living below had bronchitis.
ASHI School refer-astudent program. > Members can take advantage of this
Steve McNamee Homecheck Inspection Service Columbus, OH
program and get a $50 gift card. > For every student you refer to the school, you get a gift card. > Please contact the school for any questions: 888-884-0440
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ASHI Reporter • July 2016
The weakest link in a modern roof: The vent stack gasket The Problem: The plumbing vent pipes that penetrate your roof are typically sealed with a rubber gasket to keep rain from entering the home. These rubber gaskets deteriorate when exposed to the sun and high temperatures. Over time they get brittle and crack thus losing their ability to protect the home from water intrusion. While modern roof shingles often offer a lifetime warranty, these rubber gaskets usually deteriorate in as little as 3 to 5 years. As a result, water begins to flow into the home causing damage to roof shething, insulation, ceilings, interior walls and carpet.
Problem Solved: The Perma-Boot is a gasket-less, high performance pipe boot system designed to permanently repair the most common type of roof leak, the leak around the vent pipes that penetrate the roof. • Perma-Boot slides over your existing boot, preventing future leaks • Installation takes just a few minutes - no tools required • Designed for all standard roof pitches - 3/12 to 12/12 • Made of highly durable TPO - guaranteed for the life of your shingles • Single best value in preventive maintenance for your roof
Available at local home improvement retailers and roofing suppliers *Also available for new construction!
www.perma-boot.com 919-662-9894
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By ASHI President, Randy Sipe
Tired of Hurry up and Hurry? Slow Down and Refer! W
ell, now that it’s July, I hope you’re so busy that you might not be able to read this article until you slow down. In case you didn’t already know, being the ASHI President is not my only job. I, too, am an active inspector. The fact is, I’m the only inspector in my company. So I know the feeling at this time of year—hurry up and hurry. You inspect all day, come home for a brief pause and dinner, and then you finish your reports for the day (or at least you try). Next morning, you get up early to finish the reports that you tried to finish the night before, but didn’t have the energy to complete. Then you send out those reports, answer new email, grab a cup of coffee and hit the road for another day of inspections. And then the cycle starts again. Sound familiar? What can we do to slow down our lives and take some time to enjoy the things for which we work so hard? The easiest thing to do is to say, “Sorry, I’m booked and can’t get to you.” But there’s a better way. When you can’t get to all the clients who need your services (and assuming that you don’t want to become part of a multi-inspector company), then you should direct your clients to call another ASHI inspector, someone whom you know and trust. The key words are “whom you know and trust.” There are a multitude of reasons that a buyer or agent might have called you first, but usually it’s because they or someone they know trusted you and referred your name to others.
Just think about it. We’ve all had these kinds of calls. And when we say, “I’m sorry, I can’t get to you,” we can hear the unspoken “Oh, no…” in the tone of the client’s or agent’s voice. They might say, “But you did my last home inspection,” or “I’ve heard so many good things about you.” So, the best solution is to suggest a couple names and numbers of other ASHI inspectors. Remember, you’re the trusted source the client called, so your personal referral of another ASHI inspector is powerful. I know some of you are thinking, “If I’m busy, then all of the good inspectors are busy, too.” Maybe, maybe not. Here’s where your attendance at local chapter meetings and events can come in handy. By regularly attending chapter meetings, you get to know other inspectors, and you can pretty well identify which ones are likely to 42
ASHI Reporter • July 2016
know their stuff, don’t play games and, just as importantly, won’t try to go after the agents with whom you’ve developed a business relationship. These inspectors might have been in the profession for a long time or they might be newer inspectors who know their craft, but just haven’t been doing it long enough to build a large referral base.
Personal referrals can go a lot deeper than just helping another ASHI inspector fill his or her schedule. So what about those inspections that you just can’t get to? If you refer them to another inspector whom you trust, you may be helping that inspector have a good week instead of struggling through a slow week. And the added income you helped that inspector generate could come as a huge help to his or her business and family. The fact is, we can help improve the lives of both our clients and our fellow ASHI inspectors simply by making referrals. I’ve received referrals like these myself and I understand the responsibility that comes with them. Remember, as the referred inspector, you have a duty not only to the client, but also to the person who referred you to do the best inspection you can provide. After all, you were hired on the basis of your fellow inspector’s good reputation and recommendation. So, when appropriate, be sure to compliment the inspector who referred you when you are talking with the client. If your referral was to an agent with whom the referring inspector routinely works, then by all means let the agent know that the person who referred you is and should continue to be the agent’s Number 1, go-to inspector, but that you would appreciate being at the top of the backup list when that inspector is not available.
Until next month…relax, slow down and refer…and always do a great job. H
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Your Partner in Radon Measurement 43July 2016
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