ASHI Reporter FEB Issue by ASHI

ASHI

Reporter FEBRUARY 2015

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

WINDOW WELLS

p11

ASHI

Reporter February 2015

Vol. 32, #2

9 Features 9 |

Minority Business Owners Rewarded in Home Inspection Sally Chapralis

11 |

Window Wells Carson, Dunlop & Associates Ltd.

16 | Tax Tips for the Home Inspector

Tim Buell ACI, ASHI Treasurer and Dave Haught, ACI, MIES, EP, Director - Ohio Chapter 18 |

Service Philosophy – Under-Promise and Over-Deliver

Alan Carson, ACI, Carson, Dunlop & Associates Ltd. 21 |

The Word: Plumbing Pipes Bruce Barker, ACI

26 |

What do yo do When Someone “Sells” Your Report? Randy West, ACI

Departments 6|

Building on the Knowledge of Others

14 |

Herspective From the Women of ASHI Interview With Joanne MacKintosh

28 |

ASHI Community

32 |

Your ASHI

34 |

You Tell Us

Frank Lesh, Executive Director

New Inspector Status, Chapters, Education Membership News & More

Letters from Our Readers

Cover Photo: Carson, Dunlop & Associates Ltd.

36 | Postcards From the Field

It’s Wacky Out There

38 |

Get to Know the New ASHI President, Alden Gibson Alden Gibson, ASHI President

ASHI National Officers and Board of Directors

Groundbreaking E&O/GL from BRP

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Directors Lisa Alajajian 2013-2015 Spring Hill, TN, 615-302-1113 homequest1@comcast.net James Allen 2013-2015 Overland Park, KS, 913-894-5893 james@sweethomeinspections.com Bruce Barker 2015-2017 Cary, NC, 919-322-4491 bruce@dreamhomeconsultants.com Ken Harrington 2015-2017 Delaware, OH, 614-507-1061 inspectorken@rrohio.com C. Blaine Illingworth III 2015-2017 Harleysville, PA, 610-565-4181 housemechanic@hotmail.com Keven Kossler 2015-2017 Huntersville, NC, 704-875-3200 Team@CastleCheck.com

Mike Wagner 2014-2016 Westfield, IN, 317-867-7688 mwagner@ralis.com Robert Walstead 2013-2015 Colorado Springs, CO 719-495-2652 rwalstead@aol.com

Donald Lovering 2015-2016 Auburndale, MA, 617-698-3903 lovering@earthlink.net Publisher: Frank Lesh

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

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

ASHI Reporter | February 2015

Kimberly McGraw, Project Coordinator, 847-954-3179 kimm@ashi.org

Education, CE Approval, Smart Track

E&O HIGHLIGHTS:

Michele George, Director of Education & Events, 847-954-3188 micheleg@ashi.org

Mark Lester, Office Services Coordinator, 847-954-3176 markl@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.

Bonnie Bruno, Executive Assistant, 847-954-3177 bonnieb@ashi.org

Robert Peterson 2013-2015 Carmel, IN, 317-581-0074 inspectorbobp@sbcglobal.net Tony Smith 2015-2017 Cedar Rapids, IA, 319-533-4565 inspecthathouse@netscape. net

Check out our new policy form which now includes everything that isn’t nailed down!

Frank Lesh, Executive Director, 847-954-3182, frankl@ashi.org

Membership, Chapter Relations, Booth Rental, Product Orders

jfunkhousr@aol.com

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

Executive Director

Scott Patterson 2013-2015 Milford, MA 508-634-2010 scott@traceinspections.com

Kevin Westendorf 2014-2016 Bruce Labell 2015-2017 Mt. Pleasant, SC, 843-881-7842 Scottsdale, AZ, 602-765-2140 kevinw@lowcountryhome inspect@cox.net inspection.com Mark Londner 2014-2016 Speaker, Council of Representatives: Purcellville, VA, 703-409-9762 James Funkhouser 2015-2016 mark@LBIhome.com Manassas Park, VA, 703-791-2360

Editor: Sally Chapralis

ASHI Staff

• Limit options from $100K to $2M • 50% deductible credit for mediated claims

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

• Protection for your spouse against claims • Real Estate Referring Parties

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

• Sublimit for Lead Paint, Termite and Mold Defense Coverage (Except LA) www.businessriskpartners.com

• Thermal Imaging

Accounting, Human Resources

• Indoor Air Quality

Belienda Schultz, Accounting Manager, 847-954-3190 beliendas@ashi.org

• Commercial Inspections (up to 50,000 square feet)

Beverly Canham, Financial Assistant, 847-954-3184, beverlyc@ashi.org

• Premises Liability • Radon Testing

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

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

The ASHI School

Up to 10% discount for ASHI members

• $2,500 or $5,000 deductible • No minimum earned premium • Optional riders for Pool/Spa, Septic and Carbon Monoxide • 2 hours of FREE Risk Management Advice

GL HIGHLIGHTS:

Jack McGraw, Managing Director, 888-884-0440 or 847-954-3178 jack@theashischool.com

• Policy limits up to $1M/$2M

Steve Reilly, Senior Sales Representative, 888-884-0440 or 847-954-3181, steve@theashischool.com

• Deductibles starting at $250

Kendra Eiermann, Administrative Assistant, 847-954-3198 kendra@theashischool.com

• Premiums starting at $315 This list is solely intended to be a summary of policy coverage. Please reference the actual policy for specific terms and conditions. The policy supersedes all representations made above.

Quote: www.inspectorinsurance.com · Questions: Capitol Special Risks 866.268.1327 5February 2015

| www.ASHIReporter.org

We’re Hiring Inspectors at All Levels!

Being Frank From ASHI’s Executive Director

Building on the Knowledge of Others

LAST MONTH I POKED FUN AT THE VENERABLE MAGLITES® many of us used in the past. But I did that out of respect. There’s no question modern technology has forged improvements in home inspection equipment, but let’s not forget what brought us to the dance.

but it may also give a false positive if it detects a piece of metal behind whatever is being checked. You definitely don’t want someone ripping off perfectly good tile that you’ve said is moisture laden if all that’s really back there is a plumbing pipe or a piece of conduit.

Those of you who’ve been around for a while may have used this trick before, but for some it may be the first time you’ve heard it. What I’m about to tell you I learned from Dwight Barnett, a member of the Great Lakes Chapter who the folks in Evansville, IN, can’t seem to get rid of. Back before moisture meters became reliable and more importantly, affordable, he told me to use my Maglite® to test for moisture behind shower/tub tile. Now, before you jump to erroneous conclusions, the Mag couldn’t directly detect moisture, but it sure could determine if the tiles were loose. The sound that firm tiles make clearly resonates in the enclosure. The sound of loose tiles is duller or muffled. Through experience, we can pretty much agree that the most likely reason tiles become loose in a shower/tub enclosure is because of moisture. It doesn’t take a Bill Loden to figure that out. For those of you scratching your heads about why I mentioned Bill, it’s because in his former life, he was a rocket scientist at NASA. The only drawback to Dwight’s method of using the Mag was that if the tiles were really loose, they’d fall into the tub with a resounding clamor, not unlike a loose slot machine. Which, of course, would draw the attention and disdain of the homeowner or listing agent. Surely accusations would follow proclaiming, “The inspector caused that to happen, everything was fine until he knocked a hole in my shower.” And the home inspector would be like a loose slot, paying out hard-earned money for a latent defect. If you want to see some classic old technology, copy and paste this link: Skip to 1:50 to see the tip. http://www.homeinspector.org/docs/Inspecting_Tiles_Tip.mov Once I could afford my first Protimeter Surveymaster moisture meter, things became a lot easier for me. But like any new technology, I had to be careful to interpret the data accurately. For example, a moisture meter will beep if it detects moisture,

ASHI Reporter | February 2015

THINK Join a national company with NO upfront fees plus great benefits. Opportunity to earn over $100K a year 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan and Exit Strategies Lifetime Referral Bonuses Scheduling, Technical and Administrative Support

I’ve been fortunate in my career to have followed in the path of some great inspectors who didn’t hesitate to share their hard-earned knowledge. I think that’s one of the most important reasons ASHI is such a well-respected organization. If you have any tips or comments that you’d like to share, don’t hesitate to drop me a line. Knowledge freely given will always trump technology. 

Frank Lesh, Executive Director American Society of Home Inspectors Direct: 847-954-3182 Frankl@ashi.org • www.ashi.org

Acquisition and Earn Out Dollars Available BPG is actively seeking to acquire multi-inspector firms! Contact the Inspector Hiring and Acquisition Department 770-777-8640 | recruiting@bpgwi.com Buyers Protection Group. The Best Inspectors. Anywhere. www.bpgwi.com

7February 2015

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Minorit y Business Owners Rewarded in Home Inspection

Minority Business Owners Rewarded in Home Inspection BY SALLY CHAPRALIS

Buyers expect “new” to be synonymous with “clean,” but I’ve seen new homes and homes still under construction that had mold problems.

ASHI Suggestion Box Do you have a great idea for the ASHI organization or Reporter magazine? All suggestions are welcomed. Please e-mail: Frankl@ashi.org.

HAVE MORE TIME FOR THE THINGS THAT MATTER

WITH THE BEST HOME INSPECTION SOFT WARE

3D INSPECTION SYSTEMS WILL CLEAR YOUR SCHEDULE CONTACT US 800-745-6126

ASHI Reporter | February 2015

WWW.3DINSPECTION.COM

ASHI members and business owners Guillermo Hunt and Marlon Page faced the challenges of being minorities in the home inspection field. However, their perseverance, desire to learn more and entrepreneurial spirits have proven very rewarding. Their positive experiences offer insights into home inspection’s potential for others.

Guillermo took a correspondence course through the American Home Inspection Training Institute. “It was all starting to come together. The general public was now more aware of the importance of home inspections, my experience in the construction industry as well as related fields gave me good credentials, and Realtors encouraged me to join ASHI, which I did in May 2001.”

> Guillermo Hunt – Hunt’s Home Inspections “I was working for a large heating and air conditioning company in the mid-'90s but was ready for a change. I wanted to be out in the field, away from an office. As I was driving down the street, I saw all of these homes and wondered if there was a way to help them,” says Guillermo Hunt, President of Hunt’s Home Inspections, Inc., Hampton, VA, and President of the ASHI Hampton Roads Chapter.

Being a minority, black and Hispanic (born in Panama), was a challenge at first. “It took six or seven years before I met another black inspector,” Guillermo notes. “When I went on interviews, the hesitancy to hire me was apparent, but I believe my education and experience showed through. Home inspection has been a ‘majority’ business. However, when a broker asked for my business card, I knew times were changing.”

I shared my thoughts with my wife who helped me explore home inspection, and what I needed to learn about the profession and its career potential. In retrospect, I truly believe that my drive down the street was a spiritual connection.”

Guillermo established his own home inspection business in 1998. “I was learning more about ASHI and started attending Hampton Roads Chapter programs. I was the only minority person for about four years. Being a minority in a field does, of course, present challenges but it encouraged me to persevere. My experience and involvement have proven rewarding.”

Noting that Hunt’s Home Inspection is doing well, even during the recession, Guillermo says, “I’m so happy I made the career change.” Guillermo served on the national ASHI Membership Committee for two terms. He has also been a member of the Hampton Roads Chapter Board of Directors, serving as Vice President of the chapter for two, two-year terms and is currently in the second half of his second term. “Our goal is to keep the chapter strong. We now have another minority member so there are two of us.” Besides growing his home inspection business, what are Guillermo’s goals? “I want to mentor other home inspectors. Mentoring is a rewarding experience, one we can all benefit from, and it can lead to new insights, connections and opportunities.” > Marlon Page – Home Inspection Pros My strong passion for buying and rehabbing residential and commercial real estate dates back over 20 years ago. God scripted my pursuit into the home inspection business. My strong beliefs migrated me into this industry. I clearly recall discovering my detailed mechanical skills while taking builders trade classes during high school in Mississippi. 9February 2015

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Window Wells

444 Minorit y Business Owners Rewarded in Home Inspection

basketball which allowed me an outlet to unleash my competitive nature. After graduation, I relocated to Atlanta, GA, and continued to play organized basketball competitively throughout Georgia. Beyond my imagination, I was drafted and began my professional basketball career in Austria, Switzerland and France. The opportunity to play professional international basketball afforded me experiences to develop even more character and attributes of diversities of cultures.

Marlon Page

Overcoming minority challenges was nothing new to me. Having the experiences of being raised during my era in Mississippi was a hurdle I overcame. I fast forward to Georgia and now being a successful minority business owner. My education and experience from Mississippi, Arkansas, Louisiana and Europe all groomed me to better understand and handle those challenges of being a minority business owner. My strong work ethic and the mindset of “nobody can outwork me” were instilled in me dating back to my farming days with my grandfather in Mississippi. I consistently worked from sun up to sun down on my grandfather’s farm at a young age. My core work foundation was developed and shaped by those farming experiences. When I graduated from Grambling State University in Louisiana, a top tier HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) college, earning my computer information systems degree, I knew a few things for sure. I knew I needed to be professional and never confirm to any stereotypes representing minorities. At Grambling I played

ASHI Reporter | February 2015

After Europe I returned to Atlanta, the mecca for African-American businesses and entrepreneurs, to make Georgia home. I returned with success in mind. I landed a job in corporate America with a Fortune 500 company, and over the years I was groomed and developed to work in corporate marketing. Using the money I earned in my basketball career, my wife Samone and I started investing in real estate. With her encouragement, I pursued the home inspection business. Samone said occasionally, “You should be paid for your wealth of knowledge.” She continued to pour into me and remind me of ALL of God’s gifts such as: personality and presence. The biggest gift of all is having a well-rounded background in construction, sales, real estate and marketing, coupled with business entrepreneur attributes. My personal experience with totally rebuilding homes as well as new construction reinforced my comfort level with the industry. I quickly learned that other professionals in the business came to rely on my professional opinion. It was around this time that Samone demanded I officially enter the home inspection business. As she so elegantly put it, “No more FREE inspections. You should be paid for your level of

expertise.” I gained my certification from the American Home Inspector Training Institute in 2005. One of the best decisions I ever made was developing a great relationship with my instructor, Bill Ross. Bill has been instrumental in molding my industry progress, filling the gaps as a true mentor in sharing his wisdom and knowledge over the years. Bill has also played an instrumental role with ASHI by serving in a number of leadership positions in California. It was Bill who encouraged me to join ASHI. I created Home Inspection Providers, LLC, dba Home Inspection Pros. The company currently covers all of north Georgia, and there are future plans is to grow Home Inspection Pros in multiple states as well as the international market. One of our short-term goals is to add a minimum of five additional professional inspectors to the team within the next two years. I’m honored that I will be serving as the first African-American President of the ASHI Georgia Chapter. It is my intention to lead by example while in office. I pride myself in bringing balance to the overall home inspection industry while partnering with ASHI.

Window Wells BY CARSON, DUNLOP & ASSOCIATES LTD.

WINDOW WELLS ARE TYPICALLY FOUND ON HOUSES with deep basements, where basement windows are completely or partly below the exterior grade level. Wells provide space for light, ventilation and access to subgrade areas.

Walls and Floor Check the walls of the window well to ensure that there has been no movement. The floor should be approximately six inches below the window frame. Wood/soil contact should be avoided.

Most window wells have drains that carry water from the well to the storm sewer. These drains can be pipes filled with gravel or just a gravel column. You won’t be able to determine how effective the drain is or, in some cases, whether there even is a drain. The drain may be missing, or not visible because it is located below several inches of gravel.

Add Wells When Regrading Sometimes you will have to recommend the addition of window wells when you recommend grading improvements. As the grade around the house is raised, the basement window wells may end up below grade level. They will need to be replaced or extended.

My direct example in diversity began with Russell Daniels, ASHI’s Assistant Executive Director, and Director of Membership Services and Chapter Relations. I thank Russell for being an amazing leader and offering his knowledge to me in reference to pursuing those Neiman Marcus real estate broker relationships, which we have since secured. Thank you again, Russell. I look forward to much success in the years to come by becoming more involved with ASHI. 

A common alternate solution to a drain is a clear plastic cover that prevents rain and debris, such as blowing papers, from accumulating in the well. The cover allows light in through the window, but you can’t open the window and get fresh air. Materials Window well walls are typically made of steel, wood, poured concrete, masonry units or plastic. The floors are usually gravel.

Common Problems Common problems include: • Missing window wells • Damaged window wells • Wood/soil contact leading to rot or rust • Drain problems 11

February 2015 | www.ASHIReporter.org

444Window Wells

Missing Window Wells Check that wells are provided for all windows within six inches of grade. If the finished grade ended up higher than intended, the window wells may be missing. Missing wells create wood/ soil contact and may cause water problems in the foundation or basement. Metal windows and frames may rust, and wood components may rot. Adding a window well will solve these problems, but it is very expensive to provide a drain for a well on an existing house. This window well is less than 6 inches above grade and therefore should have a window well.

Damaged Window Wells Window well walls are small retaining walls. Improvements will be needed where these retaining walls have moved or suffered damage. Damage can result from deterioration of the wall materials or soil pressure, often associated with freeze/thaw problems. Concrete walls may be spalled, cracked or leaning. Wood walls may be rotted, cracked, shifting or damaged by insect activity. Metal walls may be bowing, broken or rusted. Masonry walls may be cracked, broken and shifting. Plastic walls may be bowed or cracked.

The poorly installed window well will result in rot to the wood windows.

Ensure that the walls of window wells are intact and well secured to the building. Probe wood for rot and insect damage. If the walls have deteriorated or pulled away from the building, improvements will be necessary. Also check the grading around window wells carefully. Window wells may funnel water into the window if the grading is poor. This is common at the well/wall intersection.

Clear Cover Providing a drain or improving a clogged drain can be a considerable expense. As an alternative, a clear plastic dome cover over the window well, sealed to the wall, will deflect water away. Ensuring a proper grade slope away from the well minimizes ground water entry.

A damaged concrete retaining wall.

Drain Problems Window wells should have drains, which can be open pipes that connect to downspout drains or perimeter drainage systems. The pipes may be filled with gravel.

Wood/Soil Contact Wood/soil contact can occur if window wells are missing or if the floor of the window well is too high as a result of inappropriate installation or debris accumulation in the well. This problem can lead to rot and insect damage to the well walls (if wood) and to the windows and window frames, or to water entering the basement. In some cases, the floor of the well can be lowered slightly. However, if the walls do not go down deep enough, they may need to be modified as well. It is often not possible to determine how much the well floor can be lowered during the inspection, so don’t get too specific with your advice on this issue (or any issue, for that matter).

In many cases, you won’t be able to verify the presence of the drain, but you will see evidence of nonperformance if drains are missing, not connected, broken or obstructed. Problems include water entry into the basement, rusting or rotting window frames and freeze/thaw damage on the well walls. Warning signs to look for include: • A pipe projecting up through the center of the gravel floor. However, the top of the pipe may not be visible. The pipe may have been removed, and there may simply be a column of gravel extending down from the gravel in the floor. • High watermarks on the glass, sash, frames or window well walls. • Rotting wood or rusted metal. • W hen you go inside, look for evidence of water running down the foundation wall below the windows. Use your moisture meter to check the finishes below the window. (The Standards don’t require you to use a meter.) Also look for stains and damage to the finishes. • Is the floor of the well six inches below any wood or metal in the window assembly? Is the well filled with debris?

A window well with a properly fitted clear cover.

Summary We have discussed in detail various types of window wells and addressed the important role they have in allowing below-grade windows to exist. More importantly, we have discussed the significance a good window well has in mitigating water entry into a basement or subgrade area. More information regarding other exterior water management features can be found in the ASHI@HOME training program. 

Here’s a portion of the drain that has not been covered

ASHI Reporter | February 2015

February 2015 | www.ASHIReporter.org

Herspective

Sneak Preview of the New ASHI Web Site

From the Women of ASHI

Interview with Joanne MacKintosh BY JOANNE MACKINTOSH

Q: Joanne, I understand that you recently came on board with the ASHI Western Washington Chapter as Executive Director. How did that come to be? A: The position evolved over several months of discussions. The state insists on reviewing all of our educational materials now, which added a significant layer of complexity to an already difficult undertaking for the chapter leadership. My job is primarily to support the chapter officers and to provide some continuity from one year to the next. As anyone who has been a chapter officer knows, it can be a very time-consuming job. It’s difficult to organize a two-day chapter seminar from the front seat of a pick-up, or to wage a battle with the legislature after doing two inspections. For example, I work with the education chair to help find speakers, line out a venue and make sure the caterer has enough food for a gang of 100 home inspectors. Q: But why you? A: I was an ASHI home inspector in my previous life and had been treasurer and president of the chapter at different times. I have been involved with the chapter since 1991 when my husband, Bruce MacKintosh (MacK), first joined ASHI and soon after became chapter president himself. I stopped doing inspections a few 14

ASHI Reporter | February 2015

years ago when our son joined the company but was still in contact with the local Board members. I still do the accounting and sometimes edit reports for our firm, but primarily they eased me out. I can be pretty organized and have a really good idea of what the chapter officers need help with. The main idea is for me to keep things from falling through the cracks so the chapter can continue to benefit its membership. Q: So, you and your husband worked together? A: MacK started his company, Centennial Home Inspection, in 1989, and I started working with him in 1991. I talked myself into quitting my job/career at the time, justifying it by telling him that if we worked together that "only" one or two inspections a week could make up the difference. I think we were in the midst of trying to find our third nanny in as many months. We wouldn’t have to pay for daycare, a professional wardrobe or gas for commuting, so it all made sense to me. Quitting my job sounded wonderful. I soon went from answering the phone and editing reports to following him around on inspections. Well, that wasn’t very efficient, so we eventually divided the inspection in half, and then began doing separate inspections. This occurred over several years as our two children progressed through school.

Working together with our own company enabled us to schedule activities with our children, work around their ball games and drive and chaperone class field trips. Of course, owning your own business also allows you to work to midnight and to decide that maybe you can’t afford that big family vacation this year. Q: How did clients accept you? A: Do you mean, as a woman? In the home inspection field, it was so gradual that it never seemed to be an issue. The novelty always seemed to be that we were a husband and wife team, working together. I have always worked in male-dominated fields. On a lark, I headed to Alaska in 1974 and found myself in the midst of the Alyeska Pipeline construction. I worked in the main office doing accounting and then drafting. It didn’t take long to realize that it was the men living in the construction camps up and down the pipeline who were making the big bucks. In the beginning, women were not even allowed in the camps. I remember flying up north in a bush plane with the idea of touring the camps. When the pilot radioed in to land at one of the camps, he was told that if there were women aboard he would not be cleared to land. The camp had apparently already been visited by “unauthorized” groups of women.

That was the end of a cultural revolution. Management finally relented and women were allowed to take jobs in the camps. I worked in several different camps north of the Brooks Range. That was all a great experience. After a couple years, I came out of Alaska with $25,000 in savings and took myself back to Seattle and got a civil engineering degree. I worked with heavy construction firms. MacK and I first met on the SR520 project, where he was a foreman and I was a junior engineer. I was working on the West Seattle bridge project while I was nine months pregnant. I think there were 113 steps to the top! My crew finally insisted that I stay on the ground. They didn’t want to have to strap me to a load of lumber if I went into labor.

Sneak Preview of the New ASHI Web Site Currently under Construction

Q: What was the most challenging aspect/day/period of your home inspection career? A: Easy. Going out by myself for the first time. Another challenging time was the result of MacK having a ladder “malfunction” and taking a tumble onto a driveway. He was laid up while his pelvis knitted back together and then while recovering from shoulder surgery. These had to be done consecutively so that he was somewhat mobile. I became essentially a “one-man” show at that point. Q: What’s in store for the future? A: At this point in my life, we are trying to retire. I function in support roles for Centennial as well as the chapter and I am okay with that. I support a great group of licensed professionals on a very part-time basis. My main support role is as Gr'nanny to my grandson. I see my daughter and her family almost every day, and my son every work day. Life is good. 

15February 2015

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Tax Tips for the Home Inspector

444Tax Tips for the Home Inspector

qualify to deduct up to $2,500 of student loan interest paid by Mom and Dad.

Tax Tips for the Home Inspector TIM BUELL, ACI, ASHI TREASURER 2015 DAVE HAUGHT, ACI, MIES, EP, DIRECTOR - OHIO CHAPTER

According to Intuit, Kiplinger Letter and Money Magazine, here are a few of the most commonly missed deductions: State income tax - If you purchased a vehicle, boat or airplane, you get to add the state sales tax you paid to the amount shown in IRS tables for your state, to the extent the sales tax rate you paid doesn’t exceed the state’s general sales tax rate. The same goes for home building materials you purchased. These items are easy to overlook. The IRS even has a calculator on its Web site to help you figure out the deduction, which varies by your state and income level.

Most of us are not looking forward to completing our tax return, but it is that time of the year, so here are some tips from two former CPAs. You can expense just about anything in your business, but not every expense is tax-deductible. These tips are general in nature and no specific advice is offered or intended. You may use these tips as a reference in filing your tax return, but we also strongly recommend the help of a tax adviser, tax lawyer, accountant or CPA.

ASHI Reporter | February 2015

Out-of-pocket charitable contributions - The little things add up, too, and you can write off out-of-pocket costs you incur while doing good deeds. For example, the cost of stamps you buy for your school’s fundraiser counts as a charitable contribution. If you drove your car for charity in 2014, remember to deduct 14 cents per mile. We recommend considering classifying some of your business contributions as advertising. As long as your company was listed and advertised as a sponsor or contributor, you may be able to avoid some charitable giving limitations. Student loan paid by Mom and Dad - In the past, if parents paid back a student loan incurred by their children, no one got a tax break. To get a deduction, the law said that you had to be both liable for the debt and actually pay it yourself. But now there’s an exception. If Mom and Dad pay back the loan, the IRS treats it as though they gave the money to their child, who then paid the debt. So a child who’s not claimed as a dependent can

State income taxes you paid last year - Did you owe taxes when you filed your 2013 state tax return in 2014? If so, then remember to include that amount with your state tax itemized deduction on your 2014 return, along with state income taxes withheld from your paychecks or paid via quarterly estimated payments. Refinancing mortgage points - When you buy a house, you get to deduct points paid to obtain your mortgage all at one time. When you refinance a mortgage, however, you have to deduct the points over the life of the loan. That means you can deduct 1/30th of the points a year if it’s a 30-year mortgage—that’s $33 a year for each $1,000 of points you paid. Also, in the year you pay off the loan—because you sell the house or refinance again—you get to deduct all the points not yet deducted, unless you refinance with the same lender. Vehicle deduction - In 2014 the IRS allows 56 cents per mile for business miles driven, 23.5 cents for medical or moving expenses and 14 cents for charitable work. With business mileage, the IRS frowns on deducting 100%, realizing your work vehicle can be used personally as well. If you keep track of annual miles driven, the IRS allows for up to 80% of those miles deducted. Remember if you use mileage you cannot deduct any car expenses such as gas, service, depreciation or auto insurance. Deduction for Medicare premiums for the self-employed Folks who continue to run their own businesses after qualifying for Medicare can deduct the premiums they pay for Medicare Part B and Medicare Part D, plus the cost of supplemental Medicare (medigap) policies or the cost of a Medicare Advantage plan. This deduction is available whether or not you itemize and is not subject to the 7.5% of AGI test that applies to itemized medical expenses. One caveat: You can't claim this deduction if you are eligible to be covered under an employer-subsidized health plan offered by either your employer (if you have a job as well as your business) or your spouse’s employer (if he or she has a job that offers family medical coverage). Planning for the future - It is now February 2015. The best time to plan for next April 15 is now, starting today. The list of deductions listed before is to help you this year. It is hard to do any major tax planning after the year-end has passed. To insure you don’t miss getting all of your tax deductions next year, keep a good set of records. Most of us are operating as a sole practitioner, partnership or LLC. All will have a December 31 year-end and report income and expenses on the CASH basis. Meaning you

only can deduct expenses paid and report income earned and paid to you. You can’t deduct accounts payable or include accounts receivable in income. Year-end tax planning starts with an accurate and current set of accounting records. With good data and an up-to-date set of financial records, you can be proactive prior to year-end, accurately estimate profit and take steps to reduce taxable profit. We recommend using QuickBooks and saving all of your receipts. Reducing your tax liability – One way to reduce profit and taxable income is by paying expenses. Pay all of your current bills; purchase any needed supplies like business cards, brochures, paper for the printer and ink cartridges; fill your inspection truck’s gas tank; go ahead and purchase that inspection tool you have been wanting to get, and renew your dues and subscriptions. If you are paying a loan from the bank and it is due on the first of the month, go ahead and pay it before year-end. The interest between the first of the month and the last day of the month is deductible (make sure it is recorded by the bank as a monthly payment and not a principal-only payment).

It is up to you to keep abreast of the current tax law changes and keep up-to-date accurate financials in order to take advantage of all the deductions due you to minimize your taxes. We always teach Realtors® and home buyers that the cost of hiring a professional home inspector is well worth the investment. We will tell you that hiring a professional tax lawyer or CPA to advise you on tax saving strategies is well worth the investment, too. Tim Buell, ACI, ASHI Treasurer – 2015 http://timbuell.pillartopost.com Dave Haught, ACI, MIES, EP, Director – Ohio Chapter http://www.wvchi.com

February 2015 | www.ASHIReporter.org

Revolutionizing Home Inspection Reporting

Ser vice Philosophy – Under-Promise and Over-Deliver

Service Philosophy – Under-Promise and Over-Deliver

The InspectIT Home Inspection Software is the most complete reporting application on the market today, with a user-interface that is simple to use - to maximize your time. InspectIT was designed by industry professionals that understand how this tool will help make your job easier and your business more successful.

BY ALAN CARSON, ACI – CARSON, DUNLOP & ASSOCIATES LTD.

• “The home inspector will look into every nook and cranny.” Clients are then surprised that we don’t move pianos and china cabinets.

Step 1: Introduce yourself to the client. Exchange business cards. Step 2: Explain to the client what you are going to do during the inspection. For example, say that you will inspect the roof first on your own, but from then on you would like the client to accompany you throughout the inspection. Step 3: Ask the client if there are concerns about particular areas. Make note of the reply, which shows that you are taking the client seriously. Explain that you will be sure to address those issues as you get to that area of the home.

• It supports the under-promise and over-deliver philosophy.

Step 4: Suggest that the client look at the contract while you inspect the roof.

• It increases the difference between what the customer expects and receives by reducing expectations.

Step 5: Explain your findings regarding the roof. This step establishes your credibility immediately. If there are no roof problems to report, then describe the roof system.

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ASHI Reporter | February 2015

Adjust Customer Expectations Home inspectors are reluctant to explain the limitations of the inspection up front because they don’t want to start discussing negatives as soon as they meet the client. However, explaining the limitations before you begin the inspection is a good strategy for the following reasons:

Here is a sample process and outline you can use, or modify, for your on-site explanation of the inspection limitations:

I CA

N SO

Present Limitations Up Front Another way to avoid the over-promise problem is to under-promise and overdeliver. Tell your clients about the limitations of a home inspection up front. Then the client will be all the more impressed with what you are able to do during the inspection.

• Clients are less likely to ask you to do something during the inspection that is outside the scope of a home inspection.

Agents often say things such as the following:

Educate the Agent If you have a working relationship with agents, it’s a good idea to let them know the limitations of a home inspection so that they don’t over-promise on your behalf.

• It reduces the chance that your client will sue you for something that you could not see during the inspection.

Don’t let the real estate agent over-promise on your behalf. Even though the agent has been through many home inspections, most agents don’t really understand the technical aspects of your service. We have found that agents may overstate what a home inspector does. For example, an agent will tell the client that a home inspection will uncover all of the hidden defects that the homeowner can’t see. While we, as home inspectors, have lots of tricks up our sleeves for uncovering problems with limited visibility, we can’t uncover hidden defects.

• “The home inspector will look at the heat exchanger in the furnace.” Actually, home inspectors just look at the parts of the heat exchanger that are visible from the vestibule area in front of the burner.

We mentioned in our previous article that you can achieve customer satisfaction by coming close to delivering what the client was expecting. Your goal now is to surpass client expectations. To achieve that, you have to find out what the expectation is and offer a little extra. Another way to accomplish the same goal is to reduce the client’s expectations first, and then exceed them.

E I NSPEC

to learn more & to request a free demo, or visit www.inspectit.com

19February 2015

| www.ASHIReporter.org

The Word

444Ser vice Philosophy – Under-Promise and Over-Deliver

A look at interesting home inspection subjects

completely.” Depending on the situation we may also offer, “I am sure that by the end of the inspection you will have learned a great deal about the home and be in a much better position to make a well-informed decision. If this does not happen, you will not be asked to pay for the inspection.”

Step 6: Tell the client that before you continue you would like to answer any questions about the contract. This is the time to explain that the inspection is a visual, nondestructive investigation, and that, as such, the inspection has inherent limitations. For example, if there is no access hatch to the attic, you will not be able to look at the roof structure. (Use an example that does not apply to the house you are inspecting.) Step 7: Now go ahead and inspect the house and impress the client with your talents. By the way, we typically e-mail or fax our inspection agreement and a copy of the Standard of Practice and Code of Ethics to the client before the inspection. We have found it has at least five advantages: 1. Clients appreciate having the time to review the agreement. 2. Clients with expectations beyond a standard home inspection can call back and say this is not what they wanted.

ASHI Reporter | February 2015

3. The client can see that a large association, not an individual or a small company, sets the rules of the game. The association’s involvement helps assure the client that the rules are fair. 4. The inspector saves time on site, because the client already knows, and has agreed to, the rules of the game. 5. The inspector’s liability is reduced because it is difficult for the clients to argue that they did not know what they were buying when they arrived at the inspection.

Be prepared for the following question, “If you can’t tell me every problem with the house, what’s the point of a home inspection?” The answer is, “We promise to drastically reduce the risk of buying this home, but we cannot eliminate the risk

Easy Way to Exceed Expectations Here is a simple way to go the extra mile for your client. After the inspection, send an e-mail with an article that relates to something you discussed during the inspection. You can also send a link to a Web site that may be useful. If there is nothing memorable about the inspection, pick a component of the house and send the client an article related to it. It could be an architectural explanation, a functional description, maintenance advice, design and planning information if the client is remodeling and so on. You don’t have to write the articles; you just have to find them on the Internet and send the links to your client. It won’t take you long to develop a short list of things you can send clients. It takes about five minutes per client and will create a strong positive impression. And there is no hard cost!  What we have done here is outline the concept of under-promising and over-delivering to build a strong relationship with your clients and agents. In our next article, we will discuss the approach to winning customers by fixing mistakes fast.

cement actually melts the pipe a little and chemically welds the pipe to the fitting. A primer is not required for ABS pipes. A primer (often purple) is required for PVC pipes; however, the 2015 IRC allows solvent cement without primer on 4 inch and smaller DWV pipes. Threaded connections using threaded fittings are fine too if the threads don’t impede the flow.

Plumbing Pipes BY BRUCE BARKER, ACI Most solvent cement connections betweem ABS and PVC are wrong.

ONCE 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 plumbing pipes. The Word finds this topic interesting because the plumbing pipe family is like most families. Some members are well-adjusted, some are a little quirky, and some can get cranky and experience physical problems as they age. It’s important that we know the personalities of plumbing pipes so we can alert our clients to pipes that may need an intervention. ABS and PVC Pipe ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is a well-adjusted pipe that has been around since the late 1950s. Some ABS pipes manufactured between about 1985 and 1990 tend to misbehave and split along the seams, but other than that they perform well. Problem manufacturers were Apache, Centaur, Gable, Phoenix, Polaris, Spartan. You might want to snap a picture of the pipe label if you happen across ABS pipes in a house built during this period, then come back and see if it was made by one of these manufacturers. This misbehaving pipe is uncommon in most areas. PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a well-adjusted pipe. It has been around about as long as

ABS. It has no significant disorders and performs well when installed properly. ABS and PVC are used as interior DWV (drain, waste and vent) pipe and as the building sewer pipe. PVC is used as the water service pipe but not as water distribution pipe (it’s not listed for hot water). ABS is may be used as water service pipe, but this is very uncommon. ABS is almost always black, but gray is sometimes seen. PVC is usually white. PVC sewer pipe is sometimes green. Use seems to be regional with ABS more popular out west and PVC more popular back east. Either can be found anywhere, however. The service life of ABS and PVC is estimated to be over 50 years. Proper support is important for all pipes. Lack of support places strain on the pipe and fittings. This strain can cause cracks and leaks. Support is especially important for DWV pipes so they will maintain fall toward the discharge point. ABS and PVC pipe should be supported horizontally every 4 feet, and vertically every 10 feet. A mid-story guide should be installed for pipes 2 inches diameter and smaller. A mid-story guide is usually a strap or some other method to keep the pipe from moving laterally. Connections between ABS pipes and between PVC pipes should be made using solvent cement and a fitting. Solvent

A banded elastomeric coupling is often used to connect ABS to ABS and PVC to PVC when the pipe is repaired or when fittings are added. Banded couplings are not allowed when installed above ground, unless approved. The coupling could work loose, it could move, or it could degrade and leak. Besides, there’s no good excuse for failing to make a proper connection between ABS pipes using an ABS fitting or between PVC pipes using a PVC fitting. That said, a banded coupling usually works fine, so it’s a judgment call whether to report one as a defect. Connection between ABS and PVC can get interesting. The approved method of connecting ABS to PVC is with a transition fitting. These fittings are half ABS and half PVC. The ABS pipe should be solvent cemented using ABS cement to the ABS half of the fitting, and the PVC pipe should be cemented using PVC primer and cement to the PVC half of the fitting; these fittings are very uncommon. Banded couplings are also not approved in this situation for the reasons stated above; however, as stated above, it’s a judgment call whether to report one as a defect. A product called transition cement is available to connect ABS to PVC using either fitting. The product seems to work, but it is not approved, so this is an incorrect connection as well. Connection between ABS and PVC pipe and cast iron pipe is pretty easy. Either a caulked joint or an elastomeric compression gasket is good if the connection is to the hub (the enlarged part of the pipe or a fitting). We’ll define a caulked joint in the cast iron pipe section. A banded coupling 21February 2015

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444Plumbing Pipes

is good for connecting ABS pipe, PVC pipe or galvanized steel pipe to a cast iron pipe spigot (the straight end of the pipe). A banded coupling is also good for connecting ABS and PVC pipe to galvanized steel DWV pipe. PVC electrical conduit is also available. Amateur plumbers see PVC and Schedule 40 and assume conduit is the same thing as plumbing pipe. It isn’t. PVC conduit may not be used as plumbing pipe and PVC plumbing pipe may not be used as electrical conduit. Cast Iron Pipe Cast iron pipe is the grandfather of pipes. Its first recorded use was centuries ago and it was the go-to DWV pipe from the 1850s to the 1950s. It is a well-adjusted pipe during its service life, but like some seniors, it can get a little cranky in its later years and can experience physical problems. Cast iron pipe’s expected service life is around 50 years, although much older pipes are still functioning well. Cast iron pipe’s weakness is rust. It rusts from the inside, so evidence of impending breakage is usually not visible. The rust also makes the pipe’s interior surface rough so it is more prone to blockage as it ages. An end of life comment may be prudent when inspecting cast iron pipe. A recommendation to run a camera through a cast iron sewer pipe may also be prudent. Cast iron pipe is used as interior DWV pipe and as building sewer pipe. It is almost always black. Cast iron pipe should be supported horizontally every 10 feet when 10 foot sections are used, every 5 feet when a fitting is used and vertically every 15 feet. A mid-story guide is not necessary nor is protection against puncture when the pipe is installed in concealed space. Connecting cast iron pipes to cast iron pipes is by a caulked joint or by a compression gasket when a hub and spigot are available. A caulked joint is very old school and involves stuffing oakum (tar22

ASHI Reporter | February 2015

soaked hemp) in the joint, then pouring molten lead in the remainder of the joint. The Word wonders how many plumbers can still make this joint. The new joint is an elastomeric compression gasket. The connection between cast iron pipe and galvanized steel pipe may use a threaded joint in addition to the caulked joint and the compression gasket joint. Copper Tubing Copper tubing is a well-adjusted middleaged member of the pipe family. It has been around since the 1930s and was the go-to material for water distribution from the 1960s through the end of the last century. Copper tubing is available in two types, which are really just different versions of the same material. Rigid (hard-drawn) tubing is most commonly seen as water distribution tubing. Flexible annealed tubing is most commonly seen as gas distribution tubing and as water distribution tubing for low volume applications such as dishwasher and ice maker supply tubes. Copper pipe, by the way, is a different and thicker material used for DWV. Copper tubing is available in three wall thicknesses (as commonly used in houses). Type K is the thickest and is marked with green. Type L is in the middle and is marked with blue. Type M is the thinnest and is marked with red. Types K and L may be installed anywhere in or under the house. Type M may not be embedded in or installed below concrete. Copper tubing should be supported horizontally every 6 feet and every 10 feet vertically. A mid-story guide is not required.

There are many ways to connect copper tubing. Soldered connections are one of the most common as are threaded connections. Flared connections are common, almost always using annealed copper. Compression connections are also common, usually using annealed copper. Push connect fittings may also be used. Press connect connections are less common and are suitable only for hard drawn copper. These connections use proprietary fittings and a proprietary crimping tool. Copper tubing may be connected to CPVC and PEX using an adapter fitting or a push connect fitting. Copper tubing is sometimes seen connected to polybutylene tubing using a push connect fitting. This use may not conform to the fitting manufacturer’s instructions. Copper tubing should be connected to galvanized steel pipe using a dielectric fitting. Copper tubing is usually well-adjusted with an expected service life of 50+ years if installed and treated well. It is known to act out when mistreated. Aggressive water (high or low PH) in places like Florida and from some wells can degrade copper tubing, causing pinhole leaks. CPVC CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) is well-adjusted pipe that has been around since the 1960s. It performs well unless you abuse it, like subjecting it to freezing or using too much solvent cement on the fittings. CPVC is used mostly as interior water distribution pipe and rarely as water service pipe. It is usually a cream color and sometimes has a yellow stripe. CPVC’s service life is estimated to be over 50 years. CPVC should be supported horizontally every 3 feet and vertically every 10 feet. A mid-story guide should be installed for pipes 2 inches diameter and smaller.

Fitting copper to PVC sharkbite: Push connect Fitting.

Connecting CPVC pipes to CPVC pipes should be made using solvent cement and

PRODUCT OF THE MONTH: The generation III PowerTac E5 high-power LED flashlight The generation III PowerTac E5 high-power LED flashlight is designed specifically to be the ultimate Every Day Carrying (EDC) and tactical light. It is built with cutting-edge technology, unparalleled performance, exceptional craftsmanship and unbeatable reliability. It comes with a friendly user interface for simple operations and multi-functions for different situations. It is perfectly engineered to be extremely portable and powerful with a highly focused tight beam. It delivers on design, performance, quality and reliability. Its tremendous illuminating power, extraordinary versatility and rugged built quality makes it the preferred choice of many professionals and ideal for home inspection, military, police, adventurists, hunters, search and rescue and other tough or hazardous tasks. •U tilizes a CREE XM-L2 latest LED that enables the E5 to produce an amazing 950 lumen at the brightest level and strobe setting. • 4 different brightness modes for different lighting needs and different battery runtime. • Produces a long throw up to 253+ meters combined with an impressive floodlight to illuminate objects at both long and close distances. • Intelligently designed friendly user interface for tactical and self defense uses, integrated easy and simple side switch for quick change of functions. • Unique digital circuit control technology to maximize battery life and consistent light output performance. • Protects electronics against damage caused by improper battery installation through a reverse polarity protection circuit. • Machined from aircraft grade aluminum. • Maintains its appearance through extreme weather and rugged treatment with a tough, durable Type III anodized finish. • Resists water damage by a precision O-ring sealed design to provide reliable use in extreme conditions. • Tempered glass resists breakage or scratching on impact, double-sided coating maximizes light output. • Preserves LED and electronic components with a superior heat sink designed for quick & better heat dispersion. • Incorporates a built-in removable pocket clip. • Includes a high quality holster designed to fit belts of various sizes. • Defends against physical attack with a crenellated bezel on both the head and tail cap for self defense uses. • Advanced ergonomic design with anti-slip knurling and matte style finish for firm grip. • Stand on tail cap to serve as lamp. 

This flashlight is available at www.quill.com/ashi and as an ASHI member, you can sign in and receive free shipping and discounts on all orders you place.

23February 2015

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444Plumbing Pipes

a fitting. A primer is usually not required. A threaded fitting is fine too. Connection to other water supply pipes such as copper tubing and PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) can use a push connect fitting such as Sharkbite® or an adapter fitting. Galvanized Steel Galvanized steel pipe shares grandfather status with cast iron pipe. It was the go-to water distribution pipe from the 1850s to the 1950s and was often used as interior DWV pipe during that era. It is a welladjusted pipe during its service life, but like some seniors it can get a little cranky it its later years, and can experience physical problems similar to those suffered by cast iron pipe. Galvanized steel pipe’s expected service life is around 50 years. Its weakness is rust. It rusts from the inside, so evidence of impending breakage is usually not visible. The rust and debris from the water tend to block the pipe as it ages so reduced functional flow is common for this water distribution pipe. The rusted interior is rough and blockage of this drainage pipes is also common. An end of life comment may be prudent when inspecting galvanized steel pipe. Galvanized steel pipe is usually a dull gray. It should be supported horizontally every 10 feet and vertically every 15 feet. A mid-story guide is not necessary nor is protection against puncture when the pipe is installed in concealed space. Connection between galvanized steel pipes is made using threaded fittings. Connection to other water supply pipes such as CPVC and PEX can use an adapter fitting. Connection to copper tubing requires a dielectric or brass fitting to avoid electrolysis and the resulting corrosion. Connection to other DWV pipes is described in those pipe sections. PEX Tubing PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) tubing is the quirky teenager of pipes. It has been around in North America since the 1980s 24

ASHI Reporter | February 2015

and its use has expanded rapidly in new construction since the 2000s. It’s very common in many markets and uncommon in others. PEX is used as interior water distribution pipe and sometimes as water service pipe. Older versions are milky white and newer versions are color coded, red for hot and blue for cold. Milky white is still used. Any color can carry hot or cold water. PEX’s service life is estimated to be over 50 years. PEX should be supported horizontally every 32 inches and vertically every 10 feet. A mid-story guide should be installed for pipes 2 inches diameter and smaller. Support near manifolds and fittings is especially important because this is where PEX is most likely to leak if the connections are subject to stress. Connecting PEX tubing to PEX tubing should be made using fittings supplied by the PEX manufacturer and that are sealed using compression or crimp rings. Fittings are usually plastic, brass, or copper. The rings are usually plastic, brass, bronze, or stainless steel. Connection to other water supply pipes such as copper tubing and CPVC can use a push connect fitting such as Sharkbite® or an adapter fitting may be used. Some PEX is starting to act out. The most common problem is dezincification of yellow brass fittings produced from about 1996 to about 2010. Zinc is leached from the fitting producing a white powder at the fittings and sometimes blocking the fittings reducing functional flow. Lawsuits have been filed and some have been settled. The most famous of these lawsuits is the Zurn QestPEX suit. Look for yellow brass fittings stamped with Q or QPEX. Other defects have been alleged, but these defects have yet to be well substantiated. The PEX drama looks as though it has a way to go before it plays out. Polybutylene (PB) Tubing PB (polybutylene) tubing has a well-known

history of bad behavior. It was installed in North America from the late 1970s to the mid-1990s. It is common in some markets like the South, Southeast, and Pacific Northwest and is uncommon in other markets. It was, however, used in other countries too. PB was used as interior water distribution pipe and as water service pipe. It is usually gray/blue color and it was also produced in blue and black. PB’s service life is uncertain. PB should be supported horizontally every 32 inches and vertically every 4 feet. Support near fittings is especially important because this is where PB is most likely to leak if the connections are subject to stress. Connecting PB tubing to PB tubing should be made using fittings that are sealed using crimp rings. Fittings from the 1980s were often plastic with aluminum rings. Fittings from the 1990s were often brass with copper rings. Connection to other water supply pipes such as copper tubing and CPVC an adapter fitting. Connection of PB using a push connect fitting may not conform to the fitting manufacturer’s instructions. PB failures are more common with the plastic/aluminum installations of the 1980s and are less common with the brass/ copper installations of the 1990s. Failure indications include corrosion, mineral deposits, and active leaks at the fittings. The Bottom Line Like most families, the plumbing pipe family has some well-adjusted members and some black sheep. The Word hopes that you now have a better feel for how to identify which is which. Memo to Neptune: 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. 

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February 2015 | www.ASHIReporter.org

What do you do When Someone “Sells” Your Repor t?

444What do you do When Someone “Sells” Your Repor t?

What do you do When Someone “sells” Your Report? BY RANDY WEST, ACI

This has happened to all home inspectors. You complete a home inspection and report for Buyer A. A month later you get a call from Buyer B. Buyer A did not buy the home, and someone provided Buyer B with a copy of your report. Buyer B has some questions for you.

Once I gave my usual response to the phone call from Buyer B. He said I had to answer his questions because he paid $200 for my report (1/2 price). Buyer B now assumed he had an inspection report that was "his" because he "bought" the report. He was very upset when I told him that I had no obligations to him. He had no Inspection Agreement with me, he did not pay me, and his name was not on the report. I answered a few questions for him, but told him he could not rely on that two month-old report, and I would not be available to answer further questions.

We all handle this call differently. I will answer a few basic questions, but I explain to Buyer B that I have no contractual obligation with him and that conditions at a home can change rapidly. I also advise him to get his own inspection, and sometimes offer a 10% discount since the inspection and report should take less time. Often he orders the inspection. Sometimes he orders an inspection on a different home later, because I was helpful on

Recently a local Realtor had “includes a recent home inspection report” in an advertisement for a home. I will admit this bothered me a little, so I took an "unofficial poll" of 10 long-term home inspectors. After describing the situation, including how I handle these calls, I asked the inspectors two questions.

the phone. 26

ASHI Reporter | February 2015

First: how do you handle the call from Buyer B with your report that was done for Buyer A? Most of them do what I do. After explaining they have no obligation or "relationship" with the new buyer, they will answer a few basic questions. Three inspectors said they would not answer any questions under these circumstances. This was not asked, but four inspectors said they would offer a discount if the last inspection was only a month or two ago. Two inspectors said they would never offer a discount.

Second: I also asked if it would bother them to see their report ‘advertised’ to other people. Four said no, this is typical and unstoppable. three said yes it would bother them, but not a lot because they know it happens (I’m in this group). Two said they would contact the agent and politely ask her to stop, and one said he would contact the agent and not so politely ask her to stop. I discussed this with "Bob", a local real estate attorney who has hired me as an expert witness. He said it would be very difficult to prevent a seller from handing out your report. Copyright infringement is hard to enforce or prove in this day and age, and you usually have to prove some type of financial loss. Copyright protection prevents you from copying information. It does not prevent you "giving" something away. The example Bob used is he buys a new Tom Clancy book for $40. After he reads it he gives it to me. Or he offers to sell it to me for $20, or I offer to pay him $20 for it. Either way, Tom Clancy does not make a dime off this. Once you buy a book, you can do anything you want with the actual book. If you make 30 copies of the book to sell, or copy a significant amount to use in your own book, that would be copyright infringement (and/or plagiarism). One of the gray areas here is the seller or listing Realtor do not sign (or likely even see) our Inspection Agreement. We can try to limit the use of the inspection report however we want by our clients. But our

typical client is a home buyer, and the Arizona real estate purchase agreement requires the buyer to give a copy of the report to the seller. The seller is required to disclose any known conditions of the home to prospective buyers. So if a seller has to disclose what’s "in" the report, why not just give the buyer the report? We all have disclosures/disclaimers in our reports like “not technically exhaustive,” “visual only inspection,” or “conditions observed at the time of the inspection.” Bob recommends putting a disclaimer near the beginning of the report similar to this: “This inspection was performed for James Kirk on January 10, 2015. Under no circumstances should this report be relied on after 30 days (or use the date, e.g., February 10, 2015). This report is for the sole use of Mr. Kirk for this time period only. The inspector has no obligation to anyone other than Mr. Kirk and only for the specified time period.” Bob pointed out this disclosure would help limit the inspector's liability. But it also alerts anyone who is not our client that we have no obligation to them, legal

or otherwise, and that there is a time limit for this report. The 30 days, or whatever time limit you choose, has nothing to do with statutes of limitations imposed by a state or regulatory agency. It has to do with how long your report is "valid." This is not unreasonable. Appraisals and septic system inspections performed for a real estate transaction have time limits.

As far as a Realtor "advertising" that a home inspection report is available, she probably is not violating any laws. However, many actions are not "illegal" but not quite ethical, and Bob feels this falls into that category. Offering an inspection report to an interested buyer, or leaving it on the kitchen counter, is one thing. Announcing to the world a report is available is another.

ASHI CERTIFIED INSPECTOR

The Gold Standard of Home Inspectors™ The ASHI Certified Inspector logo has been trademarked for use only by persons who have reached this level of competency within ASHI. Inspectors who qualify for use of the gold logo are encouraged to use it on marketing materials, vehicles and websites.

ASHI Associates: Step up to ACI ACI (ASHI Certified Inspector) is the Gold Standard of ASHI and the only home inspector certification recognized by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.

This might cause Buyer B to think he could rely on this report, since it was "advertised," and may prevent him from having his own inspection or performing other due diligence. Disclaimer: I am not an attorney and wrote this column for informational purposes only. Regulations, rules and "standard operating procedures" will be different in your state and area. You should consult with a local attorney before revising your inspection agreement or report in any way.  Randy West owns Professional Building Consultants in Prescott, AZ, and has performed over 8000 home inspections. Randy has been writing a bi-monthly column in the Prescott Courier since 2005. He served on the Arizona Chapter Board of Directors for 10 years and currently serves on the Home Inspector Rules and Standards Committee for the Arizona Board of Technical Registration. Contact him at randywest2@gmail.com, www. inspectprescott.com.

The ACI (ASHI Certified Inspector) gold logo is the mark of a professional home inspector. To earn ACI designation, inspectors in this category have: • Passed the National Home Inspector Examination and ASHI’s Standards and Ethics module. • Had inspection reports successfully verified for compliance with ASHI’s Standards of Practice. • Submitted valid proof of performance of at least 250 fee-paid home inspections that meet or exceed the ASHI Standards of Practice.

About Certification

ASHI has met the rigorous requirements of the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) as a certifying body, therefore it is able to offer the only third-party approved home inspector certification program.

27February 2015

| www.ASHIReporter.org

ASHI Community New Inspector Status, ASHI Chapters, Council News

New ASHI Associates

New ASHI Inspectors

As of December 1, 2014.

Mathew Birkedahl

Home Inspection KC Kansas City, MO

Willis, TX

CS Inspections, LLC Atlanta, GA

H P aul Lovegren Wildwood, MO

CeS Inspections, LLC Spring, TX

HD amian Vu

Derek Kenerson

HR obert Allen Jr.

Kenerson Home Inspection Services Ctr Barnstead, NH

Centreville, VA

Bessemer, AL

Stone Mountain, GA

HR ussell Hardage

Craig Singley

HighCrest Home Inspections, LLC Pelham, AL

H E merson Paulk

Stockbridge , GA

Wetumpka, AL

HD erek Phillips

Benjamin Wesley

Mobile, AL

Hale Inspections, LLC Wailuku, HI

H S evan Avanesian

Doug Dicken

Glendale, CA

Doug Dicken Home Inspection, LLC Bloomington, IL

Donald Durham WIN Home Inspection Yucaipa Yucaipa, CA

HK evin Raugstad Arlinghton Heights, IL

H L evy Estrada

HM unyong Seol

Levy Estrada Landscapes Imperial, CA

Park Ridge, IL

H A fshin Khalilzadeh

Pinnacle Property Inspections Overland Park, KS

Paramount Property Inspections Tarzana, CA

Robert Pardi Lakeside, CA

HB rent Pascoe Dana Point, CA

Patrick Jaschek, PE Home Inspection Engineers Wheat Ridge, CO

Michael Chenette Summit Home Inspections, LLC Preston, CT

HG ordon Whelan Stamford, CT

Michael Whitman

Neil Pinnick

HD aryl Vohs Olathe, KS

Joshua Birkins Maryland Home Inspectors, Inc. dba Pillar to Post Columbia, MD

HM atthew DuBois

Michael Mess On-D-Mand Inspections, LLC Brick, NJ

Dennis Whitaker Quality Construction Advisor, Inc.. Las Vegas, NV

Jason Brys Mentor, OH

HR yan Cunningham West Jefferson, OH

Tyler Thompson Piqua, OH

Don Weber Weber Home Inspections Euclid, OH

Roger Owen Superior Inspection Services Rogue River, OR

William Dare

Paul Cummins No Surprises Home Inspection NOVA-DC, LLC Alexandria, VA

HM att Dent

Ehly G. Steven

Ashburn, VA

Stephen Crowell Kennewick, WA

Kyle Foster Eagle Eye Inspection Camano Island, WA

H J ason Gregory

New ASHI Certified Home Inspectors As of December 1, 2014

HM ichael Johnson Seattle, WA

Ed Fifer Clear View Inspections LLC Phoenix, AZ

ProTec Inspection Services Inc. Poolesville, MD

Spotlight Home Inspection, LLC Harleysville, PA

Kate Johnson

John Denison

Seattle, WA

Aaron Hunt

HouseMaster Cranberry Twp, PA

Charles Poteet

Hunt Property Inspections Colorado Springs, CO

Maryland Home Inspectors, Inc. dba Pillar to Post Columbia, MD

Dan McCarthy HouseMaster Pittsburgh, PA

HD . Thurston McMurray

North Central Home Inspections Lake Stevens, WA

McCarroll Services Inc.. Brighton, MI

HouseMaster Cranberry Twp, PA

HK evin Wicklund

ASHI Reporter | February 2015

Boiling Springs, PA

Issaquah, WA

John McCarroll

St. Marys, GA

St. Louis, MO

H J arrett Ziegler

HD avid Schuldt

H J onathan Nelson

Benchmark Inspections LLC Mishawaka, IN

Tactical Inspections LLC Woodridge, VA

Naples, FL

Home-Probe, Inc. Decatur, GA

Scott Kinrade

Quality Home Inspection Services STL, LLC St. Louis, MO

H T erry Krebs

Seattle, WA

Mark Kinzie

Spencer Home Inspections Deerfield, IL

Todd Smith

McLean, VA

George Richardson

Smyrna, GA

J. Spencer Prodromos

Anthony Kelly

Silver Springs, MD

HK evin Faust

INSPECTOR

Greg Drago

HD aniel Lunsford

Acworth, GA

Murphree Building Inspections Templeton, CA

Urbiquity, LLC Vienna, VA

H C hristopher Rokus

H J ohn Crowder

Johnny Murphree

C.E. Schultz

Wilton, CT

Tri-County Home Inspection Services Fort Myers, FL

Casey Homoly

H S tephen Rhodes

Michael Colson Michael Colson Home Inspection Services, LLC Fordland, MO

P. Timothy Cribb Pillar Professional Services Macks Creek, MO

Tim Feth Patriot Inspections Beaufort, MO

As of December 1, 2014

H D enotes graduate of The ASHI School H C orry Green

FEBRUARY ANNIVERSARIES

Michael Sporik Sporik Inspection Solutions Harrisburg, PA

H A drienne Taggart Sterling Home Inspection Services Puyallup, WA

Michael Marzion

Carlisle, PA

Five One Home Inspections Wauwatosa, WI

HR obert Warth

John Nelson

Mark Stuczynski

Laverock, PA

Paul Waslin Home 101, LLC Souderton, PA

H J erry Ross

Countdown Inspections, LLC Cambridge, WI

HD anial Gillihan Casper, WY

Thirty Five Years Richard Heyl William Warren

Twenty Five Years Donald Lovering Richard Martin John Vaccarello

Twenty Years

Ronald Scott David Tamny Peter Hitt Don Archer Marko Vovk Michael Parker Roderick VanGordon Michael Henderson Tim Hamilton Robert Knepshield David Muirhead

Erick Miller Jim Cornish John Turner Mark Roy Peter Dean Richard Belliveau Louis Schneider Charles Chisholm Jeffery Blixt Wade Pennington Chuck LeCraw Scott Dalbey Jerold Sweet Ron Schloderer Wayne Robbins Timothy Miller William Neal Herbert Scott Joe DeLaurentis Sr. Thomas Feiza Rob Amaral

Fifteen Years Gregory Barris Mark Warren Loran Olson Rod Zimmerman Frank Friedel Richard Scroggins Charles Oxford Lanol Leichty Daniel Cullen Kyle Ernst Alex Steinberg Kevin Westendorff Lewis White Michael Meyer Mark Lindgren Joseph Schwab

Ten Years

Five Years

Doug Stricker George Blair Steve Rush Kurtis Witt Daniel Smullen Daniel Slee Richard Zak Ronald Black Frank Casillas Don Martin Matthew Merlino John Dubbs Daniel Kelly Mark Meserth Paul Roebuck Richard Raymond Jack Koelling John Crampton Chris Lowe

Kevin Quigley William Stambaugh Scott Taylor Matthew Klein Matthew Tracy Dan Gregorio John Zion Dan Vanderstelt Rick Bryant Ron Richardson Larry Boudreaux Thomas Kemper Murray Parish

ASHI Chapter Education North Central Ohio & Ohio ASHI Chapters Inspector Expo When: February 27, 28 and March 1, 2015 Where: Holiday Inn, Worthington, OH CEUs: 17 ASHI CEs Contact: thompsonbk@kinghome-inspection.com

ASHI New Mexico Chapter Education Seminar When: March 7, 2015 8:00 am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8:00 pm Where: The Pecos Trail Inn 2239 Old Pecos Trail Santa Fe, NM 87505 CEUs: 8 ASHI CEs Contact: Charles R. Smith; ASHI NM, Secretary 505.670.4442 prevuesf@gmail.com

To have your chapter seminar listed here: Email all information about your chapter seminar to micheleg@ ashi.org. Information also will be picked up from CE applications.

Deadlines are the 1st of the month prior to the issue in which you would like your information to appear.

Nick Pickert Structure Tech Home Inspections Mound, MN

Gregory Cox Fairfax, VA

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. Click on ASHI Online Learning Center

Easy. Education. Excellent.

Franklin, TN February 2015 | www.ASHIReporter.org

ASHI Chapters

Find the Chapter Nearest You and Join Today

444ASHI Of f icers for 2015

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

NEW ENGLAND/CANADA www.cahpi-alberta.com Bert Bruinsma, 403-348-5550 Red.deer@homealyze.com

www.cnyashi.com Second Wednesday, 6 pm, Tony’s Family Restaurant, Syracuse Dan Hager, 315-440-1237 Dhager3@yahoo.com

British Columbia

First State (DE)

Alberta

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

CAHPI Atlantic

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

CAHPI Ontario

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

Coastal Connecticut

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)

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

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

Greater Rochester (NY)

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

Hudson Valley (NY)

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

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

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

Prairies (Alberta) (CAHI)

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

Quebec AIBQ

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

Southern New England (CT)

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

NEW YORK/JERSEY/ DELAWARE Capitol Region (NY)

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

Central New York

ASHI Reporter | February 2015

www.ashirochester.com Second Tuesday, 6 pm, Murph’s Irondequoit Pub, Irondequoit John White, 585-431-0067 john@iihomeinspections.com SecondTuesday, 6 pm, Daddy O’s Restaurant 3 Turner Street Hopewell Junction, NY 12533 Michael Skok, 845-592-1442 ashistatewide@yahoo.com

Long Island (NY)

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

New York Metro

www.nyashi.com Last Thursday, Eldorado West Restaurant-Diner, Tarrytown Stephen P. Tyler, 845-521-4144

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 First Thursday, 6:30 pm, Independence Golf Club, Midlothian Continues top of next column ...

Ray McMurdy, 804-639-1171 ray@capitolinspections.com

Greater Baltimore (MD)

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

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

MAC-ASHI (MD, VA)

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

NOVA-ASHI (MD, VA)

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

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

SOUTH ATLANTIC ASHI Georgia

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

GULF ASHI South (AL)

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

Central Florida

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

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

Florida Wiregrass

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

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

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

Gulfstream (FL)

East Tennessee

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

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

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 Larry Conway, 336-669-0679 ncashi@triad.rr.com

Ralph Cabal, 305-256-7369 info@cabalinspections.com

Lone Star (TX)

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

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. George W. Kasimirsky, 724-747-7321 www.npiweb.com/kasimirsky

Tri-State (DE, NJ, PA)

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

MIDWEST Central Illinois

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

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

Greater Omaha (NE)

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

Heartland (IA, MN, ND, SD, WI) www.ashiheartland.com Todd Wiessner, 612-747-6382 twiessner@comcast.net

Indiana ASHI

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

Iowa ASHI

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

Kentuckiana (IN, KY)

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

Mid-Missouri

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

Northern Illinois

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

SOUTH MIDWEST

Great Plains (KS, MO)

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

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

St. Louis (MO)

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

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

Arizona

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

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

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

Northern Colorado

Oregon

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

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

Rocky Mountain

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

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

San Joaquin Valley (CA)

Fourth Tuesday, 6:30 pm Phil Tatro, 303-838-5175 phil@fspiinc.com

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

Southern Colorado

Silicon Valley ASHI-CREIA (CA)

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

Utah

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

PACIFIC

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

Inland Northwest (ID, WA)

MOUNTAIN

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

ASHI Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Western Washington

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

Golden Gate (CA)

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

31February 2015

| www.ASHIReporter.org

Your ASHI

444Your ASHI

Your Link to Membership News and Information

NORTHERN ILLINOIS CHAPTER of The American Society of Home Inspectors presented Kim McGraw from The Mission Continues a check to help veterans in community developments. Presenting the check is Jeremy Meek Treasurer NICASHI and Steve Reilly, President NICASHI. To learn more about Mission Continues www.missioncontinues.org. NICASHI donates annually to different veterans organizations. 

CORRECTIONS "I apologize for omitting both the Election Committee and the Education Committee in the January Reporter. They deserve recognition for their hard work and I regret the oversight."

THOUGHTS ON INSPECTIONWORLD® 2015 January 11, 2015 Greetings to All and Congratulations, I just arrived home from an eight-and-a half-hour drive. I enjoy those long drives as a time to reflect and think. Just one year ago while returning from Nashville I personally had grave concerns that Philadelphia would be like the poorly attended New Orleans IW after the destructive hurricane Katrina. I had a wonderful time and enjoyed learning from all of the great presenters. In an organizations as large as ours you will always have “you should have done” comments. But most of those members were not willing to roll up their sleeves and work nine months ago. And of course the biggest critics are now climbing on the “bandwagon” wanting to take credit. I just want to commend you and your committee on a successful IW and we know who rightfully deserves the credit. Rather than

ASHI Reporter | February 2015

complain and accept defeat you worked to make the 2015 one of the best ever! I am looking forward to San Diego, with the location and a warm weather destination, the sky is the limit! While I will admit by December the Rocky music on hold sounded a bit tattered, I can’t wait to hear California Dreaming or my favorite, Hotel California (by the EAGLES) this year.

Frank Lesh Executive Director American Society of Home Inspectors 847-954-3182 frankl@ashi.org EDUCATION Greg Noyes, Chairman Sylmar, CA John D’Arpino Rochester, NY Peter Jung Germantown, MD

ELECTION COMMITTEE Larry Hoytt Joe Corsetto Mark Cramer Jay Balin Miki Mertz Brendan Ryan

Mario Lucciola St. Catharinas, ON

Sincerely, David Haught, ACI, MIES, EP

Harry Janssen Guelph, ON

Frank, I whole heartedly agree with Dave’s comments. IW Philly was certainly an exceptional conference. Kudos to all who contributed and made it happen. Thanks for the opportunity to be a part of such a wonderful event!

Michael Wicklund Puyallup, WA

Kevin Westendorff, ACI Lowcountry Home Inspection, Inc. 

The Reporter would also like to correct: Complaints (CEPP) not (CEEPP) on page 34 of the January 2015 Reporter.

Scot McLean Bayside, WI Greg Grabs Bismarck, ND

ASHI-ENDORSED MEMBERSHIP BENEFIT PROGRAMS ASHI’s E&O Insurance Program: Business Risk Partners (BRP) www.inspectorinsurance.com 866-268-1327 ASHI Personal Lines Insurance Program: Liberty Mutual www.libertymutual.com/ashi ASHI Service Program BuildFax Susan Ward, 855.237.8711 http://land.buildfax.com/buildfax-specialpricing-for-ashi-members/ support@buildfax.com ASHI Customer Appreciation Program: Moverthankyou.com Brent Skidmore, 864-386-2763 www.moverthankyou.com Brent@POWRsoft.com HomeAdvisor.com Brett Symes, 913-529-2683 www.homeadvisor.com ashi@homeadvisor.com LegalShield Joan Buckner, 505-821-3971 buckner.legalshieldassociate.com thenowbenefit@comcast.net InspectionContracts.com Dave Goldstein, 800.882.6242 www.inspectioncontracts.com david@inspectoreducation.com OneSource Solutions 877.274.8632 http://www.osconnects.com/ashi/

ASHI Rebate Program Quill.com Dana Fishman, 800.634.0320 x1417 www.quill.com/ashi dana.fishman@quill.com Platinum Provider Millionaire Inspector Community Mike Crow www.mikecrow.com dreamtime@mikecrow.com Mention that you are an ASHI member

ASHI-ENDORSED EXAMS ASHI Standard and Ethics Education Module Go to www.homeinspector.org, click on Education and Training, then click on the link for the ASHI Standard of Practice Education Module. NHIE Exam: 847-298-7750 www.homeinspectionexam.org

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

Porch.com Eliab Sisay, 206.218.3920 www.porch.com Eliab@porch.com

Current ASHI Membership ASHI Certified Inspectors: 3,096 Inspectors/Logo: 92 Associates: 1,545 Retired Members: 86 Affiliates: 68 TOTAL: 4,887

as of December 31, 2014

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ASHI Event Calendar

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

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

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

January 24-27, 2016 InspectionWorld® and ASHI Board Meetings San Diego, CA

33February 2015

| www.ASHIReporter.org

You Tell Us Letters From Our Readers

RICK HARTMANN'S ARTICLE, "Top 16 Things I Learned (the Hard Way) in the Last Ten Years" was great. I wish I could have learned all of those things the easy way, just by reading the ASHI Reporter. Unfortunately, I've learned most of those things the hard, expensive and embarrassing way. I don't mean to take away from his article, but #16 trashes real estate agents by saying "all you are is a necessary evil that is standing in the way of their commission check." While this may be true for an unscrupulous minority of real estate agents, I've found that the most successful and long-lasting agents are the ones with integrity, honesty and a good work ethic. They want a good home inspector who will tell it like it is, not sugarcoat their findings to help the sale along. To paint all real estate agents with this broad brush is cynical and unproductive. For the greater good of our industry, I'd like to encourage all home inspectors to avoid these kinds of comments. I would also ask the editing staff at the ASHI Reporter to not print these kinds of comments. Thank you, and keep up the good work. Reuben Saltzman Structure Tech Home Inspections



TO THE EDITOR: I would like to expand on a statement made by Bruce Barker in his article on CSST gas piping. He notes that the piping must be properly bonded and grounded to protect it against lightning. However, he does not mention why the protection is necessary and what the problem is, which can be substantial. A lightning strike, even an indirect one, can electrically energize the air. If the CSST piping is at a different potential from adjacent piping or any other metal, a spark can result, and due to the thinness of the metal, cause it to perforate, leak and possibly result in a fire and/or explosion. Several such occurrences have resulted in 34

ASHI Reporter | February 2015

class action lawsuits which have already been settled. One went to trial and was judged in favor of the plaintiff. This ruling is being appealed. Due to this problem, one manufacturer has attempted to rectify the problem by covering the CSST with a heavy shield. I think that inspectors should be made aware of this problem so that they can properly advise their clients, thus protecting their clients and themselves.

On the other hand, it is your job to evaluate the roof and heating system. These items are within your expected body of expertise.

I have attached an article, for your consideration for publication in the Reporter, on Explainers/Disclaimers. We use it in our report to advise our clients of potential problems with various components and issues encountered during an inspection. One of them deals with CSST in greater detail.

In the "evaluate by others" scenario, it generally appears the home inspector has failed to do one of these.

Sincerely, Victor J. Faggella President Centurion Home Inspections, Inc. This is the link to Victor's disclaimers article: http://www.homeinspector.org/membersonly/ docs/explainers_and_disclaimers.pdf 

THIS SUGGESTION WAS SENT TO US in a letter format to his inspectors from Stuart Zwang: Dear Inspector, Every entity has different requirements and different "hot buttons." One of ours is a recommendation by a home inspector to "review by others" or "evaluate by contractor." The reason this has become an issue is there many inspectors who use this verbiage. When it is used, the client has to hire a roofer, heating contractor, etc. Certainaly there are times it is indeed necessary to do this, particularly with mold or structural issues. We understand that these items are not generally within the expertise of a home inspector.

After you have evaluaed these systems, it is your job to: • Present the fact • Develop an opinion • Offer guidance

We have clients who insist if an inspector tells us to "evaluate by others" either he does not know what he is doing or does not want to take responsibility for his report. In this situation, it has also been suggested we take the funds earmarked for the inspector and pay others out of this fee.

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Here are some ideas to approach this problem: • If the item is not working, say it, i.e., "Not performing within expected parameters. Repair or replacement is required." • If it is working but old, try, "Item is operating at the time of inspetion, however, it is at the end (beyond) its expected service life. Budget for nearterm replacement. Please take this matter under advisement and make necessary adjustments as you prepare the next report for our company. Thank you in advance for your asistance. Stuart Zwang, P.E. 1st Inspection Network 

35February 2015

| www.ASHIReporter.org

444 Preparing for an IRS Audit

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

Where are my Vice Grips?

Hope the Plumber is Skinny The ejector pump is located behind furnace between new bathroom tub/shower and concrete basement walls.

Bruce Lenser All American Home Inspections High Country, LLC Sedona, AZ

Hey Dude, You Misplaced the Wire!

Chomp, Chomp, Chomp...

Electric Chair

ASHI Reporter | February 2015

Jim Foss Best Inspection, Inc. Anchorage, AK

Jason Gingery, Viewpoint Inspections, Santa Cruz, CA

Heated Garage

Sky Box

Seller decided to vent the dryer thru the firewall of the garage into the garage rather than get the vent cleaned out!! And yes, there are other issues!!

Needless to say, this HVAC 240v disconnect doesn't look "right" or safe!!

Not only did the squirrels chew through the plumbing vent boot, but also the PVC vent pipe to get into the attic. I also found a 4" diameter hole they made in a fascia board. Needless to say they also chewed on the wiring in the attic. Rick Rogers Home Inspection Services Norcross, GA

The home owner doesn't have step drill bit to add a hole in the sink, so, air gap goes under the sink. Oops, it leaks, so let's duct tape it closed, no water out, no air in.

The attached photo is a new inexpensive way to block the damper for a decorative gas fireplace.

Al Bechtol Champia Real Estate Inspections, LLC Atlanta, GA

Finishing Touch, Attach the Toilet Paper Holder

Isn't There a Redneck Joke About This?

Bob Guyer Guyer Inspections, LLC Simi Valley, CA

Craig Lemmon-ACI Real Estate Inspections of Texas LLC Colleyville, Texas

A home with considerable settlement / soil conditions that the trusses in the attic are pulling apart.

This Home is a Knockout!

You Can Never Have Too Much Support!

9 electrical junction boxes (all uncovered) connected with short runs of live Romex sitting on a metal chair. The new definition of "The Electric Chair."

This isMax a subpanel Curtis in a garage that had one MaxInspect missing knockout. This Livermore, CA allowed a mouse to build a nest at the interior of the panel.

Matthew Steger, ACI WIN Home Inspection Lancaster, PA

Gary Chadwick BPG Property Inspection Services Brick, NJ

This Bright Idea is in the Bag This was running a refrigerator.

Dave Grudzinski Advantage Home Inspections Cranston, RI

37February 2015

| www.ASHIReporter.org

On My Mind By ASHI President Alden Gibson

Get to Know the New ASHI President, Alden Gibson ALDEN GIBSON, PRINCIPAL AND owner of Inspections by Gibson, is the incoming 2015 President of ASHI. Here’s a brief Q & A session held with Alden that gives a more up-close and personal picture, demonstrating his passion for the home inspection industry and its related businesses.

Q: When did you begin performing home inspections? A: My first home inspection was in 1992.

With my renovation and construction experience, a closely related skill that was in demand was home inspection. Through my business networks, I researched, investigated and then ultimately completed the Home Inspection Training Program through Carson Dunlop in Toronto, Ontario. I found this course to be very helpful and thorough and feel that it provided me with the comprehensive knowledge to represent my clients thoroughly and fairly. I worked with The Home Inspector for four years and then opened my own business, Inspections by Gibson, in 1996.

Q: Is your business a sole proprietorship or do you have partners in this venture? A: Currently, I am a sole proprietor,

performing 300-350 home inspections per year. I do receive administrative support from my wife. I find that after being married to me for 36 years, she is an excellent sounding board and we work very well together.

Q: How was your skill set developed to prepare you for a career in home inspection? A: Home renovation and construction has

always been an interest for me. To officially connect my interest to a career, I started performing home renovations in 1981 and that led to a transition that resulted in custom home construction during the period from 1987 to 1996.

Q: How have home inspections changed since you first began your inspection career? A: The home construction industry is constantly changing and the building codes change accordingly to reflect this. Keeping current with these changes is a definite requirement to completing a thorough and reliable home inspection. Gathering this type of knowledge is equivalent to continuing education courses for other licensed and/or certified professions.

Q: Why did you become a home inspector? A: I really enjoyed the housing, real estate

and construction industries – and I like helping people. When I can combine the two interests, I can achieve my goals while making a living at the same time. I like to stay connected to the related fields as well and have been able to do that by lecturing to several municipal real estate boards, real estate sales offices, at colleges and for the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors. I’ve also enjoyed being an instructor for both OAHI and CAHPI.

Make Homes

Healthier

Q: Are you affiliated with other home inspection organizations, as well as ASHI? A: I am an active member of the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors (OAHI), the Canadian Association of Home & Property Inspectors, Ontario (CAHPI ON) and the Wood Energy Technology Transfer (WETT). I am also an Associate Member of the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians & Technologists (OACETT) and have held executive positions in many of my associated organizations. I am especially proud of having received the President’s Award from both the Canadian and the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors. Most recently, in 2012, I was pleased to receive the Innovation Award & Customer Service Excellence Award from Mike Holmes Inspections. In addition to my Canadian affiliations, I also conduct inspections for the United States Embassy and provide inspections for the U.S. in Canada for US Inspect and Fidelity Inspections & Consulting Services.

Q: What is your top priority when serving as President during 2015? A: Build the ASHI membership. We are

setting and promoting standards for property inspectors. By providing educational programs through the ASHI School and website for our members to achieve excellence in the profession, we will continue to improve the standards and build on education. The one thing we must understand is that ASHI members are all colleagues, not competitors. 

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