November 2018 Reporter

ASHI

11.18

REPORTER

INSPECTION NEWS & VIEWS FROM THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HOME INSPECTORS, INC.

HONOR I NG A SH I ’ S

M I L I TA RY V E T ER A NS

TECHNICAL FOCUS SURGE PROTECTION FOR SMART HOMES

(AND SMART HOMEOWNERS)

By Mike Twitty, ACI P8

FLASHLIGHT SHOOTOUT 2018

By Rick Bunzel, ACI P32

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ASHI Reporter • November 2018

Radon Gas Test kit Call For Pricing!

ASHI

11.18

REPORTER

November 2018

8

FEATURES 6 M ANAGING RISK

Claim 3: Foundation Damage

By InspectorPro Insurance

Vol. 35, #11

8 TECHNICAL FOCUS

Surge Protection for Smart Homes (and Smart Homeowners)

By Mike Twitty, ACI

16 Honoring ASHI’s

Military Veterans

By ASHI Staff

24 My Chimney Melted

the Vinyl Siding

By Tom Feiza, Mr. Fix-It, Inc. HowToOperateYourHome.com

16

16

28 Are These Violations of the ASHI Code of Ethics?

By Jamison Brown, ASHI Ethics Committee Chair

32

Flashlight Shootout 2018

By Rick Bunzel, ACI

38

TECH TALK

What Is SSL and Why

Your Website Needs it

By Andy Patel, CEO, K-3 Technologies

24 12

DEPARTMENTS 26 ASHI Community 35 Chapter Spotlight

By ASHI Staff

36 Proper Use of the ASHI Logo

By Jen Gallegos

40 Postcards From the Field

32

It’s Wacky Out There

46 The ASHI Foundation of Change

By Mike Wagner, ACI, 2018 ASHI Vice President,

and Chair, ASHI Foundation Task Force

November 2018 • www.ASHIReporter.org

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ASHI National Officers and Board of Directors Educated. Tested. Verified. Certified.

A S H I M I S SIO N STATEM EN 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.

OFFICERS Tim Buell, President Marysville, OH, 614-746-7485 tim.buell@gmail.com

Bruce Barker, Treasurer Cary, NC, 919-322-4491 bruce@dreamhomeconsultants.com

Scott Patterson, President-Elect Spring Hill, TN, 615-302-1113 scott@traceinspections.com

Michael Conley, Secretary Anna Maria, FL, 941-778-2385 FLinspector@outlook.com

Mike Wagner, Vice President Westfield, IN, 317-867-7688 mwagner@ralis.com

Howard Pegelow, Immediate Past-President Gilbert, AZ, 414-379-4186 hpegelow@yahoo.com

DIRECTORS Bronson Anderson 2018-2020 Waynesboro, VA, 540-932-7557 2inspect4u@gmail.com

Darrell Hay 2018-2019 Snohomish, WA, 206-226-3205 darrell@safesoundhome.com

Eric Barker 2018-2020 Lake Barrington, IL, 847-408-7238 ebarker@morainewoods.com

Reuben Saltzman 2017-2019 Maple Grove, MN, 952-915-6466 reuben@structuretech1.com

Bob Sisson 2018-2020 Shannon Cory 2018-2020 Boyds MD, 301-208-8289 Fayetteville, GA, 770-461-3408 shannon@rainbowhomeinspections.com Office@inspectionsbybob.com James J. Funkhouser 2017-2019 Manassas Park, VA, 571-214-4039 jfunkhousr@aol.com

Blaine Swan 2016-2018 Columbus, OH, 614-506-0647 goodeyeinspections@gmail.com

Bryck Guibor 2017-2019 Tucson, AZ, 520-795-5300 bryck@msn.com

John Wessling 2016-2018 St. Louis, MO, 314-520-1103 john@wesslinginspections.com

Richard Hart 2016-2018 Conyers, GA, 770-827-2200 Ashi1@comcast.net

Speaker, Council of Representatives Hollis Brown, 2017-2018 Manassas, VA, 703-754-8872 Inspectors@ThoroSpec.com

Skip Walker 2018-2019 San Bruno, CA, 650-873-4224 homeinspection@sanbrunocable.com

Publisher: James Thomas Editor: Carol Dikelsky Art Director: Kate Laurent Assistant Art Director: George Ilavsky American Society of Home Inspectors, Inc. 932 Lee Street, Suite 101 Des Plaines, IL 60016

847-954-3179 Reporter calls only 847-299-2505 (fax) Reporter only Email: jamest@ashi.org Advertising: Dave Kogan Phone: 847-954-3187, Email: davek@ashi.org

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

Copyright© 2018, ASHI. None of the content of this publication may be reproduced, in any manner, without the prior written consent of the publisher. Inclusion of or specific mention of any proprietary product within does not imply endorsement of, nor does exclusion of any proprietary product imply non-endorsement, by the American Society of Home Inspectors, Inc. Opinions or statements of authors and advertisers are solely their own, and do not necessarily represent the opinions or positions of ASHI, its agents or editors. See above for information pertaining to submission of articles, advertising and related materials.

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ASHI Reporter • November 2018

ASHI STAFF Main Phone: 847-759-2820, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm Mon. - Fri., CST EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR James Thomas, Executive Director, 847-954-3182, jamest@ashi.org Bonnie Bruno-Castaneda, Executive Assistant, Human Resources & Project Coordinator, 847-954-3177, bonnieb@ashi.org EDUCATION, CE APPROVAL, ASHI ONLINE LEARNING CENTER, INSPECTIONWORLD, CHAPTER RELATIONS Michele George, Director of Education, Events and Chapter Relations, 847-954-3188, micheleg@ashi.org MEMBERSHIP & PRODUCT ORDERS Jen Gallegos, Manager of Membership Services & U.S. DOE Home Energy Score Assessor Coordinator, 847-954-3185, jeng@ashi.org Janet George, Membership Services Project Coordinator 847-954-3180, janetg@ashi.org George Herrera, Membership Services Coordinator 847-954-3196, georgeh@ashi.org Michael Krauszowski, Membership Services Administrator 847-954-3175, Michaelk@ashi.org Gaby Nava, Membership Services Administrator 847-954-3176, Gabyn@ashi.org ACCOUNTING Toni Fanizza, Accounting, Purchasing & Human Resources Manager 847-954-3190, tonif@ashi.org Beverly Canham, Financial Assistant, 847-954-3184 beverlyc@ashi.org WEBSITE, INFORMATION SYSTEMS, DATABASE Mike Rostescu, Assistant Executive Director & Director of IT 847-954-3189, miker@ashi.org COMMUNICATIONS Dave Kogan, Director of Marketing & Business Development Advertising, IW Expo Hall, Public Relations 847-954-3187, davek@ashi.org Kate Laurent, Design & Digital Strategy Manager, “ASHI Reporter” Art Director, 847-954-3179, katel@ashi.org Chris Karczewski, Social Media & Digital Strategist 847-954-3183 chrisk@ashi.org George Ilavsky, Graphic Designer & Free Logos, “ASHI Reporter” Assistant Art Director, georgei@ashi.org THE ASHI SCHOOL Michelle Santiago, Education Manager, 847-954-3198 Michelle@theashischool.com Janna Grosso, Education Coordinator, 847-954-3181 jgrosso@theashischool.com Rhonda Robinett, Marketing and Communications Specialist (847) 954-3194 Rhonda@theashischool.com

An Open Letter to the Electrical Industry At Leviton, electrical and consumer safety is not just our pursuit, it’s our passion. Since 1906, safety has been at the forefront of our innovations in product development. One of our proudest safety accomplishments is our work in ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). We have been awarded numerous patents for GFCI innovations including our SmartlockPro® reset lockout feature that prevents power from flowing from a receptacle in the event the GFCI reaches its end-of-life.

A Tradition of Safety True to this tradition of safety first, earlier this year, we introduced the Leviton Load Center with its groundbreaking GFCI technology that exceeds existing UL/ANSI 943 requirements and meets the same auto monitoring requirements as GFCI receptacles. In the interest of consumer safety, we made the decision not to rely on the two exceptions that other GFCI circuit breaker manufacturers relied on to meet the UL/ANSI 943 end-of-life auto-monitoring requirements. What does this mean? In the event a Leviton GFCI circuit breaker experiences failure (open) of the trip solenoid or SCR, the Leviton circuit breaker cannot be reset when tested per the UL/ANSI 943 requirements for auto-monitoring. No other GFCI circuit breaker prevents reset when tested in this manner.

Amendment to UL 943 We believe and take pride in the fact that Leviton’s GFCI circuit breaker was the catalyst for the recent amendment to UL/ANSI 943 through an ANSI consensus process to expand auto-monitoring functionality to all GFCIs -- with NO exceptions. This eliminated the exceptions granted to GFCI circuit breakers for solenoid or SCR failure, allowing manufacturers until May 2021 to meet the new standard.1 At the time, Leviton applauded UL and the Standards Technical Panel for removing the exceptions. However, electricians, builders and consumers must still be cautious in their selection of GFCI circuit breakers. Removal of the exceptions does not mean a safer GFCI circuit breaker.

Recently Published UL Guidance is not in the best interest of Consumer Safety On August 23, 2018, UL published new guidance in which they concluded that a positive visual indication of end-of-life was not necessary to satisfy the amended UL/ANSI 943 standard.2 Rather, the lack of any handle movement is an acceptable visual “indication.” What this means is that the same GFCI circuit breakers that previously relied on the exceptions to UL/ANSI 943 will continue to satisfy UL/ANSI 943 without modification. At Leviton, we believe this is not in the best interest of consumer safety.

GFCI Circuit Breakers are being held to a Lower Standard than GFCI Receptacles Notwithstanding UL’s newly published “guidance,” Leviton believes it is ill-advised to expect a home owner to recognize that a GFCI circuit breaker must be replaced when the handle doesn’t react to the press of the test button.

Our commitment to electrical and consumer safety will never waver. Our customers expect it -- so should the entire industry.

1 UL NMX-J-520-ANCE • CSA C22.2 NO. 144.1-16 • UL 943, February 23, 2018 2 UL Technical Guidance Document, “Visual Indicator” Requirement, Standard 943

November 2018 • www.ASHIReporter.org

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Managing Risk

Managing Risk

Claim 3: Foundation Damage

By InspectorPro Insurance

Note: The Managing Risk column reviews the most common allegations in the industry and provides tips to make inspectors better equipped to prevent claims.

F

WHAT ARE COMMON SIGNS OF FOUNDATION DAMAGE?

WHY IS FOUNDATION DAMAGE SO COMMON AND EXPENSIVE?

The ASHI Standard of Practice (www.homeinspector.org/files/ docs/standards_updated3-4-2015.pdf) dictates the following as the “minimum” standard for home inspectors:

oundation claims are the third most common allegation against home inspectors. However, because foundations are literally the base upon which every home rests, foundation damage claims are one of the most expensive types of claims.

In an industry inundated with meritless claims, it’s important to watch your back. Real estate agents, homebuyers, home sellers and home inspectors all have important roles to play in real estate transactions, which work best when everyone plays their roles with totality and integrity.

Unfortunately, each party’s best interests do not always align. A real estate agent’s primary motivation may be a home’s sale. A buyer may wish to avoid paying for large repairs. A seller’s main aim may be to walk away with the highest offer on their house. Home inspectors, whose job is to point out defects, often seem to be at odds with the other players.

Although we encourage home inspectors to work with real estate agents, buyers and sellers, and we acknowledge the need to market your businesses and serve your customers well, we also encourage you to follow a somber, but effective, mantra: Watch your back.

There are a number of reasons that foundation claims can be so common and costly, but two reasons stand above the rest: Foundation problems are easy to miss and even easier to cover up.

As the one structural component in direct contact with the ground, the foundation is susceptible to geological conditions or soil-related issues. (Think compaction, expansion and subsidence due to moisture, including weather.) Because the causes of most foundation issues often are out of sight, you are left with the symptoms alone to diagnose foundation problems. Such symptoms can be miniscule and often lie in obscure or less accessible places. If you’re not traversing the property with precision and care, you may miss the warning signs of foundation damage.

Which brings us to the uncomfortable truth: We’ve seen our fair share of claims in which the inspector would have seen the signs of foundation damage had the signs not been concealed, had the inspector not been distracted or had the area been accessible. If red flags are going up during your inspection, we invite you to ask: What’s the reason?

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ASHI Reporter • November 2018

Instead of identifying the causes of foundation issues, home inspectors must pinpoint the symptoms.

Managing Risk

NOTE THAT THE STANDARD THAT COVERS FOUNDATION INSPECTIONS IS JUST THAT: a foundation upon which to build. That isn’t to say that

inspectors should ever exceed the Standard of Practice to the point of contradiction. Rather, it means that, as in all professions, the goal shouldn’t be to do the minimum. The goal should be to perform your inspections to the best of your ability.

The following are some, but not all, of the common signs of a weak or damaged foundation: • cracks in the walls, molding, floor tile and foundation itself • uneven or sloped flooring

• windows and doors that are difficult to open or close • separation or space between walls, floors, doors, windows and ceiling

• sagging roof

WHAT CAN INSPECTORS DO? As with all claims prevention, it’s important to have a thorough pre-inspection agreement (https://www.inspectorproinsurance.com/ risk_management/why-pre-inspection-agreement/?utm_source=ASHI%20 Reporter&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=Claim%201) and inspection report (with pictures!). However, to avoid foundation claims specifically, there are certain elements you should draw particular attention to during your inspection and in your inspection report:

NEGATIVE GRADING: A negative grade occurs when, due to the soil’s angle, water naturally flows toward the house. As a home inspector, you’re required to identify the basic grading on the site directly adjacent to the structure. When you look at the soil, does it slope away from or toward the house? Or is the soil flat?

INACCESSIBLE CRAWLSPACES: To catch foundation issues early, it’s essential to observe all of the accessible crawlspace stem walls and foundation components, as well as the home’s exterior. Ask yourself what elements of the foundation are visually identifiable and be sure to inspect those areas carefully.

If you cannot access the entire crawlspace, you must say so in your report, and you should document any obstructions so that you can prove the inaccessibility and stifle negligence allegations that could surface later. Depending on the amount of crawlspace you cannot inspect, you may consider recommending further evaluation from a foundation contractor, who operates under different standards.

SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY: As stated previously, foundation issues aren’t just easy to miss, they’re easy to cover up. If you want to avoid meritless accusations, you need to inspect defensively.

Be aware of what’s going on around you. With more experience inspecting properties, you’ll get a better idea of normal and abnormal inspection conditions. Does it smell like fresh paint in the basement?

Was the floor just carpeted? Are those present at the inspection (for example, the real estate agent, the seller or the buyer) actively drawing your attention away from the inspection?

None of these scenarios are incriminating on their own. However, when you add them up, they should give you pause. Ask questions.

Make sure there’s nothing inhibiting you from doing your job. And if it isn’t possible to appropriately inspect a property due to adverse conditions, inspect it on another day or not at all.

GET CLAIMS PROTECTION After establishing that there’s foundation damage, it’s important to

ABSENT GUTTERS: It’s important to identify the existence or absence clearly communicate your findings to the client. Inspectors recommend of gutters. If gutters are present, how does the guttering system siphon water away so that it doesn’t pool or pond?

CRACKS: A small percentage of foundation claims involve defects in the workmanship, such as the engineering or architectural design specifications of the home. Concrete naturally cracks and most foundations built more than 40 years ago lack rebaring enforcement to limit cracking. Some older homes have foundations made of unreinforced cinder block, which has a tendency to crack.

When it comes to foundation cracks, size does not matter. Foundation cracks are not, and should never be described to be, “typical.” Whether it’s in the basement wall or above a window, if you see a crack, identify it in your report and be sure to include a photograph.

Do not give in to the temptation to weigh in on whether or not a crack is “serious” in nature. Because the majority of foundation damage begins where you cannot see, it’s not always possible to assess a crack’s severity by eye. Without being an alarmist, you can effectively report foundation cracks and invite clients to seek further evaluation by a structural engineer. Doing so protects not just you, but the client as well.

emphasizing the limitations of an inspection and explaining their findings in terms the client can understand.

Even if you do everything right, you can still get a foundation damage claim. That’s why it’s essential to carry errors and omissions insurance (E&O) for defense and payout help. Contact your InspectorPro broker or submit an application (https://www.inspectorproinsurance. com/application/?utm_source=ASHI%20Reporter&utm_medium=Referral&utm_campaign=Claim%201) with us to receive a quote at no obligation.

UP NEXT MONTH: MOLD CLAIMS InspectorPro Insurance is ASHI’s one and only Premier Insurance Partnership. Through risk management education, pre-claims assistance and straightforward coverage, InspectorPro gives you peace of mind and unparalleled protection. Learn more and apply for a quote at inspectorproinsurance.com.

7November 2018

• www.ASHIReporter.org

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Technical Focus

TECHNICAL FOCUS

SURGE PROTECTION FOR SMART HOMES (AND SMART HOMEOWNERS)

By Mike Twitty, ACI

A

Mike Twitty began his home inspection business after retiring from Ford Motor Company, where he worked as an industrial electrician. Mike is a licensed electrician in Tennessee, and holds certifications from the ICC as a residential building inspector and residential electrical inspector. Mike serves on the ASHI technical review committee and regularly teaches seminars for home inspectors.

long with the ever-growing development of new technology for electrical components, smart lighting and smart appliances comes advanced electronic-controlling systems. In simpler times, the use of relays, contactors, rheostats and hard-wired switches took care of most residential lighting- and appliance-controlling applications.

TYPE 1 SPDs

The benefits of advanced technology are many, but there is a potential downside. Electronic circuits and components are much more sensitive and easily damaged than older, hard-wired circuits. A printed circuit board can be destroyed by something as seemingly harmless as a static electrical charge. So, you can imagine the possible consequences that may occur in the event of a power surge.

Type 1 SPDs primarily protect against surges from lightning strikes and utility capacitor bank switching. One drawback to this type of SPD is that there is normally no way to know if they are still functional.

Formally known as surge suppression arrestors (SSAs), all types of these SPDs are now listed as SPDs.

Practically all modern appliances are now controlled electronically, with the majority of the circuitry installed on printed circuit boards.

This can account for more efficient and advanced operation options, all loaded into a compact space.

Type 1 SPDs are permanently hard-wired, and normally are installed between the secondary part of the service transformer and the line side of the service equipment overcurrent protection device. They also can be installed on the load side of the main breaker or fuse or anywhere in the distribution system; however, they are normally placed on the line side of the service panel. These SPDs must be installed by a representative of the power utility company when the line side of the service is being set up.

Power surges and spikes can originate in many ways. Lightning strikes are one of the most common culprits. Power company switching, power restoration after blackouts, internal system surges, and automobile accidents involving power lines and transformers also are fairly common sources. A typical power surge lasts for a very short time, sometimes only milliseconds. But even though a surge passes quickly, the voltage and amperage can spike to high levels.

Sergio the Protector (Artwork Š Mason Kelley).

Most homeowners are aware of and use surge protection devices (SPDs) to protect expensive electronics such as televisions, computers and stereo equipment. These devices are installed at the point of use and typically provide multiple receptacles. The surge protector is plugged into a wall receptacle and the individual components are plugged into the power strip.

Whole-house SPDs have been available for several years. Normally, SPDs are installed at the service entrance or service equipment location. They can be sacrificial from large surges, but also can take multiple hits from smaller surges and continue to protect. There are various types and designs of SPDs—each is rated for its particular use and designation.

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ASHI Reporter • November 2018

Type 1 installed at meter base (photo credit: Mark Cramer).

Type 1 installed at service point of attachment.

Technical Focus

TYPE 2 SPDs Type 2 devices normally are installed on the load side of the service overcurrent protection device. A provision in the National Electrical Code© (NEC) allows these SPDs to be installed on the line side of the service if they are installed as a part of listed equipment and if overcurrent protection and disconnecting means are provided. (Note: This type of installation is rare.)

These devices are normally seen at the main service panel. They sometimes are installed in downstream remote panels for additional protection of equipment (for example, hot tubs, HVAC condensers, pool equipment). Type 2 devices also are known as transient voltage surge suppressors (TVSSs).

TYPE 3 POINT-OF-USE SPDs

Typically, point-of-use surge protectors are either cord-connected, multi-receptacle power strips, direct plug-in SPDs or receptacle-type SPDs. These are located at the point of utilization of the connected equipment. These should still be used even if whole-house protective devices are installed.

TYPES 4 AND 5 SPDs IT’S UNLIKELY THAT INSPECTORS WILL ENCOUNTER TYPE 4 OR TYPE 5 SURGE PROTECTION DEVICES IN RESIDENTIAL SERVICES, SO I WILL NOT COVER THE DETAILS ABOUT THESE DEVICES.

Most type 2 SPDs require a dedicated circuit breaker for overcurrent protection, although some have internal protection and do not require additional breakers or fuses. Some manufacturers offer SPDs that take the place of two single-pole circuit breakers. These are multipurpose in that they provide overcurrent protection for two branch circuits, and provide surge protection for the whole panel and downstream circuits. This type of SPD is usually available with either 20-amp or 15-amp breakers. Load centers also are available with the SPD already installed from some manufacturers.

Point-of-use surge protector

TERMINOLOGY, RATINGS, DEFINITIONS AND INFORMATION • JOULE: This is the rating of the amount of energy the SPD can absorb before it fails. Marketing descriptions of many SPDs state the joule rating as “the higher the better.” Many engineers disagree with this assessment and promote the clamping voltage rating as being more important for protection.

Type 2 connected to dedicated circuit breaker.

Type 2 surge protector and circuit

The installation procedure of SPDs breaker combination often varies from one manufacturer (photo credit: Charles Buell) to another. Some require that the device be installed at or connected to the breaker at the top of the bus bar in the first available space. The logic behind this requirement is that the closer the SPD is to the incoming power source, the less the let-through voltage will be affected.

Other manufacturers do not specify a particular location in the panel for the breaker. Breaker-attachment type 2 devices come with four wires and a threaded nipple for panel attachment. The wire leads consist of two ungrounded (hot) wires, a neutral wire and an equipment grounding wire. The lead length should be kept to a minimum and should not be spliced to extend the length. This goes back to the same reasoning that longer wires will reduce the protection ability of the device.

Another variable is the recommended overcurrent protection of the breaker. They usually are offered in 15-, 20- and 50-amp sizes. Some feel that a larger breaker size is better because the protective breaker for the SPD could actually trip from an overcurrent load and disconnect the power to the device before it can absorb the surge and protect downstream equipment.

There is some controversy related to the 50-amp models because the wire leads are #12 gauge. Although the leads do not carry load current, some inspectors will report this installation as problematic, even though it technically meets manufacturers’ specifications. Type 2 devices typically have indicator LEDs to verify proper functioning. Many models offer connectors for low-voltage telephone and cable TV hookups. Spikes and surges can travel over these wires as well.

• METAL OXIDE VARISTOR (MOV): An MOV is the primary electronic component used in SPDs to absorb the surge energy. Other protective components include transient-voltage-suppression (TVS) diodes, thyristor surge protective devices (TSPDs) and gas discharge tubes (GDTs).

• CLAMPING VOLTAGE: Also called “let-through voltage,” this is the amount of voltage allowed to pass before the surge protector begins to absorb the energy from the surge or spike. Lower ratings provide better protection.

• M AXIMUM SURGE CURRENT CAPACITY: A rating of 40 kiloamperes to 120 kA is recommended.

• SHORT CIRCUIT CURRENT RATING (SCCR): This is the maximum current a surge protector can handle in the event of a short circuit in the home’s wiring.

• M AXIMUM CONTINUOUS OVER-VOLTAGE (MCOV): This is how much voltage the device can handle in a continuous over-voltage condition, as opposed to a short duration spike or surge. In this case, a higher rating is better.

• MODES OF PROTECTION: The best SPDs have four modes of protection: line to line, line to neutral, neutral to ground and each line to ground.

• INDUSTRY STANDARDS: SPDs are covered by article 285 in the NEC. Among other requirements, they “shall be listed” and “shall” be marked with a short circuit current rating. At present, there are no industry standards to determine an acceptable level of protective ratings of surge protectors.

9November 2018

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Technical Focus

CASE STUDIES

One benefit of working as an electrician for several years is having opportunities to review many different electrical malfunctions and conditions firsthand. I would like to share some specific situations related to surges.

CASE 1. I was called out to troubleshoot and make repairs related to several issues at an upscale home that had all the bells and whistles.

The homeowners were out of town when a car crashed into a utility pole, causing the service transformer to short out. This caused a momentary surge on the electrical system of the home. When all was said and done, the homeowners lost the control boards on the hot tub, pool salt system, refrigerator, one condensing unit, control thermostat for a walk-in wine cellar and seven electronic dimmer switches. The televisions and computers were spared, but one of the point-of-use surge protectors was fried. The damage amounted to several thousand dollars. My repairs included installing two whole-house surge protectors (type 2) in the main panels.

CASE 2. I was asked to check out some power loss to the receptacles in

two bedrooms. It turned out that a surge had burned up the wiring on seven of the nine receptacles on the circuit. I’m still scratching my head trying to figure out this one because it only affected one circuit and the wire damage only extended a few inches from each receptacle. You can see the extent of the wire damage in the photo (below right). This was a line-to-neutral surge. The equipment grounding wires were totally unaffected. The branch circuit breaker never tripped. The owner was fortunate that there was not a fire.

Wire damage in a line-to-neutral surge.

CASE 3. I also checked out

a type 1 SPD that was installed on a control panel for a sewer pump lift station at a multifamily development.

Although the device was sacDamaged type 1 SPD on a control panel rificed, there was no damage for a sewer pump lift station. to the panel. The cost of replacing the surge protector was minimal compared with the possible consequences of losing a sewer system for a 40-unit development.

TIPS FOR HOME INSPECTORS • Look for improper installations and check the wiring as you would with other circuits.

• The most common mistake made is double-tapping the SPD to an existing breaker or to the main lugs. This is usually done because there is no available space to install a dedicated breaker for the SPD. 10

ASHI Reporter • November 2018

Double tap causing a loose connection and an unsecured device (photo credit: Mark Cramer)

SPD improperly lying in the panel (photo credit: Mark Cramer).

• If the device is not properly mounted, check to see if it is just lying in the panel unsecured. Not only is this sloppy work, but it also prevents easy visual access to the status LEDs to assure that the unit is functional.

• If the SPD is installed outdoors, check to see if the device is properly rated. Some are not rated for outdoor use.

• No splices should be made to the leads to extend the length.

Other than these, there’s not much to it.

We, as home inspectors, have a responsibility to not only report defects in the home, but also to make recommendations to improve the level of protection of the home’s primary systems. Adding whole-house surge protection is a valid improvement recommendation.

I’m amazed by the number of high-end homes I inspect that do not have this protection. Why don’t owners of multimillion-dollar homes spend $300 to $400 to have this protection installed? Because they are unaware of the risk and nobody ever offered this information to them. Occasionally, an electrical contractor will offer this upgrade, but not often…at least where I live and work. In my opinion, home inspectors should include whole-house surge protection as a recommendation in their reports.

Several proposals were made for the 2011 NEC to require SPD installation in all dwellings. The proposals were rejected due to lack of “reliable support data.” I have no scientific data to support my beliefs on the value of surge protectors; however, I have installed 30 to 40 type 2 SPDs over the past 18 years. At first, I was unsure as to the effectiveness of their protection, so I asked all of my clients to contact me if they ever incur any damage or if the unit fails. I even offered free labor to replace the unit to encourage them to call me. I have yet to have a single call back. That’s not a scientific study, I know, but I’m convinced that SPDs do work and I recommend SPD installation in my home inspection reports. I encourage others to do so as well.

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Visit us on the Web at: AmericasCallCenter.com/ashibusyseason 11November • www.ASHIReporter.org Or2018call us at 888.462.6153 11

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ADVANCED SOFTWARE, SUPPLIES AND SERVICES • VENDOR GRAB ‘N GO SESSIONS • USE THE IW APP AS A HANDY TOOL TO NAVIGATE. —

• PLUMBING AND MECHANICAL CODES

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• SPECIALTY ROOFING

SCHEDULE, AND LOCATE CLASSROOMS AND EVENTS.

• EXTERIOR CLADDING • STRUCTURAL ISSUES

ROCK THE YACHT– IW Gala Dinner/Dance Cruise

• EARTHQUAKES

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ENCOUNTER. • SUNDAY EXPO HALL OPENING–NIGHT RECEPTION • MONDAY ANNUAL MEETING AND KEYNOTE BREAKFAST • “ ROCK THE YACHT” GALA DINNER AND DANCE EVENING CRUISE ON SAN DIEGO BAY • INTERESTING OPTIONAL TOURS AND ACTIVITIES • “NEW TO ASHI” EVENT FOR FIRST-TIME ATTENDEES AND NEW MEMBERS • SPECIAL EVENTS, NETWORKING AND 12

OFFERING INFORMATION ON THE MOST

SOCIAL ACTIVITIES ASHI Reporter • November 2018

Get onboard as we light up the night at the Gala on the Bay. Enjoy a fabulous dinner and then “Rock the Yacht” dancing the night away. Transportation will leave the resort promptly at 7:00 pm. The cruise will dock at 10:00 pm for return to the resort. $100 ticket includes transportation, cruise, dinner buffet, music and one free bar drink.

The Adventure Hornblower is a 150-foot mega–yacht that offers magnificent views of the San Diego skyline. We’ll enjoy a “hull” of a good time on a starlight voyage on the San Diego Bay.

InspectPAC EVENING EVENT

Sunday, January 20, 7:30-9:00 pm For just $50 a ticket, there’s an open bar, a spread of hors d’oeuvres, music and signature drinks in souvenir glasses. All proceeds benefit ASHI’s InspectPAC, which raises money to help elect and re-elect candidates to Congress who have an understanding of the home inspection profession. Come to this special event to enjoy the fun and support the profession.

REG IST RAT ION N OW O P E N FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT

w w w.inspe cti onw orld . com Questions? Contact Michele George, 847-954-3188, micheleg@ashi.org

IW EDUCATION PROGRAM SCHEDULE - JANUARY 21, 22 & 23, 2019 Earn CEs - Reader device will identify your badge ID at classroom doorways.

Get on the App to fill out a class survey.

TRACK:

INSPECTING ESSENTIALS

ADVANCED

WEST COAST

SPECIALTY/ DIVERSIFICATION

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

CLASSROOM:

San Diego Ballroom

Golden West Ballroom

California Ballroom

Pacific 2 Room

Pacific 3 Room

10:30 am - 12:30 pm

Inspecting Kitchen Appliances and More, M. Conley

Applying Structural Engineering to Home Inspection, Graham Clarke

Low Slope Roofing, M. Cramer

The Truth about Pre-Listing Inspections, A. Carson

How to Turn Complaints into Compliments, B. Eisenman

Grab 'N Go 12:45 pm - 1:45 pm

I.D. Energy Home Energy Score B. Loya, K. Slattery

Porch.com, Kevin O'Malley

InspectorPro Insurance Stephanie James, R. Osbourne

Prism Analytical, S. Mack

BPG, F. Greenwell

2:00 - 4:00 pm

Flipped Out Plumbing, M. Casey

Inspection Fundamentals, Safety and Better Service, Charles Buell

Earthquake Vulnerabilities and Effective Strengthening Methods, T. Matteson

Sewer Inspections, P. Hopkins

Tax Strategy for Home Inspectors, M. Shafer

4:00 - 6:00 pm

Report Writing: Identify and Describe That Defect, T. Feiza

Testing Electrical Systems, M. Twitty

Structural Considerations of Raised Concrete Foundations, N. Lorber

Infrared Cameras for the Home Inspector, B. Fabian

Building Your Business One Relationship at a Time, K. McCarthy

9:00 - 11:00 am

HVAC - Working or Working Properly?

C. Johnson

Practical Science Behind Home Inspections, T. Feiza

Inspecting Solar and PV Panels, M. Conley

Manufactured Housing Regulations, B. Barker

The Top 20 Ways to Get Sued (Panel Discussion), M. Casey, B. Pearson, D. Madariaga

Grab 'N Go 11:30 am - 12:30 pm

Radalink, T. Howell

NAFHAC Catherine Hall

Principal Financial Group Cassandra Audas

InspectedHouses.com Preston Sandlin, D. Klima

Australian "Contract Law", H. Ryan

1:00 - 3:00 pm

The Physics, History and Applied Inspection Techniques of Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps, D. Norman

Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing in Residential Applications, T. Murray

Inspecting Hard Coat Stucco, M. Cramer

25 Steps for Implementing Drones into your Home Inspection Business, A. Speicher

Loss Control, K. O'Malley

4:00 - 6:00 pm

Attic and Crawlspace Ventilation, J. Konopacki

Advanced Electrical 2018 - Resistance is Futile, Bryck Guibor & H. Breit

Specialty Roofing: Slate, Tile, Metal, Wood and beyond, G. Aubrey

Better Pictures, Better Reports, G. Allen

Utilizing Today's Technology to Streamline the Company of Tomorrow, D. Maricic

8:00 - 10:00 am

Electrical Service Inspections: Knowledge to Use Every Day, D.Rushton

What's New in International and Uniform Mechanical Codes, Skip Walker

Senate Bill SB442:The Pool Safety Act, J. Gamache

Building Consulting Beyond the Inspection, Joe Konopacki

Make My Phone Ring!, A. Kleptach

10:30 am - 12:30 pm

Beam Analysis and the Magic of Engineered Lumber, J. Donaldson

Identifying Bulk Water Intrusion at the Exterior Walls, Reuben Saltzman

Inspection of Exterior Cladding: What Are the Warning Signs of Impending Failure?

M. Parlee

Phase Inspections: Pre-Drywall Framing Pit Falls 24,000 sq. ft., S. Cory

How to Grow Your Home Inspection Business, P. Sandlin

12:45 - 1:45 pm

Mike Crow presentation:

7 Surprisingly Simple Ways to Book More Inspections Now… Guaranteed

2:00 - 4:00 pm

Chimney and Fireplace Appliance Inspections, R. Dimmitt

Body Language of a House Structure Crack Analysis–Reading between the Lines, D. Finn III

Changes to the California Plumbing Code, D. McLaughlin

Commercial Inspections, A. Carson & R. Weldon

Handling Complaints and Bad Reviews in the Social Media Era, J. Westlund

MONDAY, JANUARY 21

TUESDAY, JANUARY 22

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 23

13November 2018

• www.ASHIReporter.org

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Honoring ASHI’s Military Veterans

HONOR I NG A SH I’ S

M I L I TA RY V E T ER A NS ASHI is proud to have many members who serve or have served in the U.S. military and reserves.

Thanks to an excellent response to our recent request for stories, we present you with these profiles of some amazing ASHI members. To all our military veterans, thank you for your service—to our country, to your communities and to ASHI! JAY EMBERTON

WIN Home Inspection, Johnson City, TN (jemberton@wini.com, 423-767-2946, https://johnsoncity.wini.com/) and Kingsport-Bristol, TN (423-765-4949, https://kingsport-bristol.wini.com/) (on Facebook as WIN Home Inspection, Tri-Cities)

I joined the Navy in 1986 and was stationed on the USS Ranger, an aircraft carrier in San Diego. After a deployment to the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Storm, I went to college, joined the Indiana National Guard as a Cobra helicopter repairer and attended Officer Candidate School. I served as an engineer lieutenant and later joined the Army, spending seven years as a heavy-wheeled vehicle operator at Fort Bragg and in Germany. After serving as a Protective Services Detail driver during Operation Iraqi Freedom, I received a direct (re)-commission into the Army Reserves as a military intelligence officer at Fort Sheridan (IL). After another deployment to Iraq, I returned to active duty as a Military Intelligence captain. Next, I trained in satellite imagery intelligence and was sent to the 63rd EOD battalion at Fort Drum (NY). After training in IED and bomb-building techniques, I deployed with the battalion to Afghanistan as their intelligence officer. I stayed at Fort Drum for a year as commander of the Operations Company in the Headquarters Battalion of the 10th Mountain Division. From there, the Army sent me to Johnson City, TN, as an associate professor of military science at East Tennessee State University, where I served for three years.

My wife and kids love Coldstone Creamery, so I looked into buying a franchise after retiring from the Army. I learned it costs $450,000 to open an ice cream store and I didn’t have $90,000 for the down payment, so I researched other veteran-friendly franchises and found WIN Home Inspection. I now own two franchises of WIN Home Inspection in Johnson City and Kingsport-Bristol, Tennessee.

Attention to detail is instilled in military members and it’s required for any home inspector to be successful. In addition, my career in military 16

ASHI Reporter • November 2018

intelligence taught me to ask why something is happening—to get to the cause of an issue rather than just point it out. When discussing events in the Army, we use an “issue /discussion /recommendations” format that works well as an inspection reporting style. We don’t just tell you what is wrong, we tell you why it’s an issue and recommend what to do or who to call about it. This format keeps clients informed and explains what to do next.

Being a home inspector allows me to serve my fellow Americans. I help people make informed decisions about the biggest purchase of their lives. The military made me who I am today. I have been to dozens of countries, met people and made friends with folks who are nothing like me, and learned skills and had experiences that aren’t possible in the civilian world. I tell folks, “If you don’t take it personally when people shoot rockets at you, the military is one of the best jobs in the world!”

Several clients have said that our business’ membership in ASHI gave them confidence to hire us. Membership in ASHI assures customers that we adhere to professional standards. Also, I look forward to every issue of the Reporter because it provides great information on all aspects of the home inspection business, from technical articles about specific items within a home to articles on running a business, advertising and managing risk. I am more confident in my abilities as a home inspector and business owner thanks to the information provided every month.

Although every home is different, inspecting a home is a regimented process that requires organization skills and critical thinking—two skills that the military instills in its members. Running a business requires tracking and accomplishing many tasks over extended periods, which is also required of military leaders. Young people who’ve completed one enlistment can thrive in this environment, but senior military leaders who’ve transitioned to civilian life are especially suited to this type of work.

Honoring ASHI’s Military Veterans

AUSTIN JENKINS

Quality Home Inspections LLC, Elizabethton, TN (423-723-7369, QualityInspectionsTN@gmail.com, www.QualityInspectionsTN.com

I started out in the U.S. Air Force in 2006, transferring to the US Army Reserve when my job was eliminated. I was assigned to Pope Air Force Base in Fayetteville, NC (now known as Fort Bragg). My current assignment is at the 702nd Engineering Company in Johnson City, TN. I’ve been fortunate to venture across this vast world. My latest tour of duty took me to Cincu, Romania, where the 844th Engineering Battalion (headquartered in Knoxville, TN) deployed several companies over eight months. We worked on a NATO-sanctioned joint operation with engineers from Great Britain, Germany, France, Latvia, Canada, Australia and other countries during Operation Resolute Castle. Our mission was to design, construct and create projects for new ranges, roads, sniper towers, tank ranges and other components to help the

ASHI has helped me network, make connections and provided me with a database of resources that I don’t believe I would get anywhere else. Clients can find me on the ASHI database, which sets me apart from other inspectors in my area.

MITCHELL STEPHENS

M&A Home Inspections LLC, Portland, OR (503-309-8286, mitchell.stephens@m-a-inspections.com, www.m-a-inspections.com)

I have served in the U.S. Army since 2008, and did two combat deployments to Iraq and two combat deployments to Afghanistan.

While in the army reserves, I worked as a real estate agent and a construction foreman in the civilian jobs, which helped me prepare for a career in home inspection, but the military prepared me to run a company. I learned that I could do anything if I worked hard enough, The Unknown Underground

J AY E M BE R T ON

AU S T I N J E N K I N S

Romanian army evolve their training for today’s fighting conditions.

As an engineering supervisor, I wanted to take my expertise with site design and construction to the residential aspect of real estate.

Everyone knows that the military trains their troops to have extreme attention to detail. Thankfully, this has stuck with me since I left basic training in 2006. I try to analyze and collect as much intel on a situation as I can before moving on. I believe this helps me become a better inspector and provide a better overall experience for my clients.

The thing I like most about home inspection is how intimate I get to be with a home and see it like no one else ever will, except maybe the contractor who built it. Most homeowners don’t know what gauge wires should be in an electrical panel or what type of gas tubing they should have. Hearing what I explain about the home is really an eyeopener for them, and I love seeing their reaction when I tell them what’s good and what isn’t.

What I love most about the military is the opportunities I’ve been given. I’ve had the privilege to attend some of the U.S. military’s best schools and training programs. In 10 years, I want to look back and say “I’m glad I did” rather than “I wish I had.”

MITCHELL STEPHENS

had the right uniform and was in the right place at the right time. I took home inspection certification classes while I was deployed in Iraq.

My military training prepared me for a career in home inspection because I am trained to be on time and professional. I know how to talk to clients who are upset. I can maintain equipment and I understand the proper way to teach classes, which helps when working with real estate agents.

What I like most about being a home inspector is being my own boss— teaching and educating possible homebuyers and sellers about their investments. What I like most about the Army is the travel. I’ve seen how people in other countries live. I also enjoyed the training and learning leadership skills.

ASHI helped me find new opportunities to build my inspection business through classes and general information. I look forward to attending my first InspectionWorld® in 2019!

Having my own business has given me the opportunity to give back to the veteran community, which I feel are like family. My company offers 50% discounts on all services to all military veterans. I’m thankful to ASHI for the support.

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Honoring ASHI’s Military Veterans

JON WILLIAMS

Solid Rock Home Inspections, LLC, Pueblo, CO (719-251-6288, solidrockinsp@gmail.com, www.solidrockinsp.org)

I served in the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC), final rank Corporal E4.

My positions included non-commissioned officer in charge of Battalion welding shop (position held as E-3) at Camp Lejeune, NC, and welder, MIMMS Clerk, battery room NCOIC, squad leader and guard at Camp Fuji, Japan. My deployments included a tour in the Middle East during the Gulf War, a tour in mainland Japan and a tour in Okinawa, Japan. I also competed for a spot on the USMC rifle team.

I had no idea that a career being a home inspector existed until my wife called me after talking with a friend, who commented on her acute attention to detail and suggested that she pursue a career in home inspection. When she asked me about the idea, my first thoughts were, “How hard can it be? Get address, go make sure the house is there and has four walls and a roof, collect $200 and pass go.” How naïve I was!

However, because I’ve had some remodeling and building experience, and my wife was co-owner of three construction companies, it wasn’t much of a leap for us. We did formal training through AHIT and I realized that we had saddled quite a bronc! With experience as a

What I liked about the military was the camaraderie, belonging to something bigger than myself and giving back to America—shouldering an immense responsibility, and facing sometimes “impossible odds” and overcoming them.

ASHI has played a role in our business by being “bigger than us” and by providing a code of conduct to which we adhere. We attended our first InspectionWorld® in Orlando in January 2018 and it was awesome! The knowledge we received was priceless, and we feel we can better serve our clients and real estate agents. Also, belonging to the Southern Colorado ASHI Chapter has been beneficial for camaraderie and education. We always strive to better ourselves, and ASHI certainly plays an instrumental role in our betterment.

I am duty-bound to protect my clients and agents. No harm should befall them. It seems to me that, as an inspector, I have to wear many hats—contractor, electrician, plumber, structural engineer, roofer, mason, carpenter, landscaper, painter, English major—and I should know everything there is to know about everything. I should always strive for constant improvement.

Thanks to ASHI’s requirements, we constantly improve.

The Unknown Underground

JON W I L L I A M S

welder, mechanic, machinist and equipment supervisor, I have acute attention to detail, which has served me well as an inspector.

My military and personal experience dovetails with home inspections in the following areas:

• Mission accomplishment—there are times that it’s very hot in those attics and there are spider webs galore in those crawlspaces! I just charge forward because the client deserves the best inspection we can give.

• I grew up on a ranch and I was in charge of people in the military.

If I didn’t do my job well, people and animals could have died or been hurt, so the question “What can I do to protect my client?” is always on my mind during inspections.

I like being an inspector the most when I work with first-time homebuyers who are scared witless, calm them down and tell them the deficiencies, but explain the cause and effect so that they see it’s not all bad. The relief that washes over their faces is golden. (I have to admit that I also like picking apart some people’s “creativity”!)

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ASHI Reporter • November 2018

A L E CE WO OD

ALECE WOOD

Allegiance Inspections LLC, Orangeburg, SC (803-560-6006, allegianceinspect@gmail.com, http://allegianceinspections.com)

I served in the U.S. Air Force for 12 years (1991-1996 and 20002007) and now I’m a licensed home inspector in South Carolina. I have military leadership education, used the GI Bill to help me earn a degree in marketing and obtained an MBA while on active duty.

As part of security forces, I spent plenty of time out in the field crawling in the dirt. I trained to guard nuclear weapons, aircraft and Air Force assets, and to secure the base and train in combat. As an officer, I also learned how to conduct financial analysis and provide business support for pilots. I’ve also worked with military civil engineers and learned about structures. I was deployed to Kuwait in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, where I was forced to face my fears to complete the mission. At the time, I wondered how all this experience would come back into my life down the road.

My military experience taught me to handle adverse conditions and to not worry too much about crawlspaces, critters or spiders—I can deal with them all. I’m naturally inquisitive and my military training

Honoring ASHI’s Military Veterans

gave me a heightened attention to detail. I’ve found that inspecting mobile or manufactured homes can be tricky. Many of these homes have water heaters in not-so-obvious places. My strategy is to follow the distribution pipes and look for the temperature pressure relief valve (TPRV) extension pipe in the crawlspace, take a screenshot of the longitude and latitude readings using the compass app on my cell phone, then match those readings to a location inside the home. The most “interesting” place I found a water heater was in a nook behind the refrigerator in the kitchen. The thought to use my compass app to locate the water heater just came to me—it seems my military training is engrained in my subconscious. I’m grateful that I’m able to use my skills to be a crafty home inspector, and the real estate agent was impressed.

I have a strong entrepreneurial spirit, and I had a dream of owning a franchise after leaving the military, but my timing (during the 2008 economy frenzy) was such that I had to put those dreams on hold.

A few years ago, my fiancé and I were looking for a new home, and I asked my real estate agent a lot of questions. She said, “Maybe you should try home inspection.” I looked into it, got training through AHIT, and two years later, here I am!

SAMUEL A. WOOD, MS, PE

Advantage Home and Environment Inspections, Inc., South Charleston, WV (304-768-5446, Sam@advantagehomewv.com, www.advantagehomewv.com)

I served on active duty from 1972 to 1992 in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. I’m now a retired Lt. Colonel, with my last two assignments as the Facilities Engineer for Aberdeen Proving Ground and the Third Infantry Division in Bavaria, Germany. Other assignments over the years included Fort Caron, CO; 44th Engr Battalion, South Korea; Rock Island Engineering District, Rock Island, IL; Captain and Major and Professor of Mathematics at the West Point Military Academy; Major and Construction Operations Officer for Task Force 111 in Honduras; and Lt. Colonel as the Senior Army Advisor for the West Virginia National Guard. I’ve had special training in Airborne, Jump Master, Ranger and Special Forces. Also, I earned a B.S. in mathematics (minor: biology) from Penn State University in 1972 and a Master’s degree in civil engineering from Stanford University in 1980.

I chose the home inspection profession because I was the Director of Engineering and Housing for Aberdeen Proving Ground, and the Senior Director of Engineering and Housing for the Third Infantry

S A M WO OD

I received amazing support from two mentors, each of whom had many years of experience in home inspections and construction. One of my mentors emphasized the importance of getting support from an organization. With that encouragement, I joined ASHI and am grateful that I did. Among the many supports that ASHI offers is the online forums—I love it when I get those notifications, and really enjoy reading the questions and responses. They give me guidance when I need it.

I try to do my best every time and put others before myself. It’s meaningful to me that my clients’ hearts are involved as well as their heads in their homebuying decisions. I enjoy teaching people how their home systems function, and when I have to give my clients tough news, I try to deliver it in a reassuring way, sometimes even saying that the home will just need more “TLC” than they expected.

Home inspection has become a great path for me. I never thought I would be this happy with a business that revolves around structural buildings. I consider myself a servant-leader and I believe in giving back. One way I do this is to offer discounts to my clients who are active duty military/veterans, first responders, seniors over 60 and educators. More than anything, I am proud to be an advocate for my clients. It’s my way of giving back.

Division, Wuerzburg, Bavaria, Germany. I was responsible for designing and building all new housing, as well as maintaining existing houses for military families; there were more 13,000 house units. This experience gave me the knowledge to start my own home inspection company in 1995 when I retired from active duty, and my military experience gave me the courage and confidence to start my own business. “No guts, no glory.”

My home inspection company, Advantage Home and Environment Inspections, Inc., has performed more than 15,000 inspections in central West Virginia and southeast Ohio. As a Professional Engineer licensed in several states, I also performed structural inspections.

In 1995, there were no licensing organizations in West Virginia with established standards. I researched and found ASHI, determined that it was the most prominent home inspection association in the country and had standards that I could apply in West Virginia. The state standards in West Virginia now emulate the ASHI Standard of Practice.

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Honoring ASHI’s Military Veterans

I attended my first ASHI conference/InspectionWorld® in January 1996 and I’ve only missed three since then. I’ve given several presentations at ASHI conferences on structural defects—recognition, cause and repair.

The military taught me how to operate independently and gave me the drive to go it alone. It also taught me to tell what I see, and not expand or hypothesize—just give a straight report. I’ve been successful at that as my last 23 years have proven. I am now 70 and wish to retire, but plan to continue to be an ASHI member. If someone is interested in buying my company, please contact me.

When our ship returned to Hawaii, it was deemed unseaworthy so the Navy sent us back to the South China Sea on a new ship. After two years of active duty, I joined the Naval Reserves, stationed at the Chicago Naval Armory. I joined the Navy Salvage Diving unit, went to Dive School and became a 2nd class Diver, certified in hard hat equipment and underwater welding.

We raised sunken ships, cleaned ship bottoms, retrieved torpedos, found and destroyed 500-pound bombs, and more. Some items we found are now in the Smithsonian transportation building and there are photos of our salvage work near Ellis Island, NY.

When I served in the naval reserves for 18 years, I worked many civilian jobs—in the research department of International Harvester, in building maintenance for a company and as owner of an HVAC

DAV E YO S T

DAVE YOST, CRI, ACI, CMIA,IBR Quality Building Inspections, Inc. (630-347-6400, dave@qbinspect.com, www.qbinspect.com)

When I graduated high school in 1971, the Vietnam War was in full swing. Once you registered for the draft, your name went into a lottery system and eventually you were assigned to the Army. I had a choice—wait for my number to be pulled or join another branch of service. I chose to join the Navy. My first station was Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. I thought it would be the perfect assignment on the oldest refueling ship in the Navy, which probably would not go anywhere, but within a week, we were off to the Vietnam war zone. For nine months, we were in and out of ports, transferring fuel, water, ammo and personnel to other ships.

Trained as a Machinist Mate, my job included working on A/C and refrigeration equipment, along with hydraulic, pneumatic and steam reciprocating engines and turbines. I also had to stand watch, running all the necessary equipment to keep the ship moving. Our jobs were not easy, but we had better conditions than those in the Army and Marines.

Catastrophic events happened. A 14-inch diameter steam pipe ruptured, causing the ship to go completely dead in the water in the bombing zone off the coast of the South China Sea. Another time, a propeller shaft stopped, leaving only one propeller working. It was difficult to steer the ship and unsafe to service other ships, which was our job.

20

ASHI Reporter • November 2018

company. The Pipefitter Union invited me to join them and I worked with them for 14 years before retiring.

Wanting to continue working and helping others, I joined the home inspection industry. After training with AHIT, I realized I needed to know more, so I joined the local NAHI chapter, and soon was elected to the board and became chapter president. When NAHI closed its doors, ASHI welcomed NAHI members and once again, I find myself on the chapter board, helping to train inspectors to become some of the best in the industry.

Being a home inspector is not an easy or a “get-rich-quick” business.

Finding real estate agents and clients is one of the most difficult challenges. We have competitors who will work for less and know much less. We need to know so many things and we need to admit we don’t know it all. That’s why ASHI chapter meetings are helpful, along with the amazing times at InspectionWorld®. So much time and effort goes into IW—take advantage of it. Yes, it costs money and time, but look at it as a way to stay current with the industry and learn the latest trends. Take advantage of the great IW locations—make it a mini-vacation with your family and write off what you can as business expenses. If you don’t know how to do this, attend chapter meetings and ask questions.

My biggest joy is the camaraderie and friendships I’ve built over the years. The biggest thing the military taught me was to hang in there and you will win.

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HomeInspectionExam.org 21November 2018

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Call 866-916-9419 ASHI Reporter • November 2018

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2323 November October 2018

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SMART INSPECTOR SCIENCE

MY CHIMNEY MELTED THE VINYL SIDING “HELP, PLEASE!”

The homeowner said.

“MY FIREPLACE AND CHIMNEY ARE MELTING THE VINYL SIDING!”

T

his homeowner had engaged several contractors to examine the problem, but none of them could explain what was happening.

She had the siding replaced, but it melted again (Photo 1). Her chimney guy simply told her not to use the fireplace.

Photo1. Melted vinyl close -up.

MELTED SIDING NEEDS TO BE REPORTED

During your inspection, note any significant damage to siding of any type. Melted vinyl is found often next to the patio slab, which probably means that a barbeque flame next to the home got a little too hot.

Melted siding away from the patio is a different problem. You don’t need to identify the cause, but you should recommend further evaluation.

I have also seen extensively damaged siding due to reflected energy from the neighbors’ windows (Photo3). There’s a pattern to this melting; maybe it follows the movement of the sun (Photo4).

During my visit, I saw melted siding on the exterior of a wood-framed and vinyl-sided chimney chase.

Inside the chase was a factory-manufactured fireplace and metal flue.

HERE COMES THE SUN

Photo3. Melted vinyl on two-story home.

Photo2. Warped vinyl siding.

Because the professional fireplace evaluation had found nothing wrong, I concluded that ultraviolet energy reflecting off the high-efficiency (low-emissive [low-E]) window melted the siding.

Take a look at the window next to the chase (Photo2). The window faces south. All day long, the sun reflects off the glass and onto the siding.

The owner had several options: Cover the window with an awning, install a screen, replace the glass with a new pane with nonreflective coating, or put up some type of shield or plant a bush to block the sun.

Although the owner was not happy about the continuing problem, she was relieved to hear these solutions for the melted vinyl.

24

ASHI Reporter • November 2018

Photo4. Melted vinyl pattern.

HERE IS WHAT’S HAPPENING

What causes the issue? High-efficiency glass with low-E coating reflects the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Low-E glass protects the interior of the home and limits heat transfer, but under the right conditions, these properties can lead to damaged vinyl siding.

A secondary theory is that the glass is slightly convex. The space between the window layers is sealed, so changes in pressure outside the glass might bend it. This, in turn, may focus heat from the sun.

Tom Feiza has been a professional home inspector since 1992 and has a degree in engineering. Through HowToOperateYourHome.com, he provides high-quality marketing materials that help professional home inspectors educate their customers. Copyright © 2018 by Tom Feiza, Mr. Fix-It, Inc. Reproduced with permission.

ALWAYS REPORT DAMAGE TO VINYL SIDING. THE WINDOW FOLKS AND THE SIDING FOLKS AREN’T ACCEPTING RESPONSIBILITY. THE PROBLEM IS COMPOUNDED WHEN IT’S A NEIGHBOR’S HOME CAUSING THE PROBLEM.

By Tom Feiza, Mr. Fix-It, Inc. HowToOperateYourHome.com

To learn more, attend Tom’s technical presentations at educational sessions for ASHI chapters.

Tom will be presenting “Describe That Defect” and “The Practical Science Behind Great Home Inspection” at InspectionWorld® 2019 in San Diego.

Tom can also provide his knowledge for your educational event; contact him at Tom@HTOYH.com.

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262-303-4884 25November 2018

• www.ASHIReporter.org

25

ASHI Chapters and Council News

NORTH CENTRAL ASHI Central PA

www.ashicentralpa.com Second Monday, 6 pm, except Jan. & July, Hoss’s Steakhouse 1151 Harrisburg Pike, Carlisle, PA Kevin Kenny, 717-226-3066 info@midpennhomeinspections.com

Keystone (PA)

www.keystoneashi.org First Monday, 5:30 pm Double Tree, 10 N. 5th Street Reading, PA 19601 Robert H. Conner, 610-375-9675 rhconnerbcs@yahoo.com

Ohio

www.ohioashi.com Ken Harrington, 614-507-1061 ohioashi@yahoo.com

North Central Ohio

www.ncohioashi.com Paul Wancata, 216-571-1074 inspectionsunlimited@cox.net

OHIO SOUTH ASHI Meeting: Third Tues. every month, 6:30pm @ Kriemer’s Bier Haus, OH-128, Cleves, OH 4500 P.O. Box 532197 Cincinnati, OH 45252 Chris Green, 513-939-4036 Email president@ohsoashi.com

Pocono-Lehigh (PA)

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

Heartland (IA, MN, ND, SD, WI) www.ashiheartland.org Reuben Saltzman, 612-205-5600 reuben@ashiheartland.org www.inashi.com Quarterly Danny Maynard, 317-319-7209 danny@inspectinc.net

Iowa ASHI

www.iowaashichapter.org Fourth Tuesday, 6:00 - 8:00 pm Iowa City Area Assoc. of Realtors Education Center 847 Quary Road, Coralville, IA Craig Chmelicek, 319-389-7379 elitehomeandradon@gmail.com

Kentuckiana (IN, KY)

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

Mid-Missouri

www.midmoashi.com Second Thursday, 12:00 pm, even months of the year; Columbia Board of Realtors office: 2309 I-70 Drive NW, Columbia, MO Mark Kelsey, 573-356-5305 mark@inspectcolumbia.com

Northern Illinois

www.nicashi.com Second Wednesday (except Dec.) 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm Allegra Banquets, 237 W St. Charles Rd. Villa Park, IL 60181 Joe Konopacki, 630-283-2248 joe@insightpsinc.com

www.proashi.com Second Wednesday of Jan., March., May, Sept. & Nov. Ray Fonos, 412-461-8273 southpittsburgh@hometeam.com

Arkansas

Tri-State (DE, NJ, PA)

Great Plains (KS, MO)

SOUTH MIDWEST Lonnie Moore, 479-530-5792 mhinsp@cox.net www.ashikc.org Second Wednesday of even months The Great Wolf Lodge, Kansas City Doug Hord, 816-215-2329 doug@firstchoice.com

Midwest PRO ASHI (KS)

MIDWEST 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 Jon Vacha, 402-660-6935 jon@hsinspections.com

26

ASHI Reporter • November 2018

www.ashitexas.org Bud Rozell, 214-215-4961 goodhomeinspection@att.net

Indiana ASHI

PRO-ASHI (PA)

www.tristateashi.org Second Tuesday except April, Aug. & Dec., Dave & Buster’s Plymouth Meeting, PA Jules Falcone, julesfalcone@me.com

Lone Star (TX)

David Mason 316-393-2152, david@allprohomeinspec.com

St. Louis (MO)

www.stlashi.org Second Tuesday, 5 pm Creve Coeur Government Center Multi-Purpose Meeting Room 300 N. New Ballas Creve Coeur, MO 63141 Mark Goodman, 636-391-0091 mark@homeinpectstl.com

MOUNTAIN Arizona

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

Golden Gate (CA)

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

www.azashi.org Bryck Guibor, 520-419-1313 bryck@msn.com Quarterly education on azashi.org

Inland Northwest (ID, WA)

New Mexico

www.creia.org/orangecounty-chapter Third Monday, 5:30 pm Hometown Buffet 2321 S. Bristol, Santa Ana Bill Bryan, 949-565-5904 bill@rsminspections.com

www.ashinm.org Bi-monthly meetings are held on the second Saturday of the month at Drury Hotel (Jan., March, May, July, Sept.) located at I-25 and Jefferson in Albuquerque.

Meeting starts at 8:30 am.

Lance Ellis, 505-977-3915 lellis@amerispec.net

Northern Rockies (ID, MT) Steve Jenicek, 406-949-6461 Steve@taskmasterinspections.com Secretary: Kelly Campeau 877-749-2225 Kelly@inspectormt.com

Rocky Mountain Fourth Tuesday, 6:30 pm Bob Kadera, 303-588-2502 bob@360degreeinspections.com

Southern Colorado

www.ashi-southerncolorado.org Second Thursday each month, 6:30 pm Valley Hi Golf Club, 610 S. Chelton Rd. Colorado Springs, CO 80910 Aaron Hunt, 719-334-5455 aaron@huntproperty inspections.com

Utah

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

PACIFIC Alaska

Vince Vargas, 208-290-2472 vince@vargasinspections.com

Orange County CREIA-ASHI (CA)

Oregon

www.oahi.org Fourth Tuesday, 6:30 pm 4534 SE McLoughlin Blvd.

Portland Jon Nichols, 503-324-2000 housedetective@hotmail.com

San Diego CREIA-ASHI First Tuesday each month Elijah’s Restaurant 7061 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard San Diego, CA 92111 Ray (Cliff ) Sims Jr., 619-334-1138 cliffsims@cox.net

San Joaquin Valley (CA) Third Thursday, 6 pm 1736 Union Avenue, Bakersfield, CA Raymond Beasley, 661-805-5947 rbinspector@aol.com Mail: 3305 Colony Oak St. Bakersfield, CA 93311

Silicon Valley ASHI-CREIA (CA) www.siliconvalleyinspector.com Tammy Nicholas, 408-771-4939 tnicholas490@gmail.com

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

Los Angeles-Ventura County ASHI-CREIA

Meeting dates: Jan. 1, March 1, Aug. 1, Nov. 1 Location varies each meeting David Mortensen, 907-243-4476 dave@discoveryinspect.com

Third Wednesday, 5 pm Holiday Inn, Woodland Hills Bob Guyer, 805-501-0733 guyerinspections@roadrunner.com

ASHI Hawaii

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

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

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

South Bay (CA)

Western Washington

www.ashiww.com Chapter Meetings held at chapter seminars in March and Sept.

Karl Nueffer karl@G4inspections.com

NEW ENGLAND Coastal Connecticut

www.coastalctashi.org Third Thursday, 6 pm, Westport VFW Lodge, 465 Riverside Avenue, Westport John Hamlin, 203-912-1917 john.hamlin@pillartopost.com

New England (ME, MA, NH, RI, VT) Third Thursday (usually), 5 pm Hilton Garden Inn, Waltham, MA Michael Atwell, 617-630-5629 mike@jmhi.com

Northern New England (NNEC) (ME, MA, NH, VT) www. ashi-nnec.org Third Thursday of Jan., April, June and Sept.

Tim Rooney, 603-770-0444 homeviewnh@comcast.net nnec.ashi.2016@gmail.com

Hudson Valley (NY)

www.novaashi.com Fourth Tuesday, Associate hour 6-7 pm, Membership meeting 7-9 pm, Northern Virginia Resources Center, Fairfax Tony Toth, 703-926-6213 tony_toth@msn.com

Long Island (NY)

Piedmont ASHI (VA)

www.liashi.com Third Monday, 6 pm, Domenico’s Restaurant, Levittown John Weiburg 516-603-5770 john@greenlinkhi.com

New York Metro

www.nyashi.com Last Thursday, 5pm Travelers Rest 25 Saw Mill River Road Ossining, NY 10562 Chris Long, 914-260-8571 pres@nyashi.com

Southern New Jersey (NJ)

NEW YORK/JERSEY/ DELAWARE Capitol Region (NY)

www.goashi.com Richard W. Askew, 518-383-4804 rondack1@gmail.com

Central New York

www.cnyashi.com Third Wednesday each month, 6 pm Tony’s Family Restaurant, Syracuse Richard Alton, 315-415-4847 dick@altoninspect.com

First State (DE)

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

Garden State (NJ)

www.gardenstateashi.com Second Thursday The Westwood, Garwood Ernie Borsellino, 973 761 0050 gsashipresident@gmail.com

Greater Rochester (NY)

www.ashirochester.com Second Tuesday, 6 pm Jeremiah’s Tavern, 2200 Buffalo Rd. Gates, NY 14624 Jim Brennan, 585-520-5575 jbrennan@independentinspectionservice.com

NOVA-ASHI (MD, VA)

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

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

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

MID-ATLANTIC Central Virginia

www.cvashi.org Second Tuesday, 6:30 pm Independence Golf Course 600 Founders Bridge Blvd.

Midlothian, VA 23113 John Cranor, President 804-873-8537 cranorinspectionservices @gmail.com

Hampton Roads (VA) Second Thursday, 7 pm, Cypress Point Country Club, Virginia Beach Gregory Murphy, 757-535-4355 gmurphy@coastalinspect.com

MAC-ASHI (MD, VA)

www.mac-ashi.com Second Wednesday, Rockville, 6 pm Senior Center, Rockville Mark Mostrom, 301-536-0096 pivotalinspections@comcast.net

Robert Huntley, 540-354-2135 rwhuntley@cox.net

SOUTH ATLANTIC ASHI Georgia

www.ashigeorgia.com Shannon Cory, 404-316-4876 shannon1943@comcast.net

East Tennessee

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

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

Mid-South (TN) Steven Campbell, 901-734-0555 steve@memphisinspections.com

North Carolina

www.ncashi.com Meeting TBA Bruce Barker, 919-322-4491 bruce@dreamhomeconsultants.com

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

GULF

Louisiana Quarterly Meetings 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 buyersally@gmail.com

Southwest Florida

www.swashi.com Serving Manatee, Sarasota & Charlotte Second Wednesday, 6 pm Holiday Inn, Lakewood Ranch 6321 Lake Osprey Drive, Sarasota Michael Conley, 941-778-2385 FLinspector@outlookcom

CANADA CAHPI Atlantic

www.cahpi-alt.com Lawrence Englehart 902-403-2460 inspections@eastlink.ca

CAHPI Ontario

www.oahi.com Rob Cornish, 613-858-5000 robc@homexam.ca

Alberta Professional Home Inspectors (APHIS) www.aphis.ca Meetings held 3 times a year Alan Fisher, 403-248-6893 admin@aphis.com

Quebec AIBQ

www.aibq.qc.ca Pascal Baudaux, 450-629-2038 info@almoinspection.ca

ASHI South (AL)

www.ashisouth.org Quarterly, Homewood Library Homewood John Knudsen, 334-221-0876 jgknudsen111@gmail.com

Florida Wiregrass

www.ashiwiregrass.org Second Wednesday, 6:30 pm Sleep Inn Hotel, 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

November 2018 • www.ASHIReporter.org

27

Request for Interpretation: Ethics for Home Inspectors In this column, ASHI’s Ethics Committee addresses dilemmas faced by home inspectors.

Are These Violations of the ASHI Code of Ethics?

By Jamison Brown, ASHI Ethics Committee Chair

Jamison Brown is the owner of Home Inspections

by Jamison & Company, Poquoson, VA. Before becoming an ASHI member in 1988, Jamison was a project manager, and supervised the construction and remodeling of more than 10,000 housing units for the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Jamison is a former member of the Carpenters and Joiners of America and a former licensed plumber in the state of Virginia. He is a member of the International Code Council, International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) and a certified member of the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). He has been a member of ASHI’s Technical and Membership Committees and was chair of the CEPP Committee. Currently, he chairs the ASHI Code of Ethics Committee. Jamison has personally inspected more than 18,000 residential and commercial properties. Contact him at jamison.brown@gmail.com.

QUESTIONS QUESTION: Should I disclose what I know from a previous inspection?

QUESTION: Does having two companies violate the ASHI Code of Ethics?

I inspected a home in the past and was made aware of a fire that had occurred in the home. Am I obligated to or forbidden to disclose this information to a new client? My past client (the current seller) did not disclose the past fire in the current disclosure statement. The current listing agent for this home was also the listing and the buyers’ agent at the time of the previous transaction. This agent also knew that a fire had occurred.

If I don’t disclose what I know about the home (and should the current buyers find out in the future that I knew about the fire and didn’t tell them), do I open myself up to added liability for not disclosing information that I knew? Or, am I required to protect the original inspection findings for my past client (the current seller)?

I have been a homebuilder for 33 years. I get referrals on remolding and bank foreclosure cleanups. I also get real estate inspection items to correct. I have a separate company for remodeling and inspections. I know I never will do any work from any inspection that I might perform, but I wanted to make certain that I’m not violating anything in the Code of Ethics by having two separate companies. Again, I know that I cannot be involved in any compensation from any inspection I might do.

Interpretation by the ASHI Code of Ethics Committee The situation as described does not violate the ASHI Code of Ethics. Refer to Section 1.F: “Inspectors shall not repair, replace, or upgrade, for compensation, systems or components covered by ASHI Standard of Practice, for one year after the inspection” (http://www.homeinspector.org/Code-of-Ethics).

Interpretations by the ASHI Code of Ethics Committee For information on potential liability, state laws take precedence over ASHI Standards and given the wide variations between individual states laws concerning these matters, ASHI recommends that members consult an attorney in their state of practice to determine the legal responsibility that an inspector has to the various parties involved in a transaction.

With that said, the ASHI Code of Ethics Committee’s position is that an inspector is required to fully inform a current client of all information he or she has or knows about the property that may be germane to the client’s purchase decision. An inspector who assists a purchaser in performing due diligence must disclose any information obtained about the property regardless of the source of that information.

To properly navigate this situation, the inspector should first inform the current client (the purchaser) of the previous

inspection he or she has done for the current owner (now the seller) and have the current owner (the seller) sign a release, allowing the inspector to reveal any information obtained during the first inspection. After the release is signed, the inspector should then disclose all results from the first inspection. Refer to ASHI Code of Ethics, Section 2: “Inspectors shall act in good faith toward each client and other interested parties” (http://www.homeinspector.org/Code-of-Ethics).

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IN GIFT CARDS WITH EACH NEW MEMBER TO REFER A MEMBER: Download the Membership Application form, have the new member fill it out (including his/her member number in the referral field).

SCAN AND EMAIL IT TO:

MEMBERSHIP@ASHI.ORG OR FAX TO 847-759-1620.

Questions?

Contact Jen Gallegos, jeng@ashi.org.

29November 2018

• www.ASHIReporter.org

29

ASHI Chapters and Council News

TO HAVE YOUR CHAPTER SEMINAR LISTED HERE, EMAIL ALL INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR CHAPTER SEMINAR TO: micheleg@ashi.org.

IMPORTANT REPORTER DEADLINES: • JAN 2019 ISSUE - 11/7/18 • FEB 2019 ISSUE - 12/7/18 • MAR 2019 ISSUE - 1/7/19 • APRIL 2019 ISSUE - 2/7/19 The Reporter is produced 6-8 weeks ahead of the week it arrives in your mailbox.

When: November 10, 2018 Where: Johns Hopkins University, Rockville, MD Topic: 10/5 - Peer Review/Education Review & Hospitality Suite 10/6 - Chimney Safety Institute Tour, Phone Skills & Handling Complaints, Protecting Your Business & Increasing Revenue CEUs: 8 ASHI CEs Contact: Sean Troxell, 812 219-6967

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS— HELP SHAPE ASHI’S FUTURE

ASHI’S CAMPAIGNING POLICIES

Your affiliation with ASHI means you are recognized as a leader in your profession. As a volunteer leader, you are a key to ASHI’s success.

15.14 Campaigning 1. Candidates and others may make positive statements about candidates. Negative campaigning shall not be permitted.

As an ASHI volunteer, what’s in it for me?

• Opportunities to give back to your profession • A chance to contribute to ASHI’s mission and vision • Networking with your peers to form business and personal relationships • Recognition for your involvement and support • Opportunities to enhance your leadership skills • Business-building ideas from other inspectors • Interactions with ASHI leaders to share your ideas and expertise

What’s expected of me when I serve as an ASHI volunteer?

• A willingness to learn from others and to welcome diverse viewpoints • An ability to receive and consistently respond to email communications

Take the first step now to become a volunteer!

1. Visit the ASHI website at www.ashi.org 2. Select “Members-Only” 3. Click on “Downloads and Forms” 4. Fill out the Call for Volunteers form 5. Email the completed form to Bonnie Bruno at bonnieb@ashi.org 30

MAC ASHI TECHNICAL SEMINAR

ASHI Reporter • November 2018

2. ASHI funds and resources shall not be used for campaigning, except as allowed in this policy.

3. ASHI staff, ONC members, ASHI Legal Counsel and Election Committee Members shall not participate in campaigning.

4. ASHI staff shall not provide or sell the ASHI membership list or the ASHI mailing list to candidates. Cross–reference: Operations, Section 2.

5. ASHI staff shall, upon request by a candidate, send a statement from the candidate to the membership by electronic communication not more than twice during the campaign. The statement shall not be more than two hundred (200) words. The ASHI President and the ASHI Secretary shall review and approve or reject the statement.

6. The ASHI Reporter shall publish election and campaigning policies in the September, October and November issues.

HONOR YOUR PEERS!

NOMINATE AN INSPECTOR WHO’S EARNED YOUR RESPECT NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN FOR ASH’S T WO ANNUAL AWARDS. Submission forms can be found on the ASHI website (www.homeinspector.org) under the tab Members-Only/Documents and Forms. Submit completed forms to Michele George at micheleg@ashi.org by December 3, 2018.

Recipients of the Philip C. Monahon Award and the John E. Cox Award will be announced during InspectionWorld® in January in San Diego.

Submissions received after this deadline will not be accepted.

PHILIP C. MONAHON AWARD

JOHN E. COX MEMBER OF THE YEAR AWARD

All members are encouraged to nominate an ASHI member who is dedicated to the goals and ideals of ASHI, and who has rendered outstanding contributions to ASHI for a minimum of five years. Contributions can consist of time, talent or expertise, which has been beneficial to the Society, its members and the general public that ASHI ultimately serves.

Each chapter may submit the name and biography of one individual for the John E. Cox Award. The nomination should include how the individual has contributed to the chapter’s development, as well as other vital information as to why the individual should be considered for the award.

Nominees are evaluated by the PHILIP C. MONAHON AWARD COMMITTEE, which consists of three previous recipients of the award.

Nominees will be submitted to ASHI’S COUNCIL OF REPRESENTATIVES for a vote by secret ballot.

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31November 2018

• www.ASHIReporter.org

31

Flashlight Shootout 2018

FLASHLIGHT SHOOTOUT 2018 Rick Bunzel, ACI

I could sum up what I learned from the 2018 Flashlight Shootout with this statement:

“SIZE NO LONGER MATTERS.” For some context, you might remember that, in my flashlight review back in 2012, the “big gun” was the Coast HP21.

This all-metal flashlight was 15.5 inches long, had a 7 LED lens and put out an amazing 1,300 lumens. It was so heavy (2.8 lbs.) that it came with a shoulder strap. In 2018, the flashlights I tested were every bit as bright as the lights I tested in 2012 and 2016, yet each of the flashlights I tested this year will fit in the palm of your hand (with the exception of the Maglite ML150). In 2016, the brightest flashlights used multiple LED elements; in 2018, a single Cree LED delivers more than 3,600 lumens.

The secret to making smaller, brighter flashlights is Cree LEDs. Cree is a U.S.-based company and was one of the first manufacturers to make LEDs that delivered over 100 lumens from a single element. Today, the most powerful Cree element delivers more than 4,000 lumens. Cree also has addressed the blue-white coloring of early LEDs. They now have warm white elements. Cree LEDs were common to all but the inexpensive flashlights in this test.

You may notice that this review includes fewer products than previous shootouts. This was not for lack of trying! These days, many vendors such as Fenix do not send out products for review. So, for comparison purposes, I included the 2016 winners from Streamlight and LED Lenser, and I sourced two inexpensive generic flashlights.

A quick online search will lead you to inexpensive flashlights from countries other than the United States. Many of these flashlights use cheap LEDs that are overdriven to deliver the brightest light possible, and many are advertised to be far brighter than they actually are. For example, I saw one small flashlight that was advertised to be 5,000 lumens and sold for $10.

32

ASHI Reporter • November 2018

Rick Bunzel is the principal inspector with Pacific Crest Inspections and an ASHI Certified Inspector. He holds a B.A. in Business Marketing, and in the past, he chaired the marketing and public relations committees for a national home inspection organization.

Locally, he is an active member with the North Puget Sound Board of Realtors and has been a firefighter for 42 years. Visit his website at www.paccrestinspections.com.

One symptom of overdriven LEDs is that the lens gets very hot, so the LED may fail quickly at the least convenient time. Flashlights from Maglite or Streamlight use high-quality Cree LEDs that are not overdriven and can be expected to last for more than 10,000 hours of use. To see how the mainstream flashlights compared, I added two inexpensive “ringers” from other countries to this test. Also, I purchased a penlight and a tactical flashlight from Amazon.

The majority of the flashlights I tested this year fit into a class called tactical flashlights. These flashlights are rugged, with an all-metal body, and are designed to mount to a helmet or a weapon. The exceptions were the Maglite and Strion, which had the classic larger bezel size and design.

My wish list hasn’t changed. I want a flashlight that can deliver more than 200 lumens, has a battery state indicator, has a focusing beam, is rechargeable and can be charged from a 12-volt source. I used each light during my inspections for about two weeks to provide real-life conditions.

STREAMLIGHT PROTAC HL HANDHELD FLASHLIGHT

Streamlight products have always rated well in my evaluations and the Protac HL is no exception. It is well-constructed and amazingly bright. It has a metal clip and the switch is on the butt.

P ROS: Has 850 lumens in a 6 ¼-inch long flashlight and three modes (high, low and strobe), which can be changed via “Tap Ten” programming.

CONS: Not rechargeable, run time in high mode is 90 minutes and the Tap Ten programming is a pain (but, to be fair, once you have the desired mode, you don’t have to reprogram it).

Flashlight Shootout 2018

STREAMLIGHT PROTAC HL-X TACTICAL FLASHLIGHT

STREAMLIGHT STRION HPL HANDHELD FLASHLIGHT

Streamlight’s higher-end tactical flashlight. For its size, it is bright.

PROS: Streamlight quality, has three lighting modes (high mode is 1,000 lumens), programmable switch.

CONS: No cradle for charging, programmable mode is a pain to do, short run time and no low battery indicator.

SKILHUNT S2 PRO TACTICAL FLASHLIGHT I have to admit this became my everyday flashlight. When I am not using it, it lives in a charging cradle in the back of my car. One concern I had was the short run time. My inspections typically last two to three hours, but even on days when I have done multiple inspections, I have never depleted the battery.

PROS: Streamlight’s quality construction, AC/DC charging cradle, small, lightweight and very bright at 615 lumens.

CONS: Beam has hot spot in the middle, short run time, no battery indicator, higher price.

LED LENSER P5R.2

Skilhunt is a Chinese flashlight manufacturer that positions itself as a premium provider and its products show it. This flashlight is a wellthought-out, quality product. The packaging includes extra O rings, USB cable, clips and lanyards. There are two switches on the body: the power switch and the indicator switch, which changes modes.

PROS: Tactical-sized, rechargeable, bright, has a battery status indicator, USB charging, super bright in turbo mode (1,250 lumens), simple tail cap power switch, separate switch for modes.

CONS: N o cradle option, newer manufacturer with unknown track record. Could buy a Streamlight for same price.

This is my backup pocket flashlight. This flashlight takes a beating and despite my fear that I would lose it, I have not. It has gone through the washing machine numerous times and still works perfectly. I was not able to get the most recent version to test, but the new model is even brighter, raising the output from 270 lumens to 420 lumens. The run time in bright mode is three hours!

PROS: Well-built, easy to charge using a USB cable, has a focusing beam, is waterproof.

CONS: Expensive (and small enough to miss before your pants go in the wash…).

MAGLITE MAG-TAC LED FLASHLIGHT This is Maglite’s tactical light. It comes with lithium batteries in a stand-up charging stand. Frankly, I would prefer the charging stand to be something that could be mounted in a vehicle, but I do appreciate that it uses a USB connection to the charger. I was not impressed with the plastic clip because it slides around on the light barrel and I suspect it will break. For the cost, I was expecting a metal clip.

PROS: Four modes, charging cradle, lots of light in a small package.

CONS: Lower output than others, short run time of 150 minutes on high, charging cradle is not vehicle-friendly.

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Flashlight Shootout 2018

MAGLITE ML150RL

MINI PERMAN 1000 LUMENS PENLIGHT In the last update, I tested the ML125 and was disappointed with it. It wasn’t exceptionally bright at 186 lumens and to charge it, you had to take the nickel-cadium (NiCad) battery out of the light and put it into a charger. Recently, Maglite released a new flashlight, the ML150LR. This flashlight comes with a charger cradle that runs on 12 volts or 120 volts. This flashlight has three modes with the high setting.

Call me old school, but I am accustomed to the larger flashlight size.

PROS: Bright high mode (1,000 lumens), 12-volt rechargeable cradle, Maglite quality.

CONS: Quality comes with cost, street price $120, no indicator of battery status.

FITORCH P26R

Fitorch has been around mostly in the flashlight enthusiast market.

The specs are pretty good, with good water resistance, drop resistance and battery meter. This flashlight uses one of the brightest elements Cree makes. The brightest mode quickly overheats the element, so the flashlight steps down to 1,200 lumens after 90 seconds of use. Comes with a holster and USB cord.

PROS: Brightest light in the test, can be a power bank, good quality, battery meter, great run time even when using turbo mode.

CONS: Does not come with a battery, more of a floodlight than a spotlight, single button to control modes, turbo mode only good for 90 seconds, limited availability and warranty is through a company in China.

THE WINNERS

This wasn’t easy. I really liked the small, high-performance flashlights, but the lack of charging cradles kept them from daily use. My pick for my daily work flashlight is the Streamlight Strion HPL Handheld Flashlight. The Strion lives in a charging cradle in the back of my vehicle. The larger reflector allows me to carry it on my tool belt with easy access. It has held up to daily use and I have yet to exhaust the battery during my inspections.

For the minimalist, I recommend the Skilhunt S2 Pro. This was a difficult choice because the Streamlight products were very good. What pushed the Skilhunt ahead was its USB charging port and the battery indicator.

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ASHI Reporter • November 2018

My first thought was that this couldn’t be a 1,000-lumen flashlight, but for $5, I wasn’t expecting it. The body and pocket clip were all metal.

The flashlight took a single AAA battery, and the life was reasonable.

After a week of use, I still had plenty of battery left.

PROS: Inexpensive, metal body, mini-flood beam.

CONS: Not even close to 1,000 lumens, probably 100 lumens. Not sure how long it will last, especially if it goes through the wash.

HICTECH T6 1600 TACTICAL FLASHLIGHT

Right out of the box, it was clear that this wasn’t a high-quality flashlight, but I did like that it had a focusing beam. However, once I installed the batteries, I was disappointed with the beam as I focused from flood to spot. The spot is a little square, which is unique (normally I would expect a tight, round beam). The flashlight is advertised to have 1,600 lumens, but in reality, it’s more like 400 lumens.

PROS: Inexpensive, rugged body, focusing beam, uses AAA batteries.

CONS: Not as bright as advertised, cheap components and short run time on batteries.

Honorable mention goes to the Fitorch P26R. This flashlight blew me away. A light with so many lumens in a small package, with a battery indicator and a power pack makes it a real contender. When I go out at night, this is the flashlight I grab. I can easily light up the neighborhood.

Interested in the results of past Flashlight Shootouts?

Check out these links to ASHI Reporter articles February 2016 – www.ashireporter.org/HomeInspection/Articles/ Flashlight-Shootout-2016/14794 January 2012– www.ashireporter.org/HomeInspection/Articles/ Flashlight-Shootout-2012/2249

Chapter Spotlight

CHAPTER SPOTLIGHT

ST. LOUIS CHAPTER Submitted by Mark Goodman, President, ASHI St. Louis Chapter ASHI Certified Home Inspector #257149, MO SAVE Coalition Disaster Building Inspector The St. Louis Chapter offers a round table and main speaker at its monthly meetings. We cover a variety of training topics, from traditional building science topics to advanced topics, and we also include new construction methods and technologies within the home. In addition to monthly training sessions, the chapter conducts an annual peer review so that chapter members can come together and refine their skills.

RECENTLY, THE ST. LOUIS CHAPTER SPONSORED TWO SPECIAL EVENTS:

• A field trip to the CertainTeed asphalt shingle manufacturing plant in Jonesburg, MO: Chapter members toured the plant and watched the manufacturing process for architectural shingles. We thank CertainTeed for providing an excellent guided tour, presenting an educational presentation about flat roofs and for providing some great food.

• Hands-on training through the Masonry Institute of St. Louis and the local bricklayers’ union: Chapter members visited the bricklayers’ union training facility, where we learned about solid masonry and brick veneer construction methods over the past 150 years. We also visited the shop for a hands-on session to get dirty and lay some bricks.

ASHI–ST. LOUIS FALL SEMINAR November 2, 2018 ASHI 8 CEs

TOPICS AND PRESENTERS • Moisture, Fire Damage and Heat Loss (3-hour block presented by David Goldstein) • Defensive Report Writing (1-hour block presented by David Goldstein) • Street Creep (2-hour block presented by David Birenbaum, PE & ASHI ACI) • New Construction (2-hour block presented by David Goldstein)

Chapters can take advantage of many great training opportunities—from offering an annual peer review to hearing from representatives from local unions, trade associations, manufacturers and local contracting firms. Our chapter leaders have found that these resources are happy to provide free training opportunities to our members

COMMERCIAL INSPECTION CLASS

If you need any additional information, please feel free to contact me anytime at Brewer Inspection Services, 636-391-0091 (office), 314-409-3991 (mobile), www.homeinspectstl.com, www.brewerinspections.com.

Contact Mark Goodman at 314-409-3991.

November 3-4, 2018 ASHI 16 CEs

The commercial inspection class is an ASTM/ ASHI hybrid commercial inspection class and will be taught by David Goldstein.

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Membership Corner

PROPER USE OF THE ASHI LOGO

By Jen Gallegos

I

n the past few months, ASHI Headquarters has received reports of some logo use violations, which raises the questions: Why do these complaints pop up? Why does someone violate the logo use policy? Are members doing this intentionally or do they not understand the rules and therefore not know how to be compliant?

To answer these questions, I’ll review ASHI’s logos, describe how to display them on your marketing materials and explain why using the incorrect logo or verbiage sends the wrong message.

ASHI has many logos including the ASHI corporate blue logo, the ASHI Member logo, the ASHI Inspector logo, the ASHI Certified Inspector logo and the Background Verified Inspector Logo. There are also specific logos for Affiliates of ASHI.

Completing this process takes time, but it’s the hard work to prepare for the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE) that makes reaching ACI status so much more than just a certificate.

Inspectors should not use the ACI logo without earning it. When a potential client finds a home inspector who displays the gold ASHI logo that states “ASHI Certified Inspector,” it means something to the client. The client can be confident that this inspector has been certified and has completed requirements to obtain this certification. Many potential clients visit our website to find out what the certification means and some even call the membership department to verify a home inspector’s ACI status. Problems arise, however, when the member is not (or is no longer) an ASHI Certified Inspector because the ASHI Headquarters representative must try to explain why the person might be misusing the ACI logo. It can be a difficult conversation. In addition, misusing the ACI logo is unfair to members who have earned it and keep their certification status current.

Any inspector who joins ASHI becomes an Associate member and as approved by the ASHI Board in April 2016, Associate members have access to and can use the Member logo. This policy change has given the opportunity for new members to market themselves as an ASHI Associate member.

Please use only the correct logo for your member status on your website and marketing tools. If you want to know which logos you can access, please visit the ASHI website and select the MembersOnly tab. Select Downloads and Forms, and click on ASHI Logos.

You can download the correct logo for you in different formats. If you have any questions, contact the membership department.

To use the ASHI Inspector or the ASHI Certified Inspector logo, members must complete prerequisites. For more information about these prerequisites, visit the ASHI website and view the “How to Move Up” information in the Members-Only tab. You can send questions about this process to membership@ashi.org.

Many web developers will set up your website with an ASHI logo, but often, they will use the incorrect logo. It is important for you to verify your logo by checking your account and communicating with your web developer about which logo to use. ASHI does not want its members to invest money in marketing materials that will have to be amended if the incorrect ASHI logo was used.

A specific logo is granted to the member who “moves up” in ASHI. Once a member meets all the requirements to achieve the status of ASHI Certified Inspector (that is, has performed 250 fee-paid full home inspections, has presented reports that have been verified to comply with the ASHI Standard of Practice and has passed the National Home Inspector Examination, the member will receive access to use the ACI logo and acronym.

This level is an actual certification. When a member reaches this level, ASHI Headquarters mails out a certificate to the member and other items to help the member promote themselves as an ASHI Certified Inspector (ACI). The certificate has a logo from the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA). NCCA has evaluated ASHI and its requirements for ASHI Certified Inspector, and has accredited ASHI. As ASHI meets the requirements to stay 36

compliant with NCCA, members who want to achieve the ACI level must also complete all of ASHI’s requirements.

ASHI Reporter • November 2018

Only current ASHI members can use the logo and display their member number. So, if your membership has lapsed, but you are still using an ASHI logo or stating that you are an ASHI member, you are in violation of ASHI Policy, Section 13. (To view any section of or the entire Policy Manual, visit the ASHI website under Members-Only – Member Resources, Publications and Manuals.)

If you have any questions regarding logo use, how to download a logo or how to move up in ASHI, contact ASHI Membership (847759-2820, email membership@ashi.org). We are here to serve you!

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Tech Talk

TECH TALK WHAT IS SSL AND WHY YOUR WEBSITE NEEDS IT

By Andy Patel, CEO, K-3 Technologies

M

any people think SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encryption is needed only when selling products or services online. However, establishing a secure connection for information exchange has important benefits for all websites, including your home inspection company. More than 50 percent of all websites are now encrypted, making the web a safer place. Protecting sensitive data, faster speed and improved performance are all benefits of SSL. Not having a secure website can pose serious and expensive risks. To understand why SSL is so important, we must first understand what it does.

Any time someone visits your website, data are passed between the server and browser using HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol). This method of data exchange is unprotected and vulnerable to interference. To protect the exchange, website owners must use encryption technology, or an SSL certificate.

As noted previously, SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer. It is used to protect information, and secure the connection between server and browser. Once SSL has been added, the protocol becomes HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure). Users can identify secure sites by looking at the web address. The added layer of security is necessary for any website and here’s why: • Protect information from hackers: SSL provides multiple layers of security and without it, your data could be stolen and used by hackers. SSL prevents this by encrypting data during transfer so customer information cannot be modified or corrupted. It establishes a secure connection so that visitor activity cannot be intercepted and it authenticates your website, proving your identity. Without SSL, hackers can access and use all types of sensitive information stored on devices such as saved passwords and bank account information.

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ASHI Reporter • November 2018

Andy Patel is the CEO of K-3 Marketing, an internet marketing firm located in Atlanta, GA. Working directly with Google, Andy has got the “art” of internet marketing down to a science. Since 2005, K-3 Marketing has helped many home inspectors attract qualified visitors and convert them into optimal leads. He believes in ethical practices and doesn’t think anyone should pay for a service that doesn’t yield some sort of return on investment.

• Improve performance and search engine rankings: Google has openly stated that it favors companies that provide high-quality, unique website content. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is one of many factors used to determine page rank. Take a look at the first page of any search and you will notice that (almost) every site listed on that first page has an HTTPS address. In fact, Chrome is now requiring HTTPS to be the standard in website security. Any page without HTTPS displays a warning to the visitor to inform them of potential security risks involved when proceeding to the site. With an SSL certificate, visitors and search engines are inclined to trust you more. Quality sites with a high level of user engagement will inevitably rank higher on Google.

• Build trust with web browsers (and visitors): Your website’s reputation can affect how much trust customers and web browsers will have in your company. An SSL certificate can instill confidence, and tell customers that you take them and their privacy seriously. Although there is no penalty for having a website that lacks SSL, some browsers will display a warning to web users that the site is not secure. This slows down site performance and any website without security is risking its online reputation. Hackers look for companies without security to copy brand attributes, create a fake site and fill it with malicious links with the intent of destroying your company online. Once web browsers associate your site with malicious activity, it is time-consuming and expensive to overcome.

PROTECTING YOUR CUSTOMERS, BRAND AND REPUTATION SHOULD BE A PRIORITY OF ANY COMPANY. Securing your website doesn’t have to break the bank. You can easily add an SSL certificate through your website’s hosting company. Most companies will maintain your site’s security for a fee that can range from approximately $20 to $50 per month. Ultimately, the benefits of HTTPS are obvious and necessary for any website, regardless of the industry.

Thanks to the continued efforts by companies such as Google, cybersecurity is improving and getting stronger. Website security is constantly evolving.

Someone will eventually develop new technology with better protection.

For now, despite its limitations, SSL is the best way to protect your brand and secure your website.

Ready to take your online marketing to the next level? For more information or to schedule a free Google Ads review, contact Andy Patel at 404-4413539, email andy@k3.marketing or twitter @andyk3marketing.

NOVEMBER ANNIVERSARIES Twenty–five Years Kevin Fischer, P.E. Vimal Kapoor Richard Lukoff, P.E. Brian Murphy

Twenty Years Robert Burns Eugene Duffy James Duggan Jim Duncan Steven Hunn Donald Kinn Leonard Licari Aaron D. Miller Harry O. Morrell Daniel Noteboom Dwayne Ott Richard Petzold

Fifteen Years

Five Years

Ray Baird Jerome Ciganik Mike Divis John B. Elson Douglas Fast Wayne Gardner Chuck Lindeen Michael Monahan Derl Nelson, P.E. Rick Nesselhauf Rick Newton Greg D. Oswalt Ryan Phelps Steve Reilly Brent E. Taylor Dennis J. Whelan John Woolwine

Kenneth W. Askildsen Timothy Ball Francis Glynn Chris Hebert Andrew Murdock Michael Werst Lawrence DiPietro John McKenzie Randy Near Roger Weaver David C. Lambrecht Gary Alvey Jason Boni Jay Brzezinski Daniel Land Dave Matheny Stephen Ferland Peter D. Lewis Ten Years Vito DiSumma Kenneth R. Johnson Mark Goddard Enkuang Yang, P.E., LEED Peter Weeks William C. Minter, II Gary Ferderer Bert Bruinsma Daniel Pantoja Rick DeBolt

CURRENT ASHI MEMBERSHIP ASHI Certified Inspectors: 3,565 Inspectors: 247 Associates: 4,649 Retired Members: 136 Affiliates: 56 Total: 8,653 Members as of 10/9/2018

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

ASHI MEMBERSHIP BENEFIT PROGRAMS ASHI-ENDORSED PROGRAMS ASHI’s E&O InsuranceProgram: Target Professional Programs www.targetproins.com 860-899-1862 ASHI Personal Lines Insurance Program: Liberty Mutual www.libertymutual.com/ashi ASHI’s Protecting Home Inspectors From Meritless Claims Program: Joe Ferry – The Home Inspector Lawyer 855-MERITLESS (637-4853) contact@joeferry.com www.joeferry.com/ashi ASHI Service Program BuildFax Tricia Julian, 877-600-BFAX x161 TJulian@BuildFax.com www.buildfax.com http://go.buildfax.com/ASHI

ASHI Customer Appreciation Program: Moverthankyou.com Brent Skidmore, 864-386-2763 www.moverthankyou.com Brent@POWRsoft.com HomeAdvisor.com Brett Symes, 913-529-2683 www.homeadvisor.com ashi@homeadvisor.com LegalShield Joan Buckner, 505-821-3971 buckner.legalshieldassociate. com buckner@legalshieldassociate. com InspectionContracts.com Dave Goldstein, 800-882-6242 www.inspectioncontracts.com david@inspectoreducation.com OneSource Solutions 877-274-8632 www.osconnects.com/ashi/

Porch.com Eliab Sisay, 206-218-3920 www.porch.com Eliab@porch.com ASHI Rebate Program Quill.com Dana Fishman, 800-634-0320 x1417 www.quill.com/ashi dana.fishman@quill.com

PLATINUM PROVIDER Millionaire Inspector Community Mike Crow www.mikecrow.com dreamtime@mikecrow.com Mention that you are an ASHI member.

ASHI-ENDORSED EXAMS ASHI Standard and Ethics Education Module Go to www.homeinspector.org, click on Education, then click on the link for the ASHI Online Learning Center.

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

ASHI-ENDORSED TRAINING PROGRAMS ASHI@Home Training System 800-268-7070 education@carsondunlop.com

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Postcards from the Field Say Cheese!

NEW POSTCARDS EMAIL! Please send your name, city, state, photos, headings & captions to: postcards@ashi.org Note: By sending in your postcard(s), you are expressly granting ASHI the right to use the postcard and your name with it in the ASHI REPORTER and in other publications ASHI may select.

Curtis Niles Sr. Armored Home Inspections, LLC Pottstown, PA

Santa’s Walk-board

James Med Grubbs Gerald Hargrove Inspection Services Augusta, SC

Still Worked, No Batteries Included

Stephen Tyler RTD Home & Building Inspections Crooksville, OH

That Oughta Do it!

Homeowner Says “I cleaned that last week.”

James Brock Boston Home Inspectors Boston, MA

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ASHI Reporter • November 2018

Matthew Steger WIN Home Inspection Lancaster, PA

3

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

Postcards from the Field To Vent or Not to Vent

John Gamache Capstone Home Inspection Service Escondido, CA

Studor Vent?

Never Heard of it…

Note: By sending in your postcard(s), you are expressly granting ASHI the right to use the postcard and your name with it in the ASHI REPORTER and in other publications ASHI may select.

Toasty Attic: Problem Solved?

Bruce Cadger BC Accurate Inspections, LLC San Tan Valley, AZ

Steel Wool: Insulation or Fire Hazard?

Francis Glynn Reliable Home Inspection Service Wilmington, DE Alvin Miller Hawkeye Home Inspections LLC Wellman, IA

Just a Matter of Time

What Makes You Think This is Gonna Leak?

Andy Wallace Nat’l Property Inspections Los Osos, CA 42

ASHI Reporter • November 2018

Lou Prinzi First Choice Building Inspections, Inc. Jacksonville, FL

• Drone Roof Inspections - NEW!

• Sewer Line Inspections - NEW!

November 2018 • www.ASHIReporter.org

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ON MY MIND

WANT TO MAKE MORE MONEY?

By ASHI President, Tim Buell

When and why should a post office lessor inspect his or her building?

• A post office lessor always should consider an ASHI-developed inspection plan before negotiating a new lease with the USPS. Knowing the extent of necessary or expected repairs allows lessors to negotiate fair rents to help defray those costs.

I love money. I love everything about it.

I bought some pretty good stuff. Got me a $300 pair of socks. Got a fur sink. An electric dog polisher. A gasolinepowered turtleneck sweater. And, of course, I bought some dumb stuff, too.

– Steve Martin, Actor

O

ne of my goals for 2018 has been to provide opportunities for ASHI members to make more money. Thanks to the efforts of ASHI staff members Mike Rostecu and Michele George, along with ASHI board member Bryck Guibor, I can share with you an opportunity ASHI members have with the Association of United States Postal Lessors (AUSPL).

AUSPL provides education and training to its members by making available experts in lease negotiation, building inspections, maintenance, property taxes and other services lessors need to better manage their investments. Additionally, AUSPL offers technical expertise, advice, informative publications in print and online, and customized insurance for postal buildings, exclusively for members. Through lobbying efforts, AUSPL strives to ensure that leased postal facilities are fully considered as a means of ensuring that the United States Postal Service (USPS) meets its universal service mandate, especially to people in rural America.

There are more than 25,000 leased post offices that need inspections at least every five years in order to renew their lease with the USPS. We are proud that AUSPL has chosen to work closely with ASHI on this project to meet the needs of their members.

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ASHI Reporter • November 2018

• If it has been more than a few years since the last building inspection, a lessor should again consider an ASHI inspection under the program. It’s prudent to always be aware of the condition of their property.

• Any time a major repair has been performed on the building, it is a good idea to consider an inspection by a qualified member of ASHI within the warranty period to ensure there are no signs of defects in the repair.

This opportunity and required training is FREE and available to ASHI members. Here’s how to participate: 1. Go to the ASHI Online Learning Center and log into www.homeinspector.org/onlineeducation.

a. Click on the banner of AUSPL INSPECTION PROGRAM (shown here), which will take you directly to the Welcome page. b. Study the PowerPoint slides.

c. Take and pass the test to become an AUSPL post office specialist You will receive a certificate at the end.

d. ASHI automatically knows when you passed and will forward your information to AUSPL. 2. You must use software specifically designed for postal-leased buildings (Horizon), which will be made available to you through AUSPL.

3. You will need to review and execute the recommended inspection agreement with AUSPL, and send a copy to your errors and omissions (E&O) insurance carrier for approval. Do not market to or solicit inspections directly from a post office. If someone from a post office contacts you, refer them to AUSPL to obtain proper government approvals for the inspection.

4. AUSPL will contact you when a post office in your area needs an inspection.

5. The hired member of ASHI will schedule the inspection with the post office lessor.

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6. The report will automatically be uploaded to AUSPL (cloudbased) website for review to ensure compliance with USPS. 7. Once the report is approved, the inspector will be paid by AUSPL within 10 days.

Questions? Contact Bonnie Bruno-Castañeda at ASHI Headquarters (847-759-2820 or bonneb@ashi.org).

I urge you to take advantage of this opportunity! It is way to make money while providing a much-needed service. This is an excellent opportunity for multi-inspector firms.

Too many people spend money they haven’t earned to buy things they don’t want to impress people they don’t like. – Will Rogers

On another note, I created a task force, chaired by ASHI board member Bronson Anderson, to look at better ways to utilize the ASHI Reporter.

Based on the task force’s report to the Board in July, we’ve decided to include articles by the ASHI President and the ASHI Executive Director on a quarterly, rather than monthly, basis. This will allow us to use more pages for advertising, as well as offer more features of chapters and members, more information about ASHI benefits and other important topics.

THE ASHI FOUNDATION OF CHANGE Mike Wagner, ACI, 2018 ASHI Vice President, and Chair, ASHI Foundation Task Force With nearly 20 years as an ASHI member, I have had the opportunity to learn many things about the personalities of home inspectors. We are independent, yet cooperative; we see the big picture, yet we focus on the details; we teach, yet we learn continuously. We take significant pride in our profession and we truly care about helping others make informed decisions.

Some might say that a home inspector is the salt of a community.

We work hard, sponsor local kids’ sports teams, volunteer for school boards, raise families, help neighbors and contribute to the success of numerous programs that enrich our surroundings. We have a deep passion for what we do and how we do it.

In 2009, the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) established The ASHI Foundation as a separate 501(C)(3) not-for-profit corporation. The original purpose for the Foundation was to leverage its nonprofit status to apply for grants that would fund educational and research endeavors. This task proved to be unsustainable, as it was significantly more challenging than anticipated. Over the past nine years, the Foundation’s goal was never realized and the cause faded into the background. The future of the ASHI Foundation was at risk.

During the July 2018 board meeting of the ASHI Foundation, board members established a task force to revitalize the ASHI Foundation and significantly change its mission. The ASHI Foundation Board provided overwhelming support for the suggested changes, which included restructuring the ASHI Foundation as a charitable arm for home inspectors and related professionals to give back to the communities that enable all of us to make a living.

The new mission of the ASHI Foundation is

“HELPING PEOPLE IN NEED THROUGH GIVING AND EDUCATION.” 46

ASHI Reporter • November 2018

Our vision is to establish a simple, sustainable, donation-based charity platform that provides all members of our inspection community with the opportunity to give back in a meaningful, organized way. The ASHI Foundation will offer ways for home inspection professionals to have a direct impact on charities that serve veterans in need, people who are homeless, families at risk and people who’ve experienced natural disasters, just to name a few.

With your help, each year the ASHI Foundation will consider supporting a charity located in the host city of ASHI’s InspectionWorld®.

This support could provide an opportunity for ASHI members and their friends to hear and see firsthand how home inspectors make a real difference in their communities. Regional and local charities also will benefit throughout the year as ASHI chapters organize charity events under the umbrella of the ASHI Foundation. The refreshed ASHI Foundation also can explore opportunities to support educational scholarships for people in need who are seeking a career in home inspection.

Winston Churchill once said, “WE MAKE A LIVING BY WHAT WE GET. WE MAKE A LIFE BY WHAT WE GIVE.”

The value of charitable giving is immeasurable and the rewards are limitless. Individually, many of us already make a difference. Collectively, with the support of more than 8,000 members, the re-energized ASHI Foundation will have the power to inspire and to change many lives. Positively affecting people’s lives is a privilege that we can all support and take pride in as a profession.

The revitalization of the ASHI Foundation is a work in progress. We have a goal to plan exciting events and activities that will help people who live in the San Diego community during IW in January 2019.

Watch for more details to come—we hope you will consider offering your support for this new and exciting cause. In the meantime, please contact me with comments or suggestions (mwagner@ralis.com or 317-201-5859).