September 2017 Reporter by ASHI

9.17

ASHI

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

Spotl i ASHI ght on Mem Servi ber ces P 34

CITY INSPECTOR VERSUS COUNTRY INSPECTOR • DETAILS P22

Being Frank: What You See Is What You Get; What You Get Is What You Pay For

8 ASHI Educational Opportunities 14 Assessors in Action 25 Real Estate Office Discussions That Matter 2o Go with the Flow — the Energy Flow 39 A Rare, but Potentially Serious Furnace

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ASHI Reporter • September 2017

9/23/16 2:23 PM

9.17

REPORTER ASHI

September 2017

Features 7

Please Support our Advertisers:

Staff Directory 2017

ASHI Staff

ASHI Educational Opportunities ASHI Staff

Assessors in Action ASHI Staff 16 Counters and Cabinets Alan Carson, Carson Dunlop

Vol. 34, #9

Real Estate Office Discussions That Matter

Alan Carson, Carson Dunlop

10 Steps to Organizing a Successful Chapter Educational Event

Michele George, ASHI Director of Education, Events & Chapter Relations

Go With the Flow—the Energy Flow Tom Feiza, Mr. Fix-It, Inc.

A Rare, but Potentially Serious, Furnace Maintenance Error Roger Hankey, ACI

40 Report Out Update to the P&P

Departments

Leviton Horizon Inspection Software Allen Insurance Target Professional Programs InspectionWorld® InspectIT NHIE Study Guide ASHI Online Learning Center ICHI Software Joe Ferry 3D Inspection System US Inspect InspectorPro ASHI Print-On-Demand How To Operate Your Home America’s Call Center American Home Warranty Business Risk Partners Wagner Meters Sun Nuclear Corporation HomeGauge

2 Leviton.com/eol 5 CarsonDunlop.com/tryhorizon 9 allenins.com 11 TargetProIns.com 13 www.inspectionworld.org 17 InspectIT.com 19 NHIEStudyGuide.org 19 softconference.com/ashi/ 21 ichomeinspectionsoftware.com 23 joeferry.com 27 3dinspection.com 27 844-268-2677 33 InspectorProInsurance.com/ASHI 37 ASHIPrintOnDemand.com 41 htoyh.com 41 AmericasCallCenter.com 43 ahomewarranty.com 45 BRP.com 45 wagnermeters.com 47 sunradon.com 48 HomeGauge.com/CRL

6 Being Frank Frank Lesh, ASHI Executive Director 12 The ASHI School

Hands-on Home Inspection Training

Chapter News, Listing and Education

Membership, Endorsed Member Programs & Anniversaries

28 ASHI Community 34 Your ASHI

38 Around the CoRner Hollis Brown, Speaker of the CoR 42 Postcards From the Field

It’s Wacky Out There

46 On My Mind

By ASHI President Howard Pegleow

32 September 2017 • www.ASHIReporter.org

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

A SH I M ISSIO N S TATEM ENT 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 Howard Pegelow, President Gilbert, AZ, 414-379-4186 hpegelow@yahoo.com

Donald Lovering, Sr., Treasurer Indian Trail, NC, 704-443-0110 Stonehouse1@earthlink.net

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

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

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

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

Directors

Main Phone: 847-759-2820, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm Mon. - Fri., CST EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Frank Lesh, Executive Director, 847-954-3182, frankl@ashi.org Bonnie Bruno-Castaneda, Executive Assistant & 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, BOOTH RENTAL, 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 Supervisor, 847-954-3180 janetg@ashi.org George Herrera, Membership Services Assistant, 847-954-3196 georgeh@ashi.org

Bruce Barker 2015-2017 Cary, NC, 919-322-4491 bruce@dreamhomeconsultants.com

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

Michael Conley 2017-2019 Anna Maria, FL, 941-778-2385 FLinspector@outlook.com

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

James J. Funkhouser 2017-2019 Manassas Park, VA, 703-791-2360 jfunkhousr@aol.com

Bob Sisson 2017-2019 Boyds MD, 301-208-8289 Office@inspectionsbybob.com

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

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

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

Ken Harrington 2015-2017 Delaware, OH, 614-507-1061 InspectorKen@kustomhi.com

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

WEBSITE, INFORMATION SYSTEMS, DATABASE

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

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

David Haught 2016-2018 Huntington, WV, 304-417-1247 inspector@wvchi.com

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

Publisher: Frank Lesh Editor: Carol Dikelsky Art Director: Arlene Zapata, Designer: Kate Laurent American Society of Home Inspectors, Inc. 932 Lee Street, Suite 101 Des Plaines, IL 60016

847-954-3186 Reporter calls only 847-299-2505 (fax) Reporter only Email: frankl@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© 2017, ASHI. None of the content of this publication may be reproduced, in any manner, without the prior written consent of the publisher. Inclusion of or specific mention of any proprietary product within does not imply endorsement of, nor does exclusion of any proprietary product imply non-endorsement, by the American Society of Home Inspectors, Inc. Opinions or statements of authors and advertisers are solely their own, and do not necessarily represent the opinions or positions of ASHI, its agents or editors. See above for information pertaining to submission of articles, advertising and related materials.

ASHI STAFF

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

Michael Krauszowski, Membership Relations Administrator 847-954-3175, Michaelk@ashi.org Mark Lester, Membership Services Coordinator, 847-954-3176 markl@ashi.org ACCOUNTING

Toni Fanizza, Accounting, Purchasing and Human Resources Manager, 847-954-3190, tonif@ashi.org

Mike Rostescu, Assistant Executive Director & Director of IT 847-954-3189, miker@ashi.org COMMUNICATIONS

Dave Kogan, Director of Marketing & Business Development Advertising, Marketing, IW Expo Hall, Public Relations 847-954-3187, davek@ashi.org Kate Laurent, Graphic Designer, Digital Strategist & “ASHI Reporter” Managing Editor, 847-954-3179, Katel@ashi.org Chris Karczewski, Social Media & Membership Relations Administrator, 847-954-3183, chrisk@ashi.org THE ASHI SCHOOL

Russell Daniels, Executive Director of the ASHI School 847-954-3178, Russelld@theashischool.com Michelle Santiago, Executive Assistant, 847-954-3198 Michelle@theashischool.com Tracy Vazquez, Sales Representative, 847-954-3181 Tracy@theashischool.com Avery Dinn, Sales Representative, 847-954-3191 Avery@theashischool.com

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What You See Is What You Get; What You Get Is What You Pay For I

n past columns, I’ve described how to improve your ability to get inspections by updating your profile on the ASHI website. I’ve also described how to navigate the website to access the useful benefits that ASHI offers you. This month, I’d like to expand a little more on that topic. Imagine this scenario: Client: You didn’t tell me there was a roof leak.

Inspector: On Page xx in your report, I said the house was missing shingles and that there was a bucket in the attic under the wet spot in the sheathing. I noted that a qualified roofing contractor should be called to repair/replace immediately. Client: Oh. Well, the air conditioner is not cooling very well.

Inspector: On Page xx, I noted that the outside coil was clogged, your filter was full of debris and the temperature drop was only 5 degrees. Therefore, I noted that a qualified HVAC contractor needed to repair/replace the unit. Client: I wasn’t aware of these problems. Had I known, I would not have bought the house.

Inspector: Maybe if you’d read the report, we wouldn’t be having this conversation. Maybe you can’t find the report. Would you like me to send it to you again so we can review it together?

I think every inspector who has been in business for a while has had a few conversations like this one. I know I’ve had my share.

My point is this: What we do for you at ASHI is our report for you. Just like you inspect hundreds of items in a house, your leaders and staff do hundreds of things for you. The thing is, just like your clients, you have to pay attention to what’s in the report. Here are some examples on the ASHI website. To access these and much more, visit the ASHI website (www.ashi.org or www. homeinspector.org).

• Scroll down to the bottom right corner. Click on the InspectionWorldTM logo and see what happens. (Hint: It’s something you’ve paid for that you should have seen by now.)

• Scroll down to the bottom left and click on the Reporter section. There you’ll find years of past issues of the Reporter with articles you may have missed.

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

by Frank Lesh ASHI Executive Director

• In the upper right corner, select the Find an Inspector button, fill in your postal code and see your name appear in the list. Pull up your information and check if it’s accurate or if you can enhance it. (Did you know that if one or two visitors to the ASHI site select your name from this list and book you for an inspection, you will have earned enough to cover your ASHI dues for a year?) Where in the World Is Frank Lesh? Boston: As I write this column, I’m en route back to Chicago from Boston. While in Beantown, I attended a Millionaire Inspector Community meeting of multi-inspector firms. It was great to listen to people share the successes and trials of those firms, which can be somewhat different from the stories that come from those who operate single-inspector shops. As it turns out, however, we have far more in common than not. Baltimore: You may have read in ASHI’s First Thing email update that I recently traveled to Baltimore and had a conversation with Ben Carson, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. The U.S. Department of HUD invited ASHI to attend a listening session with Secretary Carson, and the session was very illuminating. I was impressed with the Secretary’s common-sense approach to the housing problems we face in this country. He mentioned that when he was in high school, he learned how to build an electric motor and to fix things. He feels our young people should gain that do-ityourself knowledge we received in school years ago. I learned how to build a motor in high school, too. Back then, I never would have thought that I could turn that experience into the life of a home inspector! I also had a chance to tell Secretary Carson about the success of The ASHI School’s partnership with Baltimore Community College, where our instructors teach students to become home inspectors. Secretary Carson commented, “That’s what we should be teaching people—how they can earn a living in their own business.” Perhaps in our next issue, I’ll talk about my next journey to Ft. Lauderdale for the Florida Association of Building Inspectors (FABI) conference. H Frank Lesh, Executive Director American Society of Home Inspectors Direct: 847-954-3182 Frankl@ashi.org • www.ashi.org

ASHI Staff Directory 2017

Frank Lesh Executive Director

Bonnie Bruno-Castaneda Executive Assistant & Project Coordinator

Jen Gallegos, Manager of Membership Services & U.S. DOE Home Energy Score Assessor Coordinator

Mike Rostescu Assistant Executive Director & Director of IT

Janet George Membership Services Supervisor

Dave Kogan Director of Marketing & Business Development

Toni Fanizza Accounting, Purchasing and Human Resources Manager

Mark Lester Membership Services Coordinator

Kate Laurent Graphic Designer, Digital Strategist & “ASHI Reporter” Managing Editor

Beverly Canham Financial Assistant

Michael Krauszowski Membership Relations Administrator

Chris Karczewski Social Media & Digital Strategist

Michele George Director of Education, Events and Chapter Relations

George Herrera Membership Services Assistant

George Ilavisky Graphic Designer & Free Logos

The ASHI School

Russell Daniels Executive Director of the ASHI School

Michelle Santiago Executive Assistant

Tracy Vazquez Sales Representative

Avery Dinn Sales Representative

September 2017 • www.ASHIReporter.org

ASHI Educational Opportunities

ASHI Educational Opportunities By ASHI Staff

CHAPTER EVENTS AND TIPS FOR PLANNING GREAT CHAPTER EVENTS ASHI GEORGIA, INC. Contact: Shannon Cory, Southeastern Home Inspector Conference Chair (shannon@sehomeinspectorconference.com)

11th Annual Southeastern Home Inspector Conference: September 8-10, 2017 > Sponsored by ASHI Georgia, Inc. > Infinite Energy Center, Duluth, GA

Southeastern Home Inspectors—Your Future Is Through Education

Networking • Exhibitors • Opportunity to Earn 20 CE Units • $500 Cash Drawing Educational sessions, including these topics and much more: • Pre-Drywall Inspections • Plumbing • HVAC • Water Heaters and Ductless Mini-Splits • Basic Building Science and Combustion Safety • Stucco • Foundation Issues • Fireplace and Chimneys • Electrical and Lighting • Wind Mitigation • Report Writing • Business Success Strategies • Associate Training Track (structural, exterior, electrical and plumbing) • State-specific sessions for inspectors from Tennessee, Georgia and North Carolina

Bonus Classes: September 6-7

• ICC Residential Combination One- and Two-Family – 2012 Edition • ICC Mechanical Code – 2012 Edition • National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE) Prep Class • Radon Certification Course (including exam) • Certified Residential Thermography Course (with exam) • Millionaire Inspector Community – Blow Your Competition Away

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

GREAT LAKES CHAPTER

Contact: Carol Case, Executive Director, ASHI Great Lakes Chapter (carol@greatinspectors.com, www.greatinspectors.com) Recent and Upcoming Events The Great Lakes Chapter (GLC) held its Summer Conference in Mt. Prospect IL and covered many topics, including “Importance of Pictures in Inspections,” “Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing Safety,” “Water Intrusion” and “Old House Inspections.” Attendees also participated in the GLC Peer Review—this activity provides an opportunity to inspect a home built in the 1920s. Many vendors were present and our luncheon guest speaker was a representative from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).

The 2017 GLC Fall Conference will take place October 13-14, in Middlebury, IN. Attendees will tour a modular home factory, attend a session on advanced electrical inspections, and learn the ins and outs of inspecting modular homes. Inspectors also can participate in GLC Peer Review and Education Review programs. We can’t wait to see what challenges the next house will bring! Tips from GLC for Organizing Great Chapter Events Throughout the year, GLC hosts three large conferences and offers many dinners and seminars in a variety of locations. For details, visit www.greatinspectors.com for a list of our scheduled events. Plan out the details: Meet with the hotel or restaurant staff to discuss your needs months in advance of the event, and then follow up with a call or visit one week prior to the event. Draw up layouts of the space, provide a list of your needs and be sure to review your menus. Keep in mind that you may have inspectors with special dietary needs. Work with your speakers: Be specific with your speakers—let them know exactly what inspectors hope to gain from their presentation. Remind them that they can be a great reference for inspectors; however, the inspectors are there to learn, not to receive a sales pitch. Keep a file of information about your speakers for future reference. Many times, attendees will call me months later looking for contact information to share with their clients.

September 2017 â&#x20AC;¢ www.ASHIReporter.org

ASHI Educational Opportunities

Ask for feedback: Always survey your attendees before and after events. They provide the best recommendations for upcoming venues, speakers and events. Don’t overlook your members—they hold a wealth of knowledge. Many are great speakers as well! Collaborate and communicate: Communication with your chapter members is essential. Members want to be a part of the process and the outcome. A successful event is not the result of one individual. When many members work together, great things can and will happen!

If you are a chapter leader, please submit information about your chapter news and events to micheleg@ashi.org to be included in future issues of the Reporter.

ASHI LEADERSHIP TRAINING CONFERENCE

Contact: Michele George, ASHI Director of Education and Events, micheleg@ashi.org.

Please see the ad below for details... Everyone is invited to attend ASHI’s Leadership Training Conference! We’ve designed the LTC program to help you create an easy, fast and functional strategic plan—not only for your chapter, but also for your business. A strategic plan is a map showing your destination, the sure way to get there and how fast you will go. Continues on the next page

GAME PLAN 20/20

Let’s talk Strategy — for your business, for your chapter. Would you build a house without a blueprint? Draw up a plan. Create direction. Simplify and speed up decision-making and stick to your plan.

Leadership Training Conference: October 19-20 Fountain Blue Conference Center 2300 Mannheim Road, Des Plaines Illinois 60018 Two full days - Begins 8:00 am, Thursday and Friday Stay next door at the Wyndham Hotel – hot breakfast included, $106/night

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

Register Now! 1. Find link to LTC registration form on the ashi.org homepage calendar under October 19 & 20 LTC Event. 2. E mail completed form to micheleg@ashi.org. Questions, call 847-954-3188. Participating chapters will receive a special incentive.

Choose our E & O / GL insurance and save 15% on the cost of outstanding coverage. As ASHI’s endorsed provider for E & O and General Liability Insurance, Target Professional Programs offers ASHI members the highest premium discount available anywhere – a full 15% on any amount of coverage purchased. More Attractive Advantages In addition to covering all inspectors in the firm (including interns), Target’s policy covers your administrative staff, referral agencies and even spouses. Plus, Identity Theft Coverage up to $25,000 is a no-cost bonus with every policy. Target includes coverage for specialized inspections: • 4 Point • Infrared Thermography • Commercial (Up to 100,000 Sq. Ft.) • Pool & Spa • Construction Draw • Radon • Code Compliance • Septic / Well • EIFS • Water Testing • Energy • Wind Mitigation • HUD / Section 8 Optional policy endorsements let you purchase only the extra coverage you may need for inspections you actually perform: Carbon Monoxide, Lead, Mold and/or Termite inspections. Coverage for Drone Inspections At a low premium of only $100, this optional endorsement provides $50,000 in coverage per policy term for damage or injury caused by an inspector’s drone during the course of an inspection. We’re happy to offer you (or your insurance agent/broker) a no-obligation quote at any time. Visit: www.TargetProIns.com for an application and more details about coverage features & benefits. Or contact us: Fausto Petruzziello 973-396-1790 FPetruzz@TargetProIns.com

TARGET PROFESSIONAL PROGRAMS Insurance for Particular Professionals

11September 2017

• www.ASHIReporter.org

ASHI Educational Opportunities

Strategic planning offers three main advantages: • Creates direction and priorities for everyone in the group • Simplifies and speeds up decision-making along the way • Gives you a map for accomplishing goals and winning—staying on the path

•N ADRA Deck Inspection, presented by Jim Mailey, Simpson StrongTie • Mold Inspection, presented by EMSL, Mike Menz •S ewer Line Inspection, presented by United Infrared, Peter Hopkins

LTC Instructor: Tim Hosey, President, Timothy Hosey & Associates, a 34-year-old consulting firm assisting businesses and organizations throughout the United States and Canada in marketing and business management

Post-Conference Options 7-hour—January 25 • Pool/Spa Inspector Certification Course

To RSVP, contact micheleg@ashi.org

3-day—January 25-27 •C ommercial Building Inspection, presented by Richard Weldon, CDW

NEWS FROM:

Contact: Russell K. Daniels, Executive Director, The ASHI School, russeld@theASHIschool.com Meet The ASHI School’s New Team! Our new staff list and contact information has recently changed. Please contact us with your questions. We are here to serve you!

LANDO

8 201

•M ichelle Santiago, Executive Assistant, 847-954-3198 Michelle@theashischool.com

INSPECTIONWORLDTM 2018 January 21-24

•T racy Vazquez, Sales Representative, 847-954-3181 Tracy@theashischool.com

Contact: Michele George, ASHI Director of Education and Events, micheleg@ashi.org.

•A very Dinn, Sales Representative, 847-954-3191 Avery@theashischool.com

Special for 2018! In addition to the excellent exhibits and educational sessions planned for IW, we have expanded IW’s pre- and post-conference schedule to include even more opportunities for training in ancillary services.

New Website to Roll-out in January The ASHI School’s new website will help you navigate quickly to the topics and sessions that are relevant to you.

Pre-Conference Options 2-day—January 19-20 • Thermography, presented by Monroe Infrared, Bill Fabian • Radon Measurement, presented by Radalink, Terry Howell 1-day—January 20 • Home Energy Score Assessor Training, presented by InspectionDepot and the U.S. Department of Energy, Brent Loya and Ken Slattery 4-hour—January 21 • NHIE Exam Prep, presented by Bruce Barker 12

•R ussell Daniels, ASHI Executive Director of the ASHI School 847-954-3178, Russelld@theashischool.com

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

Customized One-Week Classes In addition to our traditional two-week classes, we are setting the stage to offer customized, one-week classes that match up with specific state requirements. This will help inspectors whose state licensing requires 80 hours (as opposed to 120 hours) of training. The education will be tailored for each state’s requirements. Business-Focused Specialty Classes The ASHI School is working toward diversifying and creating more specialty classes to cover these hot business topics: •B usiness (legal, budgeting, entering the business, strategic planning, contingency plans, exit strategy) • Report Writing • Marketing

ASHI Educational Opportunities

Sign Up for These Popular Ancillary Classes! We get especially positive responses from attendees of these classes: commercial, radon and mold. The content helps inspectors really get a boost for their business. H

Upcoming Classes September 11-22, 2017 • Baltimore, MD • Bellevue, WA • Cumming, GA • Lakewood, CO • Tampa, FL September 18-29, 2017 • Cincinnati, OH October 2-7, 2017 • Austintown, OH

October 2-13, 2017 • Columbus, OH October 30 – November 10, 2017 • St. Louis, MO November 6-17, 2017 • Baltimore, MD • Bellevue, WA • Brentwood, TN • Cypress, CA • Cincinnati, OH • Des Plaines, IL

Join us in Orlando, Caribe Royale Resort ASHI’s annual meeting and the largest education conference and expo of the year for professional home inspectors

November 24-December 8, 2017 • Cumming, GA • Lakewood, CO • Leesburg, VA • Tampa, FL

www.theASHISchool.com 1-888-884-0440

Janua

ry 21

-24, 2

018

Refreshing! • Pre- and Post-Conference training • More than 45 expertly led educational sessions • Popular networking and social events • An exciting expo hall packed with exhibitors providing the latest information on tools and technology • Earn 20 ASHI CEs, state CEs and many industry association credits • Preparation for the NHIE & examination

LANDO 201

Go to www.inspectionworld.org for details A special raffle will be held November 1, when three lucky registrants will receive complimentary registration to InspectionWorld Orlando. 13September 2017

• www.ASHIReporter.org

Assessors in Action

Assessors in Action How ASHI Members Are Putting the Home Energy Score to Work By ASHI Staff

Author’s note: With this article, we introduce a feature that will profile members from across the country who are successfully integrating the U.S. Department of Energy’s Home Energy Score into their businesses.

all them “early adopters,” “pioneers” or “innovators”—they are the ones who stick out their necks to create new and better ways of doing business and try out practices that improve not only their own bottom line, but also positively affect the larger industry. And although their more reactive competition might prefer to hang back and respond to a changing industry after the fact rather than work to shape its future, these market players take the opposite approach, one that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has its own name for: leadership.

New Approaches Meet Old Values Sean Troxell, one of the two principals at JD Grewell and Associates, is good at what he does. An ASHI Certified Inspector with over 700 inspections under his belt, Sean nevertheless confesses to feeling like a rookie several times a week. That’s how it goes when the company’s founder (and Sean’s father-in-law) is none other than JD Grewell himself—the man whose name has been synonymous with high-integrity, no-nonsense home inspections in the Washington, DC, area for over 45 years. It’s the kind of business that anyone at JD’s stage of the game would be proud to look back on. Given the stature of JD Grewell and Associates, it’s perhaps not surprising that many of Sean’s visions for building on the company’s success are met with something of an “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” response from JD and the original team. Whether it’s modernizing operations with automated IT systems or taking on additional services like the Home Energy Score, Sean knows that he needs to choose his battles wisely. “That’s what us younger guys can bring to this industry,” Sean said during a break between inspections recently, “a fresh set of eyes and an openness to changing with the market. This company’s reputation is all about trust and expertise, and anyone who doesn’t think that being able to provide solid information about a home’s energy efficiency is the future of this industry is kidding themselves.” “Deputized” by the DOE Sean isn’t merely an early adopter of the Home Energy Score program. As anyone who attended ASHI’s 2017 award ceremony at InspectionWorldTM knows, he’s the kind of program ally who’s ready to roll up his sleeves when the DOE needs some real, in-thetrenches input to make the program work for the inspection industry. Take, for example, that new Remote Mentoring/Desktop QA offering from the DOE that’s been covered in these pages and 14

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

elsewhere in the industry press; it’s a huge program change that finally makes the Home Energy Score accessible to inspectors nationwide, and it couldn’t have happened if Sean hadn’t run dozens of (uncompensated) experimental scores on his clients’ homes to test the concept. Same goes for the first-ever Home Energy Score “boot camp” training last fall, where Sean brought 20 or so members from ASHI’s Mid-Atlantic Chapter (MAC-ASHI) and Northern Virginia (NOVA) Chapter together for an intensive two-day sprint through the program’s “Sim” training and an in-field mentorship session at Sean’s own home. “Super-energetic champions like Sean are the secret key to any successful program,” says Joan Glickman, DOE Senior Advisor and Program Manager of the Home Energy Score, who got a close-quarters dose of Sean’s enthusiasm when she happened to sit next to him on a flight from InspectionWorldTM a couple years ago. She said, “The Score is now positioned to have a big, positive impact on the home inspection industry, and we just couldn’t have gotten to this point without input from people like Sean. They’re the only ones who can show us what inspectors need from a program like this.” Finally, a Good Fit for Inspectors And just what do Sean and other inspectors need from a program like Home Energy Score? ASHI members have made clear that, in addition to being able to associate themselves with a respected brand (this is perhaps the DOE-sponsored program’s biggest single benefit), inspectors need an easy-to-use system that only adds (at most) an extra 30 minutes to their normal inspection process, and they definitely don’t need any additional personnel kicking around a client’s house with them in the name of mentorship or quality assurance, as important as those aspects are to the program’s continued credibility. “People don’t understand that they’re doing 90% of this stuff already,” Sean told us recently. “With these changes to the program, now that I’ve nailed down my process, it really takes investing only an extra few minutes to achieve something that holds a lot of value for our clients.” He also sees home inspectors as the rightful providers of energy-related information, given the unique nature of the sales process. He said, “No homebuyer is going to buy a $500 energy audit for a house they might not purchase. Home Energy Score reports give my clients the right amount of information, for the right price, at the exact time they need it most.”

Assessors in Action

Joan Glickman and Sean Troxell

Now that Sean has been so instrumental in helping the DOE get this revamped, inspector-friendly program across the finish line, how does he feel about its role in the industry and in his successful, but somewhat set-in-its-ways, business? “We all do our share to drive this industry forward,” Sean responded when we asked him to comment on his outsized role within the program. “I hope the work that I’ve done with the DOE will be seen as a small part of that effort.”

More than that, this proud ASHI member sees his future in the industry in both a personal and professional light. “As a father of young kids, it’s important to me to be on the right side of how we use energy in this country. And as an inspector with some really big shoes to fill at our company, I know that offering the Home Energy Score is the kind of service that will protect JD Grewell’s reputation as the best in the business.” H

Assessor at a Glance:

A “lightning round” Q&A with Sean Troxell, detailing how ASHI members are incorporating the Home Energy Score into their businesses

How much extra work is it? It varies by the size and complexity of the home, of course, but once I had a dozen or so under my belt, I’d say that I’m putting in an additional 30 minutes, tops. What do you charge for a Home Energy Score? Now that my “experimental” phase is over and I know how it fits into my process, I can see charging $100 to $150 for the report. We don’t do a lot of ancillary services, so it will take some adjustment to sell and deliver the Score, but I’m confident that it will increase our average ticket rate. What do the real estate agents in your network think about it? Agent referrals aren’t a big part of our business, so it’s not really a factor yet. I’ve talked with a few agents who’ve heard about it and are trying to work that “green” niche—it will happen more and more, I think. How do you market the Home Energy Score? The DOE has some solid handouts that we’re going to start using with clients and some nice guidance for how we can start selling the benefits of getting a Score along with the home inspection report. We have the DOE logo front and center on our website, and we’re trying to bring it into our initial calls with prospects because it only enhances our position as the most capable and experienced inspectors in our market.

15September 2017

• www.ASHIReporter.org

Counters and Cabinets

Counters and Cabinets By Alan Carson, Carson Dunlop, www.carsondunlop.com, 800-268-7070

ounters and cabinets have two distinct roles in homes. From a functional standpoint, counters provide working surfaces in kitchens, bathrooms, pantries and bars. Cabinets provide storage facilities in kitchens, bathrooms and other rooms. Counters and cabinets also play a strong role in the visual, cosmetic and architectural side of things. Cabinetry can be a focal point in a room and often, the cabinetry is an indicator of the quality of construction throughout the home. As inspectors, we focus on the functional and performance side of things. Counter Materials A variety of materials are used for counters, with varying price points. Each material has pros and cons. Some of the more popular choices for countertops include the following: Plastic laminate: Developed in the early to mid-1900s, laminate countertops still are a popular choice. A plastic sheet is adhered to a particleboard base in the factory. These countertops tend to be easier to work with because they are relatively light and easy to cut on site. Depending on the quality of the laminate, this material also is relatively heat- and stain-resistant, although damage from cutting utensils is a common issue. Butcher block: Pieces of wood are glued together and sanded to create a smooth surface. These countertops need to be sealed after manufacture and then periodically after installation. Without sealing, the wood pieces can warp due to moisture, and germ and pathogen retention can become an issue. Although most countertops are maintenance-free, butcher block is an exception. Wood is subject to burn marks from hot pots, for example. Some kitchens feature sections of butcher block, blended with other countertop materials. Natural stone: Marble and granite are the two most popular choices for natural stone countertops. To manufacture the countertop, natural rock is cut and polished to achieve a smooth finish. The finish can be glossy, matte or honed. Depending on how it is finished, the same stone can provide different looks. Porosity is an issue with some natural stone countertops, which may discolor without regular sealing. Marble stains much more easily than granite. Quartz or cultured stone: Consisting of ground quartz with a resin binder, this nonporous engineered material is a durable choice and it never has to be sealed. It is also known as engineered stone. With 16

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

clever pigmentation, patterning and texturing, quartz countertops can be made to look like many natural stone products. Stainless steel: As the name suggests, stainless steel sheets are formed into the shape of the countertop. This material is extremely hygienic and easy to maintain. Stainless steel countertops are the choice of commercial kitchens, although you also may see them in residential homes. Tile: Tile is one of the few types of counters that’s built entirely on site. A plywood base is installed over the cabinets. After the sink and faucet cutouts are done, the cement board base (or plastic substrate) and edging are affixed. Then, tile is installed on top of the substrate. There are a few other counter materials, such as concrete and bamboo, for example, but these are relatively rare. It is helpful to become familiar with the materials that are commonly used in your area so that you can better inform your clients. Inspection Tip: When a client asks you what material the countertop is made of, you could state that it’s very difficult to tell by looking because so many manufacturers do such a good job of imitating natural products. The good news is that, if you can’t tell what material it is by looking at it, it shouldn’t be an issue because no matter what the material is, the appearance is very good. Problems with Counters Countertops may be loose because of poor installation. Loose or missing pieces may be the result of water damage or physical abuse. Burned, cut and worn surfaces reflect normal wear and tear. Mechanical damage is usually the result of an impact, which may have been a one-time event or a repetitive issue. Stained counters usually are the result of liquid penetrating through cuts and plastic laminate, for example. Metal that’s rusted is usually the result of a defective metal or strong acid. Ceramic tiles that are loose or missing or have grout that’s loose or missing usually are the result of poor installation, mechanical abuse or excessive deflection in the substrate.

Rot in the substrate is usually the result of leakage around sinks and basins. This often occurs at faucet connections and may be the result of splashing or leakage of the faucet.

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When you’re looking at cabinetry and plumbing fixtures, check the underside of the countertops, especially around sinks and faucets, for evidence of rot.

Rotted substrate.

The implications of a loose countertop may be personal injury if the countertop falls. Poor hygiene is the implication of loose or missing pieces; burned, cut or worn surfaces; mechanical damage; or stained counters and rust. Loose or missing ceramic tiles or grout may also contribute to hygiene issues, as well as being cosmetic defects. Check underneath counters for rot.

Although home inspectors are not required to move household goods, it can be revealing for you to slide a cutting board or other articles out of the way so you can see the entire countertop.

Loose and missing grout and tile pieces can be a hygiene issue. When inspecting a countertop, grab the edge and try to lift it with moderate force. Don’t damage the countertop by applying excessive force. Look for these factors: • Loose or missing pieces, burns, cuts or worn areas • Mechanical damage resulting from impact • Stains on marble, wood and plastic laminates • Rust on metal countertops • Loose or missing tiles or grout on ceramics

Cabinet Materials Cabinets may be solid wood, particleboard or metal. Particleboard is often covered with a plastic laminate. The quality of cabinets typically varies with material and price. Problems with Cabinets You can encounter numerous issues when inspecting cabinets. Water-damaged, rotted or stained cabinets may be caused by leaks from the roof, plumbing or heating systems, walls or windows. Water damage may be the result of splashing at sinks and counters. The implications of severe water damage may be failure of the cabinets.

Check underneath sinks for rot from plumbing leaks.

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors

Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors

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The National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE) is devel oped and maintained by the Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors (EBPHI). This board has received many requests over the years for a study guide to assist those taking the NHIE. This manual, and the associated NHIE Study Guide, were developed to address this need.

The NHIE Home Inspection Manual addresses the technical aspects of the NHIE. This NHIE Study Guide addresses the non-technical aspects. Many come to the home inspection profession as a second or a third career, and may not have taken a professional entrance exam for many years, if ever. This study guide helps to familiarize the candidate with the examination itself, and with the associated administrative procedures. It also includes helpful insights into the types of questions the exam contains, and techniques for success.

This NHIE Home Inspection Manual is based on the most recent Role Delineation Study (RDS). This study surveys thousands of home inspectors in order to determine the services they provide, and the components they inspect. The questions in the NHIE are derived directly from this survey, Exam Administration and constitute the knowledge base for an entry level home inspector. This manual is the Content ﬁrst of its kind to follow this Exam Outline format. It also informs the candidate about the knowledge base behind the current examination questions, and proHow to Take an Exam vides a technical reference for the experienced home inspector. $98.50

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Counters and Cabinets

The minimum requirement for clearance between the bottom of the cabinet and the top of the range is 30 inches. The implication of inadequate clearance is a potential for fire. If there is a metal hood fan, the minimum clearance is reduced to 24 inches between the bottom of the cabinet to the top of the range. This length is further reduced with microwave hood fans, but the exact dimensions are determined by the manufacturer. Check that there is at least 18 inches between the bottom of the microwave hood fan and the top of the range.

Rusted medicine cabinets are not hygienic, and the cabinet eventually may rust through and become nonfunctional.

Mechanical damage, worn cabinetry and broken glass may be the result of normal wear and tear or physical abuse. Significant damage or wear may result in the collapse of the cabinet or inoperable doors or drawers. Cracked or broken glass can be a safety issue if glass falls onto people. In many cases, though, the defects are simply cosmetic. Defective hardware or stiff or inoperative drawers and doors may be an original installation issue, a lack of maintenance or abuse. These kinds of functional problems diminish the usability of the cabinets. Doors, drawers, hinges or other pieces that are missing or loose also affect the usability of cabinets. Doors that are loose or swing open or close by themselves may indicate problems. Cabinets that are not well-secured to the wall are a safety issue. Falling cabinets can seriously injure someone. Shelves that are not well-supported are usually minor problems, unless they are filled with china, before giving way. This can cause damage and injury.

Inspection Strategies for Counters and Cabinets •W here water damage is visible, probe for rot and make sure the cabinet structure is intact. For laminate countertops, check underneath the sink where the faucet passes through. Water damage often can be found in this location.

•L et the client know about wear or mechanical damage that does or could affect the usability of the cabinetry. •R ecommend that broken or cracked glass be replaced. Operate all doors and drawers, looking for hardware or operational deficiencies. In many cases, all that is required is an adjustment or some lubrication.

•A pply moderate upward force on wall-hung cabinets to ensure they aren’t loose. Test that shelves are secure by applying moderate downward force to the front edge.

Many home inspectors get their clients involved when looking at counters and cabinets in kitchens and bathrooms. The evaluation of these systems is somewhat subjective; allowing clients to open and close cupboard doors and pull out drawers may be helpful to both you and the client. H Carson Dunlop - Consulting engineering firm devoted to home inspection since 1978. www.carsondunlop.com

More information about interior systems can be found in the ASHI@Home Training Program (http://www.homeinspector. org/ASHI-HOME-Training-System).

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

September 2017 â&#x20AC;¢ www.ASHIReporter.org

City Inspector Versus Country Inspector

City Inspector Versus Country Inspector: The Mindset You Should Bring to That “New” Inspection By Rudy De Keersmaecker, Criterion Home Inspections, LLC, LaPorte, IN

o you remember your first solo inspection? Do you remember that feeling of angst, that semi-helpless newbie feeling that we all experienced when we were just starting out? We hoped and prayed that we didn’t miss anything, that we used all of the appropriate terminology and that we described everything in our inspection report accurately. Of course, over time, the angst and anxiety we felt gave way to the lessons of experience. With each repeated situation that we encountered in our inspections, we became more educated in our field and that made us more knowledgeable and savvy inspectors. Familiar and Unfamiliar Territory Much like the “city mouse” versus the “country mouse” in Aesop’s fable, we all feel more comfortable on our home turf. We enjoy working in the territory we have chosen and we become especially proficient at identifying the issues that come up most often within the type of residences or commercial buildings located there. But, just like the city mouse and country mouse, when we are taken out of our element, we might find it difficult to identify what we are seeing for, perhaps, the first time. 22

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

Experience is the inspector’s greatest ally. No matter how much book learning you have, nothing beats being out in the field and seeing things up front. These experiences are our teachers. We keep learning with each new and different inspection until we find ourselves developing a stable of experiential information from which we can draw. The “new” continues to be an education for us, forcing us to face that which we do not understand. This is why we must embrace the “new.” In doing so, we become more adept in our field. Here are four steps you can take to help take control of the “new” that confronts you on the job. 1. Tune Your Inspection to the Area in Which You Are Working: If you’re used to doing inspections in suburban areas, but you find yourself booked to do an inspection in a downtown high-rise

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City Inspector Versus Country Inspector

apartment, you will need to repack your mental tool bag before you get there. For example, don’t forget that you will have to inspect the general condition of the entire building or high-rise, as well as the apartment. Think about all the aspects of the “new” material that your inspection might require ahead of time. 2. K now Your County Code: Do not get complacent about observing code violations. I realize that inspectors are not the code police, but we do have a responsibility to report a missing smoke detector or the lack of a GFCI receptacle, as these are safety code violations and can be considered significant deficiencies within the code structure. Most communities base their building code on the International Residential Code (IRC), but you will find that there can be quite a disparity between what is considered code-compliant in the City of Chicago, for example, and what is considered code-compliant in the counties surrounding the Metro Chicago area, in both Illinois and Indiana. Be sure to review the county codes that are applicable to the location of the inspection you’re preparing to do.

In addition, I’m always suspicious when I notice lawns that appear to have been excavated recently. I always ask why this occurred. And, when I enter a home and notice that there are new parts on old systems, it tips me off to be hyper-aware of how these systems are running. The clues are out there— you just need to look! 4. R ely on Your Instincts, But Be Cautious When Making Assumptions or Using Terminology: If it looks like a weasel and smells like a weasel, it might actually be a mink. Be careful when you label things. You should not call something out unless you are sure of what you are describing. When in doubt, take a picture of the item or situation and then get support for your assessment from a trusted resource. Also, nothing makes an inspector look more foolish than when he or she uses the wrong term to describe something. If you are inspecting an apartment and you call something in your report a “garbage chute” when it’s actually an “access hatch,” your client’s faith in you might be somewhat eroded. (And, by the way, it’s called a “receptacle,” not an “outlet.”) Embrace (or at Least Cope) With the “New” in Your Inspections Following these guidelines will help you accomplish a solid inspection in a new setting. How we cope with new experiences and situations is based on our perceptions of what we are experiencing. You create that perception. Whether you view it as a positive or negative experience depends entirely on you and the coping strategies you use in life.

Keep this in mind: Experiencing something new should always leave you feeling richer in knowledge than you were before you started. H 3. S cope Out the Neighborhood: Thomas Corbett, head of the Illinois Inspector Training Institute and one of my past teachers, gave his students some sage advice. He said that one should always arrive at the inspection early. You should employ this strategy not only to be punctual, but also to give you a chance to view the neighborhood or area where the inspection is taking place.

This strategy can apply to all of your inspections. For example, if the asphalt on the street where your inspection is located has numerous patches and you see sewer drains being worked on in the area, your early arrival and general survey of the area might tell you something you should know about the systems in the homes on the street. 24

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

Rudolf (Rudy) De Keersmaecker has worked in the field of highrise engineering, inspection and real estate in the City of Chicago for the past 42 years. Semi-retired, he now operates a home inspection company in La Porte, IN. He is a Contracted FEMA Emergency Disaster inspector, as well as being a residential high-rise code safety instructor, teaching high-rise code compliance classes for Service Employees’ International Union (SEIU) Local 1 training fund.

Real Estate Office Discussions That Matter

Real Estate Office Discussions That Matter By Alan Carson, Carson Dunlop, www.carsondunlop.com, 800-268-7070

ost home inspectors and marketing consultants agree that home inspectors should make presentations to real estate agents. (For the purposes of this article, we will assume that real estate agents are useful colleagues for home inspectors, although we understand that’s not universally true.) Most real estate offices have regular meetings, some weekly, often falling on Monday or Tuesday mornings. That meeting frequency presents many great opportunities to tell your story to groups of real estate professionals. This all sounds logical but, like most things in life, it’s not all as easy as it sounds. Let’s look at some of the challenges and approaches to overcome the challenges. Getting a Foot in the Door Let’s face it: Most real estate professionals don’t spend much time wishing they could hear from a home inspector. They especially don’t want to hear a home inspector talk about how great their inspections are. When brokers and managers are approached by a home inspector offering to give an office presentation, their first instinct is to decline. Real estate agents are in sales, of course. They understand how “sales” works, and they do not want to be sold. That’s why we typically don’t label our presentations as “presentations”; instead, we call them “discussions.” You’re not a salesperson, you’re a resource. Using a consultative approach is best. You want to bring your audience something of value, solve a problem for them, make their life better or easier in some way. Whether you send an email or phone them, you want to be clear that you have valuable information. We often provide a list of topics from which the decision-makers can choose and we invite them to suggest any topics that are not on the list. It’s great if your topic titles are attention-grabbers and we think it’s okay if the topics even seem a bit controversial. It’s important to speak to the right person. It might be the owner of the real estate company, a lead broker or an office manager. It may be clear from the real estate company’s website whom you should contact, but if you are unsure, call the office and ask who organizes and sets the meeting agendas. Less is more. Make it clear that your presentation will be short, useful and not promotional. Suggest a time frame, but be flexible. You could say, “Would a 10- or 15-minute presentation at your next

meeting be appropriate?” We find that if the agents are engaged, the conversation can go on much longer, but very few people will welcome the idea of a 60-minute presentation. Offer breakfast—food always works! We regularly offer to bring breakfast for the meeting. It’s a great door-opener. It’s ideal if you can arrange to have the food delivered before the meeting starts so your audience can be enjoying the breakfast when you are introduced. It makes for a warm welcome and an easy introduction. The spread doesn’t have to be expensive or fancy. You could go with decadent (fancy muffins), standard (donuts) or even healthy (fruit, granola and yogurt). We don’t worry about providing drinks. People coming to regular office meetings generally bring their own coffee, tea or whatever. The goal is to give your audience something they probably do not usually have or are not expecting. If bringing breakfast or a special treat sounds too expensive, you might want to reconsider your marketing approach. Spend some time thinking about the life value of a relationship with a successful real estate salesperson. You generally don’t get a return without making an investment. Caveat. We focus on presenting our information in successful offices that have a number of top producers. However, you should understand that many top real estate agents do not regularly attend office meetings. Inevitably, you will miss some of the best agents, so we do not recommend that this should be your only marketing strategy. About the Presentation Don’t think of yourself as a presenter or a salesperson. Think of yourself as a problem-solver, an expert, a consultant. You are not talking about home problems; you are talking about solutions. You should have a sense of the sticking points for real estate agents. What things get in the way of their deals? What things are scaring buyers away? Whenever possible, try to defuse any negativity. The media is pretty good at overplaying things. Generally, you can find that there are some timely real estate issues that are not really big problems, but the media has made them seem catastrophic. During your presentation, you should strive to present a calm, authoritative voice of reason. 25September 2017

• www.ASHIReporter.org

Real Estate Office Dicussions That Matter

Prepare and practice your presentation. Should you use PowerPoint? Absolutely, as long as the office can accommodate it, with a screen, computer and projector. You may be able to bring your own equipment, but you might not have a chance to set it all up in advance, since it’s likely that you’ll speak partway through a meeting, rather than at the beginning. Bringing your own remote control or laser pointer may be useful. If a PowerPoint presentation won’t work in the office where you are going, bring handouts instead. If you struggle with giving presentations, seek some help and practice beforehand. There are lots of people available to help make you look good. Remember that you are presenting both your personal and your professional brand, so it has to be good. Plan to leave copies or handouts behind for your audience and for any agents who could not attend. Providing an electronic copy to the meeting coordinator can help ensure that your presentation gets distributed.

Keep it short—using 20 slides is plenty. It’s better to leave them wanting more. You never want them wishing you would hurry up and finish. If people start to leave, it’s time to wind it up. Discussion tips. Come up with an engaging title that will draw in your audience. Have no more than three points per slide. Keep the print large so the people farthest from the screen can see. Bullet points make for easier reading by the audience, and they remove the temptation for you to simply read your slides. Use lots of visuals. Many experts recommend using a dark background with light-colored text for best readability. Include an introduction and summary. As a general rule, tell them what you’re going to talk about, talk about it and then tell them what you talked about. Include your contact information on the first and last slide, at least.

Your goal is not to make a presentation, it’s to start a discussion. One of the easiest ways to do that is to ask questions. It can be awkward to finish a presentation, ask for questions and receive none. You should always have a couple of questions that you can ask the audience if no one has a question for you. Your goal is to become a trusted advisor, a resource and a person who offers solutions to their problems. You should strive to be approachable and authoritative, in that order. Invite your audience to call or email you with questions at any time on any topic. You are looking to build a relationship. Relationships don’t happen overnight. Relationships are built on trust. It’s going to take more than one visit. 26

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

Coming back. You want to be invited back. A great way to close the discussion is to ask if there are other topics that would be of interest. If anyone throws out a topic, you should accept the invitation publicly and follow up with the meeting organizer to set up your next visit. You should close with a sincere thank you, and you should wind things up well before they ask you to shut it down. If the office meeting will continue after your discussion, you should leave promptly, unless someone pulls you aside. If the meeting ends with your talk, then take your time putting your things together. Often, this is a time when agents will approach you with specific questions, giving you a great opportunity to build relationships. Giveaways. Some home inspectors offer prizes at meetings. A drawing or raffle is a good way to create some fun while collecting business cards, although there are lots of ways to find out the names of all the agents in the office. Gifts can be anything—a book, a restaurant coupon, a bottle of wine or even a free home inspection. Follow Up! Your office discussion is the beginning, not the end. Follow up with the person who put the meeting together and express your appreciation. Let them know you look forward to your next visit. You might even suggest a date and a topic. If the office is part of a group or franchise, ask for an introduction and a referral to another office. Follow up with your audience in writing. You should have a list of attendees. If you did not distribute handouts, you can send those along, either electronically or in hard copy. If there were questions that came up during the conversation, you might follow up with specific answers and reference material. Be the Professional Consultant and Be Persistent Don’t get drawn into discussions badmouthing other home inspectors, clients or real estate professionals. When an agent complains about someone else, it is tempting to say something like, “That was a very foolish thing to do.” It is better, however, to avoid the temptation and remain professional. A critical comment may alienate part of your audience, and it could come back to you in unpleasant ways.

Office discussions are an important element of your marketing toolkit. Like anything else in life, the more you do something, the better you get. Practice makes perfect. Keep it simple. Keep it friendly. Keep it consistent. H

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

Iowa ASHI

www.iowaashichapter.org Fourth Tuesday, 7:00 - 9:00 pm Clarion Inn, Cedar Rapids Craig Chmelicek, 319-389-7379 elitehomeandradon@gmail.com

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

Kentuckiana (IN, KY)

Ohio

Mid-Missouri

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

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

North Central Ohio

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

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

Pocono-Lehigh (PA)

Northern Illinois

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

PRO-ASHI (PA)

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

Tri-State (DE, NJ, PA)

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

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

Heartland (IA, MN, ND, SD, WI) www.ashiheartland.org Reuben Saltzman, 612-205-5600 reuben@ashiheartland.org

www.nicashi.com Second Wednesday (except Dec.) 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm Crazypour, 105 E. North Ave., Villa Park, IL Jeremy Meek, 630-854-2454 jeremy@discoveryinspector.com

OHIO SOUTH ASHI Meeting: Last Sat. every month, noon @ Frickers, North College Hill, Ohio, P.O. Box 532197 Cincinnati, Ohio 45252 Chris Green, 513-939-4036 Email president@ohsoashi.com

SOUTH MIDWEST Arkansas Lonnie Moore, 479-530-5792 mhinsp@cox.net

Great Plains (KS, MO)

www.ashikc.org Second Wednesday of even months The Great Wolf Lodge, Kansas City Doug Hord, 816-215-2329 doug@firstchoice.com

Midwest PRO ASHI (KS) Ray Fonos, 412-461-8273 rfonos@hometeam.com

St. Louis (MO)

www.stlashi.org Second Tuesday, 6:30 pm Spazios Westport 12031 Lackland Rd. St. Louis, MO 63146 Frank Copanas, 314-456-0783 Acropolis-inspection@live.com

MOUNTAIN Arizona

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

New Mexico

www.ashinm.org Bi-monthly meetings are held on the second Saturday of the month at LePeep’s Restaurant (Jan., March, May, July, Sept.) located at I-25 and Jefferson in Albuquerque. Meeting starts at 8:45 am; Breakfast starts at 8 am. Lance Ellis, 505-977-3915 lellis@amerispec.net

Northern Rockies (ID, MT)

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

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

Orange County CREIA-ASHI (CA) 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

Oregon

www.oahi.org Fourth Tuesday, 6:30 pm 4534 SE McLoughlin Blvd., Portland Jay Hensley, 503-312-2105 jay@carsonconstruction.com

San Diego CREIA-ASHI

Steve Jenicek, 406-949-6461 Steve@taskmasterinspections.com Secretary: Kelly Campeau 877-749-2225 Kelly@inspectormt.com

First Tuesday each month Elijah’s Restaurant 7061 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard San Diego, CA 92111 Dennis Parra II, 619-232-1100

Rocky Mountain

San Joaquin Valley (CA)

Fourth Tuesday, 6:30 pm Brian Murphy, 303-791-7824 brian@murphyinspection.com

Southern Colorado

www.ashi-southerncolorado.org Second Thursday, 6:30 pm Valley Hi Golf Club, Colo. Springs Daniel Noteboom, 719-332-9660 Dan@KeyInspectionServices.net

Utah

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

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

ASHI Hawaii

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

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 Skip Walker, 650-873-4224 homeinspection@sanbrunocable.com

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

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

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

South Bay (CA)

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

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

Central Valley CREIA-ASHI

Western Washington

California

Peter Boyd, 530-673-5800 Boyd.p@comcast.net

Golden Gate (CA)

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

Indiana ASHI

Inland Northwest (ID, WA)

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

www.ashinewengland.org Fourth Thursday, 5 pm The Lantana, Randoph, 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

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

NEW YORK/JERSEY/ DELAWARE Capitol Region (NY)

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

Central New York

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

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, Murph’s Irondequoit Pub, Irondequoit John White, 585-431-0067 john@iihomeinspections.com

Hudson Valley (NY)

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.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 Steven Rosenbaum 516-361-0658 inspector@optonline.net

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) 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 Keegan’s Irish Pub 2251 Old Brick Road Glen Allen, VA 23060 John Cranor 804-873-8537 cranorinspectionservices @gmail.com

Greater Baltimore (MD)

www.greaterbaltimoreashi.org Third Thurs. except July, Aug., 6:30 pm Maritime Institute Conf. Center 5700 N Hammonds Ferry Rd. Linthicum Heights, MD 21090 Volney Ford, 410-458-5704 volneyford@comcast.net

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, 615-516-5511 bairdr@comcast.net

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

North Carolina

www.ncashi.com Third Wednesday, 3 pm, Quality Inn at Guilford Convention Center Greensboro Andy Hilton, 336-682-2197 hiltonhomeinspection@gmail.com

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 Home Inspectors Association BC

www.hiabc.ca Sean Moss, 604-729-4261 sean@homeinspectorsean.com

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

South Carolina

Prairies (Alberta) (CAHI)

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

Quebec AIBQ

GULF ASHI South (AL)

www.cahpi-ab.ca Chris Bottriell, 780-486-4412 api94@shaw.ca www.aibq.qc.ca Pascal Baudaux, 450-629-2038 info@almoinspection.ca

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 Meeting/Training Room in Lutz 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

Lone Star (TX)

www.ashitexas.org Bud Rozell, 214-215-4961 goodhomeinspection@att.net September 2017 • www.ASHIReporter.org

ASHI Chapters and Council News

Due to the size of these lists the new and move-up member lists have moved to the monthly online Reporter.

New ASHI Inspectors

New ASHI Associates MEMBER

TO SUBMIT YOUR MATERIALS FOR MOVING UP, PLEASE CONTACT JANET GEORGE AT 847-954-3180 OR

New ASHI Certified Home Inspectors

JANETG@ASHI.ORG

Call for Volunteers— Help Shape ASHI’s Future 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. 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 by October 1, 2017. H 30

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

INSPECTOR

To have your chapter seminar listed here, email all information about your chapter seminar to: micheleg@ashi.org. BE SURE TO INCLUDE ALL INFORMATION: seminar subject, when, where, CEUs & a link for more information or contact information.

ASHI Chapter Education OHIO ASHI: On the Road FOR EACH EVENT: • There is a $10 fee • Food and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided • Earn 2 ASHI CEUs Register and payment online at Ohioashi.com • Select Store from the left side • Then Education/Dues to get to ASHI On the Road (Dates subject to change) Forrest Lines - Ohio ASHI Chair of Education

Northern Region: September 21 Contact Persons: Rod Whittington (Ohio ASHI Northern Representative) Phone: 216-952-8500 email: rod@whinspections.com George Basista (Ohio ASHI Northern Representative) Phone: 330-565-3760 email: GeorgeBasista@yahoo.com

North Central Ohio ASHI Fall Seminar: September 23 Location: Holiday Inn, 4073 Medina Rd., Fairlawn, Ohio CEUs: 8 ASHI CE hours Speakers: Gerry Aubrey (Roofing) and class on Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors Contact: Paul Wancata at inspectionsunlimited@ cox.net Next Presentations: November 16 locations and topics TBA

Upcoming GLC Events Crawl Space and Floor Structure Defects: September 12

Southeastern Home Inspector Conference 2017

Great Plains ASHI Chapter 23rd Annual Fall 2017 Seminar

When: September 7-10, 2017 Location: Infinite Energy Center (previously Gwinnett Center), Duluth, GA CEUs: Earn 20 ASHI CEs And bonus classes for additional ASHI CEs Contact: www.sehomeinspectorconference.com

When: September 29-30, 2017 Location: KCI Expo, 11730 Ambassador Dr. Kansas City, MO 64153 CEUs: Approved for 16 ASHI CEs Speakers: Shannon Cory, Dee Goldstein, Reuben Saltzman, Jason Yacko, Tom Lauhon and Kenny Hart Contact: mikimertz@aol.com

ASHI New York Metro Chapter When: September 8-9, 2017 Location: DoubleTree Hilton Hotel 455 S. Broadway, Tarrytown, NY 10591 CEUs: 16 ASHI CES includes NADRA Deck Inspection Class 4 hours Contact: Website: www.NYASHI.com

Year of the Mentor ASHI Western Washington Chapter 2017 Fall Seminar When: September 15-16, 2017 Location: Shoreline, WA CEUs: 15 ASHI CEs Topics: Care of Northwest Log Homes; Myths of Attic Ventilation; Story-telling and Report Writing; Foundation Inspections; IRC Structural Changes Update; Floor and Roof Truss Inspections; HighEfficiency Appliance Venting Woodstoves Registration: go to www.ashiww.org. Contact: ashichapter@gmail.com

Rocky Mountain Chapter Seminar When: September 16, 2017 Location: Kaplan Campus, 2200 S. Monaco Parkway, Denver, CO CEUs: 8 ASHI CEs Speaker: John Bouldin Topics: Pre-Drywall, Trusses, Deck, Load Paths, I-Joists and Engineered-Wood Products Contact: Bob Kadera bob@360degreeinspections.com

Mid-Missouri ASHI Fall Seminar When: October 6, 2017 Location: Board of Realtors Office 2309 I-70 Dr. N.W., Columbia, MO 65202 Topics: Roofing, Siding, Attic Ventilation and Exterior Walls presented by Certainteed Deck Construction and Critical Connections presented by Simpson Strong-Tie CEUs: 8 ASHI CEs Contact: john@watkinshomeinspection.com

St. Louis Chapter Fall Seminar When: October 27, 2017, 8:00 - 5:00 PM Location: St. Louis Association of Realtors Conference Center, 12777 Olive Blvd., Creve Coeur, MO 63141 Speaker: Bruce Barker Topic: To Be Announced

IMPORTANT REPORTER DEADLINES: • NOVEMBER ISSUE - 9/7/17 • DECEMBER ISSUE -10/7/17 • JANUARY 2018 ISSUE -11/7/17 • FEBRUARY 2018 ISSUE -12/7/17 • March 2018 ISSUE -1/7/17 The Reporter is produced 6-8 weeks ahead of the week it arrives in your mailbox.

Location: Mama Mia’s, Livonia, MI

GLC Fall Conference, Essenhaus Inn and Conference Center: October 13-14 Location: Middlebury, IN

Heat Pumps and Dual Fuel Systems: November 7

May 23-26, 2018: Los Angeles/Ventura County Chapter AND San Diego County JOINT CREIA & ASHI CHAPTER Level-1 Thermography Certification Class taught by Mr. Bill Fabian of Monroe Infrared. Presented at the Downey CA Board of Realtors Conference Room. Registration information TBA.

Location: Mama Mia’s, Livonia, MI

31September 2017

• www.ASHIReporter.org

STEPS 10 TO ORGANIZING

A SUCCESSFUL CHAPTER EDUCATIONAL EVENT

1. CHOOSE AN EDUCATION CHAIRMAN: Active member, productive, works well with people. Be sure to get members involved in planning and at event.

2. CHOOSE A DATE AND TIME FOR YOUR EVENT:

Six months in advance minimum. Create a schedule including breaks and meals. Consider conflicting events on calendar.

3. CHOOSE A CONVENIENT LOCATION: Comparative shop. Look for reasonable costs for space needed, meals. Arrange for hotel guest room rate.

4. CHOOSE EDUCATIONAL TOPICS & SPEAKERS:

Technical, environmental, business topics? Survey members and find Speaker Directory under Chapter Educational Resources page on ashi.org. Many vendors will speak on technical topics.

5. SUBMIT APPLICATIONS FOR CE

APPROVAL TO STATES AND ASHI:

Find State Home Inspector Board online to locate proper application and whether fee is needed. Find ASHI CE application on ashi.org.

Contact: Michele George, ASHI Director of Education and Events, Director of Chapter Relations, 847-954-3188, micheleg@ashi.org

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

6. DETERMINE EVENT FEE: List fixed costs, i.e., presenter, room, marketing, fees. Estimate number of attendees and multiply by food per person. Add fixed costs. Add reasonable profit desired. Divide by estimated attendee number. Determine whether attendee fee is reasonable based on your event experience last year orcompared to other chapters’ events.

7. INVITE SPONSORS: Defray costs by asking local suppliers and service providers to have tables at the event or advertise on promotions.

8. PROMOTE, PROMOTE, PROMOTE! Create an attractive advertisement. Acquire mailing list of home inspectors available through State Home Inspector Board. Include past event attendees. Contact ASHI for member mailing lists. Get information to ASHI early for website calendar and Reporter. Get members involved in promotion. Post on Chapter Facebook and website and send out emails.

9. SURVEY ATTENDEES: Ask for feedback and ideas for future events.

10. POST-EVENT: Take photos at the event. Send a press release to local newspapers. Keep good records. Distribute a Certificate of Attendance to all attendees. Send an article with photos to HQ for ASHI Reporter. Post recap on Chapter Facebook and website.

September 2017 â&#x20AC;¢ www.ASHIReporter.org

Spotlight on ASHI Member Services By Jennifer Gallegos, ASHI Membership Services Manager

Hello, ASHI Members! My name is Jennifer Gallegos—I go by Jen—and if you’re wondering how to correctly pronounce my last name, it’s “ga-yeh-gos.” I am the new Membership Services Manager. Many of you have known Russell Daniels as the face of the Membership Department—after all, Russell dedicated 12 years of his career to it. But, here at ASHI, we have entered a new chapter, and with it, some changes have occurred. Russell’s new role is as the Executive Director of The ASHI School, and I have moved into the role of ASHI Membership Services Manager. So, who am I? I started my career at ASHI about 2.5 years ago, as Membership Administrator. I entered applications for new members, answered questions through email or via phone, and helped our members in any way they needed. We like to call the membership administrator the “first responder” of the team. I learned firsthand about everything that ASHI members liked, disliked, needed or aspired to have. I also helped create and facilitate procedures to help make improvements in our department. After 1.5 years in membership, I had the privilege of becoming the executive assistant to Frank Lesh, ASHI Executive Director. In that position, I learned a myriad of things about ASHI, from the By-Laws and Policies and Procedures to being able to organize board meetings, and I had the privilege of seeing a group of leaders discuss and plan ways to better the society. I also helped members enroll in the U.S. Department of Energy’s Home Energy Score Assessor training program and I will continue to be the coordinator of that program. Although I love serving the Board of Directors and seeing everything that happens in the background, my heart has always belonged to membership. When the opportunity arrived for me to be part of the membership department once again, I took the leap. And here I am, ready to serve and bring fresh ideas to help our membership grow. Now, I’m sure you know that membership isn’t a one-man (or in this case, one-lady) show—it’s a collaborative effort. We have an entire ASHI Membership Team and I’d like to introduce each team member. Michael Krauszowski, Membership Administrator, has been with ASHI for a year and has been helping our members with applications, answering questions and making sure that your exam scores are entered in your records. Mark Lester, Membership 34

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

Services Coordinator, is “the man behind our chat box.” He assists with filling orders and mailing items to you. George Herrera, Membership Services Assistant, answers your phone calls, processes new members, provides data entry and more. Last, but not least, is Janet George, Membership Supervisor. Many of you have talked with Janet—she is the go-to person for any member who wants to move up, and she has been working in the membership department for seven years. She is a woman full of knowledge who works diligently to help our members move up to the next level. She also does the invoicing for ASHI membership dues and works with our multi-inspector firms. As you can see, our membership team at ASHI Headquarters works hard to serve you. I can promise you that we all strive to do our best and we will work hard to meet your needs. We love working with you! H

The ASHI Membership Team having a meeting at HQ. Pictured from left to right: Janet George, Michal Krauszowski, Jennifer Gallegos, George Herrera & Mark Lester

ASHI Event Calendar October 19-21, 2017 Leadership Training Conference and ASHI Board Meeting Des Plaines, IL January 21-24, 2018 InspectionWorld® & ASHI Board Meeting Orlando, FL

FREE ASHI Member access to past IW sessions. 1. Go to www.ASHI.org 2. U nder Education & Training 3. C lick on:

ASHI ONLINE LEARNING CENTER

CURRENT ASHI MEMBERSHIP ASHI Certified Inspectors: 3,574 Inspectors: 217 Associates: 4,222 Retired Members: 108 Affiliates: 84 Total: 8,205 Members as of 8/7/2017

Septe Anni mber versa ries

ASHI MEMBERSHIP BENEFIT PROGRAMS

Thirty-five Years

ASHI-ENDORSED PROGRAMS ASHI’s E&O Insurance Program: Target Professional Programs www.targetproins.com 860-899-1862

Twenty-five Years

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

Anthony D’Agostino Alden Gibson

Scott Latosky Chuck Linn Mike Magers Charles Mann Jeffrey Pearce John Pesek Michael Stocknoff

Twenty Years

Ten Years

Theodore Postol Stephen Smallman

Michael Atwell Kent Baumgardt Douglas Carmack Terry Clark Stephen Dexter Robert Feather David Kariel Joseph Raffone James Sipe

Fifteen Years Bill Anderson Bill Chase Michael Collins-Smythe Rich Dalgewicz Robert Egan Thomas Fitzpatrick John Guy

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

Bret Petersen Keith Tarkington

Five Years Ryan Beardsley John Buckley Frederick Campbell Brett Cortez Gregory Davis Timothy Davis Shawn Jones Andrew Joseph John Lewis Kevin McDonald Steve Mehring John Reiss Lou Scerbo Rudy Schlosser Bobbi Wilson Scott Wilson Andrew Wolf Randall Wolf

The ASHI School Russell Daniels, 888-884-0440 Russelld@theashischool.com www.TheASHISchool.com PLATINUM PROVIDER Millionaire Inspector Community Mike Crow www.mikecrow.com dreamtime@mikecrow.com Mention that you are an ASHI member.

35September 2017

• www.ASHIReporter.org

Go With the Flow— the Energy Flow

Within homes, we direct the flow of energy to produce hot water, to heat or cool spaces and to exhaust air. In a hydronic boiler (Illustration 1 H069C), a flame heats the water in the heat exchanger. The energy circulates through radiators or convectors. The system might have zone valves or multiple circulators to direct heat into certain zones. Not all the energy goes into the water. In some systems, as much as 35% of the energy goes up the chimney with the products of combustion. Although this may seem wasteful, that energy keeps the products of combustion warm, so they flow up the chimney without backdrafting. Energy going up the chimney also keeps the products of combustion above the dew point, which is approximately 130°F for natural gas combustion. And keeping the products of combustion at approximately 140° prevents condensation on the heat exchanger. That’s fine, but sometimes, energy goes astray. Ice dams point to problems Ice dams indicate an energy-flow problem (Illustration 2 I022C).

Smart Inspector Science

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

In cold climates, heat pushes warm air into the attic through any little opening. Leaks at “can” lights make this worse because the can fixtures create additional heat. Insulation contact (IC) fixtures leak air, but they have a thermal trip switch to prevent overheating. Insulation contact air-sealed (ICAS) fixtures also leak air. Problems with bathroom fans Dripping bath fans indicate another problem with energy flow (Illustration 3 V007C). Both the bath fan’s pressure-activated damper and the damper in the roof vent connector can get stuck in the open position. Often, ductwork in the cold attic is not insulated. Warm, moist air condenses in these areas, creating leaks around the bath fan.

Here’s a basic principle to remember: As energy creates movement and changes vapor pressure, condensation occurs. That’s your clue to where the energy goes. 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 boost their business. Copyright © 2016 by Tom Feiza, Mr. Fix-It, Inc. Reproduced with permission. H

List of Services & Expertise

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ADD CERTIFICATION LOGO HERE

ASHI is an o of independ sional home who are required to m mitment from the day conduct inspections in with ASHI Standards o and Code of Ethics, wh its engaging in conflic activities that might co their objectivity. Assoc their way to ASHI Cert spector (ACI) status as rigorous requirements passing a comprehens technical exam and pe a minimum of 250 pro fee-paid home inspec ducted in accrodance ASHI Standard of Prac Code of Ethics. Manda ing education helps th ship stay current with technology, materials sional skills.

For more information abo www.ASHI.o

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

SHED 1932

Mathey Meanly

HOME INSPECTOR

ERIC ROSEN HOME INSPEC TION E S T. 2 0 1 5

P PERFECTION HOME INSPEC TORS Aubry Marcus Have you ordered from the ASHI Marketplace* before? It has moved to this link: www.ASHIPrintOnDemand.com with exciting new features and products! Brand Your Chapter

Inspector Tools and Software Inspector Tools & Software

Inspection Refernce Books * You will have to register as a new user on the NEW Print-On-Demand Site

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As a not-for-profit organization, ASHI has

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worked since 1976 to increase consumer Brand Your Business

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37September 2017

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Elections: The Voice of Membership

Around the CoRner

From the Speaker of the CoR

By Hollis Brown, Speaker of the Council of Representatives

My children are grown now, but it wasn’t always so. I don’t recall specifically whether I volunteered or was recruited, but I did, at some point, find myself in the position of Assistant Scoutmaster.

I’ve long believed in my own personal responsibility to leave a place better than I found it. I’m inclined to take initiative.

The Scoutmaster was a veteran leader who commanded much respect in the community. He was likable, experienced, knowledgeable and enthusiastic. He was an excellent role model who believed strongly in delineation of responsibilities. He met his responsibilities and he expected others to meet theirs. I was proud to work with him.

As we look around our chapters, it’s easy to see work that needs to be done. Someone needs to be in charge and someone needs to organize, but many need to take initiative. When you see something that needs doing, do it. If you have a skill, share it.

Along came one weekend, during which we took the Scouts camping. This particular expedition one might think of as more of a character-building exercise than a relaxed outing. It rained through most of Friday and Saturday. The troop was well-run and the boys were well prepared, so things went reasonably smoothly. By Sunday morning, though, we were ready to leave.

The sun was finally out. The cars were packed. The troop and the leaders were gathering in the parking lot when I looked back across the campsite and caught a glimpse of litter we were about to leave behind. The Scoutmaster was at the office checking out, so I took the initiative. I lined up the boys shoulder to shoulder on one side of the camp and positioned the patrol leaders at the other side with trash bags. I then led the boys across the site picking up trash. We filled three bags in less than 10 minutes. The Scoutmaster, returning from the office to find this exercise ongoing, gave me a puzzled look. “What’s this?” he asked. “Just one last, final cleanup,” was my simple reply. His response was telling: “We paid a fee to come here. They have staff who take care of that.” He tossed the bags over in the direction of the overflowing dumpsters before getting into his car to lead the caravan home. I grabbed the bags and quickly tossed them into the trunk of my car to set out by the curb when I got home.

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

We’re halfway through the year. The nominating committees have met and Council Reps are being encouraged to run for a position on the board. It’s time to give some real thought to whom we want to send into leadership positions—in what directions we want the society to head. Take a look around you. Who are the leaders? Who is taking initiative? Personally, I think we need both leaders and doers. There are many who think we need less status quo. I’m not going to weigh in on this in this article. What I will do is encourage each of us to give serious thought to the age-old “right-track, wrong-track” question. Is ASHI on the right track? Is it meeting the needs of new inspectors just entering the profession? Is it effectively utilizing the rich heritage of successful veteran members? Are there people, ideas or both that are simply waiting on the sidelines for an opportunity to effect a positive difference? By the way: When I got home, my wife sorted out the recyclables, including about 3 cents worth of aluminum cans. H

ASHI Council of Representatives Speakers and Group Leaders

SPEAKER: Hollis Brown speaker@ashicor.org 703-856-7567 ALTERNATESPEAKER: Janni Juhasz janni.j@homtec inspections.com 419-215-5505

South Atlantic Gerald Simmons Jerry@simm inspect.com 404-281-3734

Gulf Craig Lemmon reioftexas@ sbcglobal.net 817-291-9056

SECRETARY: Brendan Ryan brendan@csahome inspection.com 724-321-1360

South Midwest Joe Pangborn Joe@Pangborn Inspections.com 573-228-4509

GROUP LEADERS

North Central

New England/ Canada

Donald Bissex Donald@mystic homeinspection.com 781-475-8980

New York/ New Jersey Steven Baranello inspect-me@att.net 516-972-4875

Mid-Atlantic Bronson Anderson 2inspect4u@ gmail.com 540-836-0256

Midwest Eric Barker Ebarker@moraine woods.com 847-408-7238

Mike Ashburn Michael@Ashburn Inspections.com 724-516-1665

Mountain John Thompson Shelterworksllc@ gmail.com 406-360-4613

Pacific Darrell Hay Darrellhay@aol.com 206-226-3205

A Rare, but Potentially Serious, Furnace Maintenance Error By Roger Hankey, ASHI Certified Inspection

n early June 2016 home inspection included finding a gasforced air furnace with its covers reversed. The airtight blower cover was on the burner compartment and the louvered burner compartment cover was on the blower cabinet. The 24-year-old furnace was a Carrier model 58WAV. Carrier made this model from about 1992 until at least 2000. I do not recall seeing another furnace with reversed covers prior to this inspection.

The result of the misplaced covers was an extremely dirty system since the blower cabinet was pulling in unfiltered air. Our report recommended the system be cleaned and corrected by a qualified HVAC firm. We further stated that the furnace was at the end of its normal service life. Nine days later, I found another Carrier 58WAV furnace, 21 years old, with the same reversed covers situation. In this case, the furnace was clean enough to operate briefly. However, a carbon monoxide test in the vent produced results consistent with a heat exchanger defect (CO levels rising after the blower came on). This furnace is VERY similar to its down-flow twin, model 58ZAV. The image shown at the top of the page compares both models. Notice the similar size, shape, and cover designs.

These images suggest that Carrier found it cost-effective to make the covers fit either furnace. There is no marking on either cover to inform the owner or occupant of the proper cover locations. Both covers will fit in either location and, when installed, both will depress the blower safety switch. This model furnace was also offered under the Bryant label and other brands built by Carrier. Persons unfamiliar with furnaces or who have only seen down-flow furnaces may not realize the proper cover position on up-flow furnaces and vice versa. While it is easy to correct reversed covers, the consequences of reversed covers include poor air circulation, particularly in cooling mode, improper combustion due to insufficient air in the burner compartment and, if the covers have been reversed for an extended time, inefficient heat transfer due to dust coating all the surfaces of the heat exchanger and cooling coil. Additionally, if an atmospherically vented water heater is alongside the furnace, the unrestricted airflow into the blower has the potential to downdraft the water heater. While researching this story, I was able to find only one other inspector’s website with an image or discussion of reversed furnace covers. His example was a Trane furnace. When encountering any of these very popular furnace models, home inspectors are advised to explain the proper cover location to their customer and/or mark the proper locations on the covers and, in addition, to recommend cleaning and any other necessary corrections by a qualified heating and cooling contractor. H Roger Hankey, ASHI Certified Inspector, was the first ASHI® member in Minnesota. He has served Minnesota homeowners since 1975 and is a Level II Certified Infrared Thermographer and an NRPP Residential Radon Measurement Provider. He can be reached at 952-829-0044, rhankey@hankeyandbrown.com, www.hankeyandbrown.com. “Before we speak house, we LISTEN.” © 2016 HankeyandBrown.com

39September 2017

• www.ASHIReporter.org

ASHI Chapters and Council News

REPORT OUT

Updates to P&P

ASHI BOARD MEETING JULY 21-22, 2017

MOTION: To increase the President’s yearly stipend from $25,000 to $35,000. PASSED. *This increase is effective October 1, 2017, ASHI’s 2017-2018 fiscal year. MOTION: To increase the President-Elect’s yearly stipend from $15,000 to $21,000. PASSED. *This increase is effective October 1, 2017. ASHI’S 2017-2018 fiscal year. MOTION: P&P 1.3A section 2a and 2b Policy - Volunteer Expenses: Board members must purchase all their airfare and will be reimbursed up to $750 maximum for economy class. PASSED. 1. If you are an authorized user for ASHI travel reimbursements, the following policies and guidelines apply to attaining reimbursement from ASHI HQ. a. You may book through any travel agent (including ASHIs official travel agent Traveline), website or third party vendor and will receive full reimbursement as long as the ticketing price is under $450.00 $750.00 AND Economy Class. b. If tickets exceed $450.00 $750.00, then an executive decision will need to be made on whether or not the sum above the $450.00 $750.00 will be reimbursed. The executive decision will be made by the Executive Director, with the assistance of his/her assistant.

MOTION: P&P 15.2A Policy - Compensation as amended as of July 22, 2017: 1. N o officers or directors shall, by reasons of their office, be entitled to receive any salary or compensation for the performance of duties other than as officer or director, and may receive reimbursement of expenses determined by the Board of Directors. Due to a ruling by the Internal Revenue Service February 2017, the President and President-Elect shall be treated as part-time employees, paid from the then-current payroll process and not eligible for any ASHI full-time employee benefits such as, but not limited to, bonuses, health care plans and 401k programs. Revised 04/29/2017 2. A $35,000 per year stipend shall be paid to the ASHI President, and a $21,000 per year stipend to the ASHI President-Elect. These stipends do not affect any other expense reimbursements.

Farewell! Back in the Spring of 2013, when I joined ASHI as the Graphic Designer Manager for their marketing materials & the Reporter, I never imagined I’d be the Managing Editor, too. Here we are, 52 issues later! Now, it is time to say farewell, as I move on to a new position and company. Thank you to Frank Lesh, the Board of Directors (especially Mike Wagner, Graphics Board Liaison, pictured center), the ASHI staff (freelancers included) and the Reporter readership for the opportunity to learn and grow as a designer, editor and manager. Kate Laurent (pictured left) has moved into my position. I’m sure she will take ASHI and the Reporter in fresh new directions. There are many members I have come to know through postcards, events and InspectionWorld®. I will miss interacting with them on a regular basis. My time here has been a pleasure and I wish the Reporter readership prosperity in each of their businesses. H Left to right: Kate Laurent, Mike Wagner and Arlene Zapata.

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

Sincerely, Arlene Zapata

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Postcards From the Field

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.

Complexity That Could Be Simple

Electrician + Plumber

Larry Transue & Rube Goldberg Integrity Inspection Service / BPG Easton, PA

Chris Urlich USA Home Inspections Ocala, FL

Not Inspected!

Matt Steger WIN Home Inspection Elizabethtown, PA

Chris Urlich USA Home Inspections Ocala, FL

Which Came First... Tree or Roof?

Why Do I Need to Clean That?

Randy Via Charles L. Gleich & Associates Columbus, OH

ASHI ASHIReporter Reporter •• September September2017 2017

Larry Transue Intergrity Inspection Service / BPG Easton, PA

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Chris Urlich BrickKicker Home Inspections St. Louis, MO

A Real Unvented Fireplace

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Jim Richards Inspection Connection, Inc. Temple Terrace, FL

Greg Jenkins Bright Side Home Inspection Charleston, WV

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Randy Via Charles L. Gleich & Associates Columbus, OH

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

Randy Via Charles L. Gleich & Associates Columbus, OH

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September 2017 â&#x20AC;¢ www.ASHIReporter.org

ASHI’s Past Positions Us as a Force for the Future

’m sure you’ve heard the history of ASHI, which started back in 1976. From what I’ve been told, a group of residential inspectors on the East Coast decided to form an organization dedicated to the home inspection profession. Our membership, which began with approximately 30 people, is now on the path to reach our goal of 10,000 members.

The first ASHI leaders believed the potential of having a national presence within the home inspection profession was an obtainable goal, and such progress was to be gained through setting high standards and encouraging chapter membership. Thus, the growth of chapters meant growth for ASHI. Education also has been a main driving theme, both then and now. However, times have changed since 1976 when inspectors normally used just a flashlight and a clipboard. Standard of Practice and Code of Ethics: Over the years, the mission and ideas of ASHI’s “founding fathers” grew into what we recognize today as the ASHI Standard of Practice and Code of Ethics. The Standard and Code are not now, nor ever have been, set in stone. ASHI’s Technical Committee periodically reviews and updates these documents. Before finalizing any proposed changes, ASHI’s expert committee members conduct numerous reviews, and all members are invited to join in the review process by responding to surveys and participating in the voting process. Then, we publish the agreed-on amended wording for the Standard or Code so the members, along with the general public, have access to it. Education and Technology: Early on, education for home inspectors was limited to courses offered at community colleges and educational sessions that ASHI chapters produced for their meetings. Of course, ASHI did and still offers an annual conference (now called InspectionWordTM) that’s loaded with high-quality training and education for inspectors with any level of expertise and interests. Featured topics include the basics of running a home inspection business as well as advanced specialty classes that offer certification and certificate training to meet the requirements of various federal, state and local jurisdictions. It is all there for the choosing. Let’s not forget that some of the topics now presented in classroom and online courses were unheard of back in 1976, when computers were more of a fantasy or luxury item. Back then, such a thing as a “typed report” was just that—a report typed on a typewriter. Most, if not all, inspectors completed handwritten reports and delivered them to their clients on site. I’m told that some inspectors still use this practice.

ASHI Reporter • September 2017

By ASHI President, Howie Pegelow

Providing photographs required using a Polaroid camera or 35mm film that required photo-developing services at a camera shop. Now, the use of high-definition photos can simply be achieved with our cell phones. (BTW, no cell phones back in 1976.) With current market demands, many inspectors offer specialty or ancillary options to enhance the typical home inspection. These include well and septic, radon, asbestos, mold, water, lead paint samplings and the use of infrared thermography. ASHI, as well as many vendors ASHI recommends, offer training in these areas. Chapter, National and International Membership: Early on, ASHI established a local and regional chapter system in which inspectors who join ASHI also are referred to the chapter in their region. Then and now, ASHI’s leaders believe that the chapter is the source from which members can establish both short- and long-term relationships. As membership within ASHI has steadily increased, at times, our chapter system has seen declines. We recognize that members might forego a chapter membership for a variety of valid reasons, but I think that opting out of chapter membership is unfortunate because being a member of a chapter gives you far more than you may realize. In addition to practical educational sessions, the camaraderie you gain by meeting and learning from or working alongside your fellow professional ASHI inspectors on projects and committees is priceless. Members can tap into the knowledge and experiences of each inspector by establishing these friendships. To broaden our scope, ASHI extended its presence into the Canadian provinces. We have a mutually beneficial relationship with the Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors (CAHPI) and we have many Canadian ASHI members. H

A Force for the Future: As we continue to build on the strengths of our past, ASHI is moving forward positively, both in membership and in presence. Thank you for being an ASHI inspector.

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Your Partner in Radon Measurement 47September 2017

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ASHI Reporter â&#x20AC;¢ September 2017