June 2016 Reporter by ASHI

6.16

ASHI

Reporter

ASHI Sc Online hool Cours e P26

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

Being Frank: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all About you, Right?

Florida Stucco Disaster, Part 2

Subflooring

Your Company Image, Part 1

Garage door safety

p15

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6.16

Reporter ASHI

June 2016

Vol. 33, #6

Features

Please Support our Advertisers: Leviton Allen Insurance Group Target Professional Programs InspectIT OREP SRT Enviromental 3D Inspection System America’s Call Center Kritter Cap Wagner Meters RTCA How to Operate Your Home US Inspect Fort Reports The ASHI School Healthy Home Checkup Joe Ferry NHIE Study Guide Business Risk Partners American Home Warranty Perma-Boot Sun Nuclear HomeGauge

9 Florida’s Stucco Disaster: What Every Home Inspector Should Know, Part 2 Mark Cramer, ACI 15

Open up the Garage Door to Showcase Safety in June Interview with Todd Wilkinson, by Carol Dikelsky

Subflooring

Alan Carson, Carson Dunlop

Your Company Image, Part 1

Alan Carson, Carson Dunlop

Departments

6 Around the CoRner Jim Funkhouser, Speaker of the CoR 8 Being Frank From ASHI’s Executive Director

Insider Tips Tom Feiza, Mr. Fix-It, Inc.

24 You Tell Us Letters From our Readers

26 The ASHI School Now Offering Online Course

ASHI Community

Chapter Listing, New Inspector Status, Chapter Events, Council News and Education

Membership News, Event Calendar, Endorsed Member Programs & Anniversaries

34 38

2 leviton.com/afci 5 allenins.com 7 www.TargetProIns.com 11 InspectIT.com 13 www.OREP.org 17 SRTEnviromental.com 19 3Dinspection.com 19 AmericasCallCenter.com 21 KritterCaps.com 21 wagnermeters.com 23 RTCA.com 23 HowToOperateYourHome.com 25 844-268-2677 25 fortreports.com 26 www.theASHIschool.com 27 healthyhomescheckup.com 33 www.joeferry.com 36 NHIEStudyGuide.org 37 inspectorinsurance.com 39 ahomewarranty.com 41 perma-boot.com 43 sunradon.com 44 HomeGauge.com

Your ASHI

Postcards From the Field

It’s Wacky Out There

On My Mind

Randy Sipe, ASHI President

40 3June 2016

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

A SH I M ission S tatement To set and promote standards for property inspections and to provide the educational programs needed to achieve excellence in the profession and to meet the needs of our members.

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

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

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

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

Robert Walstead, Vice President Sun City Arizona, 623 695 4789 rwalstead@aol.com

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

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

Donald Lovering 2015-2016 Auburndale, MA, 617-928-1942 lovering@earthlink.net

Shannon E. Cory 2015-2017 Fayetteville, GA, 770-461-3408 Shannon@rainbowhomeinspections.com

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

Richard Hart 2016-2018 Conyers, GA, 770-827-2200 ashi1@comcast.net David Haught 2016-2018 Huntington, WV, 304-417-1247 inspector@wvchi.com Keven Kossler 2015-2017 Huntersville, NC, 704-875-3200 Team@CastleCheck.com Bruce Labell 2015-2017 Scottsdale, AZ, 602-765-2140 inspect@cox.net

Tony Smith 2015-2017 Cedar Rapids, IA, 319-533-4565 inspecthathouse@netscape.net Mike Wagner 2014-2016 Westfield, IN, 317-867-7688 mwagner@ralis.com John Wessling 2016-2018 St. Louis, MO, 314-520-1103 john@wesslinginspections.com Kevin Westendorf 2014-2016 Mt. Pleasant, SC, 843-881-7842 kevinw@lowcountryhome inspection.com

Frank Lesh, Executive Director, 847-954-3182, frankl@ashi.org Jen Gallegos, Executive Assistant, 847-954-3177 jeng@ashi.org Education, CE Approval, ASHI Online Learning Center, InspectionWorld

Michele George, Director of Education & Events, 847-954-3188 micheleg@ashi.org Membership, Chapter Relations, Booth Rental, Product Orders

Russell Daniels, Assistant Executive Director, Director Membership & Chapter Relations, 847-954-3185, russelld@ashi.org Janet George, Membership Services Supervisor, 847-954-3180 janetg@ashi.org Kathy Harris, Membership Administrator, 847-954-3175 Kathyh@ashi.org Mark Lester, Membership Services Coordinator, 847-954-3176 markl@ashi.org Accounting

Toni Fanizza, Accounting & Human Resources Manager 847-954-3190, tonif@ashi.org Beverly Canham, Financial Assistant, 847-954-3184 beverlyc@ashi.org Website, Information Systems, Database

Mike Rostescu, Director IT & Internet Communications 847-954-3189, miker@ashi.org Advertising, Marketing, IW Expo Hall, Public Relations

Speaker, Council of Representatives: James Funkhouser 2015-2016 Mark Londner 2014-2016 Manassas Park, VA, 703-791-2360 Purcellville, VA, 540-668-6339 jfunkhousr@aol.com mark@LBIhome.com

Dave Kogan, Manager of Marketing & Business Development 847-954-3187, davek@ashi.org

Publisher: Frank Lesh Editor: Carol Dikelsky Art Director: Arlene Zapata, Jr. Designer: Kate Laurent

Kate Laurent, Junior Graphic Designer & Administrative Assistant 847-954-3179, Katel@ashi.org

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

847-954-3186 Reporter calls only 847-299-2505 (fax) Reporter only E-mail: frankl@ashi.org Advertising: Dave Kogan Phone: 847-954-3187, E-mail: davek@ashi.org

ASHI REPORTER – ISSN 1076-1942 – the official publication of the American Society of Home Inspectors, Inc. (ASHI), 932 Lee St., Suite 101, Des Plaines IL 60016, is published monthly. Annual subscriptions: $44.95 to non-members. Periodical postage paid at Des Plaines, IL 60016 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ASHI Reporter, 932 Lee Street, Suite 101, Des Plaines, IL 60016-6546. Copyright© 2016, ASHI. None of the content of this publication may be reproduced, in any manner, without the prior written consent of the publisher. Inclusion of or specific mention of any proprietary product within does not imply endorsement of, nor does exclusion of any proprietary product imply non-endorsement, by the American Society of Home Inspectors, Inc. Opinions or statements of authors and advertisers are solely their own, and do not necessarily represent the opinions or positions of ASHI, its agents or editors. See above for information pertaining to submission of articles, advertising and related materials.

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

Officers

Ken Harrington 2015-2017 Delaware, OH, 614-507-1061 inspectorken@rrohio.com

ASHI Staff

ASHI Reporter • June 2016

Graphics, Publications, Member Logo Design

Arlene Zapata, Graphic Design Manager & “ASHI Reporter” Managing Editor, 847-954-3186, arlenez@ashi.org

The ASHI School

Bonnie Bruno, Manager, 888-884-0440 or 847-954-3178 bonnie@theashischool.com Steve Reilly, Senior Sales Representative, 888-884-0440 or 847-954-3181, steve@theashischool.com Kimberly McGraw, Administrative Assistant & Sales Representative 847-954-3198, kim@theashischool.com

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5June 2016

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Around the CoRner

From the Speaker of the CoR

( “A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in.” ~ Greek Proverb

I think sometimes we forget that ASHI is a society. It’s not a club, not an association, not even an organization. In this (our) society, each of us has certain rights, privileges and responsibilities. It’s that last idea—responsibilities—that I want to explore. Let’s get the most obvious responsibilities out of the way…dues. Dues are the taxes of our society. And the ASHI Standard of Practice and Code of Ethics are the laws that we must follow. Those are the easy parts. What’s not as easy, but just as important, is being a productive member of the society. (Warning: If you stop reading now, I will find you and make you listen to a lecture on the popularity of Serissa foetida in commercial bonsai cultivation. Not kidding, it’s really fascinating.) Wait, I’ve changed my mind. I don’t want to discuss “responsibility” anymore. What’s the next idea I want to explore? Community! Growing up, I was in charge of mowing the lawn and shoveling

ASHI Council of Representatives Speakers and Group Leaders Speaker: Jim Funkhouser 571-214-4039 jfunkhousr@aol.com Alternate Speaker: Hollis Brown St. Louis, MO 703-856-7567 JHollis@thorospec.com Secretary: Brendan Ryan 724-898-1414 brendan@csahomeinspection.com Group Leaders

New England/ Canada Mike Atwell 617-630-5629 mike@jmhi.com

New York/ New Jersey Kevin Vargo 732-271-1887 kpvargo@comcast.net

Mid-Atlantic Hollis Brown 703-856-7567 Hollis@thorospec.com

Midwest

ASHI Reporter • June 2016

North Central George Basista 330-565-3760 GeorgeBasista@ yahoo.com

Mountain

Eric Barker 847-408-7238 ebarker@morainewoods. com

Bryck Guibor 520-419-1313 bryck@msn.com

South Atlantic

Pacific

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

Darrell Hay 206-226-3205 darrellhay@aol.com

Gulf Jim Dickey 972-907-0202 jim@jjdickey.com

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

snow for an older couple who lived across the street. My dad often made his famous chili for neighbors in need. (It was “famous” because he put olives and water chestnuts in it. I miss my father dearly, but I don’t miss that concoction he called “chili” at all.) We had a neighborhood cleanup day every spring when we’d all help each other with yard work. Our neighborhood sparkled. The point is, people in communities help each other because when we do, we grow, we become stronger and we take pride in our shared identity. It’s the “we of me,” as author Carson McCullers so poignantly penned in The Member of the Wedding. We home inspectors might be individualistic, sometimes insufferable know-it-alls at heart, but we are, more importantly, the pride of our profession. Remember that every day. If a fellow inspector asks you for help (or even if he or she doesn’t ask for help, but it seems to you that he or she could use some), give it. Remember the saying (usually found framed in a bathroom) that starts off, “If you sprinkle when you tinkle…”? Maybe we should think of leaving every inspection in the same way that we should think of leaving a bathroom (that is, with the ending of that saying, “…please be neat and wipe the seat.”). In other words, we know that others will be where we’ve been after we’re long gone. So, as home inspectors who are also ASHI members, we should strive to leave all of our customers and agents impressed with the quality of our work so that when they need another inspection, they’ll be sure to hire an ASHI member again so they can benefit from the high level of professionalism we demonstrate every day. WE ARE ASHI. Write me with your great ideas for ASHI at speaker@ashi.org. H ~ Jim James Funkhouser, Speaker, ASHI Council of Representatives, speaker@ashi.org

Would you like to see your photo used in ASHI print and digital materials? We like to feature our members! Please send a photo of you doing an inspection, your name, company name, city and state to: arlenez@ashi.org

7June 2016

• www.ASHIReporter.org

From ASHI’s Executive Director

It’s All About You, Right!? A big part of being an inspector is sticking your neck out. After all, the job requires you to report on what you see. And deficiencies have to be reported. Sometimes the comments in your report contain your opinions, which can be at odds with what others (like the builder, the agent or the homeowner) might think. That’s where you have to stand up for your viewpoint…and the repercussions that are sure to follow. So, it’s all about you. Keep in mind that when your neck is exposed, so is your head. In last month’s issue of the Reporter, we reprinted an article from NPR.org that highlighted the serious dangers that can come from bumping your head. I don’t know about you, but virtually every time I’ve inspected an attic, I’ve come out with a small amount of blood on my scalp from hitting exposed sheathing nails. In addition, I’ve left a bit of my hair on the nails…and THAT is why I am missing so much hair on the top of my head. Seriously, though, a bump here and a bump there and pretty soon they add up. So, if you missed that article (on Page 30 of the April 2016 issue or online at http://www.ashireporter.org/HomeInspection/Articles/YourHealth-How-a-Simple-Bump-can-Cause-an-Insidious-BrainInjury/14824), please go back and check it out. You may want to take better care of your head…it’s part of you. Connected to your head is, of course, your proboscis. A lot of stuff goes into your respiratory system when you’re sleuthing around a property. Most of that “stuff” is not good for you. Like many of us, I’ve struggled to get into a barely accessible attic or crawl space only to find that I forgot to bring my mask. And like most, I figure, “It’s just a little insulation, mold, insecticide or whatever, so what harm can it do? I’ll only be in there for a short while.” Well, there’s real danger in there! I know I always try to add humor to stories, but this time I’m serious. If you want to get a sober look at how hazardous inspections can be, read these two articles from past issues of the Reporter: • The September 2007 issue featured an article written by ASHI Certified Inspector (ACI) Bob Anderson from Virginia titled

ASHI Reporter • June 2016

“Don’t Crawl Naked: Protect Yourself from Airborne Contaminants.” In this poignant article, Bob described his diagnosis of multiple myeloma, an incurable malignant cancer of the blood plasma cells in the bone marrow. Because this cancer is not hereditary, it seems that inhaling chemicals may be a contributing cause. Bob listed the problems inspectors face when they don’t wear protective gear (http://www.ashireporter.org/HomeInspection/Articles/ Don-t-Crawl-Naked-Protect-Yourself-from-AirborneContaminants/1251). •S adly, one year later, the October 2008 issue included a eulogy of Bob Anderson, written by John Cranor (http://www. ashireporter.org/HomeInspection/Articles/A-Tribute-to-aColleague-a-Professional-and-a-Friend/1524). John described how Bob was the definition of “home inspector” and he went out of his way to welcome him to the profession. Even during his last days, Bob never complained about the hand he’d been dealt, but only how blessed he was. So, think about this: Our bodies are sophisticated systems. One thing may affect another in ways that we can’t always predict. Clogged filters won’t always cause the HVAC system to fail prematurely, but they should be kept clean just in case. Your respiratory system should be kept clean, too. Remember, it’s all about you. Health issues will be in the spotlight again in next month’s issue of the Reporter, which will feature an article by Dr. Sandy Goldberg, who happens to be married to ACI Greg Hines. Dr. Sandy’s article gives great, practical advice about taking care of YOUR “system.” Her message will focus on nutrition and weight control, both of which can be boring, but are critical to your livelihood. Be sure to watch for her article next month, and take the time to read it and then re-read it. Her message and reminders may help both you and your loved ones. Remember, it’s really not just about you. H

Florida’s Stucco Disaster: What Every Home Inspector Should Know, Part 2 By Mark Cramer, ACI

Thousands of homeowners in central Florida are facing a stucco disaster. Cracking stucco, water entry and the resulting rotting of wood frame structures has become a nightmare for homeowners and home builders. One national builder has set aside more than $40 million to repair improperly installed stucco. In most cases, the structural damage is concealed and can’t be discovered without destructive inspection. During the 2005-2010 construction boom, shoddy workmanship and lack of supervision, combined with lax or no inspections, resulted in a perfect storm of stucco disasters. Here’s a link to a recent news story1 about the problem: http://www.wtsp.com/ story/news/investigations/2015/06/24/ floridas-billion-dollar-stucco-problem/29073195/. See the sidebar on Page 14 for a link to another news update.2 Stucco takes time. It’s very time-consuming to properly install the backing and accessories. Production builders live by the “cheaper is better” model. Anything that takes time tends to go by the wayside in the world of production building, where a two-story home is built in 30 days. In the past year, I’ve conducted more than 100 destructive inspections of improperly installed stucco on homes in central Florida for homeowners who are making construction defect claims. I’ve learned every

possible way you can imagine to improperly install stucco, and some ways that you or I couldn’t imagine. As home inspectors, we face a dilemma. Most of these defects can’t be discovered or proven until you break things apart. Many of them, however, can be seen without performing destructive inspection. As consumers become aware of these issues with stucco, their expectations increase regarding what they want a home inspector to tell them about stucco.

You can’t successfully patch these cracks. In my experience, they redevelop and admit more water, causing more corrosion of lath and more cracking and damage.

n this second part of a two-part article, 3 I’ll share some of the points you can observe in the course of a visual home inspection that will help you and your clients avoid an expensive problem. Fixing these problems isn’t cheap. Removal and replacement costs can range upwards of $50,000. Part 1 (published in the May 2016 issue of the Reporter,) covered issues involving lack of drainage, no drainage at horizontal returns and stucco that’s too thin. This article will cover improperly installed paper-backed lath, improperly installed control joints, and lack of casing beads and caulked joints. Improperly Installed PaperBacked Lath (photos 1-5) It’s common to use paper-backed lath over wood sheathing in Florida. The paper and lath are offset so that the paper can be lapped over the paper and the lath can be lapped over the lath. This takes time. It’s much faster just to slap it up any which way. If paper is lapped over wire, this results in thin spots that are prone to cracking. These cracks have a distinctive shape and configuration that you can observe. If you see long horizontal cracks about 2 feet apart, it’s likely that this is the cause.

Photo 1: Parallel horizontal cracks 2 feet apart indicate improperly lapped paper-backed lath.

Photo 2: Example of extreme damage.

9June 2016

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Florida’s Stucco Disaster, Part 2

Improperly Installed Control Joints (photo 6) Control joints are installed to allow stucco to shrink initially and then expand and contract. The typical W-shaped joints are designed to move in an accordion fashion to accommodate the movement. Key points to installing control joints include cutting the wire lath at the joint and wire tying the joint to the stucco. It’s much faster to just staple the joint to the wall, which prevents it from moving. Photo 3: Destructive inspection showing improperly lapped paper-backed lath at a horizontal crack.

Any paper backing on the lath has to be under the perforated flange of the control joint to allow the stucco to lock onto the joint. If you don’t install these joints correctly, the joint can’t move and when the stucco moves, a crack develops at the joint that admits water and causes damage. Ironically, preventing cracks is why we install the joints in the first place.

The purpose of the casing bead is to provide a gap that can be caulked. Without the caulked joint, hairline cracks invariably develop that admit water and cause damage. Reference: ASTM C-1063 7.11.3 Casing Bead—Nonload-bearing members shall be isolated from load-bearing members, and all penetrating elements, with casing beads or other suitable means, to avoid transfer of structural loads, and to separate from dissimilar materials.

If you see a vertical crack at the control joint, it’s probably installed improperly.

Photo 7: No casing bead and no caulked joint between window and stucco. No small cracks here. The photos that follow are all related to this window. This crack doesn’t look like much, but the resulting damage is impressive.

Photo 4: If you see cracking parallel to a rake edge about 2 feet down from the top of the wall, you can be reasonably sure that’s due to running the lath at an angle at the top of the wall.

Photo 6: Separation at control joint. The crack here admits water, which causes lath to rust and expand, leading to more cracking and damage.

Photo 5: Lath run at an angle overlapping the horizontal pieces causes cracking at the thin areas created by improper lapping.

ASHI Reporter • June 2016

Lack of Casing Beads and Caulked Joints (photos 7-17) ASTM standards required casing beads at intersections with dissimilar materials such as windows, soffit returns, etc. This was almost never done in central Florida during this time period.

Photo 8: Typical damage on a 10-year-old home.

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11June 2016

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Florida’s Stucco Disaster, Part 2

Photo 9: Sheathing is gone. (Rotted sheathing has been removed.)

Photo 10: Look carefully at interior surfaces at and below windows. If you see staining like this, I can assure you there’s structural damage concealed in the wall.

Photo 12: Here’s what the wall below this window looked like after it was torn open. Note the severe damage.

Photo 15: I typically measure moisture levels in walls below windows using a Tramex Moisture Encounter meter. I then compare the reading with a reading taken on the wall near the window. If I find elevated moisture levels below the windows, I know that there’s likely to be concealed damage.

Photo 13: It’s not just windows; all dissimilar materials intersecting stucco need casing beads and caulked joints. This intersection of a fascia and the stucco wall didn’t show any signs of damage other than some staining on the wood ceiling. Photo 16: This cracking is caused by multiple issues: water entry at the kickout flashing that’s not caulked, stucco that’s too thin and improperly lapped paper-backed lath.

Photo 11: I always pull up the edge of carpeting below windows using needlenose pliers. If I see staining, I know there’s concealed damage in the walls. In this case, I was inspecting stucco for the owner and was able to pull back the carpeting, revealing the large stain on the floor. 12

ASHI Reporter • June 2016

Photo 14: Here’s what it looked like under the stucco.

Conclusion Florida’s stucco problem is real. It’s big and it’s getting bigger. Don’t let yourself be caught on the wrong side of a lawsuit because you failed to point out potential problems and explain the implications of the problem. Always make your client aware of the potential for significant concealed damage. Recommend destructive inspection. You won’t be very popular with agents, but you’ll sleep better at night. I’ve had to defend a home inspector in a concealed damage claim over stucco. It’s not pretty.

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Florida’s Stucco Disaster, Part 2

1. Pransky N. 10 News Investigates. Florida’s billion-dollar stucco problem: Your home may also be rotting away—and losing value—much quicker than you could ever imagine, part 1. Available at: http://www.wtsp.com/story/news/ investigations2015/06/24/florida-billion-dollar-stucco-problem/29073195/. Accessed April 22, 2016.

Photo 17: Destructive inspection can include drilling holes and measuring moisture with a meter, or simply breaking open the stucco to see what was done wrong underneath the surface. Both have their places. Also understand that it’s useless to recommend “further evaluation by a stucco contractor.” These are the folks who created this mess. They’re likely to say it’s all just fine and you need a little patching. That’s just kicking the can down the road. For those of you in other parts of the country, the issues are the same, not only with stucco, but with artificial stone veneer, which is essentially nothing more than lumpy stucco. Similar disasters are widespread almost everywhere.

Insider Tips

for Smart Inspectors

2. S wanson B. KB Home to pay at least $23.5M in settlement with Florida over building violations: “Allegedly failed to

100 forensic inspections of stucco failures. Mark has more than 5,000 hours of experience training home inspectors in classroom and seminar settings. A longtime ASHI member, Mark was one of the founding members of the Suncoast Chapter of ASHI. He’s held numerous local and national positions within ASHI, serving as chair of several national committees and as National President of ASHI in the year 2000. H

make certain disclosures to homebuyers.” HousingWire. com. Posted February 11, 2016. Available at: http://www.

update from Florida…

housingwire.com/articles/36268-kb-home-to-pay-atleast-235m-in-settlement-with-florida-over-buildingviolations#.Vr3MbAam6Jw.email. Accessed April 22, 2016. 3 . C ramer M. Florida’s stucco disaster: What every home inspector should know, part 1. ASHI Reporter. May 2016. pp. 14-16. Available at: https://issuu.com/ashi932/docs /5-2016_reporter_issuu. Accessed April 22, 2016.

Mark Cramer is a home inspection veteran and a Florida-licensed contractor who has 25 years of experience performing home inspections, construction progress inspections, commercial building inspections and insurance inspections. Mark also works as a litigation consultant and expert witness in matters relating to construction defects and home inspection. He’s performed more than

According to an article published February 11, 2016, in the online magazine HousingWire, “Homebuilder KB Home and its Florida subsidiaries reached a multimillion dollar settlement with the Florida Attorney General’s Office…over alleged construction violations.” To read the full story, check out the article2 at this link: http://www.housingwire.com/articles/36268-kb-hometo-pay-at-least-235m-in-settlementwith-florida-over-building-violations#. Vr3MbAam6Jw.email.

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

Tip #15 Garage Door Openers

hat is the largest, heaviest moving object in your home? You got it—the garage door. So, it makes sense to do frequent safety checks on the door.

First, look for a safety label near the control button or the overhead door. It will tell you how to safely operate the door and test the reverse mechanism. Second, make sure the control button is mounted at least five feet above the floor or any step. This prevents small children from playing with the door operator. Third, never allow children to play with the door or the operator. You should test your operator for reverse and door balance once per month. Follow the specific instructions on your door’s safety label. If you don’t understand these instructions or you don’t have specific instructions for your door, contact a professional door service company. Several times per year, check the door hardware for tightness. Consult your owner’s manual for the proper lubricant and apply it to rollers, tracks and other mechanical parts. Have the door serviced by a professional if there are any signs of problems. H By Tom Feiza, Mr. Fix-It © Copyright 2009 by Tom Feiza, Mr. Fix-It, Inc. | misterfix-it.com | htoyh.com. Helping you operate and maintain your home.

ASHI Reporter • June 2016

Open up the Garage Door to Showcase Safety in June An Interview with Todd Wilkinson, by Carol Dikelsky

f you attended InspectionWorld® in 2015 or 2016, you might have met Todd Wilkinson, Field Manager and Safety Ambassador at LiftMaster, the leading domestic manufacturer of garage door openers. When I recently talked with Wilkinson, he outlined LiftMaster’s annual push to focus attention on Garage Door Safety Month every June. Specifically, he described the benefits of scheduling a safety training session for a group of home inspectors in your region and conveyed the importance of educating homeowners about garage door safety. He also spotlighted some trends that home inspectors might be seeing in the field. Set up a Training Session for Your Group Wilkinson said, “LiftMaster is proud to collaborate with ASHI, and we are always eager to help plan and lead educational training events with local chapters. With home inspectors working on the front line with homeowners, they can benefit from receiving training that delves into detailed information on this important topic. By training home inspectors, we’ve tapped into an excellent audience—professionals who need and want to learn the safety content we provide.” In fact, in 2015, LiftMaster representatives trained more than 2,000 ASHI members who attended more than 30 sessions at chapter events. Wilkinson added, “Even though we’ve reached so many home inspectors, we feel like we’ve only scratched the surface. We hope to build on last year’s momentum and present even more training sessions throughout 2016. Our goal is to lead at least 50 garage safety training sessions and reach at least 3,000 ASHI members this year.”

LiftMaster training representatives appreciate the enthusiasm that home inspectors bring to learning about the mechanics of garage doors and door-opening systems. In turn, home inspectors appreciate getting the most up-to-date information about safety and standards that they can apply on the job. Wilkinson said, “I’ve personally presented sessions at an ASHI chapter event in Arizona as well as at InspectionWorld® 2016 in San Diego. We always get positive feedback from home inspectors who are keen to learn more or get a refresher about a critical piece of equipment that they see in nearly every home. Sessions last approximately one hour, and we allow time for questions and answers.”

For more information or to schedule a training session for a local chapter or event, email safetyambassadors@liftmaster.com. Use the Red Tag Safety Program According to LiftMaster’s website, “The garage door is typically the largest moving object in the home and serves as the main access point for 70% of homeowners. However, one in 15 garage doors may lack the latest safety features, may not be operating safely or may not meet federal safety standards. This means millions of garages across the United States could require additional attention from a professional.”

Wilkinson said, “Our Red Tag Safety program highlights safety issues and emphasizes the need to replace garage door openers that were manufactured before 1993 when safety sensors were first mandated. The reality is that there are still millions of outdated and unsafe garage door units out there, and home inspectors are among those who see them all the time.”

he Red Tag Safety program makes it easy for inspectors to spread the word that outdated garage doors and systems should be replaced. By having Red Tag Safety educational materials on hand, home inspectors can give important information to their clients. These resources are available free of charge. To receive them, register at www.liftmaster.com/homeinspectors.

Wilkinson said, “Home inspectors are in garages daily, and their familiarity with how garage door systems work as part of a home makes them excellent representatives for promoting safety. At LiftMaster, we feel that the more eyes that are out there looking for old pieces of equipment, the more outdated and unsafe garage doors will go out of circulation. This enables us to get safe equipment installed, providing homeowners with the peace of mind that comes with having a garage door they can count on.”

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Open up the Garage Door to Showcase Safety in June

By registering for LiftMaster’s Red Tag Safety program, you’ll have access to the following useful materials: • a sample script that can help you introduce the topic with clients • copies of a “Did You Know?” fact sheet that you can give to your clients • an overview of the mandate UL 325 (Standard for Door, Drapery, Gate, Louver, and Window Operators and Systems)

• Red Tag Kits that include Red Tags that inspectors can place on a garage door to alert the homeowner that it is unsafe. Every Red Tag comes with a LiftMaster rebate that homeowners can use toward purchasing a new garage door opener.

( Wilkinson said, “We hope

that by sharing our information with home inspectors that they will not only caution clients to replace outdated units, but also be able to mention new safety features that might interest homeowners when it’s appropriate. Our products have all the latest safety features.”

Participating in the program can boost your business’ value to clients by reinforcing your role of educating homeowners about the importance of garage safety that can keep their families safe. Know About New Safety Features LiftMaster offers a wide selection of models and every type is equipped with the latest safety features. Battery-backup models such as Elite Series 8500 and Elite Series 8550W (which is Wi-Fi–enabled) are among the current hot items. Also, a mobile app called MyQ which works with a smart device and Internet connection, enables homeowners to operate a garage door opener or check the status of an open or closed garage door anytime from anywhere in the world. This feature offers yet another dimension of safety—that of having more awareness and control over who can access the garage (which often is used as an entrance into the home) and when that access can occur. H

Todd Wilkinson is 23-year employee with LiftMaster. Twenty of those years were within the sales organization, covering Southern California, Arizona, Nevada and New Mexico. For the last three years, he has been managing LiftMaster’s national team of Safety Ambassadors. Aside from working with home inspectors, Todd’s team works hand in hand with a nationwide network of LiftMaster dealers and distributors, educating them on best safety practices for all three of LiftMaster’s product lines, including both residential and commercial garage door operators, as well as a line of gate operators.

Garage Door Safety Initiatives LiftMaster has been manufacturing garage door openers for more than 45 years. In addition to the Red Tag Safety program, LiftMaster has developed several other initiatives that demonstrate the company’s commitment to safety and public awareness. • Don’t Chance It. Check It. This national initiative began in 2013 and helps homeowners ensure sure they have the safest possible garage door opener system in place. Home inspectors can use these resources when advocating for safety with homeowners. • 3-Step Safety Check. This 3-step system helps confirm that a garage door unit is operating properly. Home inspectors can perform the check during inspections and encourage homeowners to perform the test themselves at least three times a year. To perform the 3-Step Safety Check: 1. Check the sides of the garage door for properly installed photo eyes (black sensors) mounted no higher than six inches from the floor. 2. Block the photo eye with an object that is more than 6 inches tall and press the garage door opener’s close button. The door should not close. 3. Lay an object that is at least 1.5 inches tall on the ground in the door’s path and press the garage door’s close button. The door should reverse off this object. If the home inspector determines that a garage door fails to perform any of these steps, the inspector should suggest that the homeowner contact a professional garage door dealer to correct the issue. By offering these initiatives, LiftMaster works to help home inspectors and homeowners identify potential problems and ensure the safety of garage door units across the country. To learn more or to register for the free Red Tag Program, visit www.liftmaster.com/homeinspectors.

ASHI Reporter • June 2016

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Call Today 1-844-778-4357 17June 2016

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Subflooring

Subflooring By Alan Carson, Carson Dunlop, www.carsondunlop.com, 800-268-7070

ubflooring is typically wood planking, plywood, waferboard or OSB (oriented strand board). Think of the subfloor as a series of many small joists or beams, as its function is similar to joists and beams. Subfloors carry live loads to the joists, which carry the loads to the beams, which carry the loads to the columns and foundation walls, which carry the loads to the footings, which carry the loads to the soil below. We hope the soil stays put. Subflooring usually spans 12 to 24 inches, with 16 inches being most common.

Plywood: Plywood subflooring should be installed with its long dimension and face grain perpendicular to the joists. Installing plywood with the subfloor parallel to the joists makes the flooring weaker. Making Little Trusses: Using glue and screws to fasten the subfloor to the joists makes the whole floor act as a rigid truss. Stagger the Joints: Joints in plywood or waferboard subflooring should be staggered to increase the rigidity of the floor. Unsupported butt joints and panels should be supported with two-by-two blocking, or the panels should be tongue-and-groove. Support the joints: Small gaps between adjacent panels allow for swelling due to moisture changes without buckling. Gaps of 3⁄32 of an inch are typical.

Subflooring is a nominal 1-inch thick plank (about 3⁄4-inch of actual thickness) or about 5⁄8-inch plywood or waferboard, assuming 16-inch centers on the joists. If the subflooring is plank, it can be tongue-and-groove, although it’s usually butt-jointed (the straight-cut planks are laid next to each other). Typically, tongue-and-groove is used where resilient flooring is going to be applied above. Butt joints are used where hardwood flooring will overlay the subflooring. Perpendicular or diagonal: The plank subflooring is usually perpendicular to the joists, although it also can be installed on the diagonal. Diagonal subflooring is considered to have better rigidity with respect to racking of the building, although it can create some problems. All subflooring must be supported at its edges. Diagonal subflooring requires additional blocking at the perimeters to support ends of pieces. Often, spongy floors are caused by unsupported ends of diagonal planking. 18

ASHI Reporter • June 2016

Subfloor problems include the following:

• rot and insect damage • s agging or springy subflooring (as a result of being overspanned or un dersized) • damaged or cut • c antilevered or unsupported ends

• prior repairs • concentrated loads • squeaks • swollen waferboard • cracking ceramic tiles

Rot and Insect Damage Damage can be caused by moisture or insects (especially in wet or rotted wood). We’ve talked about this with respect to other wood members. Rotted subfloors are common around toilets, bathtubs and shower stalls. Rotted subflooring also can occur below radiators on heating systems. Anywhere that water might leak, rotted subflooring could be an issue.

Rotted subflooring also may be found around building perimeters where there is exterior wall or window leakage or condensation that gets hung up on subflooring. Subfloor damage is common at exterior doorways, particularly at sliding glass doors. Sliding glass doors often have condensation. Subflooring may be rotted along the entire length of the door. Watch for this from below or, if you can lift up an edge of the finished flooring, you also might be able to see the damage.

Damaged subfloors are common under plumbing fixtures, especially toilets.

Continues on Page 20

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Subflooring Subfloor rot and damage also are common near the exterior wall due to water penetration.

Cantilevered Subflooring (Poor End-Bearing) Problems are with installation issues in most cases. Edges of subflooring should be supported. Where subflooring is cut or terminated and is not over a joist, blocking should be provided. Diagonal plank subflooring that is missing blocking at perimeter walls is very spongy. Where subflooring edges on plywood or OSB are butted and not tongue-and-groove, you should see blocking. Unsupported edges should have blocking added.

A similar story—this one has severe damage to the joists as well.

Overspanned or Undersized Subflooring This is an installation issue. Subflooring should not deflect more than 1/360 of its span. Weakened or undersized subflooring can make flooring spongy. Often, this is a localized issue. A weakened joist will cause subflooring to be springy in that area. Diagonal subflooring with unsupported ends at walls is common. This severely notched joist will cause the subflooring to be springy.

Damaged or Cut Subflooring Mechanical damage may be done by tradespeople or homeowners. Many people cut through subflooring recklessly to accommodate ductwork or piping. Re-supporting may be necessary. In carpeted rooms, it’s common to find that an opening was cut for a heating register in the wrong place. The heating register was not provided, but the hole in the subfloor gets carpeted over. Whenever someone steps on that area, the floor is very weak. Repairs are easy if the subfloor is accessible from below.

Poor end-bearing of plank subflooring due to an opening for a supply duct.

Concentrated Loads Pianos, columns or heavy pieces of furniture with only four legs can create large point loads that can deflect or crack the subfloor. Watch for evidence of this and recommend re-supporting from below the subfloor. A post added in response to additional weight above—this is an ineffective remedy.

Cut subfloor to Provide support for new structural member above—not the proper way.

Another example of a post added in response to additional weight. There should be no columns directly in contact with the subfloor.

ASHI Reporter • June 2016

Subflooring

Final Note In this article, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve covered many of the main conditions with subfloors as part of the structural floor system. In the ASHI@Home training program, you can learn many more details about this and other building issues and inspection strategies. H Other flooring articles in past Reporters: http://www.ashireporter.org/HomeInspection/ Articles/Floor-Systems/2463 http://www.ashireporter.org/HomeInspection/ Articles/Structural-Considerations-of-FloorFraming-and-Load-Distribution/570

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Your Company Image Part 1

Your Company Image, Part 1 By Alan Carson, Carson Dunlop, www.carsondunlop.com, 800-268-7070

our company image is not what you say you are; it’s how your clients perceive you. You may think you are a “high-end” home inspector because you’ve targeted a market that’s willing to pay more for your services. But if you show up on the job wearing ripped jeans, a paint-stained t-shirt and worn-out sneakers, your image no longer says “high-end, professional service.”

Your clients aren’t evaluating you according to your set of criteria for good performance. They are evaluating you on the basis of their own set of criteria. Why? Because they don’t know what your set of criteria is. They only know what they hope to gain from the inspection. Here’s an analogy: Say you buy a new audio system for your home. You apply a set of criteria to the system to determine its value—not its general value in the world, but its value to you. Sure, the salespeople at the store talked up the system’s superior subwoofers. But you care more if it will deliver on the high end of the range with crystal-clear pitch. You and the sales staff at the store have different criteria for evaluating the same thing. But at least you both have a tangible characteristic on which to base your opinions— sound quality. A home inspection service has no tangible attributes on which a customer can form an opinion or base a decision. All you have to offer your clients is the promise of an expert inspection. The clients have to trust that you are not selling them a bill of goods. Most of your clients will have no idea what you do. As a result, they will latch on to every intangible stimulus they can get their eyes and ears on—for example, your professional manner, vocabulary, eye contact, anything that will give them a clue about you. In other words, your clients are constantly evaluating you from the moment they see your business card, brochure or advertisement to the time you hand over your final inspection report. All of these evaluations will factor into your company’s image as your clients see it. Clients do this because they are in no position to evaluate your technical expertise. It’s like taking a car into the shop for service. It’s hard to know whether the mechanic did a good job, but if there is grease on the upholstery, you will have a definite opinion about the service you received.

The truth is, your clients may form an opinion of you at several points during a transaction. This list provides estimates of the relative importance of these points with respect to their marketing value: 22

ASHI Reporter • June 2016

• A referral from someone the client knows (15% importance) • A good business card (5% importance) • A good brochure (5% importance) • A telephone conversation with the client (15% importance) • Th e first five minutes during which the client meets you at the property (20% importance) • Th e inspection—specifically, the professionalism, approachability and expertise that you demonstrate to the client (25% importance) • Th e quality of the inspection report (15% importance) Let’s cover some details about the first four points: Referrals Indicate Satisfaction Referrals from past clients are worth a lot, much more than a business card or a brochure. It’s likely that your new client already has formed a generally favorable opinion of you just on the basis of someone else’s satisfaction with your services. The client likely will put a lot of stock into the referring person’s opinion, especially if the person who gave the referral is a real estate professional. Good Business Cards are Essential A business card is not worth much from a marketing perspective… and we’re talking about a good business card here. Sound contradictory? Let me explain. A well-designed business card is simply the standard for any industry. If you have a business, you require a good business card. However, in terms of marketing, a good business card is not what will bring you business. Because most everyone has a business card, if yours stands out as being of high quality, it will simply confirm the good opinion that a client forms about you from other points of contact. If, on the other hand, your card looks to be of low quality or amateurish, you are giving yourself a huge marketing disadvantage. A low-quality business card gives the impression of having been made the night before. Particularly obvious are the business cards that come in sheets that you feed through a printer. Even well-designed cards printed on these sheets don’t pass the test. If you look carefully, you can see evidence of the perforations where the cards were torn from the sheets. Providing anything that suggests to the client that you may have started your business yesterday will not be comforting to the client, especially because home inspection is a service that depends on the experience of the practitioner. Brochures are not the Best Tools A brochure has the same effect as a business card. You have an opportunity to make a favorable impression by providing a well-constructed brochure, but the message is not as powerful

Your Company Image Part 1

as other points of contact with the client. And a low-quality brochure is a detriment. Here’s the bottom line: If you can’t afford to create a high-quality brochure, it’s best not to create one at all. There are lots of other ways to get your message out there that require less cash and can make a stronger marketing impact. Good Phone Manner is Key The telephone conversation is the client’s first opportunity to truly evaluate you. Clients listen to how you speak. They will notice the clarity and tone of your voice, the vocabulary you use and so on. It is extremely important to have a professional and approachable telephone manner. You don’t have to be slick, but you should always be prepared to answer questions in a friendly and professional manner. For example, if you sound irritated because you are on the roof of a house when you receive a call from a client, that’s the impression you will give with the client—that you are or can be irritable. That’s one reason for you to consider having someone else answer your phone calls for you when you are out in the field inspecting. Another reason to

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Your Company Image Part 1

consider this idea is because answering the phone while you are conducting an inspection with another client forces you to become distracted. Even if you keep the call brief, the client who’s right there with you may perceive your taking the call as showing a lack of respect for him or her. Therefore, it’s a good idea to give someone else (for example, an assistant or receptionist, a coworker or your spouse) the responsibility of fielding phone calls when you are unavailable. Just be sure that you trust the person handling phone calls to use good sales and customer service skills and to communicate successfully with both established and prospective clients. If you can’t find a person to manage phone calls for you when you are in the field, then consider either hiring an answering service or simply turning off the ringer on your cell phone so that you (and the client who might be with you) are not distracted by phone calls during an inspection. If you choose to turn off your phone, be sure that your greeting is concise and professional, that you remember to turn your phone back on after the inspection and that you return any calls you received promptly.

By incorporating these suggestions, you can continually improve your company’s image. In next month’s issue of the Reporter, look for Part 2 of this series, which will cover the importance of making good first impressions, conducting proper introductions and building positive rapport throughout the inspection process. H

ASHI Member Steve Zivolich Receives Lifetime Achievement Award for Enhancing the Lives of People with Disabilities On April 8, the Regional Center of Orange County (RCOC) presented ASHI member Steve Zivolich with its 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award for his local, national and international leadership in developing innovative employment placement outcomes for people with disabilities. Zivolich founded Integrated Resources Institute (IRI) in 1985. This nonprofit organization, which is known for its progressive approach and demonstration outcomes regarding integrated community work for people with disabilities, is based in Orange County.

“The lifetime achievement award goes to an individual who has made exceptional contributions to advancing the rights of and enhancing the life for people with developmental disabilities,” stated Alan Martin, chair of the RCOC Board of Directors. IRI and Zivolich were recognized for having facilitated 20,000 job placements for people with disabilities in the United States. Through grants and corporate funding, IRI initiated several demonstration and research employment efforts with Pizza Hut, Brinker International, California Restaurant Association, Universal Studios Hollywood, Social Security Administration, U.S. Department of Education, California Regional Centers and various departments of rehabilitation. Zivolich noted, “Nationally, IRI has worked to strengthen the capacity of the workforce development system to improve employment outcomes for people with significant disabilities through demonstration implementation, as well as dissemination of research. With three decades of peerreviewed, evidence-based research data, IRI has verified that integrated work efforts lead to positive employment and quality-of-life

ASHI Reporter • June 2016

outcomes for individuals with disabilities, their families, as well as cost benefits to taxpayers.” IRI’s MentorWorks program in Orange County currently serves more than 100 clients with disabilities and maintains a 96% employment placement rate. MentorWorks is a 100% community work–based program, and all program hours are provided at integrated work settings. Using a customized employment and mentor approach, the relationship between an employee with a disability and his or her employer is personalized in a way that meets the needs of both.

IRI also provides consultation support for other nonprofit organizations, government agencies and corporations in the United States and internationally to develop similar innovative work placement outcomes for their clients with disabilities. Employers interested in recruiting and integrating workers with disabilities into their workforce can contact IRI at 949-232-1172 or visit the IRI website at http://www.irioc.org. Congratulations, Steve! H In Memory: Dewey Campbell

Dewey was a founding member of both SCAHI and the SC Chapter of ASHI. He may not have been able to attend all of our meetings but he was a staunch supporter of both associations, the home inspection profession and ethical behavior in all situations. Those of you who knew him will remember him best for his strong opinions and forthright manner...both spoke well for him and our profession.

You Tell Us

Dewey will be missed. The associations will be making a memorial gift in the name of all our members. Thank you for including him and his family in your thoughts and prayers. H Roger S. Herdt Secretary, SC ASHI and SCAHI In Memory: Tom Robertson

On April 28, SC ASHI President Tom Robertson passed away after a struggle with cancer. Tom fought the good fight and will be missed by all. Our associations will be making a memorial gift in Tom’s memory. Please keep Tom’s family in your thoughts and prayers. H Roger S. Herdt Secretary, SC ASHI and SCAHI

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You Asked and We Answered! The ASHI School Now Offers an Online Course By The ASHI School Staff

he ASHI School, providers of the best, most comprehensive pre-home inspection courses nationwide, is now offering a 60-hour online home inspection course. The course will provide an introduction to starting and operating your own successful home inspection career and business, as well as how to perform home inspections, especially geared toward compliance with the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) Standard of Practice and Code of Ethics. ASHI’s Standard of Practice is continually updated based on the latest technology available within the home inspection profession. It is what the home inspection profession and industry generally follows and what many states have incorporated into state-specific regulations for home inspectors. Visit www.theashischool. com/Home-Inspection-Classes/ Requirements-by-State to find your state’s requirements. One of the main benefits of The ASHI School’s 60-hour online home inspection course is that you can go at your own pace. If you’re busy with school, job or family commitments, or if you have limited time to spend on the course each day or week, then this online option could be perfect for you. Need to review what you learned already? You can go back over the topics you already saw and watch them as many times as you need so that you can take the test on that section. The online course offers a wonderful opportunity for home inspection companies to enhance employee training programs. The course can be used as a refresher for a person who has previously attended a class or as an introduction to home inspection for someone new to the field. Also, the course provides an excellent overview of the business for office staff members. Are you a veteran? Do you attend a trade school or work as an apprentice in a specific trade? If so, this is a great opportunity for you to get an overview of the home inspec-

ASHI Reporter • June 2016

tion profession and start a rewarding career in an exciting industry. The 60-hour online course provides an all-encompassing education in home inspection—from the foundation to the roof, and everything in between. The course particularly focuses on the following topics: • Roofing • Exterior • Structure • Electrical • Heating

• Cooling and heating pumps • Insulation • Plumbing • Interiors

The ASHI School’s 60-hour online course is available for $995, which includes the following: • Online access to The Home Reference Book and Study Guide • Classroom-style PowerPoint presentations with professional narration • Case studies, drag-and-drop exercises and videos • Online tests and examination • Six months of access to Horizon Report Writing Software • One-year membership to ASHI • Logo use • The ASHI School Certificate of Completion For more information, contact The ASHI School staff at 888-884-0440 or email info@ theashischool.com. You can also contact our staff directly: • Steve Reilly, Senior Sales Representative, 847-954.3181, steve@theashischool.com • Kimberly McGraw, Administrative Assistant and Sales Representative, 847-954-3198, kim@theashischool.com • Bonnie Bruno, The ASHI School Manager, 847-954-3178, bonnie@theashischool.com

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Upcoming Ancillary Classes Three-Day Commercial Class June 8-10, 2016 • Stamford, CT

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North Central ASHI Central PA

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

Keystone (PA)

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

Ohio

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

North Central Ohio

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

Pocono-Lehigh (PA)

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

PRO ASHI (PA)

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

Tri-State (DE, NJ, PA)

www.tristateashi.org Second Tuesday except April, Aug. & Dec., Dave & Buster's Plymouth Meeting, PA Peter Muehlbronner 215-8527319 peter@ahiconsulting.com

Midwest Central Illinois

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

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

Greater Omaha (NE)

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

ASHI Reporter • June 2016

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

www.ashiheartland.org Reuben Saltzman, 612-205-5600 reuben@ashiheartland.org

Indiana ASHI

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

Iowa ASHI

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

Kentuckiana (IN, KY)

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

Mid-Missouri

www.midmoashi.com Second Thursday, 12:00 pm, Even months of the year; Columbia Board of Realtors office. 2309 I-70 Drive NW, Columbia, MO Stuart Spradling, 573-874-9797 Stuart@SpradlingInspections.com

Northern Illinois

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

Mountain Arizona

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

New Mexico

www.ashinm.org Every other month, Second Saturday, (Jan., May., Sept.) Mimi’s Cafe Albuquerque - 9:15 am Bodega Burger Co., (March, July) Socorro - 11 am Lance Ellis, 505-977-3915 lellis@amerispce.net

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

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

Southern Colorado

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

Utah

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

Pacific

SOUTH MIDWEST Arkansas Lonnie Moore, 479-503-5792 mhinsp@cox.net

Great Plains (KS, MO)

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

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

St. Louis (MO)

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

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

ASHI Hawaii

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

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

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

Golden Gate (CA)

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

Inland Northwest (ID, WA) Chris Munro, 208-290-2472 chris@peakinspections.net

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

Oregon

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

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

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

Silicon Valley ASHI-CREIA (CA)

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

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

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

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

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

Western Washington

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

New England/Canada British Columbia

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

CAHPI Atlantic

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

CAHPI Ontario

www.oahi.com Donald Beneteau, 519-995-0235 don@beneteauinspections.com Coastal Connecticut www.coastalctashi.org Third Thursday, 6 pm, Westport VFW Lodge, 465 Riverside Avenue, Westport Gene Autore, 203-216-2516 gene.autore@gmail.com

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

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

First State (DE)

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

Garden State (NJ)

Southern New England (CT)

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

New York/Jersey/ Delaware Capitol Region (NY)

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

Central New York

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

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

Central Florida

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

Greater Rochester (NY)

MAC-ASHI (MD, VA)

FLASHI (FL)

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

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

Hudson Valley (NY)

NOVA-ASHI (MD, VA)

Florida Wiregrass

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

Long Island (NY)

New York Metro

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

ASHI South (AL)

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

Prairies (Alberta) (CAHI)

Quebec AIBQ

Gulf

Hampton Roads (VA)

www.nnec-ashi.org Bob McDonald, 207-475-7758 omnispect@gmail.com www.cahpi-ab.ca Chris Bottriell, 780-486-4412 api94@shaw.ca

www.greaterbaltimoreashi.org Third Thursday except July & Aug., 6:30 pm, Maritime Institute Conference Center, 5700 N. Hammonds Ferry Rd., Linthicum Heights, MD George Fair, gfair2004@yahoo.com

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

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

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

Greater Baltimore (MD)

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

Southern New Jersey (NJ)

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

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

Mid-Atlantic Central Virginia

www.cvashi.org First Thursday, 6:30 pm, Capital Ale House, Midlothian, VA Bronsoson Anderson 540-932-7557 2inspect4u@gmail.com

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

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

South Atlantic ASHI Georgia

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

East Tennessee

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

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

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

North Carolina

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

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

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

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

Lone Star (TX)

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

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

Suncoast (FL)

www.ashisuncoast.com First Tuesday, 6:30 pm, Please see our website for meeting locations. Steve Acker, 727-712-3089 steve@buyersally.com

Southwest Florida

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

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

29June 2016

• www.ASHIReporter.org

To submit your materials for moving up, please contact Janet George at 847-954-3180 or janetg@ashi.org

New ASHI Associates

Ryan Amador

Steven Schroeder

John Jones

As of April 1, 2016

Aurora, IL

H Denotes graduate of The ASHI School

Brian Duddy

Goldeye Home Inspection Winnipeg, MB

Mirowski Inspections Springfield, MO

H Michael Bishop

Philip Kimmel

Fort Washington, MD

AMO Home Inspections Green Ridge, MO

Lloyd Warner

David Keck

Biff’s Professional Home Inspections Wasilla, AK

Keck’s Home Inspections Loveland, CO

Austin Adams

J & J Home Enterprises, Inc. dba HouseMaster Bailey, CO

Hayden, AL

Arnold Ridley, PE, PMP Ridley & Partners, Inc. Chelsea, AL

Chip Self Birmingham, AL

Cameron Harkey

Jim Lampe

Wes Miner Flatiron Property Inspections Longmont, CO

LaVante Calhoun Jacksonville, FL

Chicago, IL

Christopher Gibson Algonquin, IL

Shawn Hamilton Eagle Eye Home Inspection Montgomery, IL

Scott Howell HomeShield Inspections, Inc. Machesney Park, IL

Jeffrey Johnston

Matteson, IL

Steve Tinsley

Dominic Fowler

Randy Mathieu

Boddye Inspections Encinitas, CA

Chris Dimitrijeric MK Property Inspect Tustin, CA

H Joseph Hiseley San Francisco, CA

Teresa Howarth Teresa’s Property Inspections Garden Grove, CA

Troy Knox HomeGuard Incorporated San Jose, CA

Roy Mata Su Casa Home Inspection and Notary Services Whittier, CA

Tyler Methot HomeGuard Incorporated San Jose, CA

Brandon Overton Hawkeye Home Inspections, Inc. Rocklin, CA

Brandon Smith Smith Home Inspections Clovis, CA

David Steinbach

Elwood, IL

Property 360, LLC Longwood, FL

Aurora, IL

Mark Griffith

Elburn, IL

Griffith Home Inspections Riviera Beach, FL

H Jake McGourty

Bernarr Johnson Inside & Out Property Inspectors, Inc. Jacksonville, FL

Ronald Masseo Masseo Home Inspections Lakewood Ranch, FL

Matthew McArty

Kurt Matthews

Cicero, IL

Javier Rosas Pro Home Inspector Aurora, IL

Corey Sellers Galva, IL

Inspect-All Services Conyers, GA

Burr Ridge, IL

Patrick Moore

Pekin, IL

ATL Home Inspection, LLC Stockbridge, GA

Anthony Sumner Sumner Home Inspections, LLC Cairo, GA

Todd Warren Sugarhill, GA

Westchester, IL

Mike Strauman Matt Sykes Decatur, IL

Terry Hubbs AA Home Inspection, LLC Lawrenceburg, IN

Nathan James Inspect It 1st - Indy Brownsburg, IN

William Kauffman HouseMaster Home Inspections Bristol, IN

James Sodo

Valley Home Inspection, Inc. dba NPI San Dimas, CA

H Ricarte Tadeo

Thomas Beard

Wiemann Home Inspection Urbandale, IA

Jason Howard

Timothy Joe Woods

Lloyd Packard

Des Moines, IA

Precision Home Inspections Wamego, KS

Yellow Cabin Home Inspections Westminster, CO

H Todd Henderson Above Board Home Inspections Fort Collins, CO

ASHI Reporter • June 2016

Ewa Beach, HI

Chris Wiemann

H Ashraf Zahran Discovery Inspection Services Post Falls, ID

Harpswell, ME

Charles Anglin MHI Warren, MI

Patrick Cross

Mark Foley

Mark Stednitz

Hadi Salah

Kevin Hunt

Julian Ortega

Aron Gebhardt

Buyers Protection Group Kennesaw, GA

At Home Inspections, LLC Potomac, MD

Arlington Heights, IL

Danny Shaw

Kenneth Myers

Michael Luber

Done Right Home Inspections, LLC Clinton Township, MI

Omni Inspection Services, LLC Valrico, FL

Riverdale, GA

Locke Home Inspections Concordia, MO

Blue Crab Inspections Bel Air, MD

Jared Lonie Brian Martin

Tom Boddye

Ben Locke

Matt Ferguson

Buyers Protection Group Cockeysville , MD

Zafras Home Inspection Sunrise, FL

Raw Ventures, LLC Phoenix, AZ

Westminster, MD

Neil Mayor

Ramon Colon

Richard Wiederhold

Joseph Clusta

Elgin, IL

Glendale, AZ Platinum Property Inspections Chino Valley, AZ

MEMBER

PHI dba HouseMaster Carmel, IN Saint Francis, KS

Marco Costa New Bedford, MA

Adam Moskal Pillar to Post- The Chad Borah Team St. Louis, MO

Allen Richardson Richard Home Inspection, LLC Lebanon, MO

Matthew Symonds St. Louis, MO

John Woods Sweet Home Inspections Kansas City, MO

H Nicholas Zlotopolski Florissant, MO

Jarrod Sunderman A-Pro Mississippi Gulf Coast Diamondhead, MS

Green Home Solutions of Southeast MI Brighton, MI

Glendon Anderson

H Thomas Henke

Beal Home Inspections, Inc. dba Pillar To Post Raleigh, NC

Traverse City, MI

H Daniel Maas Hudsonville, MI

Sarah Sims Pointe Aux Pins, MI

Jon Fager Saint Paul, MN

Tessa Murry Structure Tech Falcon Heights, MN

Jim Tobias Structure Tech Saint Louis Park, MN

Kevin Anderson All American Home Inspection Dixon, MO

H Dennis Arnett Home Team Inspection Service Wildwood, MO

Gregory Arnwine Sedala, MO

H Shannon Dunn Apex Home Inspectors, LLC Raytown, MO

Sean Durkin

Charlotte, NC

Alan Beal

Jeffrey Bedford Holly Springs, NC

Rick Cattano Cattano Custom Innovations, Inc. Apex, NC

Steve Cauthen One Call Home Inspections, LLC Greensboro, NC

Casey Cunningham Charlotte, NC

L. Dorsett Charlotte, NC

Mitchell Duncan Mitchell Dale Duncan Garner, NC

Jeremy Jimenez Chief Property Services, LLC Charlotte, NC

Joseph Mesropian Cornelius, NC

Britt Moore High Point, NC

Green Improvement Consulting Lees Summit, MO

Andrew Purcell

Tim Henson

William Stone

7 Oaks Home Inspection Tim’s Home Inspections Gerald, MO

Stone Home Inspection Service St. Pauls, NC

Burgaw, NC

Inspector and ACI lists continue on page 36

See page 32 for chapter education.

Christopher Stratton

Douglas Delaney

Clemmons, NC

The Brickkicker Home Inspections Columbus, OH

Scott Warner Clayton, NC

Dennis Williams Nebo, NC

Chad Erickson A 1 Inspection Fargo, ND

H Keith Bignell Columbus, NE

Mark Hodge Lincoln, NE

H Jim Stenger Home Buyers Protection Group Omaha, NE

Daniel Lombardo Mill Yard Home Inspection Manchester, NH

John Paris Pillar to Post Wyckoff, NJ

Daniel Rafferty Precision Inspection Services, LLC Hamilton, NJ

George Remini Inspection’s By George Ranway, NJ

Michael Rusinak South Amboy, NJ

Larry Perna Bridge Home Inspections Las Vegas, NV

Michael Grossman Mobius, LLC Canal Winchester, OH

H Justin Jurovcik Tallmadge, OH

David Metzger 1st Option/ The Home Detective Amherst, OH

Ed Nye Forte Home Inspections Delaware, OH

David Ritz

Arlington, TX

Janish Home Inspections Danville, VA

Jeffery Michel

David Schroeder

Gary Biggerstaff Christoval, TX

Ryan Bigley Austin, TX

Jeff Blowers Ft. Worth, TX Fort Worth, TX

Michel’s Home Inspections El Paso, TX

Miles Middleton Mansfield, TX

Julian Montoya Arlington, TX

Bill Moon

Plano, TX

Columbus, OH

Leon Campbell

Michael Leddy

Azle, TX

360 Home Inspections Oklahoma City, OK

Bryan Campbell

Alan Travis Travis & Associates, LLC Tigard, OR

H Matt Dickens The Green Valley Group Kennett Square, PA

Eric Kessler

Del-Val Home Inspections Southampton, PA

H Jonathan Owens

Monsey, NY

Brian Pavelek

Christopher Lula

Pav Electric Beaver, PA

Garyena Barton

Michael Szlepcsik

Fort Mill, SC

Safe Harbor Inspections, Inc. Farmingdale, NY

Rita Blue

Affordable Quality Inspections, LLC Mentor, OH

Paul Janish

Darrell McNabb

Bassford Home Inspection, LLC North Augusta, SC

H Anthony Wartley

Glenside, PA

Gary Cottos

Falls Church, VA

Arlington, TX

Kenneth Ward

Jason Porter

Benjamin Gandl

Broadview Heights, OH

John Houk

Dustin McNabb

Anthony Byes

Tayzak, Inc. McDonald, PA

H Ray Condia

Kingwood, TX

Superior Quality Inspections, LLC Crosshill, SC

Carrollton, TX

John Calkins

Strongsville, OH

Holmes Inspection Services, LLC Fredericksburg, VA

AAA Home Inspections Zanesville, OH

Shawn McKay

H Mark Baltakis

Tony Knight

Arlington, TX

Sonflower Services, LLC Hemphill, TX

Massapequa, NY

Avesta Home Inspection, LLC Williamsville, NY

Andrew Smith

Daniel Bryan

Noel Llewellyn

Alan Willard

Darron James

H Dean Smith

Folsom, PA

Chris the Home Inspector Saratoga Springs, NY

El Paso, TX

Kenneth Boucher

OK1 Home Inspection, LLC Brooklyn, NY

Ideal Inspection, Inc. Auburn, NY

Michael Hunt

SLS Consultants, LLC dba hometeam Inspection Serv. Summerville, SC

Reliable Home Inspections Chardon, OH

Ray Allen

Arthur Birke

H John Sizemore

Hargrove Inspection Services Abbeville, SC

H Robert Ceasar North Charleston, SC

H Raymond Hardwick Jr. Charleston, SC

David Roberts Blue Ridge Residential Inspections Walhalla, SC

Azle, TX

Murray Campbell Spring, TX

Greg Contreras Fort Worth, TX

Adam Cortez Top Flight Home Inspection Corpus Christi, TX

Shane Curry Austin, TX

Enoch Elizondo RME Professional Real Estate Inspection Weatherford, TX

Kenneth Elkins

Lufkin, TX

Matthew Pow

Culpeper, VA

Ronn Holmes

Property Doctor Home Inspections, LLC Bristow, VA

Ken Wolfe Capitol Home Inspections Midlothian, VA

H Andrew Hard Burlington, VT

Keith Bowman Boggs Inspection Services Olympia, WA

Jeff Kirk

Pflugerville, TX

SeaSound Inspections Seattle, WA

Melvin Powell

Sully McGinnis

Desoto, TX

Weston Ready

Preservation Home Inspection Shoreline, WA

Austin, TX

Les Pullin

Dan Reeves Idalou, TX

A Cut Above Home Inspectors Lakewood, WA

Jace Rigbs

Bill Ryan

Tomball, TX

Brian Rockafellow Manchaca, TX

Timothy Rockafellow Smithville, TX

Robert Rollert Luling, TX

Jim Stoebner

Leander, TX

Bastrop, TX

Margaret Garcia

Michael Taylor

MG Home Inspections Killeen, TX

KJS Inspections Katy, TX

Brent Gossett

Michael Thibodeaux

Austin, TX

Buda, TX

Roger Hahn

Jason Vent

Hahn Home Inspection Odessa, TX

Leander, TX

Chet Clark

Jacob Hartline

St. George, UT

Bells, TX

Robert Menna

Robert Hill Alvarado, TX

Amerispec Intermountain Sandy, UT

James Hitt

Maxwell Mills

Hitt Home Inspections Melissa, TX

Tremonton, UT

Kirk Alexander

Kent Horstman

Pillar to Post Williamsburg, VA

Arlington, TX

H Robert Bobbitt

Boggs Inspection Services Tumwater, WA

Julie Touray Kirkland, WA

Dan Urquhart Auburn, WA

Ken Bowers Winneconne, WI

Doug Brent Crivitz, WI

Akil Jackson Amicable Home Inspections Genoa City, WI

Allen Jicinsky Allen + Company, LLC Spencer, WI

Mark Leach Balsam Lake, WI

Steve Maiers BK Windows & Doors, Inc. Hancock, WI

Robert Schultz Colgate, WI

Continued on Page 36

31June 2016

• www.ASHIReporter.org

ASHI Chapter Education Great Lakes Chapter When: July 22-23, 2016 Where: Holiday Inn - Mt. Prospect, IL (near Chicago O’Hare Airport) Subjects: Friday: Peer Review, Board Meeting, Hospitality Suite Saturday: Vendors, Asphalt Shingle Roofs/Attics – Proper Inspection and Reporting/Tom Feiza, Business & Marketing/Toby Adamson, IL CE Approved Course/Speaker TBD Contact: 734-284-4501 www.greatinspectors.com

Tri-State ASHI Fall Conference How do Construction Changes Over Time Affect Your Inspection Today? When: September 30, 2016 Where: Temple Ambler Campus, Ambler, PA CEUs: 8 ASHI CEs Contact: Gerry Gavin, 620-717-2181 www.tristateashi.org

Southeastern Home Inspector Conference When: September 7-11, 2016 Please go to the website for location and additional information. Contact: www.sehomeinspectorconference.com

ASHI New England Educational Conference When: September 11-12, 2016 Where: Hilton Mystic Hotel Mystic Seaport, CT Contact: www.ashinewengland.org mike@jmhi.com

Great Plaines ASHI Fall Conference

Keystone ASHI Inspection Seminar

When: September 16-17, 2016 Where: Kansas City Expo Center 11728 NW Ambassador Dr., KC, Mo Speakers: Tom Feiza, Mr. Fixit; Jason Brozen, Tann Electric; Joe Ferry, Ferry Law Practice; Joe Konopacki, Insight Inspections; Bruce Chyka, Performance Plus Homes; Tony Hyatt, National Cedar Shake Shingle Bureau; Bob Berry, Full Service Chimney; and Mike Westerhouse, Westerhouse Heating and Air. Contact: www.ashikc.org doug@firstchoice.com

Great Lakes Chapter When: September 23-24, 2016 Where: Grand Rapids, MI Subjects: Friday: Peer Review, Board Meeting, Hospitality Suite Saturday: Vendors, Furnace Inspections/ John McAuliffe, Infrared Technology/Bill Fabian, Exploring the Metal Roof/ Mike Griffin Contact: 734-284-4501 www.greatinspectors.com

OHIO ASHI Chapter When: October 1, 2016 Where: Ruth Smucker Home, Salem, OH Subject: Historical Home Inspections Speaker: Presenter: Bryck Guibor CEUs: 8 ASHI CEs Contact: georgebasista@yahoo.com 330-565-3760 ohioashi.com/events

When: October 14-15, 2016 Where: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Reading 701 Penn Street, Reading, PA Subject: 2014 NEC updates, Stucco & AMSV, Fuel & Appliance Venting, Reporting, Attic Ventilation, Roofing, Infrared and Mold. CEUs: Up to 16 ASHI CEs Contact: www.keystoneashi.org

Mid-Missouri ASHI Chapter Educational Seminar When: November 4, 2016 Where: Columbia Board of Realtors Office Columbia, MO Speaker: Shannon Cory CEUs: 8 ASHI CEs Contact: mark@inspectcolumbia.com

To have your chapter seminar listed in this section, email all information about your chapter seminar to: micheleg@ashi.org. Be sure to include all information: seminar subject, when, where, CEUs & a link for more information or contact information.

IMPORTANT Reporter Deadlines: • AUGUST ISSUE - 6/20/16 • SEPTEMBER ISSUE - 7/20/16 • OCTOBER ISSUE - 8/19/16 • NOVEMBER ISSUE - 9/15/16 • DECEMBER ISSUE - 10/14/16 • JANUARY ISSUE - 11/15/16 • FEBRUARY ISSUE - 12/15/16

The IW Education Committee met April 7th to review all presentation proposal submissions. They selected an exciting new education program of 45 sessions for InspectionWorld Las Vegas. The Conference and Expo will be held January 22-25, 2017, at Bally¹s Resort. From left to right: Bob Walstead, Pete Jung, Mario Luciolla (Chairman), Uli Sommers, Harry Janssen, Michele George, Randy Sipe and Reuben Saltzman. H

ASHI Reporter • June 2016

Protecting Home Inspectors From Meritless Claims

TO ANNO CE! UN

PRO U

855-MERITLESS (637- 4853) www.joeferry.com

ENDORSED

INTRODUCING YOUR COMPLETE

RISK MANAGEMENT SOLUTION

Your Complete Risk Management Solution puts your legal protection in the hands of the industry’s experts.

Eliminating risk begins with:

+ +

Have Joe Ferry and his team on your side during every inspection SM

Have a perfected inspection agreement to utilize during every inspection SM

Have an insurance company working in your interests… not theirs! SM

Discover How to Obtain the Legal Protection You Need:

wwww.joeferry.com/ashi

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF ASHI PRICING PLANS! 33June 2016

• www.ASHIReporter.org

Calling All Chapters! Do you host a chapter event, seminar or conference and trade show? Do you attend them as an exhibitor? If you answered ‘yes’ to either question, then you need ASHI’s new “Step Up With ASHI” banner. This banner has all the talking points you need to promote ASHI membership and help non-members and non-ACIs alike with the steps to move up to the ACI level. Order yours today! Contact Dee Goldstein at deegem@optonline.net to get pricing and more! Coming soon to our new print-on-demand site, you will be able to order an insert card of this artwork for letter size envelopes. H

The ASHI new Logo for Associates is Ready! Please log on to the ASHI website at www.ashi.org with your member number and password. MEMBER

Put the mouse on the Members-Only tab, click on Downloads and Forms, click on the link that says ASHI Logo (found on the right) and download the member logo. H

Leadership Training Conference October 20-21, 2016 • Fountain Blue Conference Center, Des Plaines, IL

ASHI Event Calendar July 21-23, 2016 AEI, Finance Committee, ASHI Foundation and ASHI Board Meeting Des Plaines, IL

ASHI Reporter • June 2016

October 22 , 2016 ASHI Foundation and ASHI Board Meeting Des Plaines, IL January 22-25, 2017 InspectionWorld® and ASHI Board Meeting Las Vegas, NV

Education–ASHI Online Learning Center Now available: Unlimited free continuing education hours for your ASHI CE requirements. Just log on to the ASHI website, put the mouse on the Education tab, click on the ASHI Online Learning Center, log on to the Learning Center with your member number and the word “password” and begin taking these exciting education modules. You earn two CEs upon successful completion of each module. You can also view a list of state-approved online education under each of the past IW course descriptions. A certificate of completion will be available to print out. H

CURRENT ASHI Membership ASHI Certified Inspectors: 3,307 Inspectors/Logo: 124 Associates: 3,088 Retired Members: 112 Affiliates: 71 Total: 6,702 Members as of 5/9/2016

ASHI Personal Lines Insurance Program: Liberty Mutual www.libertymutual.com/ashi ASHI Service Program BuildFax Tricia Julian, 877-600-BFAX x161 TJulian@BuildFax.com www.buildfax.com http://go.buildfax.com/ASHI ASHI Customer Appreciation Program: Moverthankyou.com Brent Skidmore, 864-386-2763 www.moverthankyou.com Brent@POWRsoft.com HomeAdvisor.com Brett Symes, 913-529-2683 www.homeadvisor.com ashi@homeadvisor.com LegalShield Joan Buckner, 505-821-3971 buckner.legalshieldassociate.com buckner@legalshieldassociate.com InspectionContracts.com Dave Goldstein, 800-882-6242 www.inspectioncontracts.com david@inspectoreducation.com OneSource Solutions 877-274-8632 www.osconnects.com/ashi/

Thirty Years

Ralph D’Angelo

Twenty Years

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

June Anni versa ries

ASHI Rebate Program Quill.com Dana Fishman, 800-634-0320 x1417 www.quill.com/ashi dana.fishman@quill.com ASHI-ENDORSED Exams ASHI Standard and Ethics Education Module Go to www.homeinspector.org, click on the Education tab, then click on the link for the ASHI Standard of Practice Education Module. National Home Inspector Examination Office: 847-298-7750 www.homeinspectionexam.org ASHI-Endorsed Training Programs ASHI@Home Training System 800-268-7070 education@carsondunlop.com The ASHI School Kendra Eiermann, 888-884-0440 kendra@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

Al Bergbauer Brian Bishop Robert Burke Art Conner Leon Costanten Alan Cross James Drabant Carl Eisterhold Norman Field Terrence Finegan Charles Grassie Terry King Martin Morgan George “Eric” Purse Mitchell Rothenberg Chris Snyder

Fifteen Years Brian Finnegan George Harper Richard Szeles Joel Webber David Westlund

Ten Years

Jess Alvarez Rod Beacham Thomas Begg Patrick Borkowski Kenneth Boyd Peter Boyd Kevin Bush John Byrd Steven Caldwell Jerry Carlisle Ken Collins Patrick Cullen Tirso De Ubago David DiRienzo Tony Eldon Frederick Ensminger Jesse Farmer

Rob Ferguson Jorge George John Frazier Robert Garza Sean Gibbons Michael Gonzalez Gary Kershaw Matthew King David Landolt Don Martin Kim Martin Greg Mathias Chris McCullough Kenneth (Kip) McCullough Ray McMurdy Michael Morrissey Carl Nitsch Jay O’Brien Mark Pence Emanuel Phillips Scott Rawlings Paul Siegel Tom Trotter Chuck Turner Skip Walker Trevor Welby-Solomon James Williams Robert Wittenberg Doug Wright Joseph Wrubel

Five Years

William S. Chappell Mike Conley Shane Gauthier Chris Green Alan Grubb Ryan McGill Tim Reed Rob Roth Timothy Shuler Wesley Villhard Deryck Whiteley Scott Winter

Porch.com Eliab Sisay, 206-218-3920 www.porch.com Eliab@porch.com

35June 2016

• www.ASHIReporter.org

Continued from Page 31

New ASHI Inspectors

New ASHI Certified Home Inspectors As of April 1, 2016

As of April 1, 2016

INSPECTOR

Josh McIntosh McIntosh Home Inspection, Inc. Skull Valley, AZ

Harold Baker Five Star Home Inspections Leavenworth, KS

Jason Sobol Pheasant Hill Home Inspections, Inc. Framingham, MA

Nick Mikula Blue Crab Inspections Joppa, MD

Russell Poe

David Six

Michael Supik

Best 1 Home Inspection Birmingham, AL

Home Standards Inspection Services Decatur, NE

Pillar To Post Natrona Heights, PA

Bob Kadera

Kevin Garland

Michael Jezek

360 Degree Inspections Littleton, CO

Garland Inspection Services, Inc. Mineral Ridge, OH

Pillar To Post Chattanooga, TN

Anderson Childers

Ryan White

David Throckmorton

AmeriSpec Inspection Services Atlanta Woodstock, GA

Buyers Inspection Service Xenia, OH

Jodat Inspections Virginia Beach, VA

Gregory Dennis

Kenneth Wurm

Bret Reynolds

Avalon Home Inspections, Inc. Zebulon, GA

K. Wurm Home Inspection, LLC Plain City, OH

The Sterling Inspection Group, Inc. Puyallup, WA

Ryan Edward

Oni Shaw

O’Mara A Sound Mind Home Inspection Lahaina, HI

Wild Rivers Inspections Brookings, OR

David Warren

Pillar to Post Harrisburg, PA

Don Haschert

AWP Home Inspections, LLC Crawfordsville, IN

Brian Champagne Champagne Home Inspections Patchogue, NY

Craig Grossman Ohio Certified Inspections, LLC Dayton, OH

Daniel DeAntonio DeAntonio Enterprises, LLC Leesport, PA

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

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

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

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

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

Ed Snope ATLAS Home Inspection Arlington, VA

David Nason Best Inspections, LLC Oconomowoc, WI

ISBN 978-0-9964518-1-9

HomeInspectionExam.org

To submit your materials for moving up, please contact Janet George at 847-954-3180 or janetg@ashi.org

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NHIE Study Guide

100 Review Questions

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Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors

NHIE Home Inspection Manual

Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors

NHIE Home Inspection Manual Components and Systems Typical Defects Maintenance and Safety Issues Industry Standards References 100 Review Questions HomeInspectionExam.org

The NHIE Study Guide and the NHIE Home Inspection Manual together contain over 750 pages of technical and administrative information and are produced by the Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors. They will benefit the exam candidate along with being a great technical reference for the experienced home inspector.

Be prepared. Get the NEW

Study Guide and Home Inspection Manual Available from the

Examination Board of Professional Home Inspectors

www.NHIEStudyGuide.org 36

ASHI Reporter • June 2016

37June 2016

• www.ASHIReporter.org

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

Deck Needed on Honey-Do List

No, Ma’am...

36” drop to grade and no steps outside the entrance.

...this is not a sump pump. Randy Via C.L. Gleich & Assoc. Inc. Columbus, Ohio

I Found out Where the Croaking Came From...

Matthew Steger WIN Home Inspection Elizabethtown, PA

Pardon me, Madam. What Size Shoe do you Wear? ...thought I’d have a little snack.

Give it the boot.

Randy Via C.L. Gleich & Assoc. Inc. Columbus, Ohio

Use Your Belt!

Stopped all the Mice! By sealing the holes with foam. Randy Via C.L. Gleich & Assoc. Inc. Columbus, Ohio

ASHI Reporter • June 2016

Jeff Walsh Long River Inspections Fairfield, CT

If anything goes wrong during the inspection just look for the guy with his pants falling down. Brad Bledsoe Bledsoe Home Inspections, LLC Jasper, GA

39June 2016

• www.ASHIReporter.org

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

Quick, You’d Better Duck!

The Proctologist’s House? This is what happens when the carpenter and the plumber can’t agree.

Stephen Tyler STAT Home Inspections Garnerville, NY

Paul Smith General Inspections, LLC Florissant, MO

Quick, You’d Better Duck!

Don Fischer Extra Eyez Inspection Woodstock, IL

Lawrence Transue Integrity Inspection Service Easton, PA Find as many issues as you can. Send your answers to Frankl@ashi.org. The best answer will be published.

Creative, but Just not Correct! This plumbing array was a creative use of tubing in multiple places. Shane Rittenhouse HWS Inspections LLC Earlysville, VA

ASHI Reporter • June 2016

The weakest link in a modern roof: The vent stack gasket The Problem: The plumbing vent pipes that penetrate your roof are typically sealed with a rubber gasket to keep rain from entering the home. These rubber gaskets deteriorate when exposed to the sun and high temperatures. Over time they get brittle and crack thus losing their ability to protect the home from water intrusion. While modern roof shingles often offer a lifetime warranty, these rubber gaskets usually deteriorate in as little as 3 to 5 years. As a result, water begins to flow into the home causing damage to roof shething, insulation, ceilings, interior walls and carpet.

Problem Solved: The Perma-Boot is a gasket-less, high performance pipe boot system designed to permanently repair the most common type of roof leak, the leak around the vent pipes that penetrate the roof. • Perma-Boot slides over your existing boot, preventing future leaks • Installation takes just a few minutes - no tools required • Designed for all standard roof pitches - 3/12 to 12/12 • Made of highly durable TPO - guaranteed for the life of your shingles • Single best value in preventive maintenance for your roof

Available at local home improvement retailers and roofing suppliers *Also available for new construction!

www.perma-boot.com 919-662-9894

41June 2016

• www.ASHIReporter.org

By ASHI President, Randy Sipe

Why All This Travel? Pounding the Pavement for ASHI L

ast month, I wrote about the lighter side of traveling for ASHI, specifically people-watching in airports and commenting about what a zoo air travel can be. This month, I want to tell you why we do so much traveling for ASHI. “We” generally includes Executive Director Frank Lesh, Assistant Executive Director Russell Daniels, Director of IT and Internet Communication Mike Rostescu and me. Things don’t just happen for ASHI in our headquarters near Chicago. ASHI events and activities are going on across North America, and we travel to support these chapter events, conferences, government meetings and allied association meetings.

When we go to ASHI conferences, it’s to meet directly with our members, listen to their needs and answer their questions. When we attend conferences for other organizations, we promote ASHI and what we stand for. ASHI membership continues to grow because of our outreach efforts. Here’s a brief travelogue spanning the past few months: First, Frank, ASHI Manager of Marketing and Business Development Dave Kogan and I attended Mike Crow’s Millionaire Inspector Community event in Dallas. Mike Crow and his staff treated us like honored guests and allowed us to speak to the group about ASHI and our efforts in Washington. Afterward, Mike asked his members to lend their support to ASHI’s work on inspection issues in Washington. Their financial support for ASHI through INSPECTPAC was overwhelming. Some attendees joined ASHI as new members, and our booth was constantly busy with people thanking us for our efforts on behalf of the inspection community and profession. Our thanks go to Mike Crow and his staff for inviting us and giving us the opportunity to reach out at the conference. Next, Mike Rostescu and I met up on Long Island for a joint conference between the Long Island ASHI chapter and the New York State association. I was asked to address this group of inspectors and during our two days at the conference, Mike and I spoke with many ASHI members and nonmembers about their specific regional issues. The next stop for Russell, Mike, ASHI Treasurer Tim Buell and me was a three-day conference presented by ASHI’s Ohio 42

ASHI Reporter • June 2016

chapter. Then, after some rest and inspecting back home, I was off to Toronto, Ontario, to meet up with ASHI Past-President Alden Gibson. Alden and I met with Mike Holmes’ group (of DIY Network fame) and Alan Carson, ASHI Past-President and owner of Carson and Dunlop. In April, Frank and I, with our lobbyist Randy Pence, traveled to Washington, D.C., where we met with representatives from several government agencies that collaborate with ASHI. At these meetings, key players indicated their great respect for what ASHI does for the inspection community and for the betterment of the home-buying process. This is just a short list of my travels for ASHI to date. Frank, Russell and Mike have attended many more conferences than the ones I’ve listed. As you can see, they are busy guys inside and outside of the office. I speak for us all when I say that we appreciate these opportunities to meet inspectors from across the country.

n closing, I’d like to mention a more personal trip that Frank, Harry Rosenthal and I made to attend the life celebration of Blaine Illingworth III, an ASHI board member who recently passed away. This celebration was attended not only by Blaine’s family and friends, but also by his fellow ASHI chapter members, inspectors from adjoining states and ASHI Past-Presidents. It was obvious from the attendance of so many inspectors that Blaine’s knowledge of inspection, which he shared with the local community, media and fellow inspectors, will be missed. Frank and I presented the Iron Man Award to Blaine’s family. (Alden Gibson had announced that Blaine was the recipient of this award at InspectionWorld® 2016 in January, but unfortunately, Blaine could not be present to personally accept the award.) The Iron Man Award recognizes an ASHI member who has given his or her time, energy, talent and knowledge to ASHI for a long time and with little recognition. The Iron Man Award recipient lives by the principles of what makes a professional home inspector and is dedicated to high-quality inspection services and consumer protection. This description fits Blaine Illingworth to a T. May he rest in peace. H

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Your Partner in Radon Measurement 43June 2016

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ASHI Reporter â&#x20AC;˘ June 2016