Artificial Intelligence (AI) is undeniably a big part of our lives. Whether it is the virtual assistant on your phone or the smart speaker in your home, AI has been increasingly normalized in past years.
Applying AI to identify problems in home inspections can greatly improve the accuracy, efficiency, and consistency of the process. Here are several ways AI can be integrated into home inspections:
1. Computer Vision for Image Analysis:
AI-powered computer vision can analyze images taken during home inspections to identify defects or issues, such as:
- Structural Problems: Cracks in walls, ceilings, or foundations.
- Water Damage: AI models can detect moisture stains, mold, or leaks.
- Electrical Hazards: Identify frayed wires, improper installations, or other dangerous situations.
- Roof and Exterior Issues: Using drones
equipped with cameras, AI can inspect rooftops for missing tiles, cracks, or gutter blockages.
2. Natural Language Processing (NLP) for Report Generation. AI can analyze past inspection reports using NLP to:
- Generate Comprehensive Reports: Automate the creation of detailed inspection reports from structured and unstructured data (images, notes, sensor data).
- Flagging Key Issues: AI can summarize major problems and suggest the most critical repairs based on historical data.
- Trend Analysis: NLP can analyze trends across multiple inspections to identify recurring problems in certain property types or regions.
3. Predictive Maintenance and Problem Forecasting
- Predictive Models: AI can be trained on historical home inspection data to predict future issues based on the age of the house, materials used, and past repairs.
- Risk Assessment: AI models can calculate the probability of system failures (e.g., plumbing,
electrical, or HVAC) to guide homebuyers or homeowners on potential future costs.
4. Virtual Assistance for Inspectors
AI-Powered Chatbots: AI virtual assistants can guide inspectors by providing real-time recommendations or suggesting areas that may need further investigation based on the home’s condition and past inspections. Another use is instantly interpreting data into charts and diagrams on a dashboard. Easy to understand, regardless of your IT skill:
- Tracking of KPI performance
- Creating your own customizable reports
- Save time in data crunching
- Report on data from different sites
5. Robotics for Hard-to-Reach Areas
AI-controlled drones or robots can navigate hard-to-reach areas like crawl spaces, attics, and roofs, capturing detailed visual data to identify structural or environmental problems. Another application of AI is to undertake dangerous tasks, so humans don’t have to. Although strictly speaking drones themselves are not AI, they are
quickly incorporating it. This allows them to make decisions and operate autonomously. These AI applications can help make home inspections more reliable, reduce human error, and offer a faster, more accurate assessment of potential issues. Much less time will be dedicated to this, making the most of an automation system that has nothing to envy from AI. For decades, technology has played a critical role in the smooth running of our lives, both personal and professional. Every day we rely on it more and more. As you have seen, AI is on the path to becoming an invaluable resource to help home inspectors.
Some important benefits for the home inspector using AI could be:
1. Enhanced Efficiency and Accuracy
Faster Inspections: AI can help inspectors conduct more thorough assessments in less time by automating repetitive tasks, such as image analysis or report generation. This means inspectors will be able to handle more inspections daily without sacrificing quality.
2. Shift from Detection to Interpretation and Consultation
Focus on Expert Analysis: AI will handle much of the data collection and identification of problems (e.g., detecting cracks, moisture, electrical issues), leaving inspectors to interpret the results, provide expert consultation, and recommend solutions.
3. AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement Human Expertise is Still Critical: While AI can identify potential problems, inspectors will still be needed to verify the findings, interpret results in complex scenarios, and address areas where AI may have limitations (e.g., local code compliance or evaluating certain aesthetic factors).
4. New Skill Sets for Inspectors
Technology Proficiency: Inspectors will need to be proficient with AI-driven technologies, such as drone operation, IoT devices, and AI-based software for reporting and analysis.
5. Cost Savings and Increased Demand
Lower Inspection Costs: AI could reduce the overall cost of home inspections by streamlining processes and allowing inspectors to cover more properties in less time, making inspections more affordable for homebuyers.
6. Ethical Considerations and Trust
Maintaining Human Oversight: While AI will play a major role, it will be crucial for inspectors to maintain oversight and ensure ethical use of the technology, particularly in areas where human judgment is essential. Homeowners may still prefer the human touch, valuing an inspector’s personal experience and communication skills over purely AI-driven evaluations. Inspectors will need to balance the use of technology with maintaining client trust and satisfaction.
7. Customization and Specialized Services
Tailored Inspections: AI will enable inspectors to offer more customized services, such as predictive maintenance based on historical data or inspections focused on specific client concerns (e.g., energy efficiency or future structural risks).
In conclusion, while AI will automate many aspects of the home inspection process, inspectors will still play a critical role in interpreting data, providing expert advice, and maintaining the human element in the inspection experience. The future of home inspectors with AI will involve a shift from manual detection of problems to a more strategic, advisory role that leverages AI for deeper insights and faster assessments.
2025 FORD BRONCO STROPPE
SPECIAL EDITION HONORS THE ORIGINAL BAJA BRONCO
ABaja 1000-winning legendary name returns to the Ford lineup for 2025 with the new Bronco Stroppe Special Edition.
A successor to the original Stroppe Baja Bronco from the ‘60s and ‘70s, this new limited-edition Bronco pairs the desert-racing spirit of the original with today’s off-road capability to create a special high-performance Bronco SUV.
“When you purchased a Stroppe Baja Bronco in 1971, it rolled out of Bill Stroppe’s factory ready to tackle the Baja 1000,” said Jason Hyde, Bronco brand manager. “That capability was at the core of our development process for the new Bronco Stroppe Special Edition, including Fox Internal Bypass
Dampers designed for performance and improved control during high-speed desert running, a standard EcoBoost 2.7-liter V6 engine, and Baja G.O.A.T. Mode.”
The Bronco Stroppe Special Edition is available exclusively as a two-door model and takes the place of the Wildtrak in the Bronco lineup. It also includes a standard Stabilizer Bar Disconnect, High-Performance Off-Road Stability Suspension 3.0 (HOSS 3.0), and 35-inch Goodyear Territory RT tires, all so it can deliver off-road performance worthy of the Stroppe name.
The 2025 Bronco Stroppe Special Edition wears a modern take on the original Calypso Coral, Wimbledon White, and Astra Blue livery of the Stroppe Baja Broncos. The new Stroppe
heritage paint colors include Oxford White and Code Orange on the body – the first time Code Orange has been used outside the Raptor family – with an Atlas Blue painted hardtop. A standard functional matte black hood mitigates sun glare when bounding through the desert at high speeds, just like the original Baja Broncos. Additionally, the Bronco Stroppe Special Edition includes the following changes:
· Frozen White grille with Code Orange “Bronco” wordmark
· Code Orange front tow hooks and a standard steel bumper
· “Stroppe Special Edition” and “Bronco” branding
on the front and rear fenders, respectively
· Squared-off high-clearance fenders in Code Orange
· Unique removable side steps with integrated rock rails
· 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels with a matteblack beadlock ring and gloss-black spokes
· A matte black tailgate
Bronco Stroppe Special Edition stands out with a white instrument mid-panel, first introduced on the Bronco Heritage, but adds Code Orange accents throughout the cabin. That includes the “Bronco” wordmark on the dash, the bezel of the G.O.A.T. mode dial, the insides of the grab handles, and in the contrast stitching on the dash topper and seats. The center console also adds a unique Stroppe Special Edition badge.
“We’ve been hinting at the return of a Bronco Stroppe Special Edition with our competition Broncos since returning to the Baja 1000 with
the Bronco R in 2020,” said North American Design Director Gordon Platto. “That combination of Code Orange, Oxford White, and Atlas Blue, and matte black was chosen very deliberately on our race vehicles. It’s an iconic design and the history behind it is so important to the modern Bronco.”
The Next Chapter of the Stroppe Story
Dubbed a “legendary builder of winning off-road vehicles” by the Off-Road Motorsport Hall of Fame, Bill Stroppe’s work on Bronco made it the competitive force it is today. In 1969, a Stroppe-prepared Bronco recorded the first and still only outright win by a stock 4x4 at Baja, establishing a winning tradition that has continued with the Baja 1000 class-winning 2024 Bronco.
Stroppe also recruited Ford motorsports legend Parnelli Jones, and the pair won multiple races in Broncos with Jones at the wheel and Stroppe navigating.
“Bill Stroppe not only established Bronco’s competition legacy at events like the Baja 1000 and NORRA Mexican 1000, but Stroppe Baja Broncos put his off-road knowhow on the road and helped establish Bronco with consumers,” Ford Archivist Ted Ryan said. “Today’s Bronco, with the G.O.A.T Modes and Sasquatch package, can trace its existence back to Bill Stroppe’s work.”
For more information please visit: ford.com
PET DANDER & ALLERGY TRIGGERS
CATS AND DOGS PRODUCE ALLERGENS THAT POSE A HEALTH THREAT TO CERTAIN INDIVIDUALS.
Cat dander consists of microscopic pieces of cat skin that have dried, flaked off and become airborne. Shed dander can land on and stick to bedding, curtains, carpeting, and other surfaces, including people’s skin and clothing. It contains Fel D1, a glycoprotein found in the cat’s sebaceous glands, located under their skin, and, to a lesser extent, it is found in cats’ saliva and urine. Fel D1 can cause rapid allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Unlike cats, the dogs’ allergen, Can F1, is found in higher concentrations in their saliva than in their sebaceous glands.
Facts and Figures
• More people are allergic to cats than they are to dogs. This may be due to the severity of the allergen Fel D1, or because dogs are generally bathed regularly, whereas cats are not.
• Between 6 and 10 million Americans are allergic to cats, and approximately one-third of them have cats in their homes.
• Animal dander, hair, and other organic debris in homes can also result in a significant increase in the level of dust mites, mite feces and other allergenic
By: Nick Gromicko, CMI®
insect parts.
• Allergens may be found months or years after a pet has been removed from a house.
• Pet-borne allergens commonly infiltrate places where pets have never been present, such as schools, workplaces, and other public spaces. Since dander allergens are sticky, they can be transported to these places on the clothing of pet owners.
• Animal hair, despite popular belief, is not considered to be a significant allergen. However, hair can collect pollen, dust, mold, and other allergens.
• There are no “non-allergenic” breeds of dogs or cats. Some breeds of both species, however, are believed to be hypoallergenic; anecdotal reports claim that the Siberian, rex and sphynx cat breeds are less likely to provoke an allergic attack than most other cats. Similarly, dog breeds, such as poodles and schnauzers, have been reported to be less allergenic. None of these claims has been validated scientifically.
Cat and Dog Allergy Symptoms
These include itching, sneezing and congestion, redness, itching, swelling and watering of the eyes, post-nasal drip, itching or hoarseness, and the need to clear the throat often, itchy rashes or hives, itching, plugging or popping in the ears, and coughing,
wheezing, tightness in the chest, frequent bronchitis, and a shortness of breath.
How to Test If a Cat or Dog Has Been in a Building
Pets are forbidden by many lease agreements, which may then be violated by tenants who secretly house cats or dogs. Also, cats may visit a residence at night to forage for food or gain shelter. The following detection methods may be used:
• Smell for the animal. If the cat is an indoor cat, a litter box must have been used somewhere in the building, and they almost always produce an odor. Even after they are removed, the smell from a litter box may linger for quite some time. If a male cat was present in the building and he has urinated on or “marked” any areas, the odor will be very strong.
• Look for hair. Somewhere in the building, especially where the cat likes to sleep or rest, there will be large amounts of hair.
• Use a blacklight to check for pet urine.
Cleaning Tips for Buildings Previously Occupied by Cats and Dogs
Inspectors may be asked about pet-allergen cleanup by clients who are looking to buy a home but are concerned about the air quality in their prospective
new home. The following suggestions may be offered: Obtain a thorough, professional duct cleaning. Commercially steamclean, professionally dry-clean, or use very hot water to launder clothing. Wash and use a HEPA vacuum for interior surfaces. Note that ordinary vacuum cleaners, which cause allergenic particles to become airborne, are ineffective and may even worsen the problem for sensitive occupants.
Advice for Clients with Pets
A combination of approaches— medical control of symptoms, good housecleaning and planning—is most likely to succeed in allowing an allergic person to live with pets. For allergic clients who won’t give up their pets, inspectors can pass on
the following tips:
• Take allergy medication. Most fall under one of the following three categories:
• antihistamines, such as overthe-counter Claritin or Benadryl, or the prescription drugs Allegra or Zyrtec.
• decongestants, such as OTC Sudafed or prescription Allegra-D; or
• prescription steroids, such as Flonase or Nasonex sprays.
• Get allergy shots. These are not always effective, however, and completing treatment can take years.
• Bathe your pet on a weekly basis. Cats can get used to being bathed, but it’s critical to only use products labeled for them.
• Keep the pet outdoors as much
as possible.
• Allergic individuals should not hug, pet or kiss their pets.
• Have your pet spayed or neutered. The allergen produced by a cat is highest in unaltered males and lowest in altered males.
• Remove clothing worn after grooming or playing with pets.
• Litter boxes should be placed in an area unconnected to the air supply to the rest of the home and should be avoided by allergic individuals.
• Design a cleaning regimen that can substantially reduce those levels, ranging from discarding materials to HEPA-vacuuming to washing certain surfaces.
• Maintain adequate ventilation.
• Remove as much carpet from the home as is feasible. The less
dander-catching furnishings, such as cloth curtains and blinds, the better.
• Clean frequently and thoroughly to remove dust and dander, washing articles such as couch covers and pillows, curtains and pet beds.
• Create an “allergy-free” zone in your home—preferably, the allergic person’s bedroom—and strictly prohibit the pet’s access to it. Consider using impermeable covers for the mattress and pillows.
• Keep pets off furniture, especially upholstered furniture where dander can be easily transferred.
In summary, irritation and contamination caused by pet allergens can be limited by proper care of their hygiene, homes and owners.
HOME INSPECTOR MISSED LEAKING ROOF:
What Happened and What You Can Learn
The following is a real errors and omissions (E&O) case study from our archives. To protect the insured’s identity, all identifiable characteristics— including names, associations, and locations—have been altered or removed.
By: Stephanie Jaynes, Marketing Director at InspectorPro
After removing kitchen cabinets during renovations, an inspection client discovered wet drywall and black mold.
The culprit was the roof. Rather than overlapping, the shingles were butted up against each other. Additionally, the metal flashing was broken and missing. Furthermore, the installer had inappropriately used caulk to fill in large gaps. The improper installation and subsequent damage had been causing the roof to leak, leading the client to believe the home inspector missed a leaking roof.
Suddenly, the other pre-renovation issues began to make sense. The tiles on the laundry room wall had been falling off because that wall, too, was wet and moldy. The dishwasher had been shorting out because of the water in the walls. Other electrical and appliance issues could be traced back to water intrusion coupled with wiring issues.
Since the roof was installed incorrectly, the homeowners’ insurance wouldn’t cover repairs to the roof or anything damaged by the water intrusion, leaving the client with a $100,000 bill.
The Allegation
When her homeowners’ insurer failed to cover all the repair expenses, the client became critical of the inspector examining the roof from the ground with binoculars. Had he done a closer roof inspection, he
would’ve recognized the faulty install, she claimed.
The client sent a letter to the home inspector demanding compensation, and he forwarded it to us, his insurance provider.
Upon reviewing his report and photos, we determined that the roof was high and potentially hazardous, justifying the inspector’s decision to inspect it with binoculars. Additionally, the inspector had, in fact, reported damaged shingles and recommended a contractor conduct further evaluations and repairs. As for the water damage, the signs of water intrusion likely developed after the inspection. The inspector couldn’t predict future defects or uncover hidden damage.
Our claims team sent a detailed rebuttal letter and closed the claim at no cost to the home inspector—or so we thought.
The Client Insists
A year later, the original client solicited a new inspection to validate her claims. With new evidence and increased confidence, the client tripled her demand from $100,000 to $300,000. Shortly after, the client’s attorney filed suit against the home inspector, the previous owners, and the listing agent.
By now, the home inspector had retired and closed his business. Thanks to the inspector’s tail coverage, we were able to reopen the claim and
jump to his defense even during his retirement. Ultimately, the claimant agreed to mediation, where a $50,000 settlement was negotiated. The inspector only paid his deductible. Meanwhile, the client and seller are still in court. What can you learn from this case study?
1. Be wary of potential roof damage claims. Roof damage claims are the second most common type of inspection claim for three reasons.
One, few homeowners (like the buyer in this case study) realize that roofs have limited lifespans, and that roof problems can manifest without regular maintenance—especially if it was poorly installed from the start.
Two, roof leak claims involve both roof and water damage repairs. Once you have roof problems, like water intrusion from weather damage, roof repair costs are often thousands of dollars. Few homeowners are prepared to pay such house roof repair costs.
And third, buyers fail to realize you can’t see every existing roof defect or predict future ones.
To combat the likelihood of a claim, take your time looking for roof issues. Try to spot existing damage, including worn, broken, or missing shingles and poorly sealed roof flashing. Those extra minutes can save you from missing an obviously bad roof.
“never think twice about prioritizing your safety. Don’t get up on roofs that are too high or too steep. Avoid roofs that are wet, icy, or mossy. High winds, storms, heat, and other severe weather may make a roof unsafe to walk. Materials like metal and terracotta can cause slips, too.”
2. Get boots on the roof when you can. Naturally, when safety isn’t a concern, inspectors know to get on the roof. This allows you to inspect with more senses. You can feel the weak sheathing under your boots. You can feel the shingle damage with your hands. And you can lean in closer to examine the flashing with your eyes.
At the same time, never think twice about prioritizing your safety. Don’t get up on roofs that are too high or too steep. Avoid roofs that are wet, icy, or mossy. High winds, storms, heat, and other severe weather may make a roof unsafe to walk. Materials like metal and terracotta can cause slips, too.
Meanwhile, boots-on-the-roof alternatives aren’t perfect. While binoculars are a viable option, they provide a limited vantage point. Pole cams and drones don’t always provide a complete picture, either. So, if you don’t get on the roof, report why and what alternative inspection method you used.
3. Consider inspecting and endorsing for mold. Mold claims are common, too. In fact, they’re the fourth most common in the industry. But unlike roof damage claims, mold claims often exceed your SOP and your basic insurance coverage. Plus, clients can file mold-related claims against you even if you don’t inspect for mold.
Since mold’s a common issue, and because mold claims can happen to anyone, we suggest protecting yourself with an endorsement and an addendum to your pre-inspection agreement— whether you offer mold services or not.
Don’t wait for a roof damage claim to get the right insurance.
Here at InspectorPro, we take defending our inspectors seriously. Day in and day out, our claims team only handles home inspectors’ cases. That focus leads to expertise and results. Thousands trust us to protect them when they’re accused of missing a leaking roof.
inspectorproinsurance.com
By: Nick Gromicko, CMI®
ROOFTOP RESCUE: FALL-ARREST SYSTEMS SAVE LIVES
Since More than 6 million people work at approximately 250,000 construction sites across the United States every day. Inspectors are likely to find fall-arrest systems at these locations, as well as in residences, where homeowners (or hired professionals) use them while doing roof work to replace a vent, fix a leak, or evict a family of squirrels, for instance. Workers fall as a result of unstable working surfaces, misuse or failure to use fall-protection equipment, and human error.
Specifically, fall-arrest systems are used to assist roof workers and builders in the following ways:
• They reduce the likelihood of serious injury or death associated with a fall. The injury (or death) of a worker may financially ruin the contractor through lawsuits and lost work.
• They reduce the need for outdoor railings and scaffolds, which get in the way of the job, and provide only incomplete protection by themselves.
• They reduce the time required for construction and repairs, as well as the associated costs. Workers who are protected are not as concerned with fall avoidance, allowing them more freedom to concentrate on the job.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires some form of fall-protection system where workers are subject to falls of 6 feet or more. This may include a safety net, guardrail or fall-arrest system. Work performed from scaffolds, pump jacks and ladders are subject to different safety rules. OSHA monitors construction sites—commercial and residential—to ensure compliance with their safety standards. Depending on factors such as the severity of the violation and the size of the contracting company, violators may be fined up to $70,000 for non-compliance.
Fall-Arrest System Elements
These include Roof anchors. These metal devices are attached to the upper part of the roof rafter or ridge board, where they clamp the safety cable or rope in place. Various types of anchors are available, and they each have different requirements. Some require sheathing and some do not; some are disposable, and some are reusable. Their prices vary with quality. Installation requirements are as follows: Manufacturers recommend placement every 8 to 10 feet, and about 6 to 8 feet from gable ends. These distances are intended to avoid the possibility that the worker will swing like a pendulum if he or she falls.
Workers should also stay within a 30-degree arc of either side of the anchor point. On most houses, this equals approximately 5 to 6 feet. Restraints. These ropes or cables may be made from materials such as polypropylene or polyester. Some ropes are selfretracting, meaning they automatically withdraw from a housing unit as a worker moves away from the unit. Inside the housing unit is a brake that activates in case of a free-fall. These systems are generally expensive yet easy to use because slack rope does not interfere with work. Lanyards. These synthetic webbing devices connect the lifeline to the rope-grab mechanism. They are available in sizes from 1 to 3 feet (though they should never be longer than 3 feet) and may come with or without a shock absorber.
The Rojen Roof Safety Pole®
The Rojen Roof Safety Pole® is a vertical pole designed to stop construction workers from falling off roofs on construction sites. Invented by Australian Bob Richards, the device has been tested and certified as an anchor point in accordance with AS1891.4.
The pole is a telescoping aluminum rod that extends approximately 4 feet (1.3 meters) above the roof. The cable that extends from the shaft, like a car seatbelt, is designed to reel in and out with ease unless
it is pulled sharply, in which case it will brake. The safety pole itself is designed to withstand an impact of 2.1 tons. Two models are available:
• the temporary tradesman’s model; and
• the vent pole model, which provides permanent roof anchorage, and also functions as the building’s sewer gas ventilation pipe.
General Safety Practices for Roof Workers
The following are general guidelines that should be followed by anyone attempting to work on a roof:
• Keep the roof clean. Dirt and debris can cause you to lose your footing. Be careful to avoid tracking dirt on your shoes onto the roof.
• Mark off the area below you to let people know you are working. It is very easy to drop a tool!
• Never attempt steep or high roof work if you are not a professional. Lifelong disabilities and death happen more often than you think.
• Never work on a roof while it is windy, raining or when the roof is otherwise wet.
• Secure power tools that are not being used with ropes or bungee cords. It is helpful to keep all tools in a large bucket suspended from the roof.
• Wear shoes with good traction.
In summary, fall-protection systems are designed to save the lives of DIY homeowners, roof workers and inspectors.
“These ropes or cables may be made from materials such as polypropylene or polyester. Some ropes are self-retracting, meaning they automatically withdraw from a housing unit as a worker moves away from the unit. “
CATHERINE HALL
Empow E ring p rof E ssionals, Transforming Communi T i E s
Catherine Hall is a distinguished leader in the housing and rehabilitation sectors, serving as the Executive Director of the National Association of FHA Consultants (NAFHAC). Her role involves steering the organization towards its mission of improving FHA-related processes and supporting professionals in the industry. Under her leadership, NAFHAC has expanded its influence and resources, advocating for best practices and fostering collaboration among consultants. In addition to her work with NAFHAC, Catherine is the innovative mind behind Genesis Rehab Reporting Software, a cutting-edge tool designed to streamline and enhance the reporting process for rehabilitation projects. This software has become an invaluable asset for professionals seeking efficiency and accuracy in their work, reflecting Catherine's commitment to technological advancement and practical solutions in the field.
Hall was born in Mt. Holly, NJ, but lived most of her life in the city and suburbs of
Philadelphia, PA. As a child and into her early teen years, she wanted to be in the public spotlight. She had dreams of being a Broadway singer, and then as she went into high school, Hall was attracted to school and local politics. In her junior year of high school, she was “elected” mayor for the week during a mock government exercise at the Keystone Girls State. Hall was always and will continue to be active in civic affairs and community outreach programs.
There is one person in hisTory ThaT she Considers a role model and someone who she greaTly admires—winsTon ChurChill.
Catherine considers him a role model because of his courage and dedication to his goals and dreams, no matter what obstacles he faced or what problems seemed to hold him back. He never gave up, and he never doubted his vision for his life. Hall works to exemplify that same spirit of faith and confidence in her life and her career.
About 30 years ago, Catherine unexpectedly found herself becoming a home inspector. Her husband had decided to pursue this path as a way to better understand the condition of properties he was looking to purchase with 203k loans, and she ended up following suit. At the time, back in 1992, a buyer could use the FHA 203k loan to purchase an investment property. However, at the point when they were getting into the market two years later, when he completed his ASHI certification, HUD made the change that 203k loans could only be used for owner-occupied properties. By that point, they felt that the investment they had made in his training and certification to become a home inspector needed to be capitalized by our starting a home inspection business. They were both working other jobs; he worked nights at the post office and did inspections during the day. Hall was working part-time in an office and doing all the marketing and promotions. Catherine and her husband got a contract with the city of Philadelphia to perform home inspections for individuals getting a special
grant funded by the federal government, and that contract gave us so much business that she was required to get my certification in order to handle the volume. She enjoyed 203k consultation work rather than home inspections and made that her specific expertise and niche. In 1994, when she received her ASHI certification, Hall was the only African American certified female home inspector in the country.
The contract to provide inspection services for the city of Philadelphia was a turning point in their business because that contract required them not only to perform home inspections, but to provide separate reports describing whether or not the properties passed or failed HUD Minimum Property Standards (MPS). This was
where her true expertise grew; working with programs that involved FHA housing quality standards like the 203k program.
Hall had to increase their staff dramatically, and part of their training was a strong understanding of HUD MPS.
she has always been very good aT Training, eduCaTing, and TeaChing people how To do Things ThaT she does well. she liTerally CreaTed a Training program for Their new employees ThaT They Could CompleTe on Their own and puT in a rubbermaid bin.
That is how the 203k In-A-Box FHA consultant
training and marketing system was born. Thanks to the suggestion of one of her mentors, Mike Crow, she packaged the system and was able to successfully market the opportunity of 203k consulting to home inspectors around the country starting in 2010.
Due to the success of the program and the fact that we were growing into such a large group of like-minded individuals with similar skills and dedication to the professionalism of the career of 203k consultants, Hall created the first trade association for rehab consultants, the National Association of FHA consultants (NAFHAC). They celebrated their 10th anniversary in October 2023. Today, NAFHAC remains not only the first but the leading resource for education training,
support, and software for individuals who want to quickly create a reliable revenue stream as residential rehab consultant.
As a trainer for home inspectors in the world of 203k consulting, Hall has received numerous certificates of appreciation and recognition from many local home inspection chapters: NOVA ASHI, FABI, and OHIO InterNACHI, to name just a few. When describing a successful memorable moment, she thinks one of the largest successes that they have had as an association, herself personally as a speaker, coach, and mentor is their annual conferences. It is so wonderful to be able to share the revenue potential and the business building opportunities that rehab consulting can provide home inspectors at events like the 203k day of discovery. Last year's pre-conference workshop had over 35 attendees, and Hall was so honored to say that out of those attendees, 30 of them are now successful rehab consultants making new money and helping rebuild neighborhoods all around the country.
Hall believes one of the most important lessons that she has learned is how important it is to have an open, free-flowing means of communication with people that you are helping learn a new skill, a new process. When Catherine first started, she was juggling so many activities and responsibilities that many times she failed to keep appointments with customers and didn't return emails as promptly as she should have. It cost her not only members who felt deserved and frustrated, but it also damaged her reputation in the industry for a little while. Since then and for at least the last eight years, we have had a very active and totally real-time support mechanism using Skype.
All members are plugged right into the Skype members group, and where she may not see an email, she can see easily and quickly respond to a Skype message. Once our members recognize the level of care and speed of support that they receive through the Skype group, they know how much we care about making them feel
supported—and they see how much Hall goes above and beyond as needed to make sure their questions are answered, their needs are met, and their issues are resolved as quickly as possible.
eduCaTion and Training are so CriTiCal To new and seasoned home inspeCTors, parTiCularly when iT Comes To sTaying CurrenT and relevanT in an ever-Changing markeT. There are apps now ThaT Can almosT do a home inspeCTion for The CusTomer wiThouT having an aCTual person go Through The properTy.
As professionals in this industry, we all must find new and innovative ways to serve the home buying and home ownership communities as well as create additional revenue streams to keep our businesses thriving in up-and-down market. That is why Catherine is passionate and has
made it her mission to educate and inform as many home inspectors around the country as to the ease of getting certified as a renovation consultant and the opportunity to create a vital additional revenue stream that includes ongoing recurring income from a single customer. That is huge because in our industry we typically must work so hard to get one agent to give us one phone call to allow us to do one inspection for one customer, and then we have to repeat that cycle again and again to create a flow of income. Any break in that chain and the income stream dries up. With rehab consulting, a home inspector generates his income from a different referral partner, the lender, and is able to provide services to multiple types of customers, including home buyers, homeowners, investors, and nonprofit agencies. There are so many ways to make money, and now with HUD announcing an increase in the fees that consultants will be receiving effective in November, it's even more of a viable opportunity for home inspectors to make a lot of money doing less work with fewer headaches
and less stress. But like anything, you must know the system, and we provide that system, and we give that resource that does make the learning curve as smooth as possible and the ability to generate that income as seamless as possible.
A cornerstone of NAFHAC’s mission is fostering strong, mutually beneficial partnerships. FHA 203k consultants, especially those certified by NAFHAC, often form strategic alliances with loan officers. These partnerships are unique in that they foster longterm loyalty and support. By providing valuable tools and resources, NAFHAC empowers its members to become indispensable assets to their referral partners. Through lead generation and exceptional service, consultants can attract and retain clients, solidifying their position in the industry.
Rather than simply answering the question, "How has your business changed since switching to PRO-LAB® services?" Hall prefers to address, "How have my business and the services we provide to home inspectors grown,
thanks to the incredible support, unwavering dedication, and partnership we've received from PRO-LAB®?" Hall stated, “The answer is exponentially.
pro-lab® even hosTed our very firsT 203k disCovery days, marking a signifiCanT milesTone for us. shorTly afTer pro-lab’s InTernaChI house of horrors® was CompleTed, we held a 2-day ConferenCe in ThaT amazing spaCe, and The parTnership and The supporT I have personally reCeived, and our assoCiaTion members have reCeived from ben and Jamie and The enTire Team aT pro-lab® have lifTed my speCifiC niChe in This indusTry higher and fasTer Than iT would have wiThouT Their assisTanCe and baCking.
In fact, we try to hold an event at PRO-LAB’s
facility at least once every two years simply because they are so welcoming, so supportive, and so caring about the needs of our members and our mission to provide an additional revenue stream to home inspectors. They do this because they know and appreciate that the more ways a home inspector can make money, the more successful they will be, and their company is all about helping small, moderate business owners create sustainable revenue and wealth as well as providing resources to help these home inspectors ensure healthy and safe homes for their customers. Can it get any better than that?”
CaTherine has a goal To help rebuild neighborhoods one home aT a Time. she works every day To CreaTe opporTuniTies for families around The CounTry To enJoy safe, sound homes ThaT Can provide lasTing and even possibly generaTional wealTh opporTuniTies To our CommuniTies.
As the executive director of the National Association of FHA Consultants, mentor and coach to hundreds of successful inspectors, rehab consultants, contractors, and real estate sales and lending partners, she is able to realize these goals a little bit every single day. By helping real estate professionals recognize the potential found in rehab home ownership services, She is shining a light on a path for real estate professionals to
grow their businesses with a homeownership tool that is either little known or little understood. Every new home inspector who starts sharing the benefits of their services as rehab consultants with a new loan office or real estate agent is bringing one more family that much closer to a better home and a better neighborhood. Family in general is crucial to her. The love and support that she has received throughout her career has helped her overcome fear of the unknown, self-doubt, and helps her rise above criticism that came as a result of mistakes she has made. Because family is so important to her, she has worked very hard to create a family atmosphere in the National Association of FHA consultants. Through their interactive Skype group, members help each other; they pray when a member is going through a medical crisis or has a death in the family; they celebrate when a member has a joyous birth in their family or another happy occasion; and they help support and lift up fellow members whenever and however possible. It is her honor to be able to look at the Skype messages and communications that pass amongst their members and see the love and the family atmosphere that is generating and continuing to be maintained every day by all the team members and the volunteer association members. It truly is special, and she has a personal affection for each and every member of their team and the membership.
Hall’s vision for the future of the home inspection industry is closely tied to her vision
for the renovation consulting industry in that it is her wish that every home inspector will add 203k consulting services to their business model. Any home inspector who has three or more years of referenceable experience or licensing is eligible to be a renovation consultant. By the simple process of reticular activation, once every home inspector sees the opportunity that exists as a renovation consultant, even if they don't use this tool with every customer they serve, knowing what it can do, having that option to be able to offer the alternatives available with a rehab loan, and having a comfort level in describing it to their referral partners and customers and prospect base is going to help grow the financial stability of the professionals in this industry. Any business that can stand on more than “one leg” is always going to be more stable and sustainable. The more additional revenue streams a home inspector adds, including mold testing, radon testing, and 203k consulting, all these additional resources will help that company weather most if not any economic storm.
Catherine welcomes the opportunity to speak to any individual or company representative to explain more on a personal level what the opportunities and benefits are for four of them as rehab consultants and offer weekly workshops every Wednesday night through the end of December describing the ABC's of 203k Consulting. Individuals can sign up for these free webinars at nafhac.org/abcsof203k
STATIC SHOCK:
A HIDDEN DANGER IN YOUR HOME
By: Nick Gromicko, CMI®
Static electricity is the buildup of electrical charges on the surface of non-conducting materials. It is called “static” because, unlike a home’s electrical system, static electricity has almost no current. Static typically forms when two materials come into contact, and some of the charges redistribute by moving from one material to the other. This leaves a net positive charge on one material and an equal negative charge on the other, both of which will remain if the two materials separate. If the net charges grow faster than a material can dissipate them, an electrostatic charge builds up. The excess charge can suddenly neutralize by a flow of charges to the surroundings, known as an electrostatic discharge or static spark. By superheating the surrounding air and causing it to rapidly expand, the discharge is both visible and audible.
Interesting Facts About Static Electricity
• Ordinary household static can have voltages many times greater than the home’s electrical system. A static shock is not ordinarily dangerous, though,
because the current is comparatively low.
• Scientists believe that lightning is caused by the exchange of charges between ice particles within clouds. Lightning is thus a scaled-up version of the static discharges with which we are accustomed.
• During the Great Depression, swirling dust-bowl winds caused tremendous buildups of static electricity that were powerful enough to knock a person unconscious. Blue flames erupted from metal fences, electrical systems in cars shorted out, and people would drag chains in order to offset the electrostatic charge.
Static Electricity Hazards
Static may create sparks and shocks, and cause materials to cling together. These phenomena are typically merely annoying, but, under the right circumstances, they can cause significant damage to life and property. Specifically, static electricity can cause: fires and explosions, where flammable vapors and dust clouds can occur. Static has caused deadly explosions in buildings that filled with natural gas;
nuisance shocks. While typically harmless, these shocks can cause significant distress to building occupants. In rare situations they can cause bodily harm, such as when hot fluids are handled, and a static shock causes inadvertent recoil; and damage to sensitive electronic equipment, such as computers and cell phones. One static-plagued InterNACHI member reported that she managed to disable the Caller ID feature on her phone by repeatedly “zapping” it, and she also put her microwave to sleep. Beware that even mild or imperceptible static discharges may be powerful enough to render a computer inoperable, or even erase its hard drive.
Static Limitation Strategies
There are many variables that contribute to static electricity in homes, including the physiological makeup of an individual, their walking habits and shoes, carpet materials and construction, and the amount of moisture in the air. To help ensure that static-friendly conditions are avoided, inspectors can pass the following tips on to their clients:
Humidify the living space. When the air is humid, water molecules collect on the surfaces of household materials, which prevents the buildup of electrical charges.
Humidity levels of 40 to 50% are usually sufficient to prevent static discharges, and you can check the humidity with an inexpensive humidity meter from a gardening shop. Beware that high humidity levels will promote the growth of mold, which can be a far more
dangerous condition than excessive static electricity.
Try these other tips to increase indoor humidity: Use a humidifier. Incorporate a variety of leafy indoor plants. Plants effectively turn liquid water into water vapor, similar to a mechanical humidifier. Simmer a pot of water on the stove, but don’t forget that the stove is on! Consider your clothing. Switch to natural fibers, since synthetics pick up more of a static charge. If
you must wear synthetic fibers, do not allow them to touch; separate nylon and polyester layers with cotton, for instance. Wear leather-soled shoes. Also, try not to drag your feet on the carpet. Use an anti-static hand lotion if your hands are dry. Spray carpet surfaces with an anti-static product. Fabric softener has anti-static properties, and it may be diluted and then sprayed onto the carpet. These chemicals eliminate buildup
of static electricity by making the material itself slightly conductive, either by being conductive itself, or by absorbing moisture from the air. These products may be sticky and attract dirt, however. Wear an antistatic wrist wrap. These antistatic devices are used to prevent electrostatic discharge by safely grounding a person. They consist of a stretchy band of fabric woven with conductive fibers made from carbon or carbon-filled rubber.
By Greg Johns Owner and Inspector cookeville.wini.com
BUSINESS DECISION MAKING
And so, we find ourselves once more in that special time of year, stepping over excessive exterior extension cords, nimbly dodging decorations, and eavesdropping on Hallmark holiday movies whilst whisking about through peoples’ domiciles. Ah, yes, the holiday season.
What great fortune befalls each of us this season? Is it brisk business, slush fund surplus, awesome additional inspectors, or just having good health and eyesight (seriously, I burned my eyes in October while changing out a UV-C bulb in our HVAC system that was said to be “dead”—I have never felt so much pain for 24 hours…)? For some of you, it might be that you didn’t get sued this year. That’s a pretty low bar, but good on you!
As some of you may, or may not know, one of my businesses is franchised home inspecting. I bought into a franchise several years ago…and have wished many times since that I had not. Partly
because I bought the business based on feelings—I really liked the previous owner and wanted to be of help. But, also, because this particular franchisor (parent company) was itself sold at the very same time I bought into my franchise. The new owners had very different intentions and interests than the previous owners…but, I felt compelled to move forward.
Owning a franchise as a small business model has its advantages; namely, you are buying into a system where the infrastructure, the platforms, and the software are managed and attended to for you. All you need to do is “follow the recipe” and put on a businessfriendly face and start showing up. The downside is that all of that stuff is done for you. You have very little say in changes or issues, and—depending on the franchisor—communication and assistance are not what they are proclaimed to be on the front end. You may not get a response, or a valid/helpful response, to any of your phone calls or questions…
but, your money still is debited out of your account each month like cookie-baking clockwork.
This year, I’ve been paying more attention to social media and message boards and have noticed an uptick across home inspection franchisees selling their businesses. Except, the story that unfolds is appalling and discouraging. Instead of success stories galore, I’m seeing struggle and strife. There seems to be more “bah-humbug” than “hark the herald angels sing,” if you get my drift.
It appears one of the areas franchisors have neglected and failed in relates to applying some of their war chest funds to aggregating resources and systems for inspectors to resell their franchises. Many complain of hearing Jiminy crickets when they call the home office for assistance. Others say the responses they receive seem detached and uninterested. A few that I’ve seen (including one I know) have told an anapestic tetrameter much darker than “Twas the
Night Before Christmas”—a tale of tribulations getting proper paperwork or response from the franchisor once a buyer has hopped aboard the Polar Express of buying the business.
I am dumbfounded by this, simply flabbergast. How can a business model put so much time and money into generating franchises that generate revenue, but not systematize an exit strategy that better ensures continued revenues for the franchisor? Each time a franchise closes its doors, an angel gets its wings and it’s really difficult catching those buggers to get the doors back open.
As we work toward yet another year’s end, I want you to remember—it’s never too late to accept the dumb decisions you make as a business owner, or as an employee. We shouldn’t be haunted by the ghosts of business days past, but we need to learn from them. Keep working to get, and be, better. If I’m lucky, you’ll hear from me at the turn of the new year. Happy holidays to all!
SNOW GUARD INSPECTION
Snow guards are protruding metal or plastic devices (or lengths of bars) that are installed in intermittent locations on a roof that are intended to prevent accumulated snow and ice from sliding in great sheets off the roof. They encourage the gradual melt and breakdown of the snow mass into smaller sections. They vary in their method of attachment to the roof, as well as their color (they usually match the roof or are transparent), and their material (typically, they’re made of metal or polycarbonate).
Snow and ice are surprisingly heavy—a single cubic foot of ice weighs more than 52 pounds—and when they avalanche from a roof, they can cause a great deal of property damage and injury. Roof avalanches can injure pedestrians and livestock, bend gutters, and damage vehicles, lower roofs, HVAC equipment, and other property below. This typically happens when warm weather follows a snowstorm, creating meltwater that lubricates the roof.
In many cases, snow guard systems are not included during initial roof installations because of the additional cost and the general lack of awareness of their need. Nevertheless, building
By: Nick Gromicko, CMI®
“Investing in the right snow-management system may mitigate liability, prevent property damage, and reduce threats to pedestrian safety.”
owners can be held liable for any property damage and personal injury resulting from excessive snow if it could have been prevented with snow-retention systems. Investing in the right snow-management system may mitigate liability, prevent property damage, and reduce threats to pedestrian safety.
Snow guards are not always effective or helpful, however; in very heavy snow, they may not be tall enough to resist the snow’s downward force, and shingle roofs typically have enough resistance to hold the snow naturally. To act as effective restraints, snow guards should be installed by qualified roofers who can competently consider factors such as sheathing type and thicknesses, roof type, roof slope, and snow loads in determining proper snow guard sizing, design and placement. Homeowners and handymen who attempt snow guard installation may install them in an improper pattern, or only weakly attach them to the roof, which may increase the potential damage due to falling snow and ice. Also, snow guards should never be used as anchors in fall-arrest systems, as they are not strong enough to support roof workers, and the guards themselves may be damaged.
Inspection
Snow guard placement should be consistent with
the following safety and efficiency standards:
Snow guards should be mounted on the lowest portion of a roofing panel where the snow and ice actually move. Snow guards mounted on a high seam will be ineffective when the snow and ice compact beneath them. Snow guards should not be mounted beyond the bearing wall on an extended roof section, as this placement can result in ice damming and roof damage. Snow guards should be installed over sidewalks, doorways, driveways, and anywhere else that people are likely to walk or gather, or where property is stored. Check the mounting tape, if it is present. Tape has very little or no resistance to ultraviolet light and tends to roll up underneath the snow guard when exposed to shear loads. There should not be more snow guards installed than are necessary, as they might allow too much snow to accumulate and damage the roof. Snow guards should be installed in the critical areas listed, but not necessarily in areas where snow and ice can be released safely onto the ground by gravity and natural warming. Only adhesive should be used to mount snow guards to standing-seam, floating-type roofs, as this technique allows for thermal expansion and contraction of the panels. It also allows for quick release during extreme snow accumulation that might otherwise damage the panels.
Home Inspector Courses
Training and Support for Home Inspectors
• Add-on Services (Yields Higher Inspection Fees)
• Advanced Inspection Techniques
• Cameras and Equipment (Top Manufactures)
• Training (FREE) with most equipment purchases
a service offered by home inspectors who are trained in an advanced inspection technique to find potentia l problems in residential chimneys, fireplaces, or venting systems. ChimneyScan technicians serve home buyers and sellers who are interested in adding a more detailed inspection in their home buying process. A ChimneyScan features an enhanced visual inspe ction of the exterior chimney and includes and a video of the internal flue (Level II) which is not normally included in a standar d home inspection. Cost of course may be applied to the purchase of a chimney camera. $595 Approved by CREIA / ASHI / InterNACHI
10 CEUs - PoolandSpaInspectors.com is a service offered by home inspectors who are trained in advanced techniques to find water loss an d water chemistry analysis. PoolandSpaInspectors serve home buyers and sellers who are interested in adding a more detailed ins pection in their home buying process or who suspect pool or spa deferred maintenance and water loss. The PoolandSpaInspectors training application is a 10-hour online course designed to provide home inspectors the knowledge they need to offer their clients an upgraded pool and spa inspection. $295 Approved by CREIA / ASHI / InterNACHI
4 CEUs – 107 Test Prep Course is a 4-hour in-depth test preparation course is designed to take you through all the stages of pas sing your FAA Part 107 exam and getting licensed as a drone pilot for commercial use under the FAA for small Unmanned Aircraft (UAS) Part 1 07. Learn the many applications of using drones for your business. From roof inspections to solar panels to building and site surveys, dron es have unlimited potential in their utilization. United Infrared has teamed up with Clarity Aero to provide this important and exciting new fi eld of training. $350 Approved by CREIA / ASHI / InterNACHI
THE LAND DOWN UNDER AUSTRALIA
Australia is home to a very diverse set of ecosystems with rare fauna and flora abound. Dive into the blue sea, climb extraordinary mountains, ride camels on the beach, trek through the dense rainforest and more at this all-in-one majestic beauty. If you’re looking for adventure, you’ll certainly find it here!
By AALIYAH PASOLS
THE CITY
How could you claim that you’ve been to Australia without first visiting its most famous city? Sydney, aka Harbour City, features striking architecture, significant museums, and lovely beaches. Launch your journey at the city’s most iconic structure: Sydney Opera House. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is adored for its strange and attractive architecture, which resembles the sails of a boat. It sits right on the water, providing spectacular views for those who come to visit. Inside, the performing arts center is quite the wonder as well, with opera performances, restaurants, theaters, studios, a concert hall, and exhibition rooms. sydneyoperahouse.com
Close by the opera house is another Aussie favorite, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, which is sometimes referred to as “The Coathanger.” It was built in 1932, and is now the biggest steel arch bridge in the world. If you feel like taking a picturesque walk, you can venture to the top of the bridge, or you can opt for a more exhilarating ascent with
Bridgeclimb Sydney. The team at Bridgeclimb leads a brave group of people to the summit of the bridge for an unforgettable experience. You can choose to climb during the day, night, twilight, or even dawn! bridgeclimb.com
THE OCEAN
After you’re done catching some sky high views, bring yourself back down to sea level at Bondi Beach. This beach is considered one of the world’s most famous, and it’s easy to see why. Golden sand and smooth blue waves welcome you to take a dip or surf, and if you don’t feel like getting wet, there’s a boardwalk with tons of restaurants, cafes, and bars to enjoy. If you do decide to take a swim, make sure to stay between the flags. The beach is known for its strong riptides, so much so that a TV show called Bondi Rescue follows the lifeguards who have to rescue swimmers each day.
Continue your aquatic adventure at one of the most legendary attractions in the whole world: The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. It’s one of the seven
wonders of the natural world, so you can finally cross this one off of your bucket list! The expansive park is home to over 3,000 coral reefs, 600 continental islands, 300 coral cays, and over 1,600 species of fish, sharks, dolphins, turtles, rays, and more. The best way to see the reef’s wildlife is to head down below, which you can do by diving or snorkeling. Depending on which part of the reef you decide to swim by, you can see some pretty amazing sights. At Osprey Reef in a spot called North Horn, you can schedule a trip to watch a live shark feeding. At Cod Hole, you can swim next to the huge potato cod fish, which can reach up to 6 feet long and weigh 220 pounds. And at Lighthouse Bommie, in June and July, it’s highly likely that you will be able to swim with the gentle dwarf minke whales. gbrmpa.gov.au
Another magnificent water-related wonder is Fraser Island, the largest sand island in the world. Its beach is 75 miles long so it’s no wonder that one of the most popular activities to do here is to rent a four-wheel drive. Rent one and take off speedily as you gaze at the sand dunes, shipwrecks, tidal pools, and more. You can also book a horse riding tour,
where you can get a glimpse of both the beach and the island’s rainforest. Whichever way you choose to roam, you’ll run into tons of fascinating animals. The island is known for its population of dingoes and wild horses, as well as dolphins, whales, sharks, bats, and sugar glider squirrels. When you’re in need of some downtime, make sure to check out the island’s champagne pools, which are basically natural Jacuzzis—they’re recreational bubbling pools that have been formed over the years by volcanic rocks! fraserisland.net
THE MOUNTAINS
Retreat from the water (and give your “pruney” fingers a break) by heading somewhere a bit drier. Australia is known for its breathtaking parks, and one of their most notable, Blue Mountains National Park, is a must-visit. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is well-known for the blue color its mountains seem to have, thanks to its numerous eucalyptus trees. Hike or rock climb to a high point and the views will reward you. The sight of the blue mountains is remarkable enough, but other points of interest include The Three Sisters and Katoomba
Scenic Railway. The Three Sisters are iconic sandstone rock formations in the park that closely resemble each other, giving them their name, while the Katoomba Scenic Railway allows visitors to ride its steep track down the valley and through a tunnel. When you come out on the other side, you’ll be right in the middle of the lush, ancient rainforest. nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
THE FOREST
Another park that you must experience is Daintree National Park. This park is home to the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, which is suggested to have been around for over 110 million years! You’ll feel as if you’re in the middle of a Jurassic Park or Avatar film as you trek past emerald green vines, towering waterfalls, and trees, crocodile-filled lakes, and more. The park is home to the most biologically diverse animals and vegetation in the world so expect to see unique creatures like the enormous cassowary bird, the striped possum, the platypus, the musky-rat kangaroo, Boyd’s forest dragon, and many others. The park is split up into two main parts: Mossman Gorge and Cape Tribulation.
Mossman Gorge is the perfect place for pictures as it features crystal-clear waters that rush over huge granite boulders. Swimmers often take a break on the boulders, basking in the sun and enjoying the view. Cape Tribulation is where the rainforest meets
the Coral Sea. Wander along the golden remote beaches, or book a sailing tour to explore the section of the Great Barrier Reef that reaches out here. parks.des.qld.gov.au
Sydney Opera House
Daintree National Park
Next, embark on an exploration of the historical Kakadu National Park. The park has been home to the Aboriginal people of Australia for over 65,000 years. About 500 of them still live in the park, and their ancient rock paintings (some dating back to 20,000 years ago!) can be seen in various areas. One of the most legendary is at Ubirr, where the paintings document ancient human interaction with the environment. X-ray paintings, as well as
drawings of the now-extinct Tasmanian tiger and an encounter with a non-Aboriginal person, are all impressive. There’s also a lot of ground to cover in this park; it’s the largest national park in Australia and the second largest in the world! Here you’re free to journey through monsoon rainforests, mangrove swamps, gorges, and waterfalls. If you’re itching to get some outstanding pictures of the park’s animals, book a boat tour of Yellow Waters Lagoon, where
you will be able to watch animals such as crocodiles, brolga birds, sea eagles, snake birds and monitor lizards. parksaustralia.gov.au
THE SAND
Once again you’ll switch up your surroundings by venturing to another part of unpredictable Australia: Cable Beach. This isn’t like the beaches back home in
Kakadu National Park
Ubirr
Ancient rock paintings at Ubirr
South Florida…here you can ride camels into the sunset! When you book the tour with Sundowner Camel Tours, you’ll be able to ride a camel along the white sands as you stare out at the Indian Ocean. On the other side of you, you’ll spot the sand dunes and ochre red cliffs that make this beach one-of-a-kind. The strange arrival of camels on Cable Beach happened in 1987, when a man named Abdul Latif Casley brought his six camels here. He had brought them along with his family as they walked on a five-month voyage from Katherine, a town in Northern Australia, to Broome, a Western Australia town where Cable Beach is. It’s about a 932-mile walk. When he arrived on Cable Beach, he began
operating camel tours, and once it grew, other people began to offer them, until it blossomed into the tourist attraction it is today! visitbroome.com.au
Explore a different type of sand at Purnululu National Park. Purnululu means “sandstone” in the language of the Aboriginal Gija people, who were the first ones to set their sights on this beauty. The word sandstone is key here because the main feature of the park is the Bungle Bungle Range, which are a collection of beehive-shaped striped sandstone domes that jut out from the grassy plains. Besides taking in the astonishing domes, you can also discover the many chasms and gorges that reside here, two of the most popular being Cathedral Gorge
and Echidna Chasm. structure. parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au
THE END
After travelling through some of Australia’s most noteworthy destinations, it’s easy to see why the country is sometimes referred to as “Oz.” It’s certainly just as magical as the world Dorothy finds herself in in the film, Wizard of Oz. However, even though you’ve visited these highlights, there’s still so much more to do in this vast country. Make sure to keep track of your favorite spots, you’ll get to visit them plus more on your return to the Land Down Under!
Cable Beach
Purnululu National Park
GARMIN Fenix 5/5s/5x garmin.com
BIOLITE Wood & Charcoal Burning Firepit-control the flames remotely with Bluetooth App bioliteenergy.com
READYLIGHTS FSR Readylight gofsr.com HEIMPLANET The Cave Waterproof Tent heimplanet.com
ADVENTURES
Reconnect with nature and go camping! Here are a few exciting high-tech items that will bring more convenience to the outside world. Whether you are seeking quiet time while stargazing or want to go off the grid with friends and family, surely you’ll enjoy these items on your next camping trip!
By VANESSA C. GUZMAN
LUMINAID PackLite Max-2-in-1 Phone Charger and Inflatable Lantern luminaid.com GREEN ENERGY Off Grid Solar Battery Backpak greenenergylimited.com HELIO Pressure Shower nemoequipment.com
LIFESTRAW Steel Personal Water Filter amazon.com
Autumn spiced andeverything nice
With Thanksgiving on the horizon, try this cocktail which is full of fall flavors. The pear purée tastes so good with the allspice, ginger liqueur, bitters, and smooth bourbon. A crowd-pleaser!
Bourbon +SpicedPear Cocktail (Makes1cocktail)
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 1/2 ounces bourbon
• 1 1/2 ounces pear purée (recipe below)
• 1/4-ounce ginger liqueur
• 1/4-ounce agave nectar
• 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice dram
• Soda water to taste
• 2-3 dashes Hella aromatic cocktail bitters
• Freshly cut thyme or sage sprigs for garnish
METHOD:
For the pear purée:
Peel, core, and coarsely chop 3 pears. Purée the chopped pears and 2 ounces of lemon juice in a blender until smooth. Strain and press the pear mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or chinois, discarding the remaining solids. This purée mixture yields enough to make 4-5 cocktails.
In a mixing tin or cocktail shaker, add the bourbon, pear purée, ginger liqueur, agave nectar, lemon juice, and allspice dram. Fill with ice, shake well, and strain into a cocktail glass, filled with fresh ice. Add soda to taste and give 2-3 shakes of Hella aromatic cocktail bitters. Gently smack the fresh herbs to release their aromatics and place them in the finished cocktail. Cheers to fall!
UNLOCK THE FUTURE OF YOUR HOME
INSPECTION BUSINESS
ELEVATE WITH IEB EVENTS
At IEB, our events are crafted to provide home inspection business owners with the ultimate platform for growth and success. Whether you’re attending our Fall Mastermind, business mastery workshops, or exclusive leadership sessions, each event offers a deep dive into proven strategies for business performance, leadership, team development, and growth. Our events go beyond traditional conferences—they are immersive, interactive experiences where you’ll mastermind with industry leaders, engage in hands-on workshops, and network with like-minded professionals. From learning how to strategically plan your business for the future to developing the tools that drive lasting success, you’ll leave with actionable insights and a renewed vision for your company.
IEB events are not just about knowledge—they’re about transformation, equipping you with the confidence and community you need to take your business to the next level. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with top professionals in the home inspection industry and gain valuable insights that will shape the future of your business. Check out our website to see when our next event is happening and get ready to unlock your business’s true potential!
