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Home Inspection education and information for home inspectors and consumers.TRANSCRIPT
1 December 2014 | www.ASHIReporter.org 1
LIMITATIONS OF TWO-DAY RADON SCREENINGS p10
Being Frank: Looking at the Past to see the Future | 6 Radon Mitigation Systems in Existing Homes | 12
The Word: Kitchen Appliance Inspections | 14Mentoring Makes a Difference | 22On My Mind: The State of ASHI | 38
ReporterASH
I JANUARY 2015
Inspection News & Views from the American Society of Home Inspectors, Inc.
Features 9 | Electrical Fires Rank as one of the top Safety Hazards in Homes Leviton Manufacturing
10 | Limitations of Two-Day Radon Screenings By Kurt Solomon
12 | Radon Mitigation Systems in Existing Homes Ready for Inspections Sally Chapralis
14 | The Word: Kitchen Appliance Inspections Bruce Barker, ACI
20 | Service Philosophy – Reversing Risk for Buyers Alan Carson, ACI, Carson, Dunlop & Associates Ltd.
22 | Mentoring Makes a Difference: Offers Benefits and Opportunities, Keeps both of you Current Sally Chapralis
30 | ASHI Officers for 2015 32 | Council Elects new Directors
34 | ASHI 2014 Committees: Thank you for Your Service
Departments 6 | Looking at the Past to see the Future Frank Lesh, Executive Director
18 | Herspective From the Women of ASHI "Have you thought about performing inspections for HUD?" turned out to be the sentence that saved my business Arlene Puentes
26 | ASHI Community New Inspector Status, ASHI Staff, Chapters
33 | Your ASHI Membership News & More
36 | Postcards From the Field It’s Wacky Out There
38 | On My Mind The State of ASHI Bill Loden, ASHI President
January 2015 Vol. 32, #1
ASH
IReporter
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36
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5 December 2014 | www.ASHIReporter.org 5ASHI Reporter | December 20144
ASHI National Officers and Board of Directors
ASHI MISSION STATEMENTTo 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.
Publisher: Frank Lesh
Editor: Sally Chapralis
American Society of Home Inspectors, Inc.
932 Lee Street, Suite 101
Des Plaines, IL 60016
847-954-3186 Reporter calls only
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E-mail: [email protected]
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E-mail: [email protected]
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© 2015, ASHI. None of the content of this publication may be reproduced, in any manner, without the prior written consent of the publisher. Inclusion of or specific mention of any proprietary product within does not imply endorsement of, nor does exclusion of any proprietary product imply non-endorsement, by the American Society of Home Inspectors, Inc. Opinions or statements of authors and advertisers are solely their own, and do not necessarily represent the opinions or positions of ASHI, its agents or editors. See above for information pertaining to submission of articles, advertising and related materials.
Lisa Alajajian 2013-2015
Milford, MA, 508-634-2010 [email protected]
James Allen 2013-2015
Overland Park, KS , 913-894-5893 [email protected]
Eric Barker 2012-2014
Barrington, IL, [email protected]
Tim Buell 2012-2014
Hilliard, OH, [email protected]
Larry Cerro 2014-2016
Tallahassee, FL, [email protected]
Shannon E. Cory 2013-2015 Fayetteville, GA, 770-461-3408 shannon@rainbowhome inspections.com
C. Blaine Illingworth III 2012-2014 Harleysville, PA, 610-565-4181 [email protected]
Mark Londner 2014-2016
Purcellville, VA, [email protected]
Scott Patterson 2013-2015
Spring Hill, TN, 615-302-1113 [email protected]
Robert Peterson 2013-2015
Carmel, IN, 317-581-0774 [email protected]
Bob Sisson 2012-2014 Boyds, MD, 301-208-8289 [email protected]
Bill Sutton 2012-2014 Milton, MA, 617-698-0945 [email protected]
Mike Wagner 2014-2016
Westfield, IN, [email protected]
Robert Walstead 2013-2015
Colorado Springs, CO 719-495-2652, [email protected]
Kevin Westendorf 2014-2016
Mt. Pleasant, SC, [email protected]
Speaker, Council of Representatives: Tony Smith 2013-2014
Cedar Rapids, IA, 319-533-4565 [email protected]
Bill Loden, PresidentMadison, AL, [email protected]
Alden Gibson, President-ElectBreslau, ON, [email protected]
Randy Sipe, Vice PresidentSpring Hill, KS, [email protected]
Michael Stephens, TreasurerFairfax Station, VA, [email protected]
Howard Pegelow, SecretaryMilwaukee, WI, [email protected]
Bill Jacques, Immediate Past-PresidentRavenel, SC, [email protected]
Officers
Directors
THANKS TO ALAN CARSON FOR THE GOOD INFO ON HRVS.
Executive DirectorFrank Lesh, Executive Director, 847-954-3182, [email protected]
Virginia Baker, Executive Assistant, 847-954-3177 [email protected]
Kimberly McGraw, Executive Assistant, 847-954-3179 [email protected]
Education, CE Approval, Smart TrackMichele George, Director of Education & Events, 847-954-3188 [email protected]
Membership, Chapter Relations, Booth Rental, Product OrdersRussell Daniels, Director of Chapter Relations, 847-954-3185 [email protected]
Mark Lester, Office Services Coordinator, 847-954-3176 [email protected]
Janet George, Membership Services Supervisor, 847-954-3180 [email protected]
Bonnie Bruno, Membership Administrator, 847-954-3175 [email protected]
Accounting, Human ResourcesBelienda Schultz, Accounting Manager, 847-954-3190 [email protected]
Beverly Canham, Financial Assistant, 847-954-3184, [email protected]
Website, Information Systems, DatabaseMike Rostescu, Director IT & Internet Communications, 847-954-3189 [email protected]
Publications, Advertising, Marketing, Public Relations Dave Kogan, Manager of Marketing & Business Development 847-954-3187, [email protected]
Arlene Zapata, Communications Design Manager, 847-954-3186 [email protected]
The ASHI School Jack McGraw, Managing Director, 888-884-0440 or 847-954-3178 [email protected]
Steve Reilly, Senior Sales Representative, 888-884-0440 or 847-954-3181, [email protected]
Kendra Eiermann, Administrative Assistant, 847-954-3198 [email protected]
ASHI Staff
Main Phone: 847-759-2820, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Mon.-Fri., CST
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7 December 2014 | www.ASHIReporter.org 7ASHI Reporter | December 20146
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WE TALKED ABOUT ASHI’S ACCOMPLISHMENTS last month in December’s ASHI Reporter. By the time you read this, though, we’ll be wrapping up one of the most successful InspectionWorld conferences we’ve ever had. With over 81 exhibi-tors, 45 classes, pre-and post-conference classes, “lunch and learn” sessions, and a new attendance app that revolutionized the flow of information to and from attendees and exhibitors, it’s easy to see why IW has become such a huge success. Watch for videos posted on ASHI’s website highlighting this year’s IW.
But let’s talk about this month’s Reporter. I’d like to suggest some new ideas for the year ahead that will culminate in ASHI’s 40th Anniversary in San Diego! I would also appreciate your feedback on what you’d like to read about. We’ll continue with our old favor-ites, like Postcards from the Field. But we’re adding a new twist. In December’s issue, we had a video submission from President-Elect Randy Sipe. If you haven’t had a chance to see it yet, go back, click on the link and check it out. Randy’s submission eliminates one of the drawbacks to Postcards. It’s sometimes hard to get a perspective of what the photo shows. Randy solved this by recording a video so we could follow him to the humorous (usually) conclusion of homeowner creativity.
If you liked what you saw on that video postcard and you’re a budding filmmaker, please send us your cinematic masterpiece and we’ll include them in our never ending battle for truth, justice and the American way of making us home inspectors shake our heads at the same time we justify our fees.
Another idea is to look back over the past 40 years of home inspection to see what we used to do and what we now do. I remember starting my inspection career by purchasing a 2D Maglite®. It was a fantastic product, clearly the best-built flashlight around. Introduced three years after ASHI was founded, it was a must-have for home inspectors: durable, solid with an adjustable beam and a lifetime warranty. Durable until I dropped it and the filament bulb broke (although there was a spare in the tail cap). Solid … it weighed down my belt so I was constantly hitching up my pants (but it could be used as a baton to ward off assaults by ferocious felines).
And best of all, unlike the candle that Ron Passero and the other founding members of ASHI had to use before it, the 2D Mag tripled the candlepower with 36 lumens! Now, before you techies jump on me about lumens and candlepower not being comparable, let it be known I’m taking some artistic license here. You’re welcome to write an op-ed if you’d like.
So, what we’ll do this year is compare the past to the present. We may even look to the future of home inspection and conjure up Hestia and go to that Mount Olympus place Bruce Barker is always talking about.
Here’s hoping you had a great 2014 and that 2015 is even
more prosperous!
Frank Lesh, Executive Director American Society of Home Inspectors
Direct: 847-954-3182 [email protected] • www.ashi.org
{AWZ- Let’s use Roman numerals for 1976 (MCMLXXVI
) during the comparison on 2015 Reporter covers} NOT SURE WE HAVE THE COVER OF THAT ISSUE!!
MCMLXXVI
MAGLITE
ASHI Reporter | December 20148 9 December 2014 | www.ASHIReporter.org 9
Electrical Fires Rank as one of the top Safety Hazards in Homes BY LEVITON MANUFACTURING
Electrical Fires Rank as one of the top Safety Hazards in Homes
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With electrical fires ranking as one of the top safety hazards in homes, it’s good to know that homeowners are now on the radar when it comes to arc-fault protection to help reduce the likeli-hood of their electrical system being the cause of a fire. Requirements for residential arc-fault protection were first introduced in the 1999 National Electrical Code® (NEC®) cycle, but have been expanded in every Code cycle since. The 2014 NEC is the most inclusive to date, mandating AFCI protection in residences in the following locations:
• Kitchens • Family rooms • Dining rooms • Living rooms • Parlors • Libraries• Dens • Bedrooms • Sunrooms • Closets • Hallways • Laundry areas • Recreation Rooms
It is important to note that the 2011 Code requires that AFCI protection be added when changing/replacing a receptacle in an “AFCI” location. Even if the geographical area you service is not currently on the 2014 Code, it is advisable to encourage homeowners to add AFCI protection, especially in older homes where there is a higher likelihood of an electrical fire. This will not only save time and money in the future, but more importantly, will provide a safer living environment for their family today.
There are two ways to incorporate AFCI protection into an electrical system: AFCI Circuit Breakers or Outlet Branch Circuit (OBC) AFCI Receptacles. OBC AFCI Receptacles are fairly new to the market, but offer a sensible alternative to AFCI Circuit Breakers, particularly because they provide the benefit of localized TEST and RESET buttons on the face of the device. This makes them convenient for homeowners to respond to if the device trips.
OBC AFCI Receptacles are designed to help pre-vent electrical fires that can be caused by poten-tially dangerous arc-faults in an electrical circuit. These devices contain electronic components
that constantly monitor a circuit for the presence of “normal” and “dangerous” arcing conditions. Based upon an established threshold of arc energy, the OBC AFCI can be triggered to quickly react and cut power to a circuit if “dangerous” arcing is detected. It is important for residents of a home to understand the difference between “normal” arcing, which is normally safe, and “dangerous” arcing. Below are a few typical examples of each, which you can use to educate residents during an inspection.
Low-Energy/Operational Arcs – Typically Safe• Naturally occur when contact or switch opens/
closes• When a motor with brushes runs• Generated by household appliances such as
refrigerators, air conditioners, tools or fans High-Energy/Hazardous Arcs – Potentially Dangerous• Should not occur or should be safely contained• When insulation on a wire has been damaged• Loose connections that expose wire• Loose connections where wires separate, caus-
ing an arc to jump from one place to another
When installed as the first outlet on a branch circuit, OBC AFCI Receptacles provide series arc protection for the entire branch circuit. They also provide parallel arc protection for the branch circuit starting at the OBC AFCI receptacle. OBC AFCI Receptacles may be used on any wiring system regardless of the panel and are ideal for older homes, which often have electrical panels that are not compatible with AFCI breakers.
OBC AFCI Devices are available in a number of different models to satisfy a range of applications.
AFCI ReceptacleOBC AFCI Receptacles address the dangers associated with both types of potentially hazard-ous arcing – parallel and series arcing. They provide feed-through protection and are able to detect downstream parallel and series arc-faults
as well as upstream series arc-faults. Utilizing an AFCI receptacle offers homeowners the benefit of localized TEST and RESET. Applications in-clude installation in living rooms, dining rooms, family rooms, bedrooms, parlors, dens, libraries, sunrooms, recreation rooms, closets, hallways, dormitories or similar areas.
Blank Face AFCIThe Blank Face AFCI offers the ideal solution for outlet branch circuits where AFCI protection is desired, but located where a receptacle is not needed. This type of application could include installing a Blank Face AFCI in a location to make AFCI protection readily accessible per the 2014 National Electrical Code. A Blank Face AFCI may also be used on circuits feeding lighting loads and/or other loads such as smoke detectors where a receptacle is not used.
Combination AFCI/SwitchA Combination AFCI/Switch provides AFCI protection, plus the convenience of a single-pole switch to control the lights. This combination is ideal for kitchens, family rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms and hallways. The AFCI Switch may be used for new circuits or modifications to existing circuits where a switch is the first outlet on a branch circuit.
AFCI 15-amp
Kid's Bedroom AFCI
ASHI Reporter | December 201410 11 December 2014 | www.ASHIReporter.org 11
Limitations of Two-DayRadon Screenings BY KURT SALOMON
Limitations of Two-Day Radon Screenings 444 Limitations of Two-Day Radon Screenings
IN TWO PREVIOUS REPORTER ARTICLES (Radon is Real and It Causes Cancer — Parts 1 and 2), we discussed what radon is, the dangers associated with it, and the protocols for proper testing and mitigation of it. This month, we will discuss some of the limitations that are inherent in the type of testing that we perform as part of a real estate transaction. A Moving TargetIn most homes, the radon level is a moving target. It varies from hour to hour, from day to day and from one season to the next. Wind, rain, snow, varying tempera-tures and barometric pressure can all cause dramatic changes in indoor radon levels. Sample SizeBack in the days before 1989, the first radon tests for real estate transactions consisted of samples taken during a 24-hour period. Nowadays, we take a 48-hour sample. While this modern standard gives us much more data, it still can only tell us what is happening during those two days. It cannot tell us what radon levels are like for the other 363 days of the year. Even when we follow the EPA protocols in an effort to create worst-case conditions, these samples can provide misleading information.
Year-long tests that use alpha track devices provide an average of radon levels for an entire year, but only that – an average. They don’t show the peaks and valleys that can be so important. If you have one foot in ice water and one foot in boiling
water, you might feel average. Likewise, a year-long alpha track test might experience wide swings in radon levels, but only show a moderate average. The health risks from radon are associated with a time-based exposure: how long you’re exposed and at what level. The peaks are more important to us than the valleys or the average.
Seasonal FluctuationsBased on 1,800,000 tests done by a national test organization, AirChek, there is a seasonal variation of radon levels depending on the month the test is done. The seasonal variation is repeatable. This is a table of variation of radon levels.
MT PA OH KY WV UTWinter 11.1 9.4 8.0 8.8 7.0 4.7Summer 3.7 5.5 6.3 5.0 4.6 2.4
The flowchart shows more distribution levels.
There are several reasons that account for the seasonal variation. One reason is thermal stacking. The stack effect is the movement of air in a building resulting from air buoyancy. The buoyancy result is either a positive or negative. The greater the thermal difference and the height of the building, the greater the buoyancy and thus the stack effect.
During the heating season, the indoor air rises up through the house and escapes through open windows and ventilation openings. This rising warm air reduces the pressure at the base and cold air causes the radon to get trapped in the house.
A second reason is frost on the ground. Gases travel the path of least resistance such as a dry basement and dry crawl space. Then the thermal stacking has an effect.
Weather EffectThe following is an example of a third-day test. If a radon tester checked a house for radon and found the level at 3.9, according to the EPA there is no problem. However if the tester tested the same house at 5.3, there is a problem. Does the tester know what he is doing? Are the test results reliable? Was there a storm coming through the tested area? The EPA states the guideline for high winds are at 30 mph over the average wind. How often are winds over 30 mph? Weather can and does affect radon levels. Abnormal EffectA most unusual radon test from a home in Saratoga Springs, Utah, produced a graph with a bell-shaped curve. At the height of the curve, radon levels exceeded 60, while at the lower end they were below 2. Even odder, the bell-shaped curve reappeared during the clearance test, after the mitiga-tion system was installed. After discount-ing correlations with the weather and the possibility of tampering, we suspect that
the wide swings in radon levels were the result of water movement underground.
SummaryThere is a seasonal variation to radon levels. Storms during a radon testing period can also elevate the radon levels. The real estate industry has imposed an unrealistic time frame of two days. The real exposure to radon is how long you are exposed to radon and at what level. At best, a two day test shows the potential for elevated levels of radon. The true test of radon is a year-long period. This is unreal-istic in a real estate transaction.
Kurt Saloman was 2011 ASHI
President, founded the Utah
ASHI Chapter, has been a home
inspector since 1992 and has a
BS in Mechanical Engineering
from the University of Illinois. He serves on two
American Association of Radon Scientists and
Technologists (AARST) Standard Committees,
Radon Resistance New Construction and
Radon Testing.
Nancy Bredhoff — Young Pioneer in Radon Testing
Appreciates Ongoing Challenges, Rewarding Experiences
In 1985, Nancy Bredhoff wrote the initial business plan for Radon Testing Corporation of America (RTCA), which became operational in 1986. It wasn’t until the mid-80s that the public understood the health issues and challenges of indoor radon. In 1986, the home inspection industry was an emerging market and radon testing as part of the real estate transaction was also an emerging market. The RTCA business plan addressed the importance of marketing to home inspectors to become radon professionals.
Today, almost 30 years later, Nancy Bredhoff is President of RTCA, after first serving as Managing Director. When she developed the plan, however, she had just received her MBA degree from Columbia University’s Graduate School of Business. Young as she was, her professional commitment to indoor radon testing was initially inspired by Stanley Watras and Andreas George.
“I heard the story of Stanley Watras, whose experience prompted government interest in indoor radon. One day in 1984, when he went to work at the Limerick Power Plant in Pennsylvania, he triggered the radiation alarms. But it turns out the plant was not the problem. Watras had unknowingly brought the radiation with him from his home, where the radiation levels were 700 times above the safe level,” Nancy explains. He and his family were immediately evacuated.
Nancy also met Andreas George, physical scientist and health physicist with almost 40 years of experience in the radon field. His credentials and professional contributions are so impressive that RTCA refers to him as the “Radon Guru.”
As she began her career at RTCA, “it was a big education process, always learning more myself and educating mortgage brokers, realtors and home inspectors about indoor radon health issues and testing challenges.
“When I attended ASHI’s annual conference in 1988 in San Francisco, RTCA was the only radon exhibitor, and I was the only female and probably the youngest. And it was a challenge Continued on next page...
ASHI Reporter | December 201412 13 December 2014 | www.ASHIReporter.org 13
Radon Mitigation Systems in Existing Homes
Sally Chapralis is the Consulting Editor for the ASHI Reporter. Her writing, business communications and PR experience includes working with construction and real estate industry publications.
...Continued from previous page because not many of the home inspectors understood the need for radon testing in the real estate transaction.”
In September of 1988, the Surgeon General had a joint press conference with the EPA and recommended that all homes be tested for radon. As a result, consumer demand for radon test kits surged overnight.
Also in 1988, Ralph Nader’s Consumer Advocacy Group, Public Citizen, conducted a blind testing of different radon labs. The result was that, in 1989, RTCA was rated #1 Radon Laboratory in the United States and was featured in the media and recognized by professional associations and government agencies. However, the survey also revealed the poor quality of other radon test kits, which had a negative effect on the retail market. “We survived because we had a quality service and had developed a computerized lab information management system for all aspects of the lab analysis, which included bar-coding all test devices. We were the first to link different dimensions of the process, which resulted in quality control and reliable results.” RTCA’s quality service has been its benchmark and it continues to get top ratings by the leading consumer agency.
Nancy was one of the founding members of the American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists (AARST) and served on its Board of Directors for 12 years. She currently serves on the Board of the National Radon Safety Board (NRSB) and was President of the NRSB from 1998 to 2012. The NRSB became responsible for certification of radon professionals when the U.S. EPA closed its program and privatized the radon proficiency program in 1998.
“I am proud to be a woman in the radon testing field, and I’m encouraged that more women are becoming home inspectors. My credibility rests on RTCA’s quality of service. During the 1980s and 1990s when developing our products, I was very fortunate to work with great scientists. While most were men, gender was not the issue. It has always been about securing
great talent.” 2 Hayes St., Elmsford, NY 10523-2502Tel: 914-345-3380 • Fax: 914-345-8546 • www.rtca.com
Test for Radon with RTCA
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1-800-457-2366
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R CARADON TESTING CORPORATION OF AMERICA
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CERTIFIED BY
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Many ASHI members have added radon testing to their home inspection services since the early 1990s. ASHI is now considering a certificate for completion of an educational program focusing on inspection of radon mitigation systems in existing homes.
“Radon systems have been installed since the 1980s, but many systems, which were ‘permanent’ installations, may no longer be performing as expected,” explains Shawn Price, President of The American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists (AARST). “Properly installed systems may have been altered, damaged or simply showing their age, while others may have been put together in a rush, leading to sloppy workmanship, and violations in the mitigation standards such as substandard materials, wiring without licensed electricians, improper discharge points. These problems often affect the long-term operation of the system and, quite frankly, are dangers to the families living in these homes. It is in our best interest to properly train professionals to identify the problems and potential hazards. It makes sense that home inspectors could fill this need of system inspection.”
Shawn notes that builders who are installing radon mitigation systems at the time of construction often do not understand the qualities of a fully functional system that makes them work, much less meet the standards. “Instead, when making a decision about a system installer, they often turn to the plumbers since they are the subcontractor who glues PVC pipe, going with convenience and price and not on knowledge and experience. Furthermore, if the system is, for example, ten or more years old, it’s already getting old and may not be functioning properly. So, while many systems have been installed, no one is looking at them. This could be a new and important role for home inspectors.”
As ASHI explores this critical issue and opportunity for its members, it will consult with AARST about the content for an ASHI Continuing Educational program and certificate of completion.
AARST is an accredited standards developer (by the American National Standards Institute ANSI) and is the caretaker of national radon standards in the United States. AARST also administers the National Radon Proficiency Program (NRPP) that certifies radon testing and mitigation professionals, and many of them are also members of ASHI.
“While radon mitigation system testing may be considered an ‘ancillary’ service and is not yet covered in home inspection schools and Standards of Practice, it becomes more critical every day,” Shawn adds. “The complexities of standards are always evolving and, thus, so is the need for training to remain current and relevant.”
“While existing systems must be inspected and we have to retrofit systems that may have worn out, builders are being pressured to install systems in new buildings.”
“It’s obvious that radon inspection is required for public health concerns, and, as our nonprofit association’s members understand, AARST is dedicated to high standards and ethical performance. We look forward to working with ASHI as it addresses its educational and professional goals.”
Radon Mitigation Systems in Existing Homes Ready for Inspections
BY SALLY CHAPRALIS
ASHI Reporter | December 201414 15 December 2014 | www.ASHIReporter.org 15
444 Kitchen Appliance Inspections
ONCE AGAIN, THE WORD INVITES you to travel into the dark realm of sub-jects that are sometimes misunderstood by home inspectors. The Word hopes you will find this trip informative and maybe a little entertaining.
Our topic this month is kitchen appliance inspections. The Word finds this topic inter-esting because the new ASHI Standard of Practice (SoP) requires us to inspect kitchen appliances. Some of us may be wondering what we’re supposed to be doing. Let’s start by reiterating the disclaimer at the end of every The Word column. The following is The Word’s considered opinion, for what-ever it’s worth. This is not an interpretation of the SoP, and this is not a statement of ASHI policy.
The StandardSoP Clause 10.1.F states:The inspector shall inspect installed ovens, ranges, surface cooking appliances, microwave ovens, dishwashing machines and food waste grinders by using normal operating controls to activate the primary function.
The first thing to note is that the SoP identi-fies specific appliances. The SoP excludes appliances such as refrigerators, trash com-pactors, clothes washers and clothes dryers. You may inspect other appliances if you wish, but it’s not required. The SoP also ex-
cludes appliances that are not installed. This includes counter-top microwave ovens and other counter-top cooking appliances. The second thing is that the SoP describes the inspection method. You inspect by operat-ing the appliance’s primary function to determine if it functions properly. What does that mean? We’ll address this for each appliance.
An interesting question, for Standards geeks, is how does SoP Clause 2.2.B.1 apply to inspecting appliances? What? You don’t remember this clause? Inspectors should have it tattooed on a readily accessible part of their anatomy. This essential clause tells us we are looking for defects that involve not functioning properly, significantly deficient, unsafe or near the end of their service lives.
Identifying appliances that are not func-tioning properly is the goal of inspecting appliances. Significantly deficient does not apply to appliance inspections because the SoP directs us to inspect appliances by operating them. The SoP does not direct us to inspect for significant deficiencies in the appliance itself. We may find significant deficiencies in and around the appliance while inspecting it and if we happen to find any, we should report them. Refer to the July 2012 Reporter for more about inspect-ing for and reporting significant deficien-cies. We should inspect for clearly visible
unsafe conditions in appliances regardless of whether we operate them. Identifying aging appliances is a good client service and a task you may wish to perform, but it’s not required.
Remembering SoP Clause 2.2.B.4 is also important, although framing it on a wall in your office is probably sufficient. This clause instructs us to report if we do not inspect a required system or component and to report the reason why. There are good reasons why you might not operate a kitchen appliance. If you don’t, you should report the fact and report why not. By the way, reporting that you did not inspect the appliances is required even if you disclaim appliance in-spections in your inspection agreement.
We’re going to divide the tasks for inspect-ing each appliance into two categories. Tasks you should perform are those that The Word believes are important for determining if the appliance is functioning properly. Tasks you may wish to perform are those that The Word believes may be a good idea, but are beyond the intended scope of the SoP.
There is one other caveat. Use your state SoP and any interpretations thereof if your state requires you to inspect appliances. Some states may require more than what The Word believes is adequate.
Dishwashing MachinesInspecting the dishwashing machine (dishwasher) involves determining if it fills with water, operates and drains. Running the dishwasher on any cycle that requires it to perform these functions satisfies the inspection requirement.
Tasks you should perform before you operate the dishwasher:• Check the floor around the dishwasher
and check in any cabinets in which the drain or water supply hoses run for evidence of water leaks.
• Check the type, size and condition of the drain hose. The drain hose should be at least ¾ inch diameter and have no visible splits, holes or blockages. Drain hoses supplied with dishwashers are usually not rated to pass through walls or floors.
• Check the type and condition of the water supply hose. The water supply hose may be a flexible stainless steel connector, copper tubing or a material recommended by the dishwasher manufacturer. Copper tubing may pass through walls and floors; connectors usually may not.
• Check the drain hose termination connec-tion under the sink. The hose should be connected to the connection port on the disposal or to a wye fitting in a sink tail piece upstream from the sink trap. Be sure the hose clamp is installed.
• Determine that the food waste grinder is clear of debris if the dishwasher drain hose is connected. The drain water may back up in a blocked food waste grinder.
• Check the condition of any visible electri-cal connection, including whether the dishwasher is disconnected. You are not required to, and probably should not, connect the dishwasher to the electrical supply.
• Check the water supply hose connection. The hose should be connected to the hot water supply and the supply should be on. You are not required to, and probably should not, turn on the water supply.
• Determine if something in the dishwasher might be damaged if you operate it. This could include operating instructions if the
dishwasher is new and expensive china or silverware. You are not required to, and probably should not, move occupant belongings out of the dishwasher.
• Consider not operating the dishwasher if any of the above are not satisfactory.
• Check for the presence of the drain hose high loop or air gap device. Check around the air gap device for evidence of water coming out of the device. This usually indicates a blockage in the drain hose.
• Determine if the dishwasher is attached to the counter top or kitchen cabinet.
• Determine if the dishwasher is reasonably level. If the racks slide out by themselves, it probably isn’t. This could affect whether the dishwasher drains properly.
• Check door operation. It should move freely without binding or scraping on the counter top or cabinet. If the door drops hard when opening, the springs are probably weak or damaged.
• Determine if the dishwasher has been operated recently. It could be months since a dishwasher in a vacant home has been operated. You may wish to pour about one quart of water in the bottom of the dish-washer to avoid running the pump while dry. Also, keep a close eye on the dish-washer during operation. The seals tend to dry out and may leak. Be sure to run the hot water through the supply pipes, especially to the dishwasher. This helps avoid the exploding dishwasher caused by the buildup of hydrogen sulfide gas in the water heater.
Tasks you may wish to perform:• Check door and control condition for
significant damage and absent parts.• Check the door seals for damage and
deterioration.• Check the sump area in the bottom for
significant water accumulation (a little is normal in many dishwashers) and for accumulation of debris that might block water flow.
• Check operation and condition of the racks and utensil tray.
• Check the tub for damage, deterioration, and rust.
• Check the condition of the heating element. Set the dishwasher to heated dry to test operation.
• Close the detergent dispenser. We’re not required to check this feature, but doing so only takes a second. Finding a detergent dispenser for an old dishwasher could be difficult, so someone might want a new dishwasher instead.
Inspecting dishwasher operation:• Listen and observe that the dishwasher
fills, operates and drains. Check the sump for excess water after operation. Check any air gap device for evidence of leaks.
• Check the detergent dispenser lid; did it open?
• Check the floor around the dishwasher and in any cabinets in which the drain or water supply hoses run for evidence of water leaks.
• Confirm that the dishwasher is off before you leave.
Range, Wall Oven, CooktopA range is an oven and cooktop in one cabinet. A wall oven is one or more ovens installed in a cabinet. A cooktop consists of burners mounted in a kitchen counter top. Inspecting an oven involves activating one element, usually the lower (baking) element. Inspecting a cooktop involves operating all burners and any warming area at the highest temperature. Tasks involved in inspecting these appliances are similar, so we’ll discuss them together.
Tasks you should perform before you operate the appliance:• Check inside the oven and check all
burners to determine if anything could be damaged by operating the appliance. Consider if you wish to move/remove anything that might be damaged.
• Check the condition of the oven and burners to determine if it appears safe and prudent to operate the appliance. Excessive food spillage and visible damage to heating elements are examples of situations when you might consider not operating the appliance.
A look at terms used in home inspection reports
The Word
Kitchen Appliance Inspections
BY BRUCE BARKER, ACI
ASHI Reporter | December 201416 17 December 2014 | www.ASHIReporter.org 17
• Check for absent and damaged knobs and controls that might make operation difficult.
• Check that the wall oven and cooktop are attached to their cabinet/counter top.
• Check door operation. It should move freely and not bind, scrape or hit nearby objects. If the door drops hard when opening, the springs are probably weak or damaged. If it binds or scrapes, the door might be installed incorrectly or the hinges might be bent or damaged.
• Check the condition of visible electrical and gas connections. Remember that plug-and-cord cables and flexible gas connectors may not pass through walls, floors and ceilings. You are not required to move the appliance to do this. You are not required to, and should not, connect the cooking appliance to the electrical or gas supply.
• Consider not operating the appliance if any of the above are not satisfactory.
• Check for the presence and operation of the range anti-tip bracket.
Tasks you may wish to perform:• Check door glass for cracking and other
damage. Staining between panes isn’t really damage, but you may want to report if it’s significant.
• Check the door seals for damage and deterioration. Damage could be a safety issue during the self-cleaning cycle by allowing escape of very hot gasses.
• Check the operation and condition of any pan drawer under the range.
• Check operation and condition of the racks.
• Check the cabinet for damage and deterioration.
• Check the operation of the oven element that you don’t test.
• Check the operation of any self-clean lock lever (don’t test the self-clean cycle).
• Check if the range is visibly level.• Check the carbon monoxide level
produced by a gas oven.
Inspecting appliance operation:• Determine that the tested oven element
and all burners glow red at the highest temperature (note: this may not work with some induction ranges/cooktops).
• Leave the oven door open while operating the oven. It’s a good way to remember to turn off everything before you leave. Note that some ovens do not permit operation with the door open.
• Don’t put anything back into a hot oven or on hot burners.
Microwave Ovens and Exhaust FansMicrowave ovens that we should inspect include those above the range/cooktop and those built into a cabinet. Some high-end microwaves include a convection oven. We should inspect the convection oven like a wall oven if it has a convection bake function that can be used without the microwave.
Tasks you should perform before you operate the appliance:• Check inside the appliance to determine
if anything could be damaged by operating the appliance. Consider if you wish to move/remove anything that might be damaged. Remove the metal rack, if installed, to avoid arcing.
• Check the condition of the appliance to determine if it appears safe and prudent to operate the appliance. Excessive food spillage and visible damage to the door are examples of situations when you might consider not operating the appliance.
• Check for absent and damaged knobs and controls that might make operation difficult.
• Check that the appliance is attached to its cabinet/counter top.
• Check the condition of visible electrical connection. Remember that plug-and-cord cables may not pass through walls, floors and ceilings. Look at the microwave if you test the kitchen GFCI receptacles. If the microwave goes off, it’s not on its own dedicated circuit as it should be (and it’s connected to the kitchen small appliance circuit, which it shouldn’t be). You are not required to, and probably should not, connect the appliance to the electrical supply.
• Consider not operating the appliance if any of the above are not satisfactory.
• Check the visible exhaust duct material. It should be smooth-wall metal, usually galvanized steel or copper. The exhaust duct should run to the outdoors, not into the attic or crawlspace. Schedule 40 PVC or ABS may be used for downdraft units if the duct is installed in a concrete slab.
• Check the exterior termination fitting. If there’s a damper, determine if it moves freely. A termination opening smaller than about 6 inches diameter or an equivalent area in a rectangle might be too small.
Tasks you may wish to perform:• Check door operation. It should move
freely and latch securely.• Check the cabinet for damage and
deterioration.
• Check for the presence of exhaust fan filters.
• Remove filters when the exhaust fan exhausts directly out the back wall and try to see the exhaust duct. Sometimes the fan is blowing into the wall cavity without a duct.
• Check the distance between the floor and the top of the microwave and check the distance between the cooktop and the cabinet. Some manufacturers rec-ommend at least 66 inches between the floor and the top of the microwave and at least 30 inches between the cooktop and the cabinet. There is no generally accepted minimum distance between a microwave and a cooktop, although The Word gets a bit nervous from a safety and convenience perspective when the distance gets below 13 inches.
Inspecting appliance operation:• Pour a few drops of water on the glass
tray or insert a wet paper towel and run the microwave for about 10 seconds; the water should be hot.
• Check the condition and operation of any glass tray.
• Check operation of any light.• Check operation of any exhaust fan.
Feel around the top and sides of the appliance for excessive backflow of air with externally exhausted fans. This may indicate that the fan isn’t connected to the duct or that the exterior damper is stuck shut.
Food Waste DisposerThe term garburator will be the first entry in the Canada/U.S. translation dictionary; garburator is one term for this appliance north of the border. Don’t call it a Disposall (unless it is the GE brand). Disposall is a brand name and, like all brand names, use of a brand name is poor reporting practice unless the appliance is that brand. Inspecting the disposer involves turning it on and listening for unusual sounds. Feeding the disposer is not required or recommended.
Tasks you should perform before you operate the appliance:• Check the condition of the disposer
exterior to determine if it appears safe and prudent to operate the appliance. Run water in the disposer to check for leaks. You might want to feel around and look for water. Leaks and significant rust or deterioration of the case are examples of situations when you might consider not operating the disposer.
• Check the condition of visible electrical connection. Remember that plug-and-cord cables may not pass through walls, floors and ceilings. The cable should be terminated at the disposer in a strain relief clamp. NM cable should be protected against physical damage. You are not required to, and probably should not, connect the disposer to the electrical supply.
• Check the plumbing fittings and trap. Pay special attention to when the disposer discharge pipe is at the same level as the waste pipe from the adjacent sink. The disposer may send waste into the adjacent sink without a directional fitting where the two pipes connect.
Tasks you may wish to perform:• Check the presence and condition of
the flexible splash guard at the disposer mouth.
• Check the condition of the grinding mechanisms by shining your flashlight into the disposer and looking at them.
• Check the location of the power switch. Is it reasonably convenient?
Inspecting appliance operation:• Run cold water in the sink before starting
the disposer. Start the disposer. Listen for loud or unusual sounds, or no sounds. Disposers sometimes freeze up when not operated for awhile. You might recom-mend that someone try to unfreeze it with the Allen wrench before replacing the disposer.
• Check for leaks.
Bruce Barker operates Dream Home Consultants. He has been building and inspecting homes since 1987. He is the author of “Everybody’s Building Code” and currently serves
as chair of the ASHI Standards Committee. To read more of Barker’s articles, go to www.dreamhomeconsultants.com.
444 Kitchen Appliance Inspections444 Kitchen Appliance Inspections
The Bottom LineMany of us have been inspecting kitchen appliances for years, but without really thinking about what we’re doing. The Word is among those. Perhaps this will serve as a start for a more uniform protocol for inspecting these appliances.
Memo to Hestia (goddess of the home and hearth): The Word does not reside on Mt. Olympus (just at its base) and welcomes other viewpoints. Send your lightning bolts or emails to [email protected]. The thoughts contained herein are those of The Word; they are not ASHI standards or policies.
ASHI Reporter | December 201418 19 December 2014 | www.ASHIReporter.org 19
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“Have you thought about performing inspections for HUD?” turned out to be the sentence that saved my business.
ARLENE PUENTES INTERVIEWED BY SALLY CHAPRALIS
Herspective From the Women of ASHI
I WAS REMINDED OF IT when a Past- President of ASHI, Frank Lesh, asked me to write an entry for “Herspective.”
“But Frank,” I wrote him, “I can’t write an article for ASHI. I don’t even think I’m still a home inspector. For the past couple of years, I’ve only performed about 20 home inspections a year.”
“Of course you’re still a home inspector,” Frank wrote back. “There are a lot of home inspectors who only perform 20 home inspections a year.”
Who knew?
And that reminded me of the 2006 telephone call I received from another Past-ASHI President, Marvin Goldstein. He wanted to best serve ASHI’s Board and so was calling home inspectors to ask their opinion on ASHI’s direction. During that phone call, he allowed me to vent about the slowdown in my home inspection business. It turned out this slowdown was common for home inspectors nationally and would only get worse.
“Have you thought about performing inspections for
HUD?” he asked.
No. I hadn’t. Marvin told me about it and so, with his encouragement and guidance, I got a badge from HUD’s Real Estate Assess-ment Center (REAC) and began perform-ing REAC inspections for HUD through
Marvin’s company, BISCO. I did this until the end of 2013 when I voluntarily gave up my REAC badge and began the more satis-fying and more lucrative full-time work of consulting for the properties that are subject to this inspection. This is why I’m still in business and this is why I only have time to perform about 20 home inspections a year.
Is it worth it for you to go through the trouble of getting an REAC badge? Here are my thoughts on the matter.
Good points about the REAC inspection work:• It’s more or less regular money. If your
home inspection business is floundering, this just may be the ticket to getting it afloat.
• You don't have to commit to an inspection if you don't want to.
• You get to know large commercial buildings. I have inspected thousands of commercial roofs, AC systems, water tanks, heating systems, plumbing systems, electrical systems, venting systems, etc. I have spoken to countless maintenance supervisors about their work, their local codes and the components they maintain. I will never be intimidated by a commer-cial inspection.
• You meet wonderful people. The property managers and maintenance staff who work in the field of affordable housing often work under difficult circumstances. And yet I have found most to be extremely competent, hard working and caring.
• You have the option of working with Marvin Goldstein’s company, BISCO. They're a much appreciated buffer between you and HUD.
• It may lead to something else. As I said, I have happily and successfully branched out to related consulting work.
Not-so-good points about the REAC inspections:• It’s not easy to get an REAC badge.
There’s a waiting period and a training period and written tests and field tests.
• Working with HUD can be frustrating enough to make you want to chew the inside of your cheek. Their directions to the inspectors are infuriatingly badly written and subjective.
• It's more work (physically and time-wise) for about 2/3rd the money of a home inspection.
• You may have to buy a new laptop or tablet that can run REAC software.
• It will take time away from your home inspection marketing efforts.
• You will not be your own boss. HUD is the boss. When HUD says blue is green, well, then, blue is green. HUD does not give your experience as a building profes-sional the respect it deserves. It was more unnecessarily humbling than I wished it had been.
• You will probably have to commit to a schedule many weeks in advance and so will lose some home inspection work.
• There are regular HUD surprise audits of your inspections. These audits are a pill.
• You will have to learn the REAC inspec-tion protocol and, for that, you have to turn off your brain and focus on HUD-speak.
I liked performing home inspections more than I liked performing REAC inspections for HUD. But I like my REAC consulting work — counseling the properties that are subject to REAC inspections — more than I like performing home inspections. I’m glad to have traveled my recent career path. And I know that none of it would have happened without ASHI.
ASHI Reporter | December 201420 21 December 2014 | www.ASHIReporter.org 21
Service Philosophy – Reversing Risk for Buyers 444 Service Philosophy – Reversing Risk for Buyers
HAVE YOU EVER WATCHED LATE-NIGHT television and seen a commercial for a product such as a set of steak knives or a piece of exercise equipment? Who buys that stuff after seeing it on television? How can they tell if the product is any good? To know its worth, you need to be able to touch it, to see how the parts are put to-gether, then to try it out and so on. So why would a buyer take that kind of risk?
Professional services are much the same. Your prospect can’t evaluate your service with any accuracy, especially over the phone. Not only does your prospect have no idea what they will get from your service, but the prospect does not even know what you look like. The bottom line is that the prospect or client assumes all of the risk in the transac-tion. They take a leap of faith when they say, “Okay, I will hire you.” Because there is risk involved, they may choose to call a few other home inspection companies until they get a good feeling from someone.
Remove Risk How do you overcome this problem? The same way the late-night television people do it. Do anything you can do to remove or reduce the risk. The television people tell you to order it and enjoy it for a week. If you are not happy, send it back for a full refund. You can do the same thing with your prospects. If they are hesitating, just tell them to book the inspection. If they are not happy at the end of the inspection, they don’t have to pay. That is risk reversal.
Now the risk is all yours. You risk doing an inspection for a client who might not pay you at the end. Makes you feel a bit uncomfortable, doesn’t it? Now you know how your prospects feel. But the risk to you is not as great as it seems. The fact is, almost every client is pleased with the inspection. Few people, if any, will tell you they are unhappy in order to get a free inspection. We have never had a problem with people taking advantage of this kind of offer. It’s unlikely that you will, either. The upside far outweighs the risk that you may get cheated the odd time.
Risk reversal is a tool you should use in just about everything you do, not just when you are booking an inspec-tion. Here are some steps you can take:
Step 1: For each transaction involving your business, identify the risk involved for the prospect.
Step 2: List as many ways as possible to reduce or remove the risk.
Step 3: For each of your ideas in Step 2, identify what the risk is to you.
Step 4: Select a strategy that has the best balance.
Here is an example.Step 1: You’ve developed a strategy to get more real estate agents to refer business to you. You have decided that you will take
one agent out for lunch per week. At the end of the lunch, you plan to ask the agent if he or she will refer their next inspection to you. What is the risk to the agent? The risk is substantial. The agent may already have a home inspector to whom they refer business. And the agent’s home inspector is especially good because he or she doesn’t alarm the clients unnecessarily. If the agent refers you instead, he or she risks that you will not be as levelheaded as the agent’s current, preferred home inspector. You may kill the sale and cost the agent a big commission.
Step 2: How can you eliminate the risk for the agent? You could offer to pay the agent the commission if you end up killing the deal. Or, you could tell the agent that if the client is not happy with the inspection, the client doesn’t have to pay. The second offer presents a more reasonable risk for you and no risk for the client, but it still leaves risk for the agent.
Step 3: What are the risks to you? Offering to pay agents their lost commissions if you kill the deal is too big a risk for you, not to mention that this offer has ethical implica-tions. Offering to absorb the cost of the inspection reduces the client’s risk, has little risk for you, but does not really reverse the risk for the agent.
Step 4: Strike a balance everyone can live with. Our strategy is a combination of reducing the risk for the client and quan-tifying the actual risk for the agent. For
instance, when you meet with the agent, explain how good you are with clients and how you put problems in proper perspec-tive so that the client doesn’t walk from the deal over small issues. Let the agent know that you understand the state of mind of someone buying a home, and that it helps no one if a client overreacts to a common, minor problem, and walks away from a good home. You may tell the agent that your role is to advise and help your client, not to impress them. You feel no pressure to find problems to help justify your fee. Then extend the offer so that if the client is unhappy for any reason, they will not be required to pay. You are not reversing the risk for the agent at all, but because you have explained your client-friendly approach, the agent may feel that your strategy does, in fact, reduce the risk of the client walking away from the deal.
You can make another point to the agent. If their client does not buy the home based on the results of the inspection, they will still buy a home. While the agent will have to spend more time with the client to find them another home and earn the commis-sion, the agent/client relationship will be stronger because the client appreciates that the agent saved them from making a mis-take by introducing them to you.
What we have done here is outline the concept of reversing risk, and pro-vided simple steps for you to employ this in your business as part of your service philosophy. In future articles, we will discuss other topics for service philosophy such as using the “under-promise and over-deliver” approach, and winning customers by fixing mis-takes fast. Stay tuned!
In Memory: Coleman M. Greenberg Coleman M. Greenberg of Sedona passed away on January 17, 2014, in Houston, Texas. He was 75 years old. He was surrounded by Pinky Greenberg of Sedona, and his sons, Richard and Martin Greenberg of Mahopac, NY. Cole was born on February 23, 1938, in Omaha, Nebraska to the late Samuel M. Greenberg and Mildred Lipsey Greenberg. At Cole's request, his body was donated to science.
Many people found Cole provocative. One can see why by noting his email signature line: “Always Question Authority!” He was deeply passionate about the individuals and causes he supported. Cole was President of ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) National, AZ-ASHI, NY Metro ASHI and Keep Sedona Beautiful. He volunteered with Youth at Risk, Freedom Gardens, Hunger Project, Holiday Project, the Sedona Airport Noise Abatement Committee and other organizations. He had an uncanny ability to make friends, impact others and stir up lively debate. And while Cole was unmistakably dedicated to his volunteer activities, he always found time to share his kindness, warmth and animated sense of humor with family and friends.
Cole is survived by his two sons and their wives, Karen and Jane: his four grandchildren, Austin, Jack, Sam and Miles, and his siblings Barbara Seglin, Joseph Greenberg and Philip Greenberg.
A Celebration of Life service was held on Thursday, February 6, 2014, at the Jewish Community of Sedona and consistent with Cole's wishes, the celebration continued at the Oak Creek Brewery with music by The Bresnan Blues Band.
Memorial donations should be sent to: Keep Sedona Beautiful, Inc., Environmental Stewards of Sedona Since 1972, Pushmataha Center, 360 Brewer Road, Sedona, AZ 86336
Service Philosophy – Reversing Risk for Buyers BY ALAN CARSON – CARSON, DUNLOP & ASSOCIATES LTD.
Volunteer and Earn CEsCEs may be earned for each instructional hour attending conferences, chapter events and ASHI approved seminars as well as through online educational programs.
Did you know that ASHI recognizes your volunteer efforts? Volunteering on the ASHI Board, the Council of Representatives and at your chapter will earn you CEs. Attending the Leadership Training Conference provides 6 CEs. Earn credit for authoring an article that's published in the Reporter or instructing at an ASHI event. In mentoring a new inspector, you both earn 2 CEs.
Volunteering has its rewards for both you and ASHI.
ASHI Reporter | December 201422 23 December 2014 | www.ASHIReporter.org 23
JULES FALCONE STARTED DOING HOME inspections in 1972, and began mentoring in 1977, a few years after launching his home inspection business and training his brother. “Back then, there were no training programs, no online resources, and the im-portance of a home inspection was not yet understood or fully appreciated like it is now,” Jules says. “To train my brothers and then future employees and more than 100 other inspectors, I had to learn every detail about homes and performing accurate, in-depth inspections. I created a loose-leaf folder, running about 500 pages, so that I could record instructions and information for myself and as part of training other inspectors. I would tab sections as each related to the system in a home.”
Today, almost 40 years later, Jules is president of Jules Falcone & Associates/ Inspection Pros, Media, PA, which employs three home inspectors.
“By the mid-1990s, we understood the importance of training and many educa-tional resources and opportunities became available.” Jules’ loose-leaf book has also evolved into several published works, courses, presentations, articles and media coverage.
As one of the first 60 ASHI charter members, he has served on several national committees and the national Board of Directors. He has also served as President of the Tri-State Chapter and received the John
Cox Award for a member who contributes the most at the chapter level.
Jules’ inspection and mentoring experience and success has, of course, influenced his approach to home inspection, serving as a mentor and offering advice on choosing a mentor.
> Problem-Solving, Added Value, Communication & Character
“My role as an inspector is finding prob-lems, maybe ones that others might not see, and then explaining, in-depth, how they should be solved,” Jules explains. “This information is included in my report and the buyer, seller or realtor decides how they want to follow up, but at least I’ve given them information on the best solution. This approach adds value to my inspection and reinforces my reputation, which is critical. I don’t want to compete on price, only on my knowledge.”
However, Jules adds, “Character is the most significant factor in home inspection and your people skills are critical. Yes, you’re not only responding to a buyer, seller or realtor’s goals and perspectives during an inspection, but you have to acknowledge and commu-nicate with family members and friends and anyone else present at the inspection. I stress the issue of character when mentoring. And when we’re hiring for our company, candi-dates go through four separate interviews. We observe their body language, patience,
answers to off-beat questions and general attitude toward others.
“I can teach people about home inspections, but I cannot teach them how to be nice and deal with others. That’s why I would recommend all of my inspectors because all are stars and have character as well as professional knowledge.”
Jules explains that a home inspector’s reputation also includes appearance and dress code. “This means everything – shoes, clothes, personal appearance, clean and or-ganized auto and truck. The minute a client sits down on the passenger seat, the tone is set and becomes part of your character. Home inspection is a great profession and we want to reflect this in every way.”
> Mentoring – a Learning Experience
“Our parents taught us that integrity and character are important in every area of life and places we go. I also remember that when I was 28 years old, I knew that I had to become a problem-solver, which meant continuous learning and being receptive to new approaches.
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Mentoring Makes a Dif ference
Mentoring Makes a Difference: Offers Benefits and Opportunities, Keeps Both of You Current BY SALLY CHAPRALIS
25 December 2014 | www.ASHIReporter.org 25ASHI Reporter | December 201424
444 Mentoring Makes a Dif ference
“This included being ready for questions and answers and developing them for home inspectors and for clients. When someone asks ‘how much will this cost and what will it include?’ I give an example and then give a price range depending on their goals and needs. The cost explains the extent of the problem.” Jules also reminds us that, when a home inspector saves clients money, now or in the future, it adds to the inspector’s value.
Did Jules have a mentor? “No, it was too early in the 1970s. For the first five years as a home inspector, I had to train myself. But my dad was a great mentor when I worked with him in the carpentry business. While home inspection and carpentry are entirely different, there are common denominators in terms of professionalism.”
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However, Jules did learn more about writing reports after inspections. “ASHI’s Standard of Practice is an important start-ing point. Then, write a report that is easy to read, defines the problems and inspector feedback, and includes necessary disclaim-ers. Don’t make it overwhelming. Keep it short but substantive. And, don’t use more than 20 to 30 photos, not 100, to define and illustrate the issues.”
> Choosing a MentorIf you’re considering a mentor for yourself (or becoming one), Jules suggests that you ask a prospective mentor these questions:
• How many years of home inspection experience do you have?
• What is your mentoring history?• What is my responsibility as a mentee?
• How do I prepare myself to be mentored?• Will there be limitations to the number of
questions I can ask when being mentored?• Will you teach me how to work with buyers,
sellers and realtors?• How will we work together in the
mentoring process?
Mentoring can be a mutually rewarding experience for both mentor and mentee at any stage of your career. Consider the possibilities and your potential.
Sally Chapralis is the Consulting Editor for the ASHI Reporter. Her writing, business communications and PR experience includes working with construction and real estate industry publications.
ASHI Reporter | December 201426 27 December 2014 | www.ASHIReporter.org 27
ASHI Chapters What’s Happening at the Chapters
ASHI CommunityNew Inspector Status, ASHI Chapters, Council News
New ASHI Associates As of November 1, 2014.
H Denotes graduate of The ASHI School
John RobersonPrecision Property Inspections, LLCMontgomery, AL
Ryan CastilloBill's Home Inspection Services, Inc.Green Valley, AZ
Mark Fleury Mark of Excellence Home InspectionsPhoenix, AZ
Don HensonBill's Home Inspections, Inc.Green Valley, AZ
Robert JeglumDollhouse Home InspectionsScottsdale, AZ
Troy Bradley Bradley Home InspectionsRedding, CA
Bill PhillipsPhillips H.E.R.S. Rating & Home InspectionRedding, CA
Anthony Eulberg, P.E.Home Inspection EngineersWheat Ridge, CO
Joseph AndrewsDanbury, CT
Dave BarbagalloKensington, CT
Keith CarrAmeriSpec Inspection ServiceOcala, FL
Patrick FitzsimmonsGHISMartinez, GA
Michael JohnsonGHISMartinez, GA
M. Aren ClevenSuperior Home InspectionKailua, HI
Sean LathropGarden Island Home InspectionsKilauea, HI
H Brian Dixon Burlington, IA
Devin AndersonKeystone Home InspectionsPocatello, ID
Brian MawAccurate Test & Inspect Inc.Victor, ID
Warren ElderMidwest Adjustment Services, Inc.Blue Mound, IL
Kevin AustinCornerstone Inspection ServicesCarmel, IN
John BensonHamilton Inspection ServicesCarmel, IN
Steven HallmarkCornerstone Inspection ServicesCarmel, IN
Paul GrisePG Home InspectionsHopkinsville, KY
Edward ColumbiaHighland Home Inspections, Inc.Glenelg, MD
David DemastusThere's No Place Like Home InspectionsAbingdon, MD
Otis (Bud) EshamEsham InspectionsBerlin, MD
Jorge MarmolClarksburg, MD
Richard DavisDavis Inspection Services Westland, MI
Paul DioniseHolt, MI
Reed Poitra Technical Inspections LLCBurnsville, MN
Tim MitchellMitchco Enterprises, LLCWentzville, MO
New ASHI Certified Home Inspectors As of November 1, 2014.
New ASHI Inspectors As of November 1, 2014.
INSPECTOR
Jerry SchooleyPerfect Inspections Canton, GA
Jeremy MeekDiscovery Inspection ServicesOswego, IL
Patrick LeahyAccuSpec Home Inspections, Inc.St. Paul, MN
Norman TylerSage Inspections, LLCSt. Louis, MO
Charles McCrackenCFM Home Inspections, LLCMount Pleasant, SC
David FletcherPillar To PostCleveland, TN
Juan JimenezA House on a Rock Home Inspections LLCNorth Chesterfield, VA
ASHI Chapter Education
Timothy KelleyHome Inspection by Kelley, LLCMadison, AL
Glenn CrowlHome Inspections LLCPrescott Valley, AZ
Randy CottrellOC Home Care LLCJoppa, MD
Michael CotterCTR Home InspectionsBlauvelt, NY
The MAC-ASHI ChapterWinter SeminarWhen: January 24, 2015
Where: Rockville, MD, in the
Rockville Senior Center
What: Mike Casey will offer
an update on electrical
systems. JD Grewell will
present a session on
defect recognition with
effective report writing
and then a comparison
to the ASHI SoP and the
Maryland SoP.
CEUs: Proposed to allow for
8 CEs
Watch for future email
announcements, visit Mid
Atlantic Chapter: American
Society of Home Inspectors
or contact David Goldberg at
for further information.
To have your chapter seminar listed here: Email all information about your chapter seminar to [email protected]. Information also will be picked up from CE applications.
Thirty YearsWosyl Pilipczuk Robert Mulloy Mark Reinmiller Michael Poli, P.E. Ernest Simpson Roman Paul Korobij Mark Mitman Phillip Thornberry Patrick Casey Jack Milne Larry Greenwold
Twenty Years Albert Innamorati Thomas Rooney Chris Keeling Michael Williams Donald Lawn
Fifteen Years Robert Reese Jeffrey Donaldson, P.E.Craig Smith Don Cessna Rich Able Roger Priest Sergio Angione
Ten YearsSteve Jacoby Michael Blagg Thomas Brennan David Shumaker Tom Carter Jim Radcliffe John Clason Robert Major Eric Babcock Stephen Sutton Jason Gruhn Aaron Mainelli Fidel Esposito Frank Harmon
Five YearsPete Sutch John Blough Glenn Schwartz Kirk Harding Mark Orso John Fordyce Jim Browning Karl Sanders Eric Villaverde Dan McPhee Steven Gerke Devin Lehmann Fred Alati Zak Kuczynski Ryan Goeglein Angus McPhaul
Corey WilliamsThe BrickKicker Home Inspection ofKansas City Excelsior Springs, MO
Brycen SaterenLakota, ND
Mike GittMike Gitt Home InspectionsOmaha, NE
Lixin WangLX Inspections, LLCWestfield, NJ
Ling-Hsiang HuangCHENMOO HOME INSPECTIONFresh Meadows, NY
Brian SchneeKL Home Inspections Services, LLCRockville Centre, NY
Stephen CarterAmeriSpec Inspection ServicesPowell, OH
Justin HarperPillar to PostPhoenixville, PA
Charles Hawkins3 Rivers Construction ServicesAliquippa, PA
Mark JonesPillar to PostSouth Hampton, PA
Paul LorrahHouseInspectMedia, PA
Stephen MulrooneySJC Property Services LLCLincoln University, PA
Seamus SharpePhiladelphia, PA
Frank PinoOn Target Home Inspections, LLCProvidence, RI
Tonya AntonevichPillar to Post Home InspectorsCharleston, SC
James WoodHampton Home InspectionsHampton, SC
Patrick O'ConnorSerenity Home InspectionsLorton, VA
Scott StewartPillar to Post/Green Peak Inspections LLCDorset, VT
Rob HagerR. H. InspectionsTacoma, WA
Bill BarberCochrane, AB, CA
Tony Bukkems Westerose, AB, CA
North Central Ohio & Ohio ASHI ChaptersInspector ExpoWhen: February 27, 28 and
March 1, 2015
Where: Holiday Inn,
Worthington, OH
CEUs: 17 ASHI CEs
Contact: thompsonbk@king-
home-inspection.com
To share details of a chapter event and photos of events that have already occurred, please send your information to [email protected].
Deadlines are the 1st of the month prior to the issue in which you would like your information to appear.
Nick BuffingtonMile High Home LLCDenver, CO
1. Go to www.ASHI.org2. Under Education &
Training3. Click on ASHI Online
Learning Center
Easy.
Education.
Excellent.
Continue learning at the click of
a button!
FREE ASHI Member access to past IW
sessions.
DECEMBER ANNIVERSARIES
ASHI Reporter | December 2014 December 2014 | www.ASHIReporter.org 28 29
NEW ENGLAND/CANADA
Alberta www.cahpi-alberta.comBert Bruinsma, [email protected]
British Columbiawww.cahpi.bc.caGary Poirer, [email protected]
CAHPI Atlantic www.cahpi-alt.comBlaine Swan, [email protected]
CAHPI Ontariowww.oahi.comDonald Beneteau, [email protected]
Coastal Connecticutwww.coastalctashi.org Third Thursday, 6 pm, Westport VFW Lodge, 465 Riverside Avenue, WestportGene Autore, [email protected]
New England (ME, MA, NH, RI, VT)www.ashinewengland.orgFourth Thursday, 5 pmThe Lantana, Randoph, MAMichael Atwell, [email protected]
Northern New England (ME, MA, NH, VT)www.nnec-ashi.orgBob McDonald, [email protected]
Prairies (Alberta) (CAHI)www.cahpi-ab.caBert Bruinsma, [email protected]
Quebec AIBQwww.aibq.qc.caGermain Frechette, [email protected]
Southern New England (CT)www.snecashi.orgFirst Tuesdays, 6:30 pmBilly T’s, 150 Sebethe Dr.Cromwell, CT Richard W. Hall, [email protected]
NEW YORK/JERSEY/ DELAWARE
Capitol Region (NY)www.goashi.com Third Thursday, 7 pm, Doratos Steakhouse and Pub, Guilderland Robert Davis, [email protected]
Central New Yorkwww.cnyashi.comSecond Wednesday, 6 pm, Tony’s Family Restaurant, SyracuseDan Hager, [email protected]
First State (DE)www.firststateashi.orgThird Wednesday, 7 pm The Buzz Ware Center, 2121 The Highway, ArdenMark Desmond, [email protected]
Garden State (NJ)www.gardenstateashi.comSecond Thursday, The Westwood, GarwoodBret Kaufmann, [email protected]
Greater Rochester (NY)www.ashirochester.comSecond Tuesday, 6 pm, Murph’s Irondequoit Pub, IrondequoitJohn White, [email protected]
Hudson Valley (NY)SecondTuesday, 6 pm, Daddy O’s Restaurant3 Turner StreetHopewell Junction, NY 12533Michael Skok, 845-592-1442 [email protected]
Long Island (NY)www.liashi.comThird Monday, 6 pm, Domenico’s Restaurant, LevittownSteven Rosenbaum, [email protected]
New York Metro www.nyashi.comLast Thursday, Eldorado West Restaurant-Diner, TarrytownStephen P. Tyler, 845-521-4144
Southern New Jersey (NJ)www.southernnjashi.comThird Wednesday, 6:30 pm Ramada Inn, BordentownRick Lobley, [email protected]
Western New YorkSecond Thursday, 6:30 pm Tony Rome’s West SenecaAndy Utnik, [email protected]
MID-ATLANTIC
Central Virginiawww.cvashi.orgFirst Thursday, 6:30 pm, Indepen-dence Golf Club, MidlothianRay McMurdy, [email protected]
Greater Baltimore (MD)www.greaterbaltimoreashi.orgThird Thursday except July & Aug., 6:30 pm, Snyder Willow Grove Restaurant, LinthicumStephen R. Dallmus, 410-323-7600 [email protected]
Hampton Roads (VA)Second Thursday, 7 pm, Cypress Point Country Club, Virginia BeachGuillermo Hunt, [email protected]
MAC-ASHI (MD, VA)www.mac-ashi.comSecond Wednesday, Rockville Senior Center, RockvilleJohn Vaughn, [email protected]
NOVA-ASHI (MD, VA)www.novaashi.comFourth Tuesday, Associate hour 6-7 pm, Membership meeting 7-9 pm Northern Virginia Resources Center, FairfaxFerando [email protected]
Piedmont ASHI (VA)Robert Huntley, [email protected]
SOUTH ATLANTIC
ASHI Georgiawww.ashigeorgia.comGregg Allen, 770-745-7574gregg@totalhomeinspections atlanta.com.
East Tennesseewww.etashi.orgThird Saturday of Feb., May, Aug. and Nov.Paul Perry, [email protected]
Mid-TennesseeRay Baird, [email protected]
Mid-South (TN)Steven Campbell, [email protected]
North Carolinawww.ncashi.comThird Wednesday, 3 pm, Quality Inn at Guilford Convention Center, GreensboroLarry Conway, [email protected]
South CarolinaFirst Saturday of Feb., May, Aug. & Nov., 8 amRoger Herdt, [email protected]
GULF
ASHI South (AL)www.ashisouth.orgQuarterly, Homewood Library, HomewoodDerl Nelson, [email protected]
Central Floridawww.centralfloridaashi.orgSecond Tuesday, 6:30 pmBill Labita, [email protected]
FLASHI (FL)First Tuesday except July, 6 pm Golden China, 11112 San Jose Blvd., JacksonvilleDavid Sorge, [email protected]
Florida Wiregrasswww.ashiwiregrass.orgSecond Wednesday, 6:30 pm Hyundai of Wesley ChapelNancy Janosz, [email protected]
Gulfcoast (FL)First Thursday, 7 pm, The Forest Country Club, Fort MyersLen Gluckstal, [email protected]
Gulfstream (FL)Ralph Cabal, [email protected]
Lone Star (TX)www.ashitexas.orgCraig Lemmon, [email protected]
LouisianaQuarterlyMichael Burroughs, [email protected]
Suncoast (FL)www.ashisuncoast.comFirst Tuesday, 6:30 pm, Please see our website for meeting locations.Steve Acker, [email protected]
ASHI Chapters Find the Chapter Nearest You and Join Today
Chapter meetings and contacts are subject to change. Please contact the chapter to confirm meeting time and location.
Southwest Floridawww.swashi.comSecond Wednesday, 6 pm Holiday Inn, Lakewood Ranch6321 Lake Osprey Drive, Sarasota Michael Meesit, [email protected]
NORTH CENTRAL
ASHI Central PA www.ashicentralpa.comSecond Monday, 6 pm, except Jan. & July, Bonanza Steak House, Walnut Bottom Rd., CarlisleWilliam Weitzel, [email protected]
Keystone (PA)www.keystoneashi.orgFirst Monday, 5:30 pmThe Crowne Plaza, ReadingDavid Artigliere, [email protected]
Ohiowww.ohioashi.comHoward Snyder, [email protected]
North Central Ohiowww.ncohioashi.comWilliam Stone, 216 [email protected]
Pocono-Lehigh (PA)www.pocono-lehighashi.orgThird Tuesday, Tannersville Inn, TannersvilleRonald Crescente, [email protected]
PRO ASHI (PA)www.proashi.comSecond Wednesday of Jan., March, May, July & Nov.George W. Kasimirsky, 724-747-7321 www.npiweb.com/kasimirsky
Tri-State (DE, NJ, PA)www.tristateashi.orgSecond Tuesday except April, Aug. & Dec., Dave & Buster's Plymouth Meeting, PAVince Tecca 215-527-5710 [email protected]
MIDWEST
Central Illinoiswww.cicashi.comSecond Monday, 6 pmKevan Zinn, [email protected]
Great Lakes (IL, IN, IA, KY, MI, MN, OH, WI)For monthly meetings: www.greatinspectors.com/ schedule-of-events/Carol Case, 734-284-4501 [email protected]
Greater Omaha (NE)www.ashiomaha.comRick Crnkovich, [email protected]
Heartland (IA, MN, ND, SD, WI)www.ashiheartland.comTodd Wiessner, [email protected]
Indiana ASHIwww.inashi.comQuarterlyDanny Maynard, [email protected]
Iowa ASHIwww.iowaashichapter.orgFourth Tuesday, 5:30 pm Clarion Inn, Cedar RapidsMike Tomash, [email protected]
Kentuckiana (IN, KY)www.ashikentuckiana.orgAllan Davis, 502-648-9294elitehomeinspections@ insightbb.com
Mid-Missouriwww.midmoashi.comSecond Tuesday, 12:00 pm Daniel Boone Regional Library 100 W. Broadway, Columbia, MO Joe Pangborn, [email protected]
Northern Illinoiswww.nicashi.comSecond Wednesday, 5:30 pm 237 W. St. Charles Street Villa Nova Restaurant, Villa ParkSteve Reilly, [email protected]
SOUTH MIDWEST
ArkansasRichard Kirkman, [email protected]
Great Plains (KS, MO)www.ashikc.orgSecond Wednesday of even months, The Great Wolf Lodge, Kansas CityMiki Mertz, [email protected]
Midwest PRO ASHI (KS)Jack Koelling, [email protected]
St. Louis (MO)www.stlashi.orgSecond Tuesday, 6:30 pm Spazio’s at WestportFrank Copanas, [email protected]
MOUNTAIN
Arizonawww.azashi.orgTony Hecht, [email protected]
New MexicoFirst Saturday, 10 amCharles Smith, [email protected]
Northern Coloradowww.ncc-ashi.orgSecond Thursday, 6:30 pm Fairfield Inn, LovelandChris Elliott, [email protected]
Northern Rockies (ID, MT) Lamar Rase, [email protected]
Rocky MountainFourth Tuesday, 6:30 pmPhil Tatro, [email protected]
Southern Coloradowww.ashi-southerncolorado.orgSecond Thursday, 6:30 pm Valley Hi Golf Club, Colo. SpringsMike Meyer,[email protected]
Utahwww.ashiutah.comFirst Tuesday, 7 pm Marie Callender’s, MidvaleFred Larsen, [email protected]
PACIFIC
AlaskaSecond Thursday, Jitters Coffee House, Eagle RiverJim Foss, [email protected]
ASHI Hawaiiwww.ashihawaii.comAlex Woodbury, [email protected]
CaliforniaRandy Pierson, [email protected]
Central Valley CREIA-ASHIPeter Boyd, [email protected]
Golden Gate (CA)www.ggashi.comJohn Fryer, [email protected]
Inland Northwest (ID, WA)Chris Munro, [email protected]
Orange County CREIA-ASHI (CA)Third Monday, 5:30 pm Hometown Buffet, 2321 S. Bristol, Santa AnaRalph Bertke, [email protected]
Oregonwww.oahi.orgFourth Tuesday, 6:30 pm The East Bank Saloon, PortlandJon Nichols, [email protected]
San Diego CREIA-ASHIFirst Tuesday each month The Butcher Shop Steakhouse, San DiegoSean Blasius, [email protected]
San Joaquin Valley (CA)Third Tuesday, 6 pm Rice Bowl, Bakersfield, CASam Jabuka, [email protected]
Silicon Valley ASHI-CREIA (CA)www.siliconvalleyinspector.comFelix A. Pena, [email protected]
Southwestern IdahoSecond MondayDavid Reish, [email protected]
Los Angeles-Greater San Gabriel ValleySecond Tuesday, 6 pm Old Spaghetti Factory, DuarteLarry Habben, [email protected]
Los Angeles-Ventura County ASHI-CREIAFirst Thursday, 5 pm Holiday Inn, Woodland HillsBob Fuywe, [email protected]
South Bay (CA)Webinar meetingsRandy Pierson, [email protected]
Western Washingtonwww.ashiww.comMichael Brisbin, [email protected]
ASHI Reporter | December 201430 31 December 2014 | www.ASHIReporter.org 31
Alden Gibson
President Inspections by Gibson
Breslau, ON
1. Building the membership is critical to main-
taining low dues. The cost of living contin-
ues to rise. The economy is slowly starting
to recover. We must build the membership
to maintain our low fees. The membership
must assist ASHI in building the society.
2. AEI has great potential to produce income
for AEI & ASHI. The AEI Board must pay
close attention to the operation of TAS and
provide support and guidance when needed.
Membership Highlights• 1992, Joined ASHI/OAHI
• 2011-2012 Board of Directors, Treasurer
• 2010 Board of Directors, Secretary
• 2007-2010 Board of Directors, Director
• 2001-2002 vice president, OAHI
• 2001-2002 officer, OAHI
• 1997-1999, 2000-2002 Board of
Directors, OAHI
• 2014 President-elect
Randy Sipe
President-Elect Family Home Inspection
Services, Inc.
Spring Hill, KS
Growing membership to increase revenue is the
most significant issue facing ASHI. Marketing
to existing inspectors in licensed states and
franchised inspector companies will increase
our needed revenues. Marketing to existing
inspectors who have established businesses
will help with long-term renewal.
The second issue is getting ASHI operating in
the black, which can be achieved by growing
membership, careful planning and budgeting.
Membership highlights:• 1999, joined ASHI
• 2002-08, NOVA Chapter Director
• 2004-06, NOVA Chapter President
• 2008-11, ASHI Director
• 2014 Vice President
4 4 4 ASHI Of f icers for 2015
ASHI Officers for 2015
Officers Who Will Lead ASHI for 2015
The president-elect automatically becomes the president.
The winners will be installed at the IW 2015 Board Meeting in
Philadelphia and will serve immediately afterward.
Timothy Buell, ACI
TreasurerTim Buell, LLC dba Pillar To Post
Hilliard, OH
The two significant issues facing ASHI are
increasing membership while keeping and
developing strong chapters.
ASHI needs to budget funds to market on a
national level while providing marketing tools
to local chapters and members to help them
advertise, promote, and market ASHI® and
their business.
In addition to a strong marketing/advertising
campaign, putting on quality education is a
must. Continuing to promote IW and chapter
education is the key. Quality education not
only improves the profession, but provides
value to national and chapter membership.
Membership highlights:• 2012-2015 Director ASHI National
• 2013, Director ASHI Education
Inc.
• 2013, Board Liaison Membership
Committee
• 2013, Board Liaison Finance
Committee
• 2013, Member Strategic
Planning Committee
• 2010-2011 Member Council of
Representatives
• 2011, Instructor, The ASHI School
• 2009-2011, President Ohio
Chapter
Larry Cerro
SecretaryA Building and Home Inspection
Service by Larry Cerro
Tallahassee, FL
ASHI should separate itself from the other home
inspectors and convince the public about what
the difference is. ASHI’s strengths lie in the
experience of its inspectors and their profes-
sional attitude. It is time we take that experience
and professionalism on the road and convince
the world that there is a difference between an
ASHI inspector and a home inspector. If done
right, our numbers will grow automatically.
Build it and they will come. This is how we
can face the challenges of competing inspector
organizations — by keeping our bars higher than
all the rest.
Membership highlights: • 1990, 1994, Bylaws Committee
• 1992-1993, 1995, Education
Committee
• 1992, 1996, 2005-2009, 2012,
Officer Nominating Committee
• 1998-2000, Legislative Committee
• 1998-2000, 2001-2002
Public Relations Committee
• 2001-2002, 2006-2009 Technical
Committee
• 2010-2012, Technical Committee
BoD Liaison
• 2003-2004, Speaker of the CoR
• 2002, 2005, Group Leader
• 2006-2008, 2013 Southern Group /
Gulf Group
• 1992-1995, President Florida
ASHI Chapter
• 2014, Director, ASHI National
ASHI News
Howard Pegelow
Vice PresidentH.A. Pegelow Investigations
Milwaukee, WI
There is no question positive membership
growth and, more importantly, membership
retention are the two most significant mat-
ters that require continued diligence and
awareness. As for the paths to follow, it would
appear the committee and the board are
proceding in such matters by the development
of various contacts with franchise entities and
amending current membership catagories.
Furthermore, the equalization of the current
dues structure has been addressed and is
being monitored. Allowing ASHI School
students to become paying members has
shown positive reaction as well.
Membership highlights:• 1998, joined ASHI
• 2007-08, Great Lakes Chapter president
• 2009-2010, Governance Task Force
• 2006, Complaints Committee - Logo Use
• 2004-2008, 2009-2013, EBPHI/NHIE,
director and Treasurer
• 2008-2014, Amvets, VFW
• 2009-2010, Speaker of the CoR
• 2014 Secretary
Candidates identified issues in matrices
Officer and director candidates
for 2015 were asked what they
considered to be the two most
pressing problems ASHI would be
facing in the next 12 months. The
comments shared here and on the
following pages were taken from
their answers to this question in
the matrices they submitted to be
considered by voting members for
their respective offices. Links to
all the matrices can be found in
this section of the January issue at
www.ashireporter.org.
ASHI Reporter | December 201432 33 December 2014 | www.ASHIReporter.org 33
Current ASHI MembershipASHI Certified Inspectors: 3,063
Inspectors/Logo: 88
Associates: 1,503
Retired Members: 86
Affiliates: 68
TOTAL: 4,808 as of December 12, 2014
ASHI-ENDORSED MEMBERSHIP BENEFIT PROGRAMS
ASHI’s E&O Insurance Program: Business Risk Partners (BRP)www.inspectorinsurance.com 866-268-1327
ASHI Personal Lines Insurance Program: Liberty Mutualwww.libertymutual.com/ashi
ASHI Service ProgramBuildFaxSusan Ward, 855.237.8711http://land.buildfax.com/buildfax-special- pricing-for-ashi-members/[email protected]
ASHI Customer Appreciation Program: Moverthankyou.comBrent Skidmore, [email protected]
HomeAdvisor.comBrett Symes, 913-529-2683www.homeadvisor.com [email protected]
LegalShieldJoan Buckner, 505-821-3971buckner.legalshieldassociate.comthenowbenefit@comcast.net
InspectionContracts.comDave Goldstein, 800.882.6242www.inspectioncontracts.comdavid@inspectoreducation.com
OneSource Solutions877.274.8632http://www.osconnects.com/ashi/
Porch.comEliab Sisay, [email protected]
444 Your ASHI
Speaker: Jim Funkhouser 571-214-4039 [email protected]
Alternate Speaker: To be decided Secretary: Brendan Ryan 724-898-1414 [email protected]
GROUP LEADERS
New England/Canada: Mike Atwell 617-285-8554 [email protected]
New York/New Jersey: Jerry Sanangini 856-232-6607 [email protected]
Mid-Atlantic: Jim Funkhouser 571-214-4039 [email protected]
Midwest: Michael J. Von Gunten 262-945-2446 [email protected]
South Atlantic: Richard Hart 770-827-2200 [email protected]
Gulf: John Knudsen 334-221-0876 [email protected]
South Midwest: Paul MacNeill 314-392-9313 [email protected]
North Central: Brendan Ryan 724-898-1414 [email protected]
Mountain: Marcus Richter 520-271-8582 info@handsonhome inspection.com
Pacific: Scott Swickard 949-454-1389 [email protected]
ASHI Council of Representativesand Group Leaders
ASHI Rebate ProgramQuill.comDana Fishman, 800.634.0320 x1417www.quill.com/[email protected] Platinum ProviderMillionaire Inspector CommunityMike [email protected] that you are an ASHI member
ASHI-ENDORSED EXAMS
ASHI Standard and Ethics Education ModuleGo to www.homeinspector.org, click on Education and Training, then click on the link for the ASHI Standard of Practice Education Module.
NHIE Exam: 847-298-7750 www.homeinspectionexam.org
ASHI-ENDORSED TRAINING PROGRAMSASHI@Home Training System 800-268-7070 [email protected]
The ASHI SchoolJack McGraw, 888-884-0440 [email protected] www.TheASHISchool.com
ASHI News
Council Elects New DirectorsFive new Directors and one Alternate will take their seats at the April Board meeting
The Council of Representatives elected five new ASHI directors and one alternate. The introductions are excerpts from the matrices submitted by candidates for the three-year terms. Links to the candidates full matrices are available via the online January 2015 ASHI Reporter, www.ashireporter.org.
Congratulations to New Certification Committee Members
Elected members:
Scott Johnson Welcome Home Property Inspection Marietta, GA
Vince Tecce The Building Inspector of America Yardley, PA
Bruce A. BarkerDream Home Consultants, LLCCary, NC
Good answers require good questions. The better question is how can ASHI
better serve its members? A professional association like ASHI has two primary functions. The first and most important is to help create an environment that enables members to improve profitability. The second is to help members reduce risk. ASHI can enable member profitability by driving leads to members. The ASHI website is an important part of this. One or two leads converted into inspections pays a member’s ASHI dues. All other converted leads contribute to member profitability. ASHI Can help members reduce risk through its move toward (or low cost) education for members.
Ken HarringtonKustom Home InspectionDelaware, OH
During his 11-year membership in ASHI, Ken has largely been focused on the importance of providing quality education for our members. He is currently serving as Chapter Relations Committee Chair and, with the help of staff, presented the 2014 Leadership Training Conference. Ken has been involved in his local chapter at every level of leadership and demonstrates a commitment to the ASHI Organization throughout the state of Ohio and at the national level.
Keven KosslerCastle Home & Building InspectionsHuntersville, NC
For his last 12 years in ASHI, Keven has been working on different committees,
has been a member and officer of several different state chapters, and has been a Director on the ASHI Board. He believes this has given him a clearer understanding of how an ASHI home inspection Business should be conducted. “Operating my own business gives me the experience and management skills that are required to function as an Officer for ASHI business.”
Bruce LaBellRoyal Home Inspectors LLCScottsdale, AZ
Bruce is returning to the ASHI Board and hopes to lead the way to enticing
a younger generation to join. He believes we should start at the chapter level and encourage all ASHI members to take an active role in their local chapters. Bruce would like to see ASHI work on Allied Affiliations and Allied Associates to add more people to our membership. “We need to raise the bar of awareness using social media, public relations, marketing and working on models for individual chapters.”
Donald LoveringAdvantage Home Inspections Inc. Auburndale, MA
Don believes that one of ASHI’s strengths is its dedicated members. He will bring experience to the Board to help transition from the past to an even brighter future. Don has served on the ASHI Technical Committee. He has authored three articles and has been published internationally. He is currently certified for continuing education by the MA Board of Home Inspectors and he continues to provide education to home inspectors and builders.
Tony SmithHouse and Home Inspections ServicesCedar Rapids, IA
Tony believes that being a good listener, a good communicator and a team player are qualities essential for
being an ASHI Director. He believes the Board should stay focused on the ASHI Mission, which includes “meeting the needs of the Members.”.As a past ASHI Board member and current Speaker of the CoR, Tony has developed the skills and knowledge needed to be an effective member of the ASHI Board.
John Biegalski (Alternate)Alpha Check InspectionsWayne, PA
John has spent several years sitting on both Chapter and National Boards and involved on several ASHI Committees. He currently offers himself as a mentor to anyone in his area who would like to ride along with an inspector. He is involved in setting up the Master Inspector program in Philadelphia. John has run his own company for more than 36 years.
ASHI Event Calendar January 6-9, 2015
InspectionWorld and ASHI Board Meeting Philadelphia, PA
April 23-25, 2015 Finance Committee, AEI and ASHI Board Meetings Des Plaines, IL
July 23-25, 2015 Finance Committee, AEI and ASHI Board Meetings Des Plaines, IL
October 22-24, 2015 LTC and ASHI Board Meetings Des Plaines, IL
ASHI Reporter | December 201434 35 December 2014 | www.ASHIReporter.org 35
ASHI 2014 Committees: Thank you for Your Service
During 2014, ASHI members chaired and served on the society’s standing committees, contributing ideas and plans and carrying out the Board’s directives. They deserve recognition for their service.
ASHI News
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Don’t Drink the Dogs Water!
Health officials believe that thousands of
people become ill because of contaminated
water every year. Most folks think it is the
stomach flu or food poisoning when
contaminated water is the real culprit.
Around your home, you must always
separate drinking or potable water from any
source of contamination. How could
contamination happen? Check out your
exterior hose bib (faucet) and think about
how you use it. You water the dog, leave the
hose lying on the ground, and maybe even
connect it to a fertilizer or chemical weed
sprayer. Then, if the contaminated water is
allowed to flow back‚ yuck, some of it
mingles with your drinking water.
Wherever there’s a possibility that
contaminated water might contact drinking
water, there should be a backflow
preventer. On many exterior hoses, this is that thick brass fitting where you attach the hose.
This backflow preventer stops dirty water from backing up into the drinking water. In some
cases, the backflow device may be built into a hose bib.
Many devices in your home, including hot water boilers, steam boilers, and lawn sprinklers,
have special backflow preventers. Other fixtures have the separation built in: a tub faucet
always sits above the rim of the tub, and the toilet fill valve is placed above the water line.
If you have any questions or concerns about water backflow in your home, contact your water
utility, plumber or home inspector. And don’t remove any of these safety devices. Sure, the
hose connection may spray your foot when you turn it off, but that safety device is worth it to
ensure clean drinking water in your home.
By Tom Feiza, Mr. Fix-It
(c) Copyright 2009 by Tom Feiza, Mr. Fix-It, Inc. | misterfix-it.com | htoyh.com
BYLAWJohn Biegalski, ChairWayne, PA
Jay BalinThiensville, WI
Jim RooneyRiva, MDBrian Thompson Lorain, OH Skip Walker San Bruno, CA
CHAPTER RELATIONSKen Harrington, ChairDelaware, OH
Bob SchackePark Ridge, IL
Michael ConleyAnna Maria, FL
BK ThompsonLorain, OH
Kenny HartVirginia Beach, VA
Mark MustolaLinden, MI
Bob SchackePark Ridge, IL
BK ThompsonLorain, OH
CERTIFICATION Scott Johnson, ChairmanMarietta, GA
Hugh M. KelsoSeattle, WA
JD GrewellSilver Spring, MD
Gloria Linnertz Public MemberWaterloo, IL
Michael D. ConleyAnna Maria, FL
Vince TecceYardley, PA
Rod BeachamKenmore, WA
COMPLAINTS (CACC-Logo Use)Manass Hochstetler, ChairMiddlebury, IN
Edward GreenTemperance, MI
COMPLAINTS (CEEPP)Kevin Vargo, ChairPerth Amboy, NJ
Jim YaskiewiczClermont, FL
Allan DavisLouisville, KY
DIRECTORS NOMINATING Blaine Swan, ChairTruro, NS
Skip WalkerSan Bruno, CA
Michael Von GuntenBristol, WI
Jack FeldmannKnoxville, TN
Rick VernonZeeland, MI
Michael Von GuntenBristol, WI
ETHICSJamison Brown, ChairPoquoson, VA
Stephen G. WilsonColumbus, GA
Joseph CmarCarmel, NY
Michael HoberechtCanton, MI
Lawrence HoyttNovato, CA
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR EVALUATION Bill Jacques, ASHI Past-PresidentRavenel, SC
Bill Loden, PresidentMadison, Alabama
Alden E. Gibson, RHI Presiden-ElectBreslau, ON
Michael Stephens ASHI TreasurerFairfax Station, VA
Bill SuttonMilton, MA
LEGAL COUNSELHarry Rosenthal, EsquireAmbler, PA
FINANCEMichael Stephens, TreasurerFairfax, Station, VA
Bill Loden, PresidentMadison, Alabama
Alden E. Gibson, RHI President-ElectBreslau, ON
Randy Sipe, Vice PresidentSpring Hill, KS
Howard Pegelow, SecretaryMilwaukee, WI
Bill Jacques, Immediate Past-PresidentRavenel, South Carolina
Timothy BuellHilliard, OH
Belienda Schultz ASHI Finance ManagerDes Plaines, IL
Harry Rosenthal, EsquireASHI Legal CounselAmbler, PA
LEGISLATIVEMichael Conley, Co-Chair, StateAnna Maria, FL
Don Lovering, Co-Chair, FederalAuburndale, MA
MEMBERSHIPDavid Goldstein, ChairRobbinsville, NJ
Jim Funkhouser, CRIManassas Park, VA
Jim HemsellDenton, TX
Mike HesterbergCincinnati, OH
Frank LiberoGarnerville, NY
Charlie SessumsBrandon, MS
OFFICERS NOMINATINGBill Jacques, Immediate Past-President, ASHI/AEIRavenel, South Carolina
Bruce Barker Cary, NC
Tony SmithCedar Rapids, IA
Jim Funkhouser Manassas Park, VA
Richard HartConyers, GA
John BiegalskiWayne, PA
Kurt SalomonMidvale, UT
Tom Lauhon Leavenworth, KS
Jerry SantanginiSewell, NJ
PUBLIC RELATIONSDavid Haught, ChairmanHuntington, WV
Dave ChristopherStreetsboro, OH
B.K. ThompsonLorain, OH
Skip WalkerSan Bruno, CA
STANDARDSBruce Barker, ChairCary, NC
Mark CramerIndian Rocks Beach, FL
Jeff FrishofRedwood City, CA
Jim FunkhouserManassas Park, VA
J. D. GrewellSilver Spring, MD
Don LoveringAuburndale, MA
Blaine SwanTruro, NS
Chris UelandWayzata, MN
TECHNICAL REVIEWJames Katen, ChairGaston, OR
Charles BuellShoreline, WA
Peter G. EngleRumson, NJ
Steve NationsOak Park, IL
Mike Twitty, ACIMount Juliet, TN
ASHI Reporter | December 201436 37 December 2014 | www.ASHIReporter.org 37
Green Is Not Always Better
This is why we like to walk tile roofs when we can.
Paul Staron, Valley Building Inspections, Inc. Scottsdale, AZ
Caps Off
Where there is seed, moisture, organic matter, light and a good temperature, there is growth –even on the roof.
Manass Hochstetler ACIAdvanced Home Inspections of ElkhartCounty, LLC Middlebury, IN
Dave GrudzinskiAdvantage Home InspectionsCranston, RI
This is a home-made version of stair lift.
Dave GrudzinskiAdvantage Home InspectionsCranston, RI
Ed MassartThe Speaker SaysSanta Fe, NM
Pretty scary stuff!
Neal TeitelbaumAmerican Inspection Group, Inc.Finksburg, MD
Smelly Vent CoverNew age Natural gas A/C
So, now you can Time Your House FireHydraulic Stairs
444 Preparing for an IRS Audit
NEW POSTCARDS E-MAIL!! Please send your name, city, state, photos, headings & captions to: [email protected]
Only 23 More Letters to go!Candidate for the nicest attic entry door from a garage.
Dan SandwegInspections Complete, LLCSt. Louis, MO
Hark the Angels Sing
I'm working my way through the plumbing alphabet. I've seen "S" traps, "P" traps and now a "V" trap?!
Andy Hilton ACI, IBRHilton Home Inspection, Inc.Yadkinville, NC
Max CurtisMaxInspect Livermore, CA
Is this a result of the recent Bobby Flay/Rachel Ray collaboration?
C. Blaine Illingworth IIIHouseInspectMedia, PA
Outside shower; I don't think this was a permitted addition. Fiberglass shower attached to an outside wall and supported on CMUs.
Timothy HemmTim Hemm InspectionsYucaipa, CA
Alvin C. Miller, ACI Hawkeye Home Inspections, LLCWellman, IA
You Might Need Boots for This one!You've Heard of Innies and Outties?
The Marketing Flyer Listed a Central Vacuum SystemIndoor Grilling Phenomenon?
39 December 2014 | www.ASHIReporter.org 39ASHI Reporter | December 201438
On My Mind By ASHI President Bill Loden
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ASHI_Reporter_A120514_f.indd 1 12/5/14 3:42 PM
FIRST, ON A PERSONAL NOTE, I close out the year as ASHI’s President for 2014 with mixed emotions. At times, the job has been exhausting, with long hours of face-to-face meetings and many more hours of teleconferences. There have been many days away from home, and business travel-ing from California to New York and from Tampa to Canada. Interspersed within all of this activity, there have been articles to write, crises to address and challenges to overcome.
But the job has also been extraordinarily rewarding because during those meet-ings, teleconferences and trips, I have had the opportunity to meet and work with some amazing people. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that, among the list of amazing people, are the Past-Presidents of ASHI.
During my tenure as President, I’ve received incredible support from this group of gentlemen. Bill Jacques is at the top of the list as Immediate Past-President. I learned a great deal from Bill as I watched him con-duct the business of ASHI in 2013 and I have relied on his counsel during the course of my presidency. To all the Past-Presidents of ASHI, I want to thank you for the sacrifices you made to serve ASHI. ASHI GrowthOn to the state of the association. I am happy to report to you that ASHI is experiencing sustained growth as our membership numbers have increased sub-stantially for two consecutive years. Last year, Frank Lesh took over as interim exec-utive director and because of the way he brought the staff together as a cohesive and energetic team, we made the position
permanent in 2014. The growth of ASHI can be attributed to the hard work of our staff that set and exceeded their goals for membership growth.
LobbyistI am also able to report that our influence inside the Washington, D.C. Beltway is growing thanks to ASHI lobbyist Randy Pence. As I’ve noted before, our relationship with HUD has turned 180 degrees and they are now reaching out to ASHI when they are looking for input on issues related to housing and home inspections. ASHI was asked by HUD to attend the National Healthy Homes Conference in Nashville and following the conference, we were asked to meet with HUD officials in Wash-ington, D.C. to discuss ways we could work together supporting HUD initiatives that could result in new business opportunities for ASHI members in the future. LegalAs you may be aware, this year ASHI was faced with some legal challenges from a Patent Assertion Entity (PAE) that filed a $9 million lawsuit against me, person-ally, for the work ASHI has undertaken to protect the inspection industry from what ASHI considers overreaching patent claims regarding the use of infrared technology in the inspection of a house. ASHI’s attorneys filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit and the judge hearing the case granted the motion and dismissed the lawsuit. While this does not resolve the questions surrounding the use of IR technology as part of a home evaluation, it is a positive step as ASHI continues to work to protect the profession.
Public RelationsASHI also has a robust public relations program being implemented by public
relations firm Public Communications, Inc. (PCI). With decades of experience promoting professional associations, PCI brings a wealth of experience to bear in crafting an effective PR campaign for ASHI. PCI also has an understanding of the new social electronic media and the significant opportunities available to grow brand awareness for ASHI.
ASHI is the only association representing home inspectors with a public relations firm working to promote its members to a national audience. Our members benefit from being associated with the widely recognized ASHI brand. Governance This year, the Council of Representatives is considering a small change in ASHI gover-nance. The change reduces the number of directors from 15 to 12. This is designed to lower board overhead costs. I encourage you to support this effort when it comes to the membership for a vote in the spring. Money saved in overhead costs can be repurposed to improve member benefits. The FutureMany years ago when I was hired by NASA, I had absolutely no aerospace expe-rience. Immediately after processing in, I was summoned to the program manager’s office for a little lesson in rocket science. The PM had started to work at NASA on the day it was created, so he was a man of great experience and knowledge. He told me there were two things I needed to know about rocket science.
“First, the pointed end goes up and second, the fire comes out the bottom.” The “pointed end” represents the direction and the aim of the rocket and the fire is the force driving toward the target.
As I turn over the presidency to Alden Gibson for 2015, my vision for ASHI is that we always keep the pointed end up and the fires that drive us higher always burning, pushing ASHI higher and higher.
