“Where’s John?” May Update

May 2, 2022

I was privileged to attend the California Real Estate Inspection Association conference on April 21-24, 2022. Over 150 inspectors made to trip to Sacramento. There was an electric buzz in the air as inspectors gathered for the first in-person event since the Covid shutdowns. Hearing excited voices call out from across the hall with, “good to see you,” reminded me how much I had missed being at conferences in person – it had been a long time!

The educational event started with a day of education tailored to new inspectors and associates to assist with beginning their journey to become professional home inspectors.

Dale Feb educated us on the all-important chimney and fireplace inspection process on Friday. After 4 hours, Dale had only scratched the surface with information about inspecting wood and fuel-burning fireplaces. Friday’s session was rounded out with two more courses: Water Heater Technology and Low Slope Roof Systems.

On Saturday, 20 plus Municipal Inspectors joined the CREIA conference. We listened to Mr. Douglas Hansen speak about the recent and upcoming changes to the California Building codes.

The educational sessions were informative and illuminating, and I always bring back some new ideas at events like these. Better yet, getting to connect with fellow inspectors throughout the conference made for a memorable weekend.

I look forward to seeing all my newfound friends at IW 2023 in Las Vegas!


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In this Issue

Infrared Cameras: Redefining the Visual Home Inspection

For the past two decades, home inspectors have been inspecting using thermal imaging. By examining the heat given off by various property systems and components, many inspectors have discovered roof leaks, electrical issues, structural defects, and insulation anomalies.

Metal Flue Pipe Holes

Holes in metal flue pipes that extend from gas appliances can create a hazard. They may also indicate significant home performance issues.

Why Deck Safety Should be Top of Mind

With more than 50 million residential decks in the US, it is estimated that 30 million decks are past their useful life and need to be replaced or repaired, according to the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA). A significant percentage of decks are missing key components, are poorly constructed, lack proper maintenance, and have significant safety issues.

An Inspector’s Experience with Technical Report Writing

Suppose you have the passion to excel in the profession of home inspection. In that case, the only way to express your professionalism and competence is by learning how to craft first-class inspection reports. If you cannot communicate to your clients, homeowners, builders, repair contractors, attorneys, agents, and so forth what you’ve observed, what you think, and why you think it, you can never become a competent inspector.

Subtle Ways to Impress on A Home Inspection

It’s amazing what we get complimented on during a home inspection. We go to great lengths to improve our process, and in many cases things go unnoticed. I thought it would be fun to write an article on some small steps I do that do get noticed. Anyone using a telescoping ladder can probably relate to this phenomenon, as almost every time you bring it out, people are amazed. “That’s an amazing ladder; how cool,” is a phrase I have heard many times just using my everyday ladder.

Harry Morrell on His Journey Through ASHI and the Keys to Great Business

Harry Morrell was a teenager when he got started in the building and construction industry. “My first job in construction was as a roofer. I lied about my age when I was in high school and got onto one of the biggest roofing companies in Miami, Florida at the time,” he said. “I just loved construction.”

What’s Happening in ASHI Edge?

ASHI Edge has been live for a few months, and it’s been inspiring to see so many ASHI members taking advantage of the new education platform. We are constantly adding new courses, so if you haven’t taken one yet, check it out today on the ASHI Edge.

Postcards From The Field

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Professional Networking

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