April 2022

New Innovation in Inspection Camera Technology

Trying to access damp, cramped, poorly lit, or dangerous and hard to reach spaces can be frustrating. Fortunately, a new generation of wireless inspection cameras that offers better visibility, accessibility, and functionality can help.

Electrical Testers: Which Ones are Right for Your Business?

Last year, with the help of master electrician Bruce Janczak, The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel inspected 15 single- and two-family rental properties. All but one of the properties had fire hazards and code violations, including improperly installed or unsafe electrical service panels, no grounding or bonding of the electrical service, and improperly grounded or wired receptacles. Suspected electrical fires impact homes in this same zip code at five times the rate of the rest of the city.

What is a Water Softener?

A water softener is a piece of equipment used to treat water that you are likely to see in the course of performing a home inspection. This is considered a point of entry (POE) system, meaning it treats the water as it first enters the home as opposed to a point of use system (POU), which treats the water at a specific location within the home, typically at the kitchen sink.

7 Areas of Restricted Access

If you can’t see it, you can’t report on it! Home inspection standards are established to protect both the home purchaser and the home inspector. Part of the inspector’s protection involves limiting the inspection to readily accessible, visually observable systems and components.

The Future of Federal Housing Inspections

The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s Real Estate Assessment Center (REAC) is creating a new national inspection protocol for Federal Housing Administration (FHA)–insured and Public Housing Agencies (PHA) multifamily properties.

The Importance of Inspections

Marvin Goldstein is one of the original founding and charter members of ASHI and a past ASHI national president. We asked Goldstein to share a bit more about his background, the importance of ASHI, and the home inspection industry.

How Can Inspectors Prepare to Answer Homebuyers’ Biggest Questions?

The National Association of Realtors® (NAR) shares common questions they advise people ask a home inspector—from the state of the roof to radon tests to receipts for HVAC checks. While a list of NAR-recommended questions is at right, we talked to some of ASHI’s top experts in the field to see what they’re hearing from homebuyers.

How to Submit Articles to the Reporter

As a retired inspector, I always enjoy reading the Reporter every month. It contains information to help you be a better inspector. Information from our Affiliate Members and partner advertisers provides valuable ideas and products indispensable for your business.