The rules are presented concise and understandable. Excluded are actions which may be contrary to the principles of the InterNachi Code of Ethics.
Our role is to detect and assess the status of defects, without repairing such.
Breaking the rules will lead to the collapse of public confidence; and as a consequence, the demise of the profession.
The use of infrared camera pictures appears to be a great tool to improve the quality of our inspections.
Such would aid in the detection of invisible defects; such as moisture, rotting or overheating.
The use of this type of camera is more complicated than the standard photo camera; thus, there is a “learning curve” in determining the correct camera calibration to achieve the desired picture.
Research topic,
Learned the negative space pressure effects drafting volume.
Barometric Damper, Hot water tank flue damper operation for increasing draft and fresh air make-up in applications needing more exhaust on LP and Natural gas fire equipment.
I had an inspection last week, I arrive earlier that day about 30 mins before buyers. Has I like to be ready for another great inspection, the client had a toilet that was leaking, He wasn’t feeling good that day, he was very insistant and almost forced me to do the repair on the spot!
I said: *Sir I Can’t do any repairs within 12 month, this will violate the code of ethics. *
He was not happy. And I put the picture of the leaking toilet in my report!
Essay: Code of Ethics course
I recently sent a home inspection report a few hours after completing the onsite inspection. It was not long after sending the report that I received a call from the buying agent who requested that I omit the portion of the report that noted fungal growth on the basement framing system and further investigation by a certified professional in that field. I responded by saying that omitting this observation would be unethical, could potentially be a health concern and ultimately be my responsibility.
Essay: Research - Code of Ethics course
When inspecting areas with exposed structural framing you need to be aware of compromised or altered framing construction. Be sure to check for improper alteration to framing and bearing points. Trusses, for example, can not be altered without a structural engineer’s approval. Also be aware of improper use of joist hangers and hardware as they are to be installed using proper size and proper hardware to secure. If improper structural issues are not addressed structural failure could occur and be the responsibility of the inspector who missed the items.
Essay #2
I viewed some photos along with explanations on a garage.
It was shocking to see the poor workmanship in the alterations made within the garage. The owner must not have realized that he wasn’t just putting property at risk, those defects could have been life threatening to himself and family.
I learned about correct truss support, shear strength and hanger sizing.
I also learned that I have a lot to learn.
Conflict of interest assignment:
One potential conflict of interest that might arise during a home inspector’s career is one of running into an old friend. The friend could potentially ask you to charge less or worse just assume you will and at the end try and nudge you towards making it cheaper which can create an awkward situation and even an unhappy customer. The friend might also ask you to fix certain things because your already there working on it and it seems convenient to them. Both of these situations can lead to bad reviews that can damage your reputation and hurt your bottom line. So try not to work with family and friends if there is a possible conflict of interest.
Essay #2
The fifteen tools every Home owner should have is what I have based my research on. I feel Like those 15 tools are a minimum necessity to a home inspector. I realize that those basic tools can come in handy when completing home inspections in the field. From two plungers to multiple screwdrivers these tools prove to be very useful.
Code of Ethics
Hypothetical Conflict of Interest
The selling agent for a residential property of which the InterNACHI certified inspector has been hired to inspect by the buyer`s agent approached the inspector and asked if she could review the inspectors report prior to submitting his findings to his client.
The inspector denies her request for the following reasons:
a. The InterNACHI member would not be abiding the Code of Ethics by not following the InterNACHI Standards of Practice.
b. The InterNACHI member would be engaging in a practice that would bring discredit to the home inspection industry.
c. The InterNACHI member would be disclosing information to a third party in violation of the Code of Ethics
d. The InterNACHI member would not be acting in the best interest of his client.
This concludes this essay.
Steven Inlow
InterNACHI ID No. NACHI16120115
As I arrived at the clients residents I was stopped by the selling agent. She asked me if I would accept cash on the side to overlook the weak damaged flooring in the kitchen. I responded with, I’m sorry mam this is not ethical and will not accommodate that request.
First things I would look for when inspecting for ants is to locate the entry point by checking moist areas around the house and any gaps or cracks that come inext from the outside. Then I’d ensure we have ants not termites. At this point I’ll locate the colony.
Essay - Article on 10 Easy Ways to Save Money & Energy in Your Home
Not only does reducing ones energy consumption save you money and is friendly to th environment but it can also put money in your pocket through federal, state, utility and local jurisdictions, such as tax breaks or rebates.
Although it is debatable if excessive energy consumption contributes significantly to global warming, it cannot be argued that conservation reduces pollutants found in the air, soil and water.
So, replace the dirty air filters in your heater, lower your thermostat settings, drawn your curtains at night and sleep in the comfort that you know you are doing yourself and your neighbors a favor.
Essay
During a home inspection, I identify a number of issues withthe house and explain them to my client during the walkthrough. I answer all of his questions regarding theissues and share my experiences with similar repairs. He admits that he is not handy and isimpressed with my knowledge of the problems. Being new to the area, he doesn’t know any contractors and asks if hecan hire me to make the repairs. Iexplain to him that it would be a conflict of interest and I am not allowed toprovide any repair services for 12 months after the inspection.
Essay – Review of “15 Tools Every Homeowner Should Own”
Having grown up around tools and repair projects, I often need to remind myself of the fact that many people lack that experience and skills with basic tools. This article was a nice reminder of simple tools that a homeowner should have on hand for home repairs and also to gauge my clients abilities when I’m explaining repairs.
hypothetical conflict of interest scenario i could possibly encounter in the field could be
a. giving benefits for referrals.
b. inspecting a home for a friend/relative and be dishonest on the report in favour of friend/relative.
one topic that interested me was the energy saving. i had no idea how many energy leaks one could have in his/her home. glad to have learned the common places for energy leaks such as outlet face plates, light fixtures, etc.
I read an article about 10 ways to saving energy in our homes. I found it interesting how much energy costs can be saved by a homeowner. I found it to be useful to being an inspector. We work for the home buyer, and we can look for energy saving ideas for our customers.
This has been a great review. But in the long run I would hope all inspectors are following this. Some of it just seems to common sense and you should not have to be told.
Potential conflict of interest
After completing a home inspection and finding a radon reading higher than normal could there be a conflict of interest in recommending preferred contractors to rectify the situation if the homeowners wish to get it taken care off?
I’m assuming that as long as there is no transfer of cash between the companies, and multiple companies are listed there shouldn’t be a conflict of interest.
Radon testing areas have just been added to the building code.