Research & Writing Assignment:
I read the article Mold Testing for Home Inspectors. It was good, informing, and did a great job of condensing all the hours of mold training offered by InterNACHI into a thorough yet brief synopsis. The article highlighted one of the most important things we can provide our clients with - knowledge and the importance of regular home maintenance.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The photo comes from under a bathroom vanity where one of the faucet supply lines had been leaking for months. There was noticeable damage to the wood floor of the vanity and what was noted has apparent mold growth which is shown in the photo
Research & Writing Assignment:
Using a thermal imaging camera has greatly improved the quality of my home inspections. Things that can be discovered that would otherwise be invisible to the naked eye will amaze you. I have helped many people become informed of major leaks or hidden mold issues in their homes and they were able to make an informed decision about if they still wanted to purchase the property, and if so having the knowledge about issues that need immediate repairs
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
An open ground was observed on an exterior outlet under a covered porch on a 55 year old home. The outlet was wired to accept grounded (three prong) plugs, but it was not protected by a GFCI. Installing a GFCI circuit upstream of an grounded outlet is a generally accepted practice. This defect presents a safety hazard and should evaluated and/or corrected by a licensed elelctrician.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Backflow is the unintended reversal of water flow and can be the source of accidental contamination in a potable water system.
Backflow may be cause by either back-pressure or back-siphonage. Back pressure is the reverse of normal pressure, with higher pressures downsteam. Back-siphonage is the reverse of normal flow.
There are several types of backflow preventers available to solve backflow issues.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The exterior siding and trim had water damage. The inspection of the interior showed damaged drywall and moisture intrusion. Apparent mold was present in two locations on the interior window. The area affected faced north so there was little chance of the area drying from the sun. Repair of the exterior envelope and interior drywall was recommended to include full mold remediation.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Mold Testing for Home Inspectors: I have used thermal imaging to find moisture and therefore mold. Another great tool are “black light” type flashlights. Many types of mold appear with the use of the light and proper glasses. It can be hard to capture a picture through the glasses but I have had some success. These lights also pick up pets stains.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
While inspecting the roof, it was noticed that the chimney was not completely sealed and could allow water to easily make it’s way into the home. Recommend that the chimney be completely sealed to allow water to properly shed away and down off the roof.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Properly completing a chain of custody document is a vital procedure of a mold inspection and must be done correctly each time. Not doing so could make your testimony nullified during a litigation. It also shows that you are Professional.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
During many home inspections that I perform suspected mold is found. This course detailed the importance of PPE(personal Protection Equiptment) and inspection protocol to follow for my own safety. I also learned the appropriate terminology to discuss possible mold and fungus as well as things that that I should never say pertaining to the health concerns related to mold. Mold testing is a valuable service to offer home buyers.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The black staining under the vinyl is due to water coming out during showers, there is damage to the vinyl flooring and sub floor,recommend installing a tub guard and making any repairs to the area and clean up as necessary.
Research & Writing Assignment:
My essay is on abrasive blasting and its benefits. Abrasive blasting consists of using multiple products such as sand, dry ice and corn cobs to physically sand or blast the mold off the contaminated areas. Benefits include being able to reach hard to reach ares and reduce the labor of hand sanding methods.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Here is an example as to why it is important to take the cover off and check the condition of the wires inside the panel. I found this shorted / burned wire at a recent inspection. This circuit was labeled kitchen lights, which by the way was just remodeled. Obviously I recommended further evaluation by a licensed electrician
Research & Writing Assignment:
During my inspections, I always try to convey the importance of regular maintenance to all my clients. On both the exterior and the interior, making sure all joints and seams are properly sealed / caulked is a very important job almost all home owners can do themselves. Taking the little extra time to explain and encourage home buyers of these little items I feel is critical along with the full report
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Heavy interior damage noted to floor and wall. Damage appears to be consistent with microbial growth. Unable to verify without laboratory testing. Recommend laboratory testing to establish possible health risks. It could be hazardous to health to be in area without proper pipe. Recommend remediation by liscensed mold remediation contractor.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Mold has been linked to several health hazards and overall poor health. Asthma, allergies, sinus problems, and respiratory illness are just a few conditions that mold can exacerbate or induce. Testing can be done to confirm or rule out the presence of microbiological pathogens.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
During a limited mold inspection in a basement, apparent mold growth was observed in the area of the water heater. No leaks were noted from any of the plumbing supply lines and no leaks were noted from the water heater. Upon inspection, the exhaust pipe for the clothes dryer was noted to have two small pin holes allowing hot moist air to build up in the enclosed space. This caused mold to grow at a slow rate and covered the entire area.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Moisture meters can be a valuable tool in an inspectors tool bag. Using a moisture meter can confirm presence of moisture in an area where suspicion of water or moisture is present. Moisture meters are a must have tool especially for mold inspections. They can also be misleading with there readings if you don’t know how to properly use the meter.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
They key to mold inspections is water intrusion. When performing a mold inspection the inspector should pay close attention to any area of the home where water intrusion is or maybe an issue. Documenting these areas is important to show the client and also when deciding where to place spore traps to take air sampling in the home.
Research & Writing Assignment:
HVAC systems require routine maintenance to ensure they are operating properly but it also helps prevent mold and microbial growth. Once a HVAC maintenance has been deferred for a long period of time mold and microbial growth has the potential to spread through the duct work and then throughout the home. Properly maintaining your HVAC system is important in keeping a healthy home.
