Originally Posted By: bnelson This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
I’ve been gunning for that first paid inspection, and had a guy say he’d use me for a doublewide he just signed on. We didn’t cover those in class, and I know it’s HUD regs. Can anyone point me to a thorough thread on this board, or some other one-stop resource for some guidelines on inspecting mobiles? Hell, I’d inspect an outhouse to get a “paid” under my belt.
As for getting "a paid under your belt," don't sweat it. Inspect your mom and dad's house. . . your friends. . . relatives. . . everyone who will allow you in. Have them all pay you $1 for the inspection 
Do everything as you would on a normal inspection including the contract, report and consultation.
After that you just raise your prices
-- Jeff Pope
JPI Home Inspection Service
"At JPI, we'll help you look better"
(661) 212-0738
Originally Posted By: bnelson This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Hey boys,
Thanks for the links and help. I know a lot of inspectors around here won’t touch mobiles, so there may be a niche market up for grabs. I know one thing, if its standing, it can be inspected!
On a different note: I just booked my first paid inspection!!! I’ve been pounding the pavement all week, meeting every Realtor in town and handing out cards and coupons. It worked! My inspection’s tomorrow on an 1800 sq. ft. NON-mobile home!!! Stoked!
And on one last note, who would I contact to review my website, business cards, etc., here at NACHI. I'm looking to polish like chrome and need some critique and feedback! http://www.knowyourhouse.net
Originally Posted By: mbailey This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Brandon - Congratulations on your first inspection!!! Let us know how it turns out.
Mobiles are often a niche market for the taking. If there is a mobile home manufacturer in your area - ask for a plant tour to see there build processes. It is quite interesting to see them made and it will help you become a better inspector. You can also talk to mobile home repair companies or stop by a large mobile home park and talk to their maintenance guys.
For review of your website just post a separate message with your website address asking for feedback?you will get some.
Send your brochures to Nick, he will review and provide feedback.
Originally Posted By: bnelson This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Thanks for the great Mobile Home advice. I’m going to do just what you suggest! There’s nothing like a niche, eh?
And thanks for the congrats on the inspection. Before the day was out, my phone rang again and I booked a SECOND inspection for Monday! I’m about to get spoiled.
I’ll definitely let you know how they unfold… or more likely I’ll be looking for answers while I write my report. You can believe these first ones are going to be real works of art.
Originally Posted By: jkiesecker This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Brandon, Just a word of caution. On Mobile Homes always set the parking brake! Seriously, Mobile Homes are very similar to any other inspection. I have a lot here in NY. Pay particular close attention to the flooring especially in baths and kitchens, water heater area,wash machine etc. as it’s usually flake board and you know what happens to it when it gets wet. The water heaters are hidden behind panels in closets. The GFCI’s outside are generally off one of the bathrooms. Do your exterior inspection, then inside. Run plenty of water in all the sinks, tubs etc then return outside and inspect underneath. Many times plumbing leaks don’t show up immediately due to all the insulation and vapor barrier beneath. Check for cracking, settlement, especially at the center of double wides where they’re joined together. Pay close attention to roof top elements, many times there’s wind damage to the roof from the 70mph trip to location. Vent stacks are usually too short (made to fit under bridges etc). The chimney is usually also a combustion air intake so advise customer to keep clear of heavy snow (if it snows where you are, I didn’t catch address) Roof vents are usually plastic junk and often crack as do the cheap plastic skylights. Also check for tie downs, typically stainless steel straps around the frame and anchored to the concrete slab. Also pay close attention to the windows as they are usually cheap junk and they leak, plastic parts break, thermal seals go bad etc. Beware of home owner add ons additions etc. Did I mention that they’re built like $hi1 . Just keep your eyes peeled. Good luck and welcome to the HI business
– “Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it”
Originally Posted By: bnelson This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
The first inspection went Grrrreat! The young couple was awesome, curious, and not too clingy. They were too busy showing their constant stream of visitors around than to follow me much. I thought I had a total slam dunk going, with everything done except the crawl space. Went out to the truck to get the knee pads, respirator, and coveralls… and *#@% ! No coveralls. Of course I’d dressed in my Sunday best for the inaugural event! But damn the possums and cobwebs, the inspection must go on, so in I went! When I came out the whole crowd was staring and laughing… I must’ve looked like PigPen on a bad day. But it gets better. I wrapped the gig up, shook hands all around and got the check, done deal. I loaded my tools, dusted off for a full five minutes, and climbed in the rig… and there they sat: my coveralls! I must’ve been blind with nervousness. Of course, I wouldn’t have had the first inspection go any other way!
One technical question: what are the implications of corrosion, like what you'd see on the terminals of an old auto battery, on the neutral bus in the service panel?
Thanks for all your well wishes and support, boys. It carried me today!
Brandon
PS... and thanks for the continuing info on the mobiles!
Originally Posted By: jpope This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Quote:
One technical question: what are the implications of corrosion, like what you'd see on the terminals of an old auto battery, on the neutral bus in the service panel?
Brandon,
Take that question down to the electrical section. We have some well qualified individuals who would love to answer it for you.
Congrats on your maiden voyage 
-- Jeff Pope
JPI Home Inspection Service
"At JPI, we'll help you look better"
(661) 212-0738
Hey boys,
! No coveralls. Of course I’d dressed in my Sunday best for the inaugural event! But damn the possums and cobwebs, the inspection must go on, so in I went! When I came out the whole crowd was staring and laughing… I must’ve looked like PigPen on a bad day. But it gets better. I wrapped the gig up, shook hands all around and got the check, done deal. I loaded my tools, dusted off for a full five minutes, and climbed in the rig… and there they sat: my coveralls! I must’ve been blind with nervousness. Of course, I wouldn’t have had the first inspection go any other way!