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To successfully complete this course, you must write two essays.
This course page contains instructions for the first essay, which involves performing a home inspection, taking inspection images, using checklists, and writing a report.
This assignment may take 8 hours to complete.
The second essay is described on the next course page.
Instructions for this inspection and writing assignment:
- INSPECTION: Perform a visual-only inspection according to the Home Inspection Standards of Practice. Inspect a system or component covered in the course that is directly related to the course topics.
- IMAGES: During the inspection, take several inspection images of that system or component. Use your phone, mobile device, or digital camera. It can either be in good condition or have a defect.
- OBSERVATIONS: Make observations and take notes while inspecting. Use the InterNACHI® Home Inspection Standards of Practice as a guide to your inspection. Use your own inspection software or InterNACHI's inspection checklist.
- ESSAY: Write and submit an essay describing your observations and the inspection images. Upload an inspection image along with the essay.
For example, you may take a picture of exterior stucco covering, flashing on a window or door, or a component that deals with moisture intrusion. Take several inspection images while performing the inspection. Make observations. Take a lot of notes. Then, prepare to communicate your observations in written form. This will be your essay.
This inspection and writing assignment is very similar to what a home inspector does during a home inspection--performing an inspection, studying and referring to and applying a Standards of Practice, taking inspection images, making observations, describing components, determining the condition of those components, formulating opinions, making recommendations to correct (if needed), proposing the implication of not making corrections to a defect (if observed), writing notes, and communicating observations in written form.
Your essay must meet the following criteria:
- It must be written in English.
- It must be at least 80 words in length.
- It must be written at a minimum 4th-grade level.
- It must sufficiently comment upon the system or component inspected.
- It must be submitted with an inspection photo.
You will submit your essay in the box titled “Your Essay.” You will also upload your inspection image. Once you submit your essay, staff will review and mark it.
Please continue with the course after submitting your essay. If it does not meet the criteria, you will be emailed and asked to rewrite it.
Veneer siding manufacturers require minimum siding clearances between siding and roofing material, horizontal trim seams, above door & window flashing, and above walkways/stoops. Some of the observed siding clearances appear to be inadequate, increasing the risk for future siding deterioration and moisture intrusion. Have a qualified siding contractor verify siding manufacturer requirements, evaluate all siding clearances, and repair as/if needed. Problem(s) were noted with the EIFS siding such as missing/deteriorated caulk, holes in the siding, lack of adequate clearance between soil and siding, lack of adequate clearance between siding and horizontal surfaces (walks, roofing, etc.), areas of exposed mesh without top coat, and areas that may be vulnerable to moisture intrusion and hidden deterioration. Not all seams and joints were visible for inspection. Have a qualified contractor familiar with this siding system evaluate fully and repair as needed.