Insulation can keep homeowners comfortable in winter and summer or it can send conditioned air out the window along with hard-earned money. If it’s good, insulation affects the quality of life in a positive way. If it’s bad, the homeowner may never be truly comfortable with the way the home feels or how much it…
DetailsFor many home inspectors, the question isn’t whether or not to join an association, but rather which one deserves those dues. There are a few that you can choose from at the national, state and local level. A good association has certain qualities that support your career and the best interests of the industry. These…
DetailsHome inspecting is such a hands-on job, it’s no wonder some folks raise an eyebrow about online training. How can you learn how to inspect a house without training in a brick-and-mortar classroom or on the job? If that’s what you’ve thought, think again. You might be surprised. Online learning is so much more than…
DetailsNo part of the country is safe from natural threats. In Florida, high winds and related hurricane damage cost homeowners and their insurance companies billions. That’s why folks don’t necessarily wonder if the next big storm will hit, but when. It’s also why wind mitigation inspections are so important. ICA School has partnered with PDH…
DetailsWith the holiday season upon us, kitchens across America will get a real workout. But with certain defects, an otherwise happy season could end badly. That’s where a great certified home inspector comes in. Although this is traditionally a slow time for real estate, plenty of people buy this time of year and hope to…
DetailsWhen you work in real estate, you understand the toll seasonal changes can take on a home. In the span of time it takes to sell a house, you might notice distinct changes taking place. Winter is one of the most challenging seasons for a home because the season can wreak havoc on a home’s…
DetailsDogs are awesome, but no home inspector wants to fend off a temperamental terrier or cranky Chihuahua just to reach the crawl space. Friendly people are awesome, too, but too much conversation is distracting and wastes your time. Whether or not they realize it, homeowners play a role in how efficiently you work. Here are…
DetailsBuilding code and material defects might seem related. In some cases, they are. However, a defect is still a defect, even if the house was compliant when it was built or remodeled. Home inspectors don’t worry as much about code as they do about health, safety, and other issues that could cost their customer money.…
DetailsIt’s that time again, time for homeowners to perform a little routine maintenance and check for any new problems that might have arisen over the past year. Although spring is the traditional time for major home repair and improvement projects, fall and winter maintenance helps spot problems before they affect comfort and utility costs during…
DetailsNot everyone is a natural entrepreneur, and that’s okay. Unfortunately, too many new home inspectors give up altogether before their business is a year old because it isn’t sustainable as-is. Why? Some may find the home inspection certification process is too tedious between taking classes and the certification test – and that doesn’t include bonus…
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