The Top 10 Deal Killers During the Home Inspection

Over the years I have witnessed many aspects of a home inspection or the process that can cause stress during the process and lead to a deal falling apart. Now keep in mind that regardless deals fall apart, whether the buyer got cold feet, the findings of the inspection made them walk away or it turned out it just wasn’t the right house for them. In some cases an inspector may convey the findings in an over alarming way and contribute. I have even seen where the buyer intentionally used the inspection to get out of a contract for their own reasons. Ultimately the inspector job is to report all findings to the client and help them make a more informed purchasing decision, not to talk them into or out of a deal.

So having said that, here are some contributing factors that may cause undo strain on the inspection process.

10. A client not present or distracted during the inspection; too much going on, builders, remodelers, cost estimates scaring them. Keep the client (and if you are the buyer this is for your benefit) focused on the inspection so the inspector can keep them up to date during the process.

9. Home Inspectors lacking of or improper training, utilizing bad, hard to read, inadequate reports, not a member of a national association, no standards of practice. Home inspectors giving inflated cost estimates.

8. Sellers present for the inspection; for example the buyer should be present for the inspection and follow the inspector not be distracted by the buyer talking about the neighborhood.

7. Last minute surprises, unknown problems, a roof leak, power outage, HVAC system not working.

6. Influence from outside parties such as.
-Builder friend
-Parent, In-laws
They can have input that they think is helpful but really not, sometimes they can contradict the inspector of give options when not present.

5. Substandard workmanship
-Product warranty failure
-Non-professional repairs
-Liability incurred by parties
When unprofessional work has been performed the inspector may become aware of the trend and could warrant request for building permits. There could also be a thread of liability issues due to unpermitted work or work that was not dome properly and could fail at a later date.

4. Environmental Concerns
-Mold
-Lead Paint
-Radon
-Septic
-Water
-Asbestos
-Buried Oil Tanks (UST)
Environmental concerns that the buyers were unaware of when they put the original offer in. In some cases abatement could be a costly expense such as a leaking buried fuel tank.

3. Have older HVAC, Septic and Fireplace systems cleaned and serviced, provide a copy for the buyer and inspector. A cracked flue liner could be an unforeseen expense. Many inspectors exclude the internal components of the fireplace and chimney and in this case the buyer should have a specialist lined up the same day of the home inspection.

2. Product failures, such as...
-Polybutylene
-FRT
-Aluminum wiring
-Omega, Central and Star sprinkler heads
-Federal Pacific Stab-Lok Electric Panels
-EIFS, Exterior Insulated Finishing System
Recalled products or products with a history of failure could be an unforeseen expense the buyer was not aware of and many times the seller was unaware of.

1. A house unprepared for an inspection
-Poorly maintained
-Areas blocked by stored items, attic, electric panel, below split foyer stoops,
-HVAC system, etc.
-Utilities turned off
This is possible the number one issue of why deals fall apart. A house that is poorly maintained can result in everything from mold, insect damaged, rot and even damaged to the heating system from a dirty filter. This can also clue the inspector in as to deferred maintenance.

Areas that are not accessible during an inspection may result in the need for an additional inspection which could also result in additional charges by the home inspector.
When the unities are turned off the inspector cannot evaluate the function of all of the components and this could delay the inspection or result in additional inspection fees.

Please contact us for any further questions

Stephen Showalter, MD License # 29634
Showalter Property Consultants
www.showalterpropertyconsultants.com

Prelisting Inspection

You may have heard of a “Prelisting Inspection”, but what is one and what are some of the pros and cons. In the current market, a buyer’s market, the seller and listing agent don’t want to list the house at a set price, only to discover through the buyer’s home inspection they had unforeseen problems they were not aware of. This ultimately could affect the money the buyer was counting on at closing for their own needs or the findings could cause a deal to fall through, due to discovered defects.

You may hear the argument about not wanting to know of any problems and concerns regarding disclosure issues that may arise. Those may be valid arguments if significant defects are not discovered during the inspection (to the buyer’s detriment) process or in a seller’s market. In the current market where sellers are already being beaten down on price knowing ahead of time may be to the seller’s benefit.

Here are a few considerations.

1. First the buyer even though they may still get their own inspection may feel more at ease, as the seller is not burying their head in the sand about latent defects.

2. The seller can list the house with a disclosure “the roof is nearing the end of its life” rather than the buyer saying they didn’t know. Or “there is a wooden foundation present”, “Polybutylene plumbing and here is an estimate if the buyers wants it all replaced. This way the buyer cannot come back and say after they put an offer in on known deficiencies, they want more off or repairs to be preformed.

3. The seller then can factor these considerations into their selling price with the guidance of their Realtor.

Other Considerations of a Prelisting Home Inspection:

1. A Pre-Listing inspection may not discover all defect as with any inspection, so make sure you get and seasoned home inspector. The buyer’s inspector may have a difference of opinion on some systems.

2. The house may develop changes that will become apparent during a later inspection, such as a heat pump losing refrigerant, a plumbing leak or a roof leak to unforeseen changes such as weather.

3. This is also a good reason to offer a warranty on older systems. If you are a seller you Realtor can advise you on these and discuss the pros and cons of obtaining such a warranty.
So if you have any questions or are interested in a pre-listing inspection please contact;
Showalter Property Consultants
www.showalterpropertyconsultants.com

Marketing Your Business Green

Marketing Your Business Green

Today you can hardly turn on the television or open a magazine and not read about “Being Green”. In business green can mean, green, as in money. We are currently producing a video series on green building and it is astonishing how much we are personally learning during the production, we are also realizing what we can do to contribute to the stewardship of our planet.

One of the fastest growing business segments today is anything regarding green, and that is a growing industry within itself. What does that mean to the everyday small business owner? It gives us all an opportunity to look into how we can run our businesses more efficiently, economically and that can affect our bottom line as well as give us a marketing tool. In this green revolution you will hear the term “carbon footprint”. A carbon footprint is attributed to the amount of CO2 we use from the burning of fossil fuels for heating, hot water as well as the fuel used for our transportation. Our carbon footprint is also impacted from CO2 emissions from consumables including products that make their way to the landfill. There are several websites where you can calculate your carbon footprint and follow their suggestions to lowering it. Ultimately you are trying to achieve a zero carbon footprint.

Being green also means using renewable resources as well as healthier products for you, your employees and customers. Some individuals are experiencing allergies and chemical sensitivities to various chemicals and products. So when remodeling your building or the use everyday cleaning products, care and some education should be taken with use of certain products.

So as a small business owner here are a few inexpensive steps we can take to help reduce the impact.

1. Energy: Many areas have renewable energy options such as solar and wind. These can supplement or be your primary source for hot water, heat and even electricity depending on your location and building orientation. Currently supplementing hot water for domestic use or heat is the most economical choice. When possible connect all of your electronics to power strips that can be turned off by switch or simply unplug the components. Even electronics that are powered down can use electricity. This is referred to as, phantom electricity loads. Change all of your incandescent light bulbs to CF (compact fluorescent) type. As LED light fixtures become more readily available they use considerably less electricity and can last for decades. Any appliances you purchase for your business look for the highest energy star rating available. Also try free lighting when possible, the sun. There are excellent methods from light tubes to proper layout of windows and doors. Maintain your heating, cooling and hot water systems for optimum use. You could promote your greener business on your website, marketing materials and exterior signs. I recently saw a large sign in front of a building promoting 100% wind powered energy.

2. Water: Conserve water, use low flow fixtures and dual flush toilets. There are also some improved methods for water deliver using a manifold system (using home runs) that cuts down on wasted hot water running through the system waiting to heat up. Controlling water runoff from storm water can help prevent fertilizers and silt form going our streams and waterways. Installing rain barrels and even a rain garden help dramatically help reduce this runoff. Be aware of what is going down the drain into the sewer or septic systems. Be sure you are not only in local compliance but try to reduce the impact of chemicals, solid waste and unrestricted water consumption.

3. Transportation: Try using public transportation when possible. For your own vehicle or fleet, look into alternative energy options or at least the highest mpg ratings available. Currently hybrids, electrical and even hydrogen cars are coming to market. Set up delivery or sales routes for all right hand turns when possible. Mapping out your route can save time and fuel=money. Also try phones calls or video conference calls when possible. Instead of flying there are several good conference video options available for your computer. The options are from free downloads to high definition plans that run through your large screen tv. I used to travel 4 times a year for a board meeting of a national trade association which could have easily been done by video conference which could have saved time, money and CO2. Put a vehicle wrap on your car for an inexpensive marketing tool for your business and promote the energy savings or consciousness of your business.

4. 4 Day Week: Many companies are turning to a 4 day workweek and flex hours so the employee can miss rush hour congestion. This will vary with your industry but being create can help. Some builders are even trying to reduce their carbon footprint by building the house quicker to reduce the number of site visits by the subcontractors.

5. Insulation: Improve the insulation qualities of the building you are in for walls ceiling and attic. Also update areas of the building envelope that allow heat to escape, such as wall penetrations, windows and doors. Insulate you water heater and water lines for heat loss and condensation on the cold water lines. Currently there are companies that specialize in energy audits for your building and advise you how to make improvements. Let visitors know what you have done with a plaque or document stating what you have done.

6. Chemicals: When possible look into organic cleaners and low or no voc products. This can include cleaners, carpet, cabinetry and paints. This can create a healthier environment for employees and customers.

7. Paper: We are all inundated with paper whether it is client tracking, reports, marketing materials or bill collection or payments. Depending on your business many of these paper intensive tasks can be performed online. Paying and collecting bills online can also save in postage and physical file organizing and storage. Your website is one of the least expensive marketing portals to your customer when it is properly utilized. You can even create offsite storage of important documents through an FTP server. This can be a paid service or with your own hosting company. Try setting up an email campaign newsletter to stay in touch with clients, instead of printed materials. Let customers know this is your way of contributing to green marketing and a greener business that is not just to save you time and money.

8. Consumables: When possible use locally produced or manufactured products. Getting products delivered from half way around the world impacts the carbon footprint of those products getting to your front door. This is also good for the local businesses and the local economy. Try to use products in season so as not to encourage shipping from across the country for items such as fruits and vegetables. In a restaurant you could market a green menu. Including printing on renewable resources or recycled paper; but be sure to put that on the menu.

9. Comply: Be sure that you in compliance with all local and nation environmental regulations. There are now business, states, organizations where you can get your business listed as a green business. There are even green business standards you can look into. This is an excellent business opportunity to get recognition for showing environmental responsibility, to conserve energy and natural resources. You should also be the innovator, develop and implement procedures to ensure your business and employees practice these initiatives. You can help set an example for your employees, competitors and your communities. How about creating an award through local business affiliations for the greenest business award?

10. Reduce Reuse Recycle: Set up recycling for you and your employees. Try to reduce your waste which will save you money, try to reuse boxes, packing materials, and reverse sides of printed paper (cut up for notes pads). For retailers get rid of plastic bags, offer reusable bags (this is a great marketing tool) print your company on shopping bags for giveaways. Try to stay away from plastic bottles, have reusable water sources. Recycle all electronics, cell phones, computers (etc.) and printer cartridges. Try to request recycled products when available such as plastics and paper. How about having a newspaper interview you about what you are doing to run your business greener or do a press release about being green?

Many people talk about payback periods for investing in vehicles and systems for the building. Well that seems to change month to month depending on the price of fuel. There is also an emotional impact knowing we are taking control of our business, home, our future and planet for our children.
Remember Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

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Stephen Showalter, President
Webvidco
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"Where Website Development & Video Production Come Together"

Stephen Showalter started a local business and built it up to a national company that he sold in 1995. During this time he developed strategies for a national company brand and developed a national training company that included marketing strategies.

Energy Savings Tips

Energy Savings

With the rising cost of energy for your home there are several methods to improve on energy savings.

The exterior
Update any failing caulking or sealants to prevent air or moisture information
When installing a new roof consider a light colored roof or even metal too help reflect the heat
Some siding material will reflect or not absorb the heat such as wood, cement boards, EIFS or SIP panels

The interior
Caulk around all exterior windows and doors
Install gaskets in front and spray foam around exterior receptacles and switches
Spray foam around all window and doors behind trim
Upgrade single pane, extruded aluminum windows or glazing
Upgrade any failing or missing weather stripping at windows or doors
Upgrade inadequate attic, wall or floor insulation (attic being the most important in most cases)
Install plastic on any single pane windows in the winter if updating is not an option
Install quilted drapes and valances over the windows
Install storm doors on older type doors

Mechanical
Install insulation blanket on water heater, keep back from flame of gas unit
Keep the filter on you HVAC system changed, a dirty filter makes the unit work harder and run more. A dirty filter can even damage the unit.
Insulate your water lines, especially the hot lines
Turn down the HVAC in rooms not in use, close registers if you have a single zone forced air unit
Turn the thermostat to a moderate temperature, around 78 degrees f
Set the thermostat slightly higher in your refrigerator and freezer
Turn the hot water temperature down to 120 in your water heater
Cover skylights in the summer, they can transfer heat into the house and make the unit run more


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What is a Home Inspection?

Home Inspection Consultant

What is a Home Inspection?
A home inspection is a limited visual evaluation of the properties primary structure. An inspector should be following the standards of practice and be a member in good standing of a non profit home inspection trade association such as the National Association of Home Inspectors or the American Society of Home Inspectors.
The client should interview any potential home inspector to verified they are qualified to perform a proper home inspection. The Inspector's qualifications should include hands on experience in construction or architecture and a true understanding of the structure and components.
Questions for potential inspector
How long has the inspector been practicing home inspections
How many home inspections have they performed
How long does their average inspection take
1,000 square foot an hour as a loose rule of thumb

Can the client accompany the inspector during the inspection
Except the roof due to liability concerns

When do you get the report
What kind of report will you receive
Computer generated
Check list

Does the inspector carry insurance
What credentials do they currently hold
Are they a member of NAHI or ASHI
Some inspector's may specialize in historic homes, new home construction inspections, log homes or other specialized needs.
Are they properly licensed as some states require (not applicable in all states)
The fee for the inspection (Don't base your decision on the low bid, base it on their experience)

What you, the Client should do to get the most out of the home inspection
Be present for the inspection
Accompany the inspector during the inspection as much as safely possible
Talking to the home owner will only distract you from the inspection and important information
Ask questions of the inspector
Insist on professional repairs
Read the report
Have realistic expectations of the building and components, all buildings new and old have issues
Budget for replacement of the items the inspectors flagged at risk

You should also understand a home inspection is not a warranty or guaranty. No one can predict when components or systems will fail. The inspector should however perform an inspection in a way which will inform you as well as to educate you. This can assist you in budgeting for certain systems that may be nearing the end of their statistical life. Separate warranties may be available, however read the exclusions to insure the systems you are concerned about are covered,
A good inspector should be trained to evaluate that a system at the time of the inspection is in actual working condition. The inspector should also attend continuing education to ensure they are up to date with current industry standards and knowledge.
Some inspectors may also utilize some specialty equipment such as moisture meters, gas detectors and electronic testing devices. While these are useful and I recommend them they are tools they may be used in suspect conditions and at the discretion of the inspector.
Also discuss with the inspector whether they get on roofs when safely accessible and in crawlspaces that again are safely accessible. Factors due to weather conditions may impede the inspection process and areas may need to be re-inspected. You should discuss these fees with the inspector as well. You may also want the inspector to re-inspect repairs carried out by the seller (during a pre-purchase inspection).
Insist all repairs are to be performed by a qualified or licensed contractor. If a components fails after closing (settlement of the property) you may have no recourse against a non-professional repair or the home seller.
Just because an individual is a builder or engineer does not qualify them to be a home inspector. Only after extensive training and hands on experience can one gain the instinct they need to provide you with a comprehensive inspection. Some engineer’s have nothing to do with residential construction or just one small part.
Inspection fees are typically based on square footage or the price of the home. Compare what you are getting for your money, don’t go with the low bidder, there may be a reason.
You should feel free to engage in conversation with the inspector and ask questions. A good inspector will also cover preventive maintenance of the building and systems with you.
Showalter Property Consultants

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Fire Safety

Home Inspection Consultant

Fire Safety

Certain areas around the home are at risk for fire and easy to prevent. Routine evaluation and preventive maintenance can lower the risk as well as some good common sense.

Dryer Vent
Some area such as the dryer vent should be made from metal and never the more commonly seen vinyl dryer vent. As lint builds up in the dryer vent is can reduce the heat dissipation and allow for a build up of heat at the dryer vent connection. The lint accumulation makes for an easy source for fire to start and the vinyl can catch fire and quickly spread in the wall.

To reduce the potential install an appropriate metal vent and routinely check the vent connection at the dryer and the vent hood for lint accumulation, clean as needed. The vent should be as short of a run as possible and preferably horizontal or down run to the outside. Though vertical is acceptable it is more likely to accumulate and trap lint.

Fireplace
Any wood burning fireplace of woodstove should be serviced and cleaned annually. The accumulation of creosote makes for an easy fuel source for fire to spread. The more recent codes from the NFPA require the firebox and flue to be virtually air and water tight so creosote cannot escape from the internal flue liner or firebox. Older flue liners were allowed to have exposed bricks at the shelf and were more liberal with the flue liner. Only burn seasoned wood as green wood can produce higher levels of creosote.

Storage
Limit storage of flammable chemicals, gasoline and combustibles such as paper and cardboard from areas adjacent to a flame source such as a furnace, water heater, fireplace, etc. Remove combustibles from areas adjacent to incandescent light fixtures in closets and other storage areas due to the heat build up and potential damage to the bulb which could expose electrical conductors.

Kitchen
Speaking form personal experience I had our toaster catch a bagel on fire and the flames were in contact with the bottom of the wall cabinet. So when in use pull all small appliances out from below combustible wall cabinets or install a non-combustible surface to the bottom of the cabinet.

Electrical
Don’t over fuse a circuit. This is where the fuse or breaker is a higher rating than the wiring; the breaker may not trip in the event of over current and could result in fire. The was very common with older fuse panels as it is much easier to install a 20 amp fuse where a 15 is required. If you have an older fuse panel some insurance companies won’t insure if one is still present. There are fuses which are tamper resistant where only a fuse with the proper rating will function.
If you have aluminum single strand branch wiring which was commonly install from the 60s-the 70s evaluation of all devices and connections is a must. As the connections expand and contract oxidation can develop, which results in excessive heat and the potential for fire. There are several recognized methods for repair from UL listed devices, to pig-tailing with copper using COP/ALUM connectors and UL listing purple IDEAL 65 wire nuts. The have been some concern with the IDEAL 65 wires nuts and some evidence of failure and concern with fire.

Prevention
You should install fire extinguishers where they are readily accessible near you kitchen and furnace room.
Install smoke detectors in all bedrooms, halls, top of stairs and other occupied areas. Change the batteries annually.
Have any combustible fixtures that burn any fuel serviced annually by a professional.
Install carbon monoxide detectors in all building that burn a fuel source or have an attached garage.

Stephen Showalter
Showalter Property Consultants

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Hurricane Preparedness

Home Inspection Consultant

With Hurricane Season Coming!

Mold 101

Molds are fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors. A misconception is all black molds are toxic. Actually some other colored molds are more toxic than the “black mold”. Some fungi are so nasty they have even been studied for use in biological warfare. Mold has been around for a long time and is even referenced in the bible. Biblical procedures for remediation of mildew are found in Leviticus Chapter 14, verses 33-47. More recently there have been several high profile lawsuits concerning mold. Many insurance companies are limiting or excluding mold from home owner’s policies, they are now utilizing a tracking system called the CLUE report. The CLUE report is essentially a record of how you have personally filed claims as well as a detailed history of claims filed on any home.

Mold is also a moisture-indicating organism. In many circumstances it is a visual indicator of a water related incident. This is referred to as colonization. This may be due to a plumbing or building envelope leak or elevated humidity. Moisture levels in most framing and trim woods are at risk when they exceed 20% moisture content. Most agree indoor humidity levels should be kept below 60% to minimize the risk for mold growth. Since mold naturally exists in both indoor and outdoor environments why the problem?


The combination of natural levels of indoor mold and elevated moisture can result in indoor mold amplification, which may lead to health and structural concerns. In many instances the spores are preexisting on drywall and lumber stored outside. Stored building materials are also at risk on the construction site for mold spores contamination. Another method for mold amplification is poor building techniques and designs. House wrap, siding, windows and roof coverings not installed to the manufacturers specifications. Contractors in these cases set themselves up for litigation. Poor building designs include the use of blind and dead valleys on the roof.

When performing a mold investigation there are procedures that should be followed. We listen to the client for their experience and concerns. Was there a water incident, have they developed allergies or worse, is there a musty odor? Some molds may produce various odors, nasal, throat or eye irritations. Next using a flashlight we look for visual indicators, water stains and any fuzzy growth or colonization.

In the event there is a suspect area a moisture meter is an invaluable tool. I recommend a dual function moisture meter. Using the RF non-destructive mode, which is helpful to locate moisture behind drywall, masonry, ceramic tile and vinyl flooring.

The pins on conductive or resistance mode measures moisture content in wood. When using a moisture meter you need to be aware building materials differ greatly in moisture content. One method is to compare a baseline (non-suspect area) to the suspect area for an elevated reading. There are dozens of moisture meters on the market that range in the range of the scale, digital, analog to the depth of the reading in RF mode. A conductive moister meter can also give a false positive when in contact with efflorescence, which contains salt. You may not be able to feel moisture in the wall, therefore the use of a moisture meter, which detects moisture levels on the inside of the wall cavity, and behind surfaces is recommended. There is also a technology using thermal imaging. This device detects warm and cold areas within the building envelope and can be a non-invasive method of determining moisture and mold risks. If mold is suspected sampling may be useful which may include surface and or air sampling. Many mold abatement companies recommend pre and post abatement air sampling to insure the contractor’s work was thorough. Many homeowners and contractors hire an independent environmental consultant to perform this to have a non-biased report. Prior to abatement the source or cause of the mold contamination must be determined otherwise the homeowner will be repeating this process in the near future.

Once a suspect area is identified the contractor needs to be aware there are procedures and protocols they should follow. The EPA has basic guidelines for mold abatement. If a contractor offering mold abatement or water restoration begins to remove contaminated material and causes a spore release, and did not follow a standard for mold abatement; which includes not only protecting the building but also the employees, that contractor is putting themselves at risk for litigation. If the contractor discovers suspect mold conditions during a renovation process they should call in an environmental consultant. In some cases there could be no indicators or mold until discovery during a renovation. As a contractor if you are offer services working on a building with known mold contamination you should get certified and trained in mold abatement. The contractor must also be aware that furniture, clothing, carpet and other person items may be contaminated and could reintroduce mold spores after abatement. Any personal items not contained or to be saved should be removed from the area of abatement and protected during the abatement procedure.


The size of contamination will dictate the abatement. The area of contamination is detailed in the II CRC S 500, ACGIH, New York City and/or EPA mold abatement protocols. The EPA states a small area of contamination is where the total surface area affected is less than 10 square feet (ft2). A medium area of contamination is total surface area affected between 10 ft2 and 100 ft2. A large area of contamination is total surface area affected greater than 100 ft2.

At a minimum on small areas of contamination the contractor should have all workers using N-95 respirators, gloves and goggles. Medium to larger jobs the contractor should have all workers using half to full-face HEPA respirators, disposable coveralls and eye protection. The workers may even need tape all seams to prevent spore infiltration. When spraying the sealer use full disposable coveralls, sealed at the seams with tape and organic vapor respirators. OSHA Respiratory Protection section 1910.134 even has standards for form fitting the respirators requirements for the employer to follow. A good policy to have all employees entering the jobsite sign in and out that they followed the companies personal protective equipment (PPE) procedures.

Larger areas of contamination may require a decontamination area. A containment area should be set using a polyethylene sheet with a slit and flap. This area should be under negative air pressure with a HEPA fan unit. Any areas leading to non-contaminated areas of the building should be sealed off from the abatement including all HVAC registers and ducting.

Contaminated material should be carefully removed and in some cases put into plastic bags to be taken to appropriate disposal. In severe contamination care not to contaminate outside may need to be considered. All surfaces should be vacuumed with a HEPA vacuum or wet VAC (depending on surface). Abatement of the mold may include careful removal of drywall (so you minimize any areolation of the mold spores). Cleaning of framing members with a biocide, scrubbing visible mold with a wire brush, sanding and encapsulating the affected areas with a paint sealer such as IAQ 6000 or comparable. Before sealing an air scrubber should be used which circulates the air over a HEPA filter and essentially cleans the air. Once this is complete post abatement sampling is recommend ensuring a thorough abatement was performed and in the event of future contamination or a moisture event, the contractor is not blamed. Drywall cannot be topically treated since the mold may be growing on the back inside of the wall cavity where the treatment cannot reach. In some extreme cases buildings may have to be abandoned and even demolished.

The contractor should have specification in writing for abatement procedure for the job. Larger residential or commercial jobs may require an industrial hygienist to write the abatement procedures. It is a good practice for the contractor not to advertise outside or on the vehicles about mold abatement. The job should be confidential on the client’s behalf. Having a box truck with 2’ tall MOLD ABABEMTENT letters does not benefit the client.
There are methods, in which the building is heated to excessive temperatures, but the humidity must be lowered or spore release may result. The use of Chlorine Dioxide has been successfully utilized for the killing of mold spores. The building is tented and a gas is introduced and mold spores are killed. The main concern with any abatement however, is the removal of spores. Killing the spores in many cases is not enough, if any occupants have a hypersensitivity to any remaining dead spores.
There is a lot of debate throughout the industry to exactly how to perform a proper abatement but everyone if you don’t follow procedures and ignore recognized and accepted methods you are putting yourself and your company at risk of a lawsuit.
All rights reserved do not reprint without written permission from Showalter Property Consultants

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Declining Real Estate Market

In a declining Real Estate Market this is a good time to get your house ready to sell and take a proactive position. Buyers will be looking for a reason to lower the offer especially after a home inspection.

Prudent sellers want to perform preventive maintenance and share that with their Realtor and potential buyers.

In this changing market the seller may want to go a step further and perform a pre-listing inspection to get a handle on what they may want to correct prior to a buyer perfroming thier own inspection.

If a seller feels a buyer is being unfair, they should verify the inspector is a member of a national non-profit trade association such as NAHI or ASHI or holding the proper state requirements. Many time a buyer reinterprets the findings of the inspection, so request a copy of the home inspection if you feel you are being taken advantage of.
Steve S.

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