HomeTeam Inspection Service

National Radon Action Month

2012-01-11T11:39:00.000-08:00

January is National Radon Action Month. Radon is the leadingcause of lung cancer deaths among nonsmokers in America and claims the lives ofabout 20,000 Americans each year. Unfortunately, many consumers – evenhomeowners – don’t know what radon is! In its most scientific sense, radon isthe chemical element of atomic number 86, a rare radioactive gas belonging tothe noble gas series. It’s colorless and odorless, and the reason it ishazardous to your health is due to its radioactivity. In fact, radon isresponsible for the majority of exposure to ionizing radiation. Believe it ornot, it can accumulate in buildings, especially in confined areas like atticsand basements.

Depending on how a building is built and how it isventilated, radon can accumulate in basements and dwellings. It can also comein through cracks in solid floors, construction joints, cracks in walls, gapsin suspended floors, gaps around services pipes, cavities inside walls and thewater supply.

The EPA and the U.S. Surgeon General urges allAmericans to protect their health by testing their homes, schools, and otherbuildings for radon. Exposure to radon is a preventable health risk, and testingradon levels in your home can help prevent unnecessary exposure. If a highradon level is detected in your home, you can take steps to fix the problem toprotect yourself and your family.

According to the EPA’s website, thereare four things you can do during national radon action month:

Test your home - EPA and the U.S. Surgeon General recommend that all homes in the U.S. be tested for radon. Testing is easy and inexpensive
Attend a National Radon Action Month event in your area - Look for radon events in your community. Contact your state radon program for more information about local radon activities.
Spread the word and spend time during National Radon Action Month encouraging others to learn about radon and test their homes.
Buy a radon-resistant home - If you are considering buying a new home, look for builders who use radon-resistant new construction.

By educating yourself andfollowing these tips, you can do your part to protect your family and yourcommunity from the dangers of radon. If you would liketo check your home for radon, give your local HomeTeam Inspection Service acall. We would be happy to help you.

Improve home health and safety by clearing the air

2011-12-20T11:28:00.000-08:00

Wespend at least a third of our lives inside our homes, so it’s sensible toensure the air we breathe is as clean and fresh as possible. But even thetidiest homes can have air contamination issues if their HVAC systems aren’tproperly maintained and removing airborne particulates. Worse are morepernicious issues, such as mold growth and the accidental release of toxicgases such as radon and carbon monoxide.

Accordingto the Environmental Protection Agency, basic air quality problems result from inadequate ventilation. A home may be poorlyventilated if ….

Moisture condenses on windows or walls
The air in the home is smelly or stuffy
Areas where books and shoes are storedare moldy

Tip: You might notnotice such telltale odors in your own home. If not, give these areas of yourhome a visual check for mold or moisture.

Breathe Easier

TheNational Air Duct Cleaners Association says a typical six-room home accumulatesup to 40 pounds of dust annually.Regular cleaning of your home will help reduce this accumulation, but to do soeven more, be sure …

Yourtotal HVAC gets periodic cleaning and servicing to remove dirt and dust fromducts and mechanical parts.
Knowthat clean HVAC systems are energy-efficient. Dirty systems work harder to moveair throughout the home and struggle to maintain desired temperatures.
Morework for the HVAC means higher heating and cooling costs.
Athoroughly clean system reduces the buildup of potentially irritatingallergens.

Chemical Reaction

It's estimated that four-fifths of all American homes fall short of recommended safelevels for airborne chemicals suchas formaldehyde, second-hand smoke and growing mold, as well as gases such ascarbon monoxide and radon. Good circulation will help to reduce to the firstthree, but to eliminate radon and carbon monoxide troubles...

Buya home air check test kit or have a professional inspection check levels ofboth gases, which are odorless and colorless
Houseswith appliances or heaters that burn wood, oil, natural gas or coal should havecarbon monoxide detectors installed outside of sleeping areas.
Considerhaving a professional inspect heaters and appliances for potentially toxic gasleakage

HealthfulKnowledge

Learning more about home air quality is a great way to ensure yourliving space is the cleanest it can be. For more information, visit theseresources on the Internet or call your local HomeTeam Inspection Service:

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency “Guideto Indoor Air Quality.”
National Air Duct Cleaners Association “Checklistfor Residential Consumers.”

Storm Safety for Your Home and Its Inhabitants

2011-11-11T14:12:00.000-08:00

One thing that HomeTeam Inspectors often find in the homes they inspect is damage caused by storms. In fact, contrary to popular belief, no part of this country is impervious to storm damage. Damage from a past hurricane, tornado, or flood can plague a home for years.

This is why it’s important to inspect the roofing, siding, and exterior railings for wind and water damage as well as defective repairs that homeowners may hastily make in their misinformed efforts to fix up the house. Also, be sure to inspect the drywall for water intrusion—otherwise you could face serious mold problems in the future. It’s always a good idea to call in a professional HomeTeam Inspector to swing by your house after any major storm, to take a look and let you know if anything’s been damaged in a way that could lead to bigger, more expensive problems later on.

Your local House Doctors Professional Handyman Service can help you either prepare your home for a storm or make the necessary repairs once damage is already done.

However, as we prepare to enter hurricane season, let’s consider some important safety precautions that can be taken ahead of time, in order to ensure the safety of both your home and the loved ones living inside.

1) Learn about your local community’s emergency warning system. A simple Google Search of your city’s name + “Emergency Warning System” should keep you informed.

2) Discuss thunderstorm safety with all members of your household. You can find all the information you need here: http://www.fema.gov/hazard/thunderstorm/index.shtm

3) Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm. This should be away from windows, skylights and glass doors that could be broken by strong winds or hail. You might try a basement, a storm cellar, a bathroom, a pantry, or even a large closet.

4) Make a list of items to bring inside in the event of a severe storm, or make sure that expensive or priceless items are stored safely in your garage or cellar during storm season.

5) Make trees and shrubbery more wind-resistant by keeping them trimmed and removing damaged branches, otherwise, heavy wind and rain could hurl these branches right into your house!

6) Protect your animals by ensuring that any outside buildings that house them are protected in the same way as your home. Your local House Doctor can build storm-resistant dog houses too!

7) Get trained in first aid and learn how to respond to emergencies. You can find your local Red Cross and sign up for classes here: http://www.redcross.org

8) Put together an emergency preparedness kit including:

Water - one gallon per person, per day
Food - non-perishable, easy-to-prepare
Flashlight - battery powered or handcrank
Radio
Extra batteries
First aid kit
Medications (7-day supply) and medical items
Multi-purpose tool
Sanitation & personal hygiene items
Copies of personal documents
Cell phone with chargers
Family & emergency contact information
Extra cash

When in doubt, remember the words of Ben Franklin: “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” But let’s leave the thunderstorm kite-flying to him!

Mold in your home, how serious is it?

2011-10-20T11:16:00.000-07:00

Learning that mold is present in your home can be scary, but before you panic there are some things that you should know.

Mold (fungi) is present everywhere - indoors and outdoors. There are more than 100,000 species of mold. At least 1,000 species of mold are common in the U.S. and are found in moist or damp areas, as all molds need water to grow.

Mold is often confused with another fungus, mildew. Mildew is the black residue on your shower curtains and the funny smell coming from clothes that sat too long in the washer. Mold is the fuzzy or slimy stuff that sometimes grows on your counter fruit. It also appears as irregularly shaped spots of black or gray on a wall or ceiling, which is much harder to throw away than a rotting orange!

Just like mold on fruit, mold growing in a house gets its energy from organic matter. Like mildew, it is attracted to moisture and breeds in damp environments. Therefore, if a home has been exposed to any sort of water damage, it may have hidden mold. Common areas where mold hides include:

Backsides of dry wall
Wallpaper or paneling
Top side of ceiling tiles
Underside of carpets and carpet pads
Inside walls around pipes
Surface of walls behind furniture
Inside ductwork
Roof materials above ceiling tiles

Most types of mold that are routinely encountered are not hazardous to healthy individuals, however there are household molds that are toxic and can cause neurological problems. Common symptoms in individuals living in a house with mold are:

Itchy and watering eyes
Chronic coughing
Headaches or migraines
Difficulty breathing
Rashes
Fatigue
Sinus problems
Nasal blockage
Frequent sneezing
Depending on the amount of exposure and a person's individual vulnerability, more serious health effects - such as fevers and breathing problems - can occur but are unusual.

Mold should be cleaned as soon as it appears. Persons cleaning mold should be free of symptoms and allergies and need to wear gloves during cleaning. Small areas of mold can be cleaned using a detergent/soapy solution or an appropriate household cleaner. Once the area is cleaned, it then needs to be thoroughly dried and any sponges or rags used need to be disposed.
If a house has a severe mold problem, more likely than not that there will be a musty scent in the affected area. Some surfaces may look smudged or blotched and should not be touched.

If you suspect that your home or potential home is contaminated with mold call a professional home inspector to inspect and test the house for mold. If the home tests positive for mold, caution should be taken. Even in the event that mold can be cleaned up, purchasing mold insurance would be a wise investment to minimize financial and personal harm that could occur if mold does not get properly cleaned up.

Prepare your Home and Your Family for Hurricane Season

2011-08-09T10:45:00.000-07:00

Storm season is certainly upon us and hurricane season is about to come into full swing. Over the past several years, hurricane damage has made the news again and again, devastating lives, people, cities and nations. Every year it’s a good idea to remind yourself of how to prepare for a hurricane should you encounter this terrorizing storm. Fortunately, meteorologists are able to track hurricanes before they hit home; however, it’s always a good idea to have a plan in place to quickly put into action.

With over 20 years of experience in assessing storm damage, HomeTeam is knowledgeable in key ways to prepare your home for storms. Here are a few top tips:

Protect windows and sliding doors with plywood that fits the area of the window or door. Taping a window or a door is an ineffective method to protect windows or doors. With high speed winds, tape is not going to hold the most damaging materials out. The best case is to have impact-resistant glass installed, but if that isn’t an option, drilling in plywood is the second best solution. To be prepared for the storm, have the plywood already made to fit the windows and sliding doors, because you aren’t going to be able to run to The Home Depot during a hurricane.
Remove weak or dead trees from your yard. Dead foliage cannot withstand 100 MPH wind and can easily come through a window during a hurricane. Be sure to remove any dead or weak shrubbery from your yard each year.
Have a generator in case your home loses power.
Determine a “safe” room. This should be an interior room or closet in the middle of the first floor without windows.

In the event your home is affected by a hurricane, be sure to get a storm assessment. This will tell you what areas of your home need repair. A storm assessment should be a comprehensive verbal and written report detailing the storm damage. HomeTeam Inspection Service recommends having a storm assessment performed by an independent third party to receive the most accurate information on the damage to your home.

Ways to Keep Your Home Cool This Summer

2011-07-06T10:50:00.000-07:00

For more than 20 years, customershave trusted HomeTeam Inspection Service for their home needs, includingcomprehensive inspections, energy audits, pre-sale inspections, storminspections, and mold and water testing. Additionally, HomeTeam also provideshome owners with tips for protecting their home – and their investment.

Here are severalenvironmentally-friendly tips home owners can use to keep their homes cool,while cutting down the electricity bill:

Invest in fans and ceiling fans. Fans give you the opportunity to raise your thermostat setting while allowing you to save on air-conditioning costs.
Install white window shades, blinds and drapes. White blinds reflect heat away from your home, rather than attracting heat and trapping it inside.
Close shades, blinds and drapes facing the sun. By closing your blinds (east-facing windows in the morning and west-facing windows in the afternoon), you’ll be able to keep heat out and cool air in.
Close unused vents. There’s no need in cooling dead space, so close vents that aren’t being used. This will allow more air to flow from opened vents.
Be aware of internal heat. Lighting, appliances and electronic devices are some of the most common sources of internal heat within your home. Make sure to turn them off when not in use and keep them away from your thermostat, as heat will cause the air conditioner to run for longer periods of time.
Plant trees or shrubs to shade air conditioning units. A unit operating in the shade uses less power.

There’s no reason to make your summer even hotter, so use these environmentally-friendlyalternatives to cool your home more efficiently. For more tips or to find outwhat HomeTeamInspection Service can do for you, visit www.hometeaminspection.com.

Home Inspections: Why You Shouldn’t Skip Them

2011-05-31T10:53:00.000-07:00

Whether purchasing a new home, onethat has been foreclosed on, or preparing your home to list on the market, ahome inspection is a crucial part of the real estate transaction. When ahomeowner considers foregoing an inspection, they are risking not being madeaware of potential future problems with the property that could have beenavoided. Oftentimes, homeowners justify not getting a home inspection becausethey can’t afford it, however these typically are the people who need theinspection the most because issues identified at this stage in most cases canbe resolved quickly and cost effectively before they become costlier problemsover the long term.

Problems don’t just come up in olderor foreclosed homes. Our homeinspectors routinely find issues in new homes — such as venting and drains notbeing hooked up, unsecured counters, lack of windowsills or electrical panelscovered by drywall. Whether buying a foreclosed home, a short sale or a homebeing sold “as is,” it’s still important to know what you’re getting into andpossibly have the chance to walk away or negotiate if conditions areunsuitable. A trained inspector can often spot issues with these types ofhomes. For example, oftentimes copper plumbing lines and outdoorcompressors have been removed by people trying to get money from recyclers.

Even if you don’t plan to stay in ahome long-term, chances are that the future buyer will have an inspection andyou may then be subject to the cost of the repairs. Aside from the fact thatit’s an overall wise decision to have an inspection conducted before movinginto a home, there are five other top reasons you shouldn’t skip a homeinspection:

Major safety issues: Things like mold, carbon monoxide or electrical wiring issues in a home can have a devastating effect on those who live in the residence if the problem is left untreated. These things can be detected by a home inspector and typically can be repaired to ensure safety within the home.
General safety issues: Though not an immediate danger, cracks in sidewalks or loose stair railings can be a safety hazard for those living in a home. These repairs are often quick and easy to make, and can help make a home a safer place.
Insurance issues: Specifications in the insurance industry that outline the criteria to insure a home are constantly evolving and vary by state. Home inspectors are up-to-date on these requirements and can ensure that a home has received the proper checks or repairs to bring it into compliance for that area. This can be done at the same time the inspector completes his other services, saving the homeowner time and money in the long run.
Protecting your investment: A home is likely the largest investment you will ever make. If treated like a car — which receives regular oil changes, washes and tune-ups — it will hold its value for longer. Many people take these extra steps with their vehicles, which depreciate over time, but don’t think to take the necessary steps with their homes, which may appreciate over the years.
Peace of mind: When looking for a new home, people often fall in love with a piece of property based on the color of the walls, the location or the price tag, and can be blind to the issues that can turn your new home into a nightmare. Finding out these types of issues on the front end can be helpful in determining if that property is really your dream home.

Selling Your House, It’s what’s on the Outside that Counts!

2011-05-18T10:55:00.000-07:00

When it comes to preparing a housefor today’s market, it’s not always what’s on the inside that counts. Homesellers should remember that a home’s external appearance, landscaping, andoutdoor living space are just as important as a perfectly staged interior.

With Memorial Day, Independence Day, and the summer season quickly approaching, many potential homebuyers are lookingfor an outdoor living space suitable for hosting summer gatherings and parties.Creating a space in which homebuyers can picture themselves throwing a holidaycelebration with friends or a casual family cookout can be a deciding factor inthe purchase of a home. Updating and maintaining the exterior of the home tocompliment the interior will attract interested buyers as well as betterprepare your home for the home inspection.

You can change the appearance of your home and better prepare it for aninspection with just a few simple projects and improvements:

Transform the exterior of your party pad by pressure washing your home and sidewalk areas. Unwanted paint, dirt, and grime will easily vanish under the force of a pressurized water system.
Brighten up your home by touching up your paint. After all, we could all use a little boost from time to time, so show your trim a little TLC.
Protect the top layer of your driveway from harmful environment elements by applying a seal coat. The application of hot liquid asphalt covered by a graded aggregate creates a waterproof membrane which prevents water from penetrating the surface of your property’s driveway.
Prevent wood deterioration by resealing your property’s deck, porch, and wood areas. Elements such as sunlight, water, contamination, and mildew can weaken the preservation of your wood, ultimately reducing the appearance and value of your home.
To add more space to your outdoor living area, simply expand your deck’s dimensions. With a little bit of deck expansion, there will be plenty of space for your next summer social gathering.
Install an awning to cover your outdoor reception space to protect guests from summer rain and heat.
Get down and dirty with a little landscape maintenance. Touch up your turf by pulling weeds, mowing your lawn, and mulching your shrub and garden areas. Don’t forget porch upkeep by sweeping and dusting regularly.

With these simple changes and improvements, your home will be ready to list onthe market and also be in great shape for the home inspection. Buyers will beconfident in the purchase of their new home after a professional home inspectorinspects every area of the home, inside and out!

How to Green Your Home

2011-04-27T10:57:00.000-07:00

Now more than ever consumers arelooking for ways to save energy in their homes. Greener homes are not only moreenvironmentally friendly but can also greatly reduce utility bills. The averagehousehold spends about $2,200 on energy bills, but with a few simpleadjustments, consumers can lessen their impact on the environment and savethemselves some green as well!

Seal your home! Use caulk and weather stripping to seal in air so that cool air cannot escape and heat stays inside.
Install a programmable thermostat. Through proper use of pre-programmed settings, a programmable thermostat can save you about $180 every year in energy costs.
Take steps to save water. By installing aerators on your faucets, you can cut your annual water consumption in half.
Use energy efficient lighting. LED light bulbs use up to 85 percent less energy than incandescent light bulbs and can last up to 10 times longer.
Solar, wind or even hydroelectric power can reduce greenhouse emissions and harness the capabilities of renewable fuels.
Completely unplug off your appliances! 75 percent of energy used to power an appliance is consumed while the appliance is turned off. Use a power strip to make unplugging easier.
Spray-foam insulation can benefit older homes by cutting heating bills in half. Spraying open areas like attics or crawlspaces can also reduce mold growth and even prevent some pests from entering your home.

For more tips on how to make yourhome green or what HomeTeam Inspection Servicecan do for you, visit www.hometeaminspection.com

Let Our To Do List Help You with Spring Cleaning

2011-03-29T14:01:00.000-07:00

HomeTeam Inspection Service’sexperience gives us the knowledge to help consumers prepare for all seasonswith checkup tips on how to keep their homes in tip top condition. Everyseason of the year brings needed home improvements; decks should be properlysealed before the harsh winter months; gutters should be properly cleanedbefore and after the leaves fall; patios and gazebos are perfect spring homeimprovements that can be enjoyed all summer long.

We’ve come up with a check list ofcertain items in and around the home that home owners should inspect in thespring. Take a look at these and other items to make sure they are safeand in proper working order.

• Basketball goals	• Garages	• Roofing
• Child play sets	• Gutters	• Shutters
• Decks	• Mail boxes	• Sidewalks
• Dog houses	• Painting	• Stairs
• Driveways	• Patios	• Windows
• Fences	• Porches

It’s important to make sure allthese items are in order to avoid larger problems down the road that couldaffect a future home inspection. Each season we’ll bring you more homeimprovement tips so you can ensure your home is inspection ready.

Why to Not Shop for a Home Inspection on Price Alone

2011-03-16T11:07:00.000-07:00

In today’s economy, people arelooking for penny pinching ways to save money, but it might not be a good idea to squeeze thewallet when it comes to finding a home inspector. Consumers are alreadyputting hundreds of thousands of dollars in play to purchase a home so whyskimp when it comes to the home inspection process – the process that shows thehomebuyer the true story. Here are some things to consider, pricingaside, in order to choose the most qualified home inspection company for thejob:

Experience. HomeTeam Inspection Service has been conducting home inspections for over 20 years. When it comes to home inspections, they have the expertise to do the job right the first time. HomeTeam Inspection Service is built on a solid foundation that provides the necessary tools and resources for each of its franchisees to keep them up to date with the latest industry news, trends and tools so that they are on the cutting-edge of the industry.
Proper Insurance and licensing. All HomeTeam locations have always carried professional insurance, even long before states required it. This is the quality and leadership that HomeTeam has always stood for. In addition, HomeTeam inspectors are usually among the first to be licensed when a state implements licensing for the industry. It is crucial to find an inspector with these in place and HomeTeam mandates all its franchisees hold the necessary credentials.
Referrals. Talk with real estate agents, appraisers, attorney’s, and past homebuyers in your market to determine their experience with home inspection companies. You want the company who can get the job done quickly while providing the highest quality inspection every single time. And who better to ask than the realtors who work with home inspectors every day.
Informative reporting. The product of an inspection must include a written report. The report type and style is as important as the inspection itself. The report can be retained for future reference and should be a lasting resource. Therefore, those seeking an inspection should ask about the report to ensure it is detailed and accurate. HomeTeam Inspection Service does a narrative report rather than the standard checklist to give homebuyers a lasting resource that is customized and complete.
Friendly & personal verbal reporting. In addition to a high quality written report, home inspection customers should walk away feeling very satisfied with the time the inspectors have spent with them. HomeTeam inspectors are trained in human relations and take the time to answer questions and verbally introduce the home to its new owners.
On-site inspectors. A team of inspectors will likely deliver a more comprehensive, thorough inspection. A team will be faster and more efficient with more than one pair of eyes looking over the entire house for issues. Every HomeTeam franchisee use at minimum two inspectors per home inspection.

15-year HomeTeam inspector Colin Conroy says that “when you have no pointsof differentiation from the competitors in the marketplace, often timesinspectors will use a low pricing strategy to gain customers.” He advisesthat homebuyers and sellers alike do a complete reference check before hiring ahome inspector. It could end up costing thousands of dollars if somethinggoes wrong.

Indoor Air Quality Becoming an Important Issue Requiring Action

2011-03-02T11:14:00.000-08:00

Studies show that Americans arespending more time indoors than ever before. While that might not trigger immediateconcern, it can actually be a grave health risk. Volatile organiccompounds (VOCs) are emitted as gases from typical household items like paint,cleaning supplies, pesticides, building materials, printers, all causingpotential health risks from just the air your breathe.

According to industry research, itis important to get your home checked for its indoor air quality to get ahandle on any dangerous, undetected material that you may be exposed to day inand day out. HomeTeam Inspection Serviceprovides Indoor Air Quality checks for consumers who want to get a grasp ontheir air they are breathing. HomeTeaminspectors take an air sample, test it for VOCs and report the results back tothe homeowner. It’s quick, easy and inexpensive.

Contact your local HomeTeaminspector to get your indoor air quality checked or to consult on potentialdangers that may be looming in your home without your knowledge. Pleasevisit HomeTeam Inspection Service to find your local HomeTeamInspection Service inspector.

HomeTeam Goes to Clearwater Beach

2011-02-15T11:19:00.000-08:00

Annual Convention Hosts TopFranchisees; Introduces New Strategies and Tactics

By Greg Haskett, VP of SharedServices

Every year, our HomeTeamInspection Service franchisees get together tocelebrate another great year of business and discuss hot topics and what's newfor the year ahead. This year we met in Clearwater Beach, FL in the cityof our host franchisee Mitch Rothenberg. Themed Chart Your Course, we hadseveral sessions, large and small, where franchisees gathered together todiscuss all aspects of their businesses. As a leader in the home inspectionindustry, this convention in particular was special as we introduced severalnew items that our franchisees can use moving forward, including:

A new and improved online software that will keep usahead of the competition. Cloud computing is the way of the future and ourfranchise owners can now respond quicker than their competition with betterdata.
New financial benchmarks and tools specificallydesigned to maximize the profit of each franchise owner which also gives them aunique tool to hit their personal income goals.
A strategic rollout of social media efforts that willbroaden the reach of the HomeTeam brand and meet our current &future customers where they are.
Lastly, and the best part of any gathering like this,is when the attendees can spend time together. We included extended breaks,franchisee-only meetings, and very successful role-playing sessions wherefranchise owners from across North America interacted with each and discussedtheir shared interests in building the HomeTeam name.

Overall this year's convention was the best one yet. We received somevery positive feedback from our franchisees.

"The leadership and direction of Jim Hunter is contagious! The entire staff is on board in attitude and actions. Thanks to all for $50,000 or more in value for about a $500 price." Ray Fonos, Pittsburgh, PA
"I've already booked an inspection from a price shopper based on some of the ideas from the role-playing session." Mike Henry, Belleville, ON
"I am excited about this year and look forward to the ISN
addition to our teams. I truly believe that this will take my business to another level." Bobby Cox, Savannah, GA
"I can say with great confidence that EVERYONE that attended went away recharged and invigorated, ready to take on whatever 2011 throws at us! You will find that your 'return on investment' will easily be 10 to 20 (or more) times the costs involved in attending." Bill Jurek, Ft. Meyers, FL
"Coming up on 16 years and haven't missed one yet. Still can't imagine anyone in this business, especially with THIS franchise, who wouldn't strive to make it to every convention. It's the motivation, encouragement and pick-me-up we all need to kick-start our year!" John Gambill, Ashland, KY
"Hard to imagine any franchisee not seeing the value in this and not attending. I can't wait for next year!" Scott Whitbeck, Colorado Springs, CO

Vacation Give-A-Way Winner Named

2011-02-04T11:22:00.000-08:00

HomeTeam Inspection ServiceSelects Winner from Thousands of Entries

HomeTeam Inspection Service just announced its Vacation Give-A-Way winner for 2010.Each year HomeTeam Inspection Service encourages customers to leave feedback on comment cardsnoting their home inspection experiences. All cards are then entered into ahuge national drawing at the end of the year on December 31, and the winnerreceives a voucher toward a vacation. This year, Michele Normington of RoyalLePage Real Estate in Belleville, Ontario won a $2,000 voucher toward avacation of her choice. Mike Henry, franchisee of HomeTeam in Belleville, presented Michele with the $2,000 vacationvoucher just last week.

According to Greg Haskett, VP of Shared Services for HomeTeamInspection Service, the comment cards serve a higherpurpose than a vacation give-a-way. They allow HomeTeam franchisees to understand how to better serve theircustomers and improve their services. HomeTeam franchisees continually offer better customer service bystudying comments from their valued clients. As a national franchise, HomeTeamInspection Service lives up to its reputation of beingthe most professional and efficient home inspection service in the market andtakes every comment seriously. Haskett adds, “The Vacation Give-A-Way is a funperk to our customers and helps us continue developing as a brand. It’s awin/win!”

Congratulations to Michele Normington! HomeTeam looks forward to hearing the vacation she plans with hernew $2,000.

2011 Top Trends in Home Improvement

2011-02-01T08:35:00.000-08:00

HomeTeam has uncovered some trends we think are really going tostick in 2011. Home buyers really pay attention to what’s hot, fresh andnew when they consider buying a home. It’s important for a great returnon investment to keep your home up to speed on all the latest trends.

Go Green. This is a trend that is here to stay because peopleare realizing that the highest return on their investment in any renovationthey make are those improvements that are “going green”. As we becomemore conscious about becoming eco-friendly, as well as looking into ways tosave more money, people will continue to make green updates to their homes,ranging from those simple improvements like changing a light bulb andinstalling water collectors for collecting rainwater that is used for gardeningto more advanced eco-friendly methods like installing energy efficientappliances or putting in energy star quality windows.

Bathrooms. Bathroom renovations can be simple and can reallyboost value in a resale. You can re-tile your floor or upgrade those oldfacets for a nice return on your investment. Buyers want to see bathroomsthat look brand new which means an easy fix for a great return on investmentfor the home owner.

Immediate Repairs. Has that faucet been leaking for the past two months? How about that crack in the driveway? These simple issues should be takencare of right away. What is a tiny inconvenience now can turn into amajor issue down the road. Most home buyers are looking for move in readyhouses, not fixer uppers. It’s imperative to get those nuisances out ofthe way…and fast.

Home inspections are on the rise in2011. Take note of the top trends and get started on those improvements thatare going to make your home more livable for you and easier to sell for your nextpotential home buyer.

HomeTeam Inspection Service Promotes National Radon Action Month

2011-01-25T11:33:00.000-08:00

According to the EPA, you can’t see, smell, or tasteradon, but it could be present at a dangerous level in your home. Radon is theleading cause of lung cancer deaths among nonsmokers in America and claims thelives of about 20,000 Americans each year. In fact, the EPA and the U.S. Surgeon General urgesall Americans to protect their health by testing their homes, schools, andother buildings for radon. Exposure to radon is a preventable health risk, andtesting radon levels in your home can help prevent unnecessary exposure. If ahigh radon level is detected in your home, you can take steps to fix theproblem to protect yourself and your family.

According to the EPA’s website, there are four things you can doduring national radon action month:

Test your home - EPA and the U.S. Surgeon Generalrecommend that all homes in the U.S. be tested for radon. Testing is easy andinexpensive
Attend a National Radon ActionMonth event in your area - Look for radon events in your community. Contactyour state radon program for more information about local radon activities.
Spread the word and spend timeduring National Radon Action Month encouraging others to learn about radon andtest their homes.
Buy a radon-resistant home - Ifyou are considering buying a new home, look for builders who useradon-resistant new construction.

New Year’s Resolution Ideas for your Home

2010-12-23T07:44:00.000-08:00

As we list out our own personal NewYear’s resolutions, there may be some other areas that are in dire need forsome attention in 2011 too. Like your home. Whether you haven’t had thetime or the energy, 2011 is a great year to get some of those home projects inmotion. HomeTeam Inspection Service business owner Ed Miehlke offers someexpert tips on simple projects to make your home a priority this year.

New Year’s Resolution Ideasfor your Home

By Steve Coomes

"He who owns a homedeserves it!"

Author unknown

While most homeowners regardtheir domiciles with pride and joy, there is wisdom to be inferred from thewizened wisecrack above: homeownership implies regular work.

Be it patching crackedplaster, attacking a weedy lawn or something major, such as replacing the HVACsystem, the need to invest in a home—be it with money or mere sweat—neverceases.

But experts insist that homeownerswho stay ahead of the game with regular preventative maintenance not only workless on their properties, but can avoid costly expenses that zap the alreadyburdened budgets of many.

"There's a lot of truth to the old saying that a stitchin time saves nine," said Harry Rimmer, a Wayne, Pa., franchisee of HouseDoctors, a 90-unit professional handyman service. In other words, "thereare so many minor things a homeowner can do on his own to keep him from facingmajor repairs."

But while Rimmer believes manyhomeowners are capable of performing small maintenance tasks, many becomeoverwhelmed by what appears to be a lengthy and almost insurmountable to-dolist. His advice: Start somewhere and scratch items off the list.

Ed Miehlke, a franchisee of 175-unitHomeTeam Inspection Service, agreed and advises homeowners to triage that tasklist according to the season.

"Right now we're in thefall, so you need to be sure your gutters are really clean," Miehlkebegan. "That ensures you don't have water backing up and ice forminginside them when winter comes."

Planning on selling your home?As an inspector, Miehlke said neglected basic home maintenance leads to sellershaving to spend major dollars fixing in order to make their propertiessellable. On the other hand, performing these duties regularly and keeping ajournal of when you did the work can assist in the speedy sale of any property.

Miehlke and Rimmer teamed upon a "12 Months of Maintenance" checklist homeowners can addressseasonally and a little at a time. Several of the items can be addressedoutside of months they suggested, but both stressed each point should beaddressed well ahead of the applicable season.

January: Clean and/or replace clothes dryer vents. Not only will itreduce fire hazards, it will boost the performance of your dryer which savesmoney on energy use. Remove all holiday lights and decorations, both becauseyour neighbors want you to, it makes the yard safer for playing in the snow.

Beauty tip: Frame andhang some of those photos you shot last year

February: Inspect theoutside of your house prior to a snowfall. Why? "Because you'd besurprised at what can get caught in a snow blower and damage it," saidRimmer. Once you retreat from the cold, it's a good time to inspect drywall forcracks that need patching. The arid air from your furnace will help the mud dryquicker and allow for painting sooner.

Beauty tip: Since theweather outside is frightful, choose just one room to paint so you don't becomeoverwhelmed by the thought of it.

March: Check to be sureyour sump pump is working properly before spring rains arrive. If you live in astorm-prone area, experts recommend a battery backup system to cover you if youlose power. Now is also the time to apply lawn fertilizer to get a jump on weedcontrol.

Beauty tip: Spruce upyour landscaping. Wet soil makes for easy planting of bushes, shrubs and trees.

April: Now that therainy season has arrived, check downspouts around the outside the house to besure water is flowing freely and away from the foundation. Water gathering atedges of the house can damage the foundation.

Beauty tip: Check forwinter-damaged surfaces, such as shutters, gutters and landscape lighting. Sometouch ups here and there will invigorate the exterior look again.

May: Service airconditioning compressor and blower unit when temperatures are at least 70 F toensure normal Freon performance. Schedule biannual visits with HVAC provider"so they call you, and you don't have to remember to call them,"Miehlke said.

Beauty tip: Mildweather is perfect for more significant jobs such as laying a brick paver pathor building a gazebo. It's also a good time to plant perennials.

June: Now that somewhatdrier weather is here, it's a good time to clean and seal your wooden deck. Ourexperts recommended pressure washing the entire surface, allowing it to dry fortwo days and then coating it with a high quality water-resistant stain or seal.Well kept decks add tremendous value to homes, but poorly maintained ones canwipe out that same value.

Beauty tip: Make your home inviting to guests by considering new deckfurniture or chairs for your porch.

July: In the heat ofthe summer, it might be wise to find inside chores such as simple appliancemaintenance. Dusting the refrigerator condenser and cleansing its fan of debrisincreases its efficiency and lowers energy consumption. Same for washing orreplacing the filters in your range hood. If you have a down-draft exhaustsystem, request a professional service visit to check the vent pipe.

Beauty tip: Sometimesdeconstruction, such as removing an old swing set, will serve as a facelift forthe property. If you have fences, it's a great time to paint them.

August: Traditionallythis is the hottest and driest month of the summer, which means it's a goodtime to seal asphalt driveways. Sealing reduces the chance of water seepageinto cracks, which can feed roots under the drive and, just as damaging, allowice to form and expand.

Beauty tip: Your lawn is growing again, which means it's a great timeto aerate and fertilize. You'll love the boost of green the lawn will get.

September: Take a goodlook at your roof to ensure all shingles or tiles are in place. According toRimmer, a small number of loose shingles can be repaired easily by a pro, butif left unfixed, the result could be water damage and further loss of shingles.The milder weather provides a good chance to restore door gaskets to before thecold sets in—and don't forget the bottom of the garage door! And speaking ofthose, take the time to grease its bearings and adjust chains that do loosenover time.

Beauty tip: Plant fallflowers, such as mums, to brighten your landscaping.

October: Have yourfurnace and humidifier serviced by a professional to ensure optimal combustionand air flow. Ask the service tech if it might be time to get your ventscleaned as well. Now that the air in the attic is cooler, visit the space tosee if it could use some more insulation. Examine your windows closely to seeif they need recaulking.

Beauty tip: Now thatthe sun is setting earlier, consider landscape lighting to add a dramaticappearance to your home.

November: Remove all leaves from lawn to reduce grass kill, and toavoid ice buildup, remove all hoses from outside faucets and shut off theirvalves inside. Rimmer said frost-free "bibs" placed on outsidefaucets can help as well, but that hose removal and water shut-off are best.

December: Guests are coming for the holidays, so make sure yourtoilets, showers and sinks and garbage disposals are all functioning properly.Clean lime from clogged shower heads, and replace toilet flappers if leaking.

Beauty tip: Take the plunge and join your neighborhood decoratingcontest. But no need to be this year's Clark Griswald. Sometimes less is morewhen lights are smartly strung to accent the house's features rather than washthem out.

Home Improvements to Make During Any Economic Climate

2010-12-08T07:56:00.000-08:00

During such a tough economicclimate, homeowners are often faced with difficult decisions on which homeimprovements are most necessary for their homes. HomeTeam Inspection Service would like to recommend a few key areas that should always be a keyfocus, no matter what the economic climate, to help ensure the structuralsafety of the home as well as the resale value.

Starting with the exterior, youshould:

Check all windows and doors tomake sure caulk is not cracking and separating. If it is, remove the oldcaulk and re-caulk with a good quality exterior caulk to ensure your homeremains insulated from the outside elements.
Have a professional check yourroof, including chimney flashing, skylights, plumbing vent pipes and attachedantennas, every two to three years to check for cracks and breaks in sealantsto avoid water entering the home and causing interior damage.
Replace old or damaged weatherstripping as soon as possible.
Check exterior water supplies andmake sure they are shut off during winter months to avoid cracks or breaks inpipes.
Close any holes, openings orother points of entry where mice or other rodents can enter thehome.

In the interior, homeowners shouldpay close attention to:

Repair leaky faucets to avoidrunning up your water bill. It’s important to make sure that all faucetsfrom all water sources in the house are in sound working order.
Repair running toilets, whichwill have the same effect as leaky faucets, so if you have a toilet inquestion, upgrade to a new, low-flush option that will minimize water usage andsave you money.
Check caulking around tubs,vanity sinks, kitchen sinks, and replace as needed. Keeping up with caulkingwill keep water from leaking into unwanted areas.
Check doors and windows for airleaks. Replace weather stripping as needed to heating and cooling systemsworking to their maximum efficiency.
During the winter, rid ofmoisture on windows. The change in temperature outside to in createscondensation on the windows, so wipe off the moisture consistently to ensurethe water doesn’t start rotting any wood around the windows.

Making home improvements is one ofthe many responsibilities of being a homeowner. It’s important to payattention to the repairs that need to be done in your home to ensure that anysmall repair doesn’t turn into a major problem. When you notice that arepair that needs to be made, obtain the advice of a professional who candiscuss with you exact requirements for the job.

Issues with Potential Defective “Chinese” Drywall

2010-11-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

By Curtis Carr, owner of HomeTeamInspection Service in Beaumont, TX

A major problem with defectivedrywall was introduced about five years ago after the federal government hadreason to believe that defective drywall was used in rebuilding homes destroyedor damaged by the hurricanes which swept through the state. Thegovernment then tested homes in Florida and found that some of the drywall usedto repair hurricane damage after storms in 2005 can emit hydrogen sulfide andsulfur dioxide gases. If concentrations of these gases are high enoughcorrosion of plumbing, electrical wiring, air conditioning, security and othercomponents can occur. Corrosion can lead to premature failure of theseitems; and, in the case of electrical components, arcing which presents a firerisk.

After the defective drywall wasdiscovered in the Florida homes it had to be ripped out and replaced. Insome instances the process of replacing the defective drywall displacedfamilies for long periods and required contractors to gut newly rebuilt orrepaired homes.

Many homes up and down the easternseaboard and gulf coast were also damaged by hurricanes and some of these homescould have also been repaired or rebuilt using drywall either imported ormade by the same domestic manufacturers as in Florida.

According to Tom Kiehnhoff, anattorney with the law firm of Reaud, Morgan & Quinn in Beaumont, Texas,literature produced by the drywall industry suggests that the processes used tomake the defective drywall found in Florida may have been in use as early as1990. Kiehnhoff emphasized that the factors affecting how long it takesdefective drywall to cause corrosion are not fully understood and the length oftime can vary from one home to another. He also stated that the federalgovernment has approved inspection and testing methods to determine whetherdefective drywall has been installed in a home.

Because of the seriousness of thisissue, the IRS issued guidance providing relief to homeowners who have sufferedproperty losses due to the effects of certain imported drywall installed inhomes between 2001 and 2009. To read more, visit: www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=228402,00.html.

Homeowners, landlords, potentialbuyers, tenants and real estate professionals are just a few of the individualsand businesses who should be aware of this issue. If anyone has aconcern or questions whether defective drywall may be present, they shouldcontact a qualified inspector to investigate the issue. Inspections willrequire a visit to observe the components in the home and may involvelaboratory testing of samples.

HomeTeam Inspection Service iscurrently doing “Defective Drywall” inspections. HomeTeam provides twolevels of service. One is a visual only inspection which is designed tolocate any corrosion that may be present. The second level involvestaking some drywall samples so that testing can be done in a lab.

As a home inspection business ownerin Beaumont, TX where hurricanes such as Katrina and Rita in 2005 and Ike in2008 have devastated homes and homeowners have had to make repairs which couldhave been repaired or rebuilt using drywall either imported or made by thesame domestic manufacturers as in Florida, I am holding presentations aboutdefective drywall for real estate groups and anyone else who may be interestedin learning more.

For further questions aboutdefective drywall issues in the Beaumont, TX area, you can call me at409-838-5440.

For questions related to this issuein other parts of the country, visit http://www.hometeaminspection.com/ to find a location near you.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES CRUCIAL DURING WINTER MONTHS

2010-10-08T08:05:00.000-07:00

With the onset of winter, you willstart hearing a lot more about fire prevention. This is because with thecolder weather, heat systems and auxiliary heating devices are used in thehome, adding to the risk of fire. Here are some tips to make sure youtake precautions to prevent fires from occurring in your home:

Have your heating system inspected. With regular servicing of your heating system, you benefit by burning less fuel and a system that gets regular service is less likely to break down.

Gas-fired furnaces should be serviced yearly and inspected. Since gas-fired furnaces burn cleaner than oil-fired furnaces, you need not have the flue cleaned every year, but the flue should be checked to make sure there are no obstructions. Your service tech will:

Check for C.O. leaks
Inspect the blower system
Inspect gas lines
Inspect flue system
Check filter
Check Heat Exchanger

You can save yourself costly repair by just changing your furnace filter on a regular basis. Remember, even in the summer you need to change your filter if you have central air conditioning. The blower on your furnace is the same one that circulates the cold air.

Oil-fired furnaces need to be serviced annually as well. Since oil does not burn as clean as gas, the flue needs to be inspected every year. Depending on the age of the unit and how clean it burns, the flue may have to be cleaned annually as well.

Boilers need to be serviced annually whether they are hot-water systems or steam.

Heat pumps and electric furnaces also need to have annual inspection to prevent untimely breakdowns.

Outside air conditioning units and swamp coolers should be covered

Now is also a good time to:

Check your smoke detectors and change the batteries
Check your C.O. detector (if you do not have one – it is a small investment for your safety)
Plan an escape plan with your family in case of fire (and have a practice drill)
Talk to your children about fire prevention
Check that garage for flammable items – making sure they are stored properly
Check your fire extinguisher (keep one in the kitchen – they are inexpensive)

WEATHERIZE YOUR HOME FOR WINTER

2010-10-01T08:08:00.000-07:00

Last winter, we got some of the worstwinter weather the country had seen in a while. The snow and cold werealmost unbearable and another cold and snowy winter is sure to come again thisyear. Advance preparations can save money, energy, increase safety andallow for an easy transition into the winter months. Here are some greattips to check into before winter hits.

Winterize to Keep Your Home Energy-Tight

Use caulk on your home's exterior to seal out moisture and outside air; at the same time, it helps keep heat indoors. Caulk creates a tight moisture barrier which prevents rain and snow from seeping into gaps and joints, causing wood to rot and paint to blister.
Place a dollar bill between the door and the jamb or the window sash and sill. With the door or window closed, attempt to remove the bill. If it slides out easily, you're losing energy.

Clear Downspouts and Gutters

Avoid basement flooding and deterioration of the foundation by cleaning the gutter channels and clearing downspouts of debris. Replace deteriorating or broken gutters and downspouts.

Crank the Heat!

Turn on your furnace and give it a test-run
Change the air filter. This will enable your heating system to run at maximum efficiency which can even help save money on heating costs.
If your home has gas heat, check the pilot light, burner and chimney flue. If not vented properly, you could have carbon monoxide building up in the house.

Prevent Trouble Down Below

There may also be things that need attending to beneath your property. For example, flush underground sprinkler systems before the cold sets in by blowing air into pipes to displace leftover water. This is important because water lines are typically only 6 to 8 inches below ground -- and prone to freezing. If they freeze and then burst, you could have a costly repair situation on your hands.

Check the Septic

Homeowners with septic tanks should also think about pumping them now -- before the ground freezes and snow buries your yard. Septic tanks should be checked once every year and cleaned no less than every three years.

Protect Your Pipes

Frozen or burst pipes are among a homeowner's worst nightmares. For a preventative measure, add insulation to pipes in unheated areas, which reduces heat loss from hot-water pipes and condensation on cold water pipes.
Install a freeze-proof outdoor faucet which will eliminate the problem of a frozen or broken spigot. These faucets employ a long stem that shuts the water off about a foot back in the house preventing the pipe from freezing.

Conduct a Water Heater Check-Up

There may also be things that need attending to beneath your property. For example, flush underground sprinkler systems before the cold sets in by blowing air into pipes to displace leftover water. This is important because water lines are typically only 6 to 8 inches below ground -- and prone to freezing. If they freeze and then burst, you could have a costly repair situation on your hands.

Benefits of a Home Energy Tune-Up by HomeTeam

2010-09-08T08:11:00.000-07:00

Going green is all the buzz intoday’s world. By exploring additional green possibilities, you can have apositive impact on the environment as well as your wallet. In order to get themost bang for your buck, however, it’s best to be strategic in where you makeenergy efficient updates. Home energy audits are one great way to get startedon making green changes to your home.

The first step toward convertingyour house into an energy efficient one is to find out which parts use the mostenergy. A HomeTeam Inspection home energy audit will pinpoint those areas andsuggest the most effective measures for cutting your energy costs.

In addition to themonetary benefits, going green will:

Increase the comfort of your home
Save money on your utility bills
Add value to your home uponimplementing the recommendations
Tax deductions in some cases
Reduce pollution and greenhousegas emissions

HomeTeam’s customized evaluationwill show which energy-efficiency improvements would reduce energy costs aswell as make the home more comfortable. Our analysis also takes intoaccount regional variables such as the local weather, implementation costs andfuel prices in order to give you a true reflection on savings according to yourspecific geographic location.

Five Tips On How Realtors Can Select Quality Home Inspectors

2010-09-01T08:27:00.000-07:00

We’ve been in the industry for along time, having our franchisees in our 175+ locations work with hundreds ofdifferent Realtors interested in getting to the closing table as quick aspossible, avoiding any slowdowns that may occur in the home inspectionprocess.

These simple tips can ensure howRealtors can select home inspectors that are valuable to them as they are tothe client in the home selling/buying process.

Look forhome inspectors that are certified or licensed according to their area’sspecifications.
Agents shouldget to know the inspector(s) and be comfortable with how they addressissues. The inspector recommended by the agent will be perceived as anextension of the agent’s team.
Look for aninspection company that can bring professional experts to deal with all typesof homes and equipment. In addition to being able to offer a higherquality inspection when the company has the proper resources, it can also bedone more quickly and timely.
Look for aninspection company that can do all ancillary services such as pest, radon,mold, etc.
Look for aprofessional brand image that makes the agent recommendation look good to theclient: timeliness, good image on materials, good report, friendly inspectorsand clean vehicles.

Most importantly, Realtors shouldtrust the home inspectors on their team. We train each of our HomeTeam inspectors to be helpful to the agent who is coordinating the entiretransaction during the final home inspection process before getting to thesigning table.

HomeTeam Inspection Service highlighted in the Business Journal of the Greater Triad Area

2010-08-18T08:31:00.000-07:00

The Business Journal of the GreaterTriad Area recently wrote a story about HomeTeamInspection Service's plans to expand into the TriadArea (North Carolina). With more than 175 locations across the US and Canada,HomeTeam continues to be a viable franchise option given the recent economicdownturn. See a portion of the article below, or read the full article here.

Inspection firm targets Triad forgrowth

Ohio-based HomeTeam Inspection Service is expanding in the Triad, with plans to add three to fivefranchise locations by the end of 2011.

Greg Haskett, the company’s vicepresident of Shared Services, said new territories would cover Greensboro andthe Winston-Salem- High Point-Thomasville area.

The company wants to add locationsin the Triad after establishing high-performing franchise territories inCharlotte and Asheville, he said.