Great stuff Dave and thanks for providing the info. 

Hey Dave,

How are doing?  I follow the ASHI SOP.  I never thought of a warranty though?  That's a great idea.  I'd like to get that verbiage/heat pumps from you please.  You can either post or email, I think you still have my email address?  I'm impressed with the ASHI Smart track program.  I've taken one or two modules.  They've done a good job with it.  Thanks again, Dave..

I'd like to get advice/suggestion from some of you concerning how to inspect HVAC systems.  This is a weak area for me.  Inspection procedures are probably my biggest question?   Do most of you follow a standard?   Do you test a heating system this time of year and/or test a cooling system in the winter?  The answer is probably no.  How do you respond to a client when they're concerned whether or not the heating and/or cooling system is functional, when that particular system should not be tested because of climatic conditions?   By most standards a heating system should not be tested at this time of year but how does this satisfy the clients' concern as to whether the system is functional or not?

Also does anyone have an inspection/protocol or refererence they follow that they would be willing to share?  Any advice would be appreciated... 

Dominic,

Is it possible to create a block to modify a logo?  I want to add a line of text right under my logo.  I forgot to change this prior to you helping me upload the image and incorporate it into my site?  I was thinking maybe utilizing a block would accomplish this?  I'm using Theme07 and it's telling me that the header can have blocks added to it?

Mark

David,

Thanks for the response.  I agree, HIP affords one the ability to design or report in the manner that's most comfortable for them.  I think the client deserves more of an explanation (narrative) then just checking a box.  So as you suggested I'm going to stick to what I'm used to. I like the idea of the narratives i the photograph captions.  I think I'm going that route.  I'm still working my way around the software, just purchased it but love it.  I'm adjusting to all the 'bells and whistles' that it offers.  Dominic has done a great job with it and his service has been awesome!!  Take care....

I've recently purchased the HIP software and it's my first experience with ratings,  such as (IN, N/I, NP, Safety Issue, RR).  My old software was produced more of a narrative style report.  Do most of you use the ratings or not in your reports?  Do your clients like the rating-style report or express a need for more information.  I'm compelled to want to put more of an explanation than just marking a box?   Just looking for opinions, in a way the rating style is straightforward and to the point. 

Aram/Jay/Dominic,

Thanks very much for the constructive responses.  I think I get it .  I've got to get more aggressive and probably creative (like you Jay with the topicl notes).  I'm confident that once I let people know that I'm available and the service I offer things will pick up.  Probably trying a number of different methodologies will prove successful.  Being I'm located in a rural area (Jay, I'm located in Rappahannock County, approx. 20 miles from Warrenton and/or Culpeper), I'm just trying to find the most cost-effective way to market myself and reach people given gas prices and the state of the economy.  But I also realize you have to spend money - to make money!!

Dom, great idea.  I'm in the midst of creating a sample report not only for my website but also to present to the real estate folks.       

Jay,

I'm a fairly new inspector. I, too, am located in Virginia.  I'm in the midst of getting established and getting off the ground  and my biggest dilema has been how to market (especially in these times) and grow the business as a new inspector?  I fully agree with your marketing startegies.  My problem has been tracking the real estate folks down, seems like no one is ever around.  My next strategy is to send an introductory e-mail out stating who I am and what I'm about.  I'm also going to send the same type of introductory letter out the same through the mail.  Looking back how did you market as a new inspector?  Just curious?  Out this way things have been very slow and being new to the game doesn't seem to be helping.  Any advice would be appreciated.

Hi Dave,

I'd really appreciate it.  Not knowing what's contained in the fifty that are worth having if you could e-mail those that would be great!!  I hope it wouldn't be an entailed process on your part, if so a partial list would be to say the least, much appreciated.  Thanks very much for extending yourself. 

My email address is mburnett44@wildblue.net.

Thanks,

Mark   

Dominic,

Any idea when that will happen?  They are/can be a great resource and point of reference..

Mark

Dave,

That would be great if you would be so kind as to share your template.  It would be very much appreciated.  I'll make every effort to return the favor.  In attempting to design a template I've had numerous thoughts and ideas as to how to do it (I've never tackled something like this) trying not to miss anything and trying to formulate something that isn't to entailed but to the point, and most importantly easy for the client to follow and understand.

Are the illustrations from Carson Dunlops' Illustrated Home CD/series?  They're a very useful addition.

I agree Dominic is the best.  You don't find people who are as responsive and helpful as he has been.  I know I couldn't ask any more of him.  Anytime I've had the slightest issue/question he has been on top of it and works to a resolve.

Thanks again, Dave...

Mark
 

 

Dave,

Your report looks very nice.  I like the template design.  I follow ASHI standards so I have an even greater appreciation for your style report.  I'm a new HIP user and I'm working towards a template design like this one.  Take care, Mark...