HOME INSPECTION TRAINING PROGRAM

Transcription

1 HOME INSPECTION TRAINING PROGRAM INTRODUCTION WELCOME TO THE CARSON DUNLOP HOME INSPECTION TRAINING PROGRAM, a complete distance education training program developed by one of the most respected names in professional home inspection and training. Ever since home inspection first came on the real estate scene in the mid-1970 s, consumer demand for the service has been growing rapidly. The profession has evolved over the years in both size and quality to meet that demand, and home buyers today are making better purchasing decisions as a result. Consumer advocacy groups, real estate professionals, even government organizations all support home inspection as an essential component of the sales transaction. British Columbia was the first province in Canada to license home inspectors in We are not the first or the only group offering distance education and training for home inspectors in Canada. Yet we are confident that once you get to know us, and compare the Home Study System with other products, you will find that we are the best for many reasons. Professional Knowledge and Expertise The authors of the Home Inspection Training Program each have more than 20 years experience in the profession. Comprehensive Material Extensive research, as well as contributions from the best and most experienced home inspectors across North America, has resulted in a quantity and quality of information unparalleled in the industry. University Level Instruction The authors augmented their own teaching experience by working with university level education professionals and distance learning specialists to design the most effective curriculum and format to prepare students for their home inspection careers. Practical Focus The focus of the program is practical instruction, designed to help students learn to inspect. We don t concentrate on academic theories, formulas, or code compliance. There are other courses already available for that. The Home Inspection Training Program focuses instead on performance issues, demonstrating why things must be a certain way, and what happens when they aren t. Clear Presentation Hundreds of illustrations, hours of video, and a clean, engaging graphic design combine to present the course material in a clear, easy to understand manner. The text is written in plain English, which helps simplify complex issues and makes learning easy. Business Know-How We provide instruction on marketing and running a profitable home inspection firm, based on decades of our own company growth and success. Carson Dunlop Home Inspection Training Program Page 1

2 CAHPI(BC) Compatibility All course materials are in compliance with the Standards of Practice of the Canadian Association of Home & Property Inspectors of BC, the provincially recognized professional association for independent home inspectors. Students who successfully complete our course will be prepared to pass the difficult CAHPI(BC) membership exam. Completion of individual course modules qualify for continuing education credits which are a requirement of CAHPI(BC) membership. Technical Support Individualized ongoing technical support from our expert practicing home inspectors is available to students who wish to purchase this option. This service is via and our toll free phone line. Study Guidelines Whether one is experienced or new to home study, the course provides concrete suggestions and techniques to help students get the most out of the course. WHY HOME STUDY? Until fairly recently, most inspectors got their training at the school of hard knocks; many tedious years of learning on the job, without ever being quite sure that what they knew, or did, or said, was correct. Within the last few years, educational opportunities have been created to fill that void, and many of them do an excellent job of providing the basics of technical knowledge and professional guidance. Classroom study is good, but not everyone can manage the cost and extended periods of time away from work and family. Classroom programs take time to complete and a 10 course program can easily require a year from start to finish. Home study offers a realistic solution to this real problem. Studies show that distance learners are very highly motivated and, in fact, have a higher rate of course completion than traditional, on-campus students. We have found that individuals with the self-discipline to stick to a consistent study routine are excellent candidates for home study. We also have found several advantages to this method: The course can go into more detail. In fact, the texts are encyclopedia. Students can work in the comfort of their own home. Students can arrange their study schedule to accommodate their lifestyle and their preferred pace. That means having the choice of keeping one s current job or studying full time. Teaching and technical support can be close at hand, via phone or . There is no need to learn speed writing... students can take leisurely notes as needed. Students can learn at their own pace, and review material a second or third time if they wish; something one can t do in a classroom setting. There are no distractions or delays caused by other students. The distance learner s time is focused and productive. Before the Home Inspection Training Program was created, distance education options already available were investigated thoroughly. We believe the Home Study system is unique because it combines the science of learning with the instruction of home inspection. Carson Dunlop Home Inspection Training Program Page 2

3 HOW IT WORKS A CLOSER LOOK AT THE CARSON DUNLOP HOME INSPECTION TRAINING PROGRAM reveals the thoroughness and appeal of the program. The total system contains 10 modules, each of which features between 250 and 500 pages of course text and up to 250 illustrations. Each module also contains detailed study instructions to walk students through the steps necessary to complete each section. The modules are divided according to the following topics: Roofing Electrical Structure Heating Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps Plumbing Exterior Insulation Interior Communications and Professional Practice *See appendix A for Course Descriptions ASHI/CAHPI Standards of Practice For every system, the scope of the inspection is first defined in terms of the ASHI/CAHPI Standards of Practice. This widely recognized professional guideline spells out in detail which aspects of the system are to be inspected, which are not, and what the report should cover. Descriptions and Explanations The text describes the materials used in the construction of each house system and how they are assembled. It also outlines why things sometimes go wrong, and the implications of problems that result. Most importantly, it shows students what to look for during their inspection. More than anything else, this knowledge is what sets home inspectors apart from contractors and other building professionals. While others may have experience designing and building homes, they lack the home inspector s expertise in knowing where and how to look for signs of nonperformance such as old age, deferred maintenance, weather damage, and poor workmanship. This information is the very heart of the home inspection service. Study Sessions The text in each module is broken down into several manageable Study Sessions. These sessions help students work their way logically and sequentially through the material. Time estimates are given for the completion of each Study Session to help students pace themselves and to organize their study schedules. Each Session is designed to be completed in a single sitting. Quick Quizzes Quick Quizzes at the end of each Study Session help students summarize and reinforce the material just learned. The quizzes also allow students to monitor their own progress. Field Exercises Field exercises in each module direct students to visit and inspect local homes. This enables them to relate what they have just learned to practical, real world experience. These exercises also stimulate local research to help students learn the specific issues in their areas. Carson Dunlop Home Inspection Training Program Page 3

4 CD ROMs The CD ROMs are another important component of the Home Study System. The nine CD s contain hundreds of real world inspection scenes, narrated by experienced, professional home inspectors. With the aid of computer enhancement, our instructors explain the nature of the defects illustrated and how best to handle them during an inspection. Students are typically instructed to watch a CD at the beginning of each Module, at intervals during the unit, and in its entirety at the end. This proven technique helps to visually prepare, explain, and then reinforce the material to be learned. Final Test Each section within the modules ends with a multiple choice test which determines whether or not the student has mastered the material and is ready to move on. Students complete the tests online and receive their grade instantly. These tests also provide solid preparation for association membership exams. Certificate of Completion All students who successfully complete the 10-module training program will receive a certificate officially validating their course work and subject mastery. (Entire Program, including Technical Support, must be purchased to receive this option.) WE ARE HERE TO HELP Our goal is to help our students become the most knowledgeable and professional home inspectors in the business. This requires learning a great deal and mastering a number of skills. The entire 10-module course may require several months to complete, and it takes time, as well, to build a reputation and clientele. IS IT RIGHT FOR YOU? Not everyone has what it takes in background or personality to be a home inspector. Our experience and market research demonstrate that successful home inspectors have certain characteristics and skills in common. Clearly, an interest in construction and knowing how things work will make the work easier and more interesting. Yet equally, if not more important, are people and communication skills. Once you ve acquired the technical knowledge, your business success will depend on your ability to effectively explain your findings and to get along with all kinds of people. You should also consider the physical demands of the profession. While you needn t be an Olympic athlete, you will have to climb ladders, crawl into small spaces, and bend and twist in order to inspect hard-to-reach areas. One of the most rewarding aspects of the home inspection profession is the fact that you are always learning and discovering. There are new challenges and opportunities every day, and you are not likely to get bored. There are also a number of diversified opportunities including energy, commercial, and new construction inspections. Are you the kind of person who: has a technical mind and likes to figure things out, enjoys meeting and helping people, is organized and clear-thinking, prefers not to sit at a desk all day, is willing to learn, and has initiative? Then home inspection could be the right career choice for you! Carson Dunlop Home Inspection Training Program Page 4

5 BUILDING THE BEST EDUCATION In order to build on their experience as home inspectors and inspection trainers, the course developers sought help from leading distance education experts at Memorial University. They designed and conducted a Learner Profile Survey to determine what people really wanted and needed. The responses confirmed our feeling; that classroom instruction goes by too quickly, and is not comprehensive enough for many. It was found that students considered individualized technical support a priority. They also indicated the importance of clear drawings and illustrations; the more the better. This feedback formed the cornerstone of our Home Study System. A DACUM (Develop a Curriculum) exercise to determine what material should be covered was then performed. The team identified the specific learning objectives that would most effectively teach the necessary information and enable our students to be ready to inspect as soon as possible. Consultations with technical experts for each house system, as well as with business and communications specialists, ensured that the course provides the most accurate and useful information possible. The material was written not as dry, academic test, but rather as clear, practical commentary. CARSON DUNLOP HOME STUDY RETAIL RETURN POLICY If you are not satisfied with any of our material within 30 days of the date of your purchase, simply contact us and we will issue you a refund. (Standard terms and conditions outlined below) Material returned within 30 days from the date of purchase: - proof of payment confirmed - materials must be in original packaging and in resalable condition - refund excludes the original shipping fee - customer is responsible to pay for the return shipping fee - customer is responsible to arrange for return shipping - a flat rate restocking fee of $50 will be applied for all complete Home Study Systems and Individual Modules. Carson Dunlop Home Inspection Training Program Page 5

6 THE CARSON DUNLOP HOME INSPECTION TRAINING PROGRAM Appendix A Course Descriptions ROOFING INSPECTION This course provides the knowledge and skills needed to inspect residential roofing systems in compliance with the Standards of Practice of the home inspection profession. Topics include Steep Roofing (asphalt, wood, metal and fiber- cement shingles, and clay slate and concrete tiles), Flat Roofing (built-up and single ply membranes) and Roof Flashings. The course covers materials and installation methods, life expectancy and problem causes, implications and STRUCTURE INSPECTION This course is designed to teach the knowledge and skills needed to inspect residential structures in compliance with the Standards of Practice of the home inspection profession. Topics include Foundations and Footings, Floor and Wall systems, and Roof Structures. The course covers the materials and assembly methods of various construction types, and problem causes, implications and ELECTRICAL INSPECTION This course provides the knowledge and skills needed to inspect residential electrical systems in compliance with the Standards of Practice of the home inspection profession. Topics include the Basics of Electricity, Service Drops and Service Entrances, the Service Box, Grounding, Panels and the Distribution System. The course covers new and old materials and installation methods, electrical shock and fire hazards, and problem causes, implications and HEATING INSPECTION PART 1 This course provides the knowledge and skills needed to inspect residential heating systems in compliance with the Standards of Practice of the home inspection profession. Topics include Gas and Oil Furnaces and Hot Water Boilers. Mid- and high-efficiency systems are included. The course covers principles of heat transfer and combustion, and a description of all system components including burners and heat exchangers, as well as life expectancy and problem causes, implications and HEATING INSPECTION PART 2 This course provides the knowledge and skills needed to inspect residential heating systems in compliance with the Standards of Practice of the home inspection profession. Topics include Chimneys, Wood, Steam and Electric Heating systems, Wall and Floor Furnaces, Space Heaters and Gas Fireplaces. The course covers principles of operation, a description of all system components, and problem causes, implications and AIR CONDITIONING AND HEAT PUMP INSPECTION This course provides the knowledge and skills needed to inspect residential air conditioning and heat pump systems in compliance with the Standards of Practice of the home inspection profession. Topics include Principles of Air Conditioning, Central Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps, and Through-the-wall Units. The course includes descriptions of all components for various system types including compressors, evaporators, fans, controls and reversing valves, as well as life expectancy and problem causes, implications and Carson Dunlop Home Inspection Training Program Page 6

7 APPENDIX A - COURSE DESCRIPTIONS Cont. PLUMBING INSPECTION This course provides the knowledge and skills needed to inspect residential plumbing systems in compliance with the Standards of Practice of the home inspection profession. Topics include Supply Plumbing, Water Heaters, Drain-Waste-and-Vent Systems, and Fixtures. The course covers the basic principles of hydraulics, materials and installation methods, as well as life expectancy and problem causes, implications and EXTERIOR INSPECTION This course provides the knowledge and skills needed to inspect the exterior components of houses in compliance with the Standards of Practice of the home inspection profession. Topics include Architectural Styles, Cladding Systems, Exterior Structure, Surface Water Control and Landscaping. The course covers materials and installation methods, as well as life expectancy and problem causes, implications and INSULATION AND INTERIOR INSPECTION This course provides the knowledge and skills needed to inspect residential insulation systems and the interior components of houses in compliance with the Standards of Practice of the home inspection profession. Topics include Insulation, Air/Vapour Barriers, Venting Roofs, Venting Living Spaces, Floor, Wall and Ceiling Finishes, Stairs, Doors, Windows and Skylights. The course covers the basic principles of heat and moisture flow in houses, materials and installation methods, and problem causes, implications and COMMUNICATION AND PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE This course is designed to provide the verbal and written communication skills needed in the home inspection profession. It also provides an overview of the home inspection profession and outlines accepted practices. Topics include Verbal Communication Techniques, Report Writing, History of Home Inspection, Inspection Tools, the Inspection Process, the Real Estate Transaction, and Managing Legal Liability. This course includes detailed inspection checklists. Carson Dunlop Home Inspection Training Program Page 7