There are many companies and service providers that derive their business directly from our homes. Contractors who build decks, additions or perform repairs, heating and cooling professionals, insulation installers, roofers, electricians, the list seems endless. Most of these businesses would or could be termed specialized. Some require years of training and testing before an individual can ply the trade and others simply require a truck and some tools.
In Connecticut there are no training requirements for contractors or home builders. Because of this the skill and knowledge of each company can be hugely varied. Human nature is to avoid unpleasant tasks, like sitting through a training session, when at all possible. There certainly are exceptions, but as an inspector the times I have found explicit directions on or with equipment that were ignored makes it seem that getting the job done is often preferred over getting the job done right.
A great for instance is the onslaught of infrared cameras into the home services market. Anyone can buy an IR camera, however the training on its use is completely optional and there are times when it shows.
The IR image here is of a ceiling AFTER the attic was insulated.
I think they missed a spot.
The purple area is cold as in no or very poorly installed insulation. This wasn't the only spot I found on the ceiling.
The company that did the work had brought in an infrared camera to sell the job to the homeowner. It was fairly clear in speaking with the homeowner the IR guy had a very inexpensive camera and probably never took any training. He did however show them all the bad spots in their home that needed insulation. I also learned he was more sales savvy than tech savvy.
Too bad the company didn't use their sales tool to check their work. They missed, are missing a great opportunity to elevate their company above their competition. Instead they now look like shysters. They may not be, but there is now that perception.
Flashy, high tech tools are able to provide great information to the user, if the user is able to understand and interpret the data clearly and without bias. It is best to be wary of the messenger whose view may be colored.
James Quarello
2010 - 2011 SNEC-ASHI President
NRSB #8SS0022
JRV Home Inspection Services, LLC
To find out more about our other high tech services click on the links below:
| Learn more about our Infrared Thermal Imaging & Diagnostics services. | Learn more about our home energy audits, the Home Energy Tune uP®. |
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