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Paul MacLean

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  1. Paul MacLean
    Scott, I would definitely call it out as you did. If questioned, I would explain the problems with firespread through the attic and suggest they contact the Fire Marshall for further information. I don't know when it became code, but it's a real problem if there's a fire and that's all the explanation needed! Assuming there is a Homeowner's Association involved, that's where the buyer and seller should look for help. The HOA should have insurance coverage for this.
  2. Paul MacLean
    In Central Texas I see diposers wired with both NM Cable and cord & plug and that's about everything. I have never called out NM Cable or a cord if it's properly clamped to the disposer. Let's hear some other opinions.
  3. Paul MacLean
    Here I go, flying by the seat of my pants again, [:-dunce] but if I remember Dale Febs' Fireplace and the Inspector class right, a damper is not a required item. You don't have to have a damper in a fireplace...so a missing damper is not a problem (unless of course you're energy conscious).
  4. Paul MacLean
    Speaking of which, when did H clips become required, i.e., what year? "H" clips were recommended by the American Plywood Association when I was a field rep in 1968. Required is code question dependent on the AHJ.
  5. Paul MacLean
    For me anything not attached to the house is an "outbuilding" including garages. Prices start at $50.00 if done at the same time as the house inspection. A special trip is a whole new ball game price wise.
  6. Paul MacLean
    Thanks, Mike. I have been essentually what you describe, so it's not really too onerous. I haven't visited every discussion board, but to my knowledge the ASHI board is the only one you can "Mark Read". I'm a happy camper! []
  7. Paul MacLean
    Well said Kurt and Scott. Report writng is over 50% of the job, and the most important part. I am technically challenged in many areas, but I can write. And feedback tells me I do a good job as an inspector, even though I leave most jobs feeling like my inspection came up a little short. If you are conscientious and want to do a good job, this is one profession (and yes, it is a profession) that you will never be as good as you want to be.
  8. Paul MacLean
    I love this joint, but I have to admit I like being able to "mark read" old stuff and not have to scroll through it to get to the new stuff. Or have I been missing something here? The homey atmosphere a Mike's joint just can't be matched anywhere else!
  9. Paul MacLean

    Kewaunee

    Paul MacLean replied to kurt's topic in HVAC Forum

    Down here those boilers could be mistaken for bank vaults. They're the only thing we have that looks anything like that.[:-cowboy] I take that back...it could be a pizza oven!
  10. Paul MacLean
    C-1s don't get the benefits of branding. Only C-2s and Members, and they're the ones coughing up $250.00. The C-1s $50.00 is passed on to his designated chapter. At least that's the way I understand it.[:-dunce]
  11. Paul MacLean
    Which is exactly why I find a way to go do something else at the end of the inspection while they "edit" my report for me. It's also why I don't use a summary page. I can't force them to read the report, but I can stick their nose in the trough!
  12. Paul MacLean
    For what it's worth, I print my report on-site and tell the buyer to read it, mark their questions and any typos while I finish up the WDI report. The amazing thing is that they do exactly that. I correct the typos and answer any questions and everyone goes away happy. I always ask the buyer to follow me around, as a result there are usually few questions about the report. Works for me!
  13. Paul MacLean
    I took Dale Feb's fireplace course for inspectors last year and he was adamant about sealing around the gas pipe at refractory panels to keep heat and combustion byproducts out of the chase areas.
  14. Paul MacLean
    My now deceased Dad used to say how much fun it was to drive cars on the frozen lakes...Montana in the 30s.
  15. Paul MacLean
    I've been doing inspections for 14 years. I do fewer inspections now than I used to, but I'm working just as much. As others have said the more inspections I do, the longer they take. Experience seems to add to the stuff I look at and report. That said, a full week for me is 6 to 8 inspections working a five day week. And the truth be known, I'm perfectly happy with one a day. The guys claiming 30 years experience and 20,000 inspections are blowing smoke (or maybe smoking something). It amazes me that the public doesn't seem to notice outrageous claims. In Texas, your license number is a dead giveaway. License #1 was issued in 1985. License #7000 will be issued very soon. My license #2221 was issued January, 1990.
  16. Paul MacLean
    Then it is probably at the new Hilton which is still downtown near the convention center. The largest hotel in Austin with 800 guest rooms, it's supposed to be really something. It just opened and I haven't seen it yet. It should really be a great place to visit and it is still within a few blocks of 6th street and lots of downtown attractions. Y'all come[:-jump2][:-party][:-propeller][:-sing]
  17. Paul MacLean
    The convention center faces south. My body won't let me sit on the floor.[:-grumpy]
  18. Paul MacLean
    I pushed pedals for 16 years during my triathlon days. Finally quit when a pedal broke and I hit the pavement at about 25mph. It was my third major crash and time to quit[:-sick] I think we can handle drunk Bostonians (I'm accounting for KURT being from Chicago). I have personal experience with Bostonians. The wife lived on Havard Square for years before she realized there were warmer climates and chose Austin. I'm glad she finally got some sense.[:-eyebrows]
  19. Paul MacLean
    Where are the pedals?[:-bouncy]
  20. Paul MacLean
    I try to get the buyer to attend every inspection. It's not always possible, but my experience says a good relationship with the buyer heads off many problems. Having the buyer follow me and bug me with "stupid" questions results in very few follow-up calls later. I print my reports on site, and I want to walk away and be done! It works most of the time.
  21. Paul MacLean
    I believe in leaving things like I found them and reporting the problems (i.e. screws). I put a pointed screw into a hot wire years ago.[:-hot] Believe me, it won't happen again!
  22. Paul MacLean
    I'm kinda with George. (how's that for wishy washy)[:-drool] In Austin and Asociate member can get a Supra Key, but you have to get a code from the listing agent. To many hoops to jump through for me. I agree with George that the agents are getting paid to take care of the deal and that includes getting me into the house - then they can leave[] I've never been accused of stealing anything, but I have left a $20.00 bill behind to cover the cost of a broken vase. Never heard a thing about it.
  23. Paul MacLean
    I've passed on Scott's sex story and Terry's thoughts, anonymously of course. You guys are great! Keep'em coming.
  24. Paul MacLean
    Slab on grade with no pumps. The psycho neighbor is always a possibilty. I'm still listening...
  25. Paul MacLean
    HVAC ducts were one of my thoughts - the system is at the end of its normal life and I recommended replacement. Plumbing is a possibility, but noise pattern doesn't fit. Varmints are another thought, but the noise pattern seems to regular. Keep the ideas comin'
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