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• Understanding why
• Recognizing when it's not

One of the most common homeowner installations: backup generator. One of the most commonly improperly installed systems: backup generator. Need I say more? 

Generators and their hookups to a home electrical system can be a challenge to inspect.  This session will give participants confidence in evaluating these systems. The session will cover different types of generators and how they work, installation requirements, electrical panel connections and transfer switches, wiring practices and safety protocols, placement and clearance requirements, regular maintenance tasks, safety standards, and common issues and troubleshooting.

Lafayette is founder of the Anderson Adademy where he trains his competition. His company installed and maintains backup generators at the NTSB in Ashburn, Virginia, some local military bases, and Gaylord Resort at National Harbor.

He graduated from an IBEW union apprenticeship program and has more than three decades of experience in the electrical industry. An accomplished Master Electrician and electrical contractor, he has worked on residential and commercial projects, leading teams in large federal, military and commercial projects. Lafayette is a Generac Certified Technician and his company installs and maintains whole house generators. Lafayette established Anderson Academy where he teaches aspiring electricians electrical fundamentals and offers supplemental classes to empower the next generation of electrical professionals.

Heating, Ventilation, and Cooling
by Sonny Swann - Climatic HVAC

This session will cover changes to the energy envelope standards for insulation and ventilation. Attendees will learn about the new coolant requirements (A21) and what this means to the consumer and industry.  Sonny will also give an overview of different filter media types, including and electronic and UV filters. Topics will discuss the evolution modern HVAC efficiency and operation standards, including issues that can arise from over-smart thermostats. Inspectors will gain a better understanding of what to look for when assessing heating and cooling systems.

• Service entrance
• Service equipment
• Distribution system

Matt Polydor is a licensed Master Electrician with 11 years of experience in the electrical trade. His company has established a reputation for delivering quality work and ensuring safety in every project. Matt’s company takes on a variety of jobs ranging from residential wiring to complex commercial installations. Beyond the job, Matt takes pride in mentoring younger electricians.

• Ledger attachments
• Footings, posts, and beams
• Joists
• Decking
• Railings
• Failure potential

The North American Deck and Railings Association (NADRA) estimates that 30 million residential decks are past their safe service lives and are due to be repaired or replaced. Home inspectors play a key role in helping to identify deck issues for their clients and to verify deck integrity, with the goal of ensuring user safety as well as helping to exend the deck's service life. This session provides an overview of various standards and best practices for evaluating decks. In addition, Scott will share insight into how his deck inspection became expert testimony in a court case.

Scott Biller founded his general contracting firm, Biller & Associates, in 1995. Seven years ago he added home inspector to his credentials, having become licensed in Virginia, Maryland and West Virginia. He also serves as a New Construction Expert Witness and is a NADRA Certified Deck Safety Inspector. Scott has a passion for helping home inspectors improve their business planning and practices to better serve their clients.