St. Pete Road Trip, “A desperate call for help”

This blog is a true story and occurred on the dates stated. I am writing this blog because this family was at the end of their rope. They had spent thousands of dollars trying to make this their dream home, only to feel like they are allergic to it. I believe that this is happening all over Florida. A lot of people do not know why they don’t feel well. Hopefully it will encourage someone to make that “Desperate call for help” and start living healthy again.

This blog post will be in five parts.

Part one is an introduction to the situation I encountered.

Part two is the Chinese drywall visual inspection and the indoor air quality inspection.

Part three is the testing that was required for these homeowners.

Part four is the testing results.

Part five is the recommended remediation and conclusion

After each section I will give a tease of the next section. This blog posting will start on my Active Rain blog and continue to my blog at my website at www.mermininspetions.com. All those starting at my Blog on Active Rain please follow the link to my website and click on the blog button and go to “The Inspector’s Corner” From the inspector. It will be titled “A St. Pete road trip, A desperate call for help”

Part one:

The initial introduction:

I received a request from a homeowner to perform a Chinese drywall visual inspection and a HVAC and indoor air quality inspection of their home located in St. Petersburg, Fl. During the week of the 23^rd of November this homeowner called me and expressed her concerns that she may be suffering from the effects of the chemicals associated with Chinese drywall. Though the home was built prior to 2003 which is thought to be the beginning of the time period when Chinese drywall was first used, she was concerned that Chinese drywall may have been used in the recent remodeling.

I then proceed to ask her about the condition of the HVAC system and if she new any of its background. She explained to me that the entire duct system had been replaced but the original air handler was still being used. This air handler was located in the attic above the garage. They then took a few pictures of the inside of the air handler and sent them to me for my opinion. I inspected the photos and found that the blower wheel was infested with major microbial matter. Other pictures showed that the interior of the air handler

was full of microbial matter. I suggested to them that the Chinese drywall was the least of their worries and that I would concentrate on the indoor air quality of their interior environment. The homeowner relayed a story to me about a trip to Atlanta where she felt so good she was able to take a nap. She explained to me that she was never able to take a nap at the St. Pete home. I conveyed to her that this was a common thing. A lot of people have expressed that they felt a lot better health wise when they left their home.

I then suggested to the homeowners that they contact a local Certified Mold Inspector to come in and inspect their home for indoor air quality issues. I also recommended that they have a visual Chinese drywall inspection just for their peace of mind. I let her know that I would be available to answer any questions they may have over the telephone because my office is in Lee County Florida just south of them. A few days later the homeowner called me back and explained that she couldn’t find an inspector that she felt comfortable with. At this time she requested that I come up there and do an investigation. Even though it was a two hour drive to St. Petersburg I felt obligated to make the trip and help them anyway I could. We decided that I would go up there on Monday the 30^th of November.

I proceed to perform a complete visual Chinese drywall inspection using the checklist I developed almost 10 months age. The conclusion of my visual Chinese drywall inspection was that there were no visual signs of the effects caused by the chemicals generally associated with Chinese drywall.

Next posting:

I inspected as much duct work as I could get to…….

The blower wheel inside the air handler was completely impacted …….

I would like to give the HVAC contractor the benefit of the doubt………..

Last month, a new Homebuyers Tax Credit bill was signed into law. The bill extends the tax credit for first-time homebuyers (FTHBs), as well as opens it up to current homeowners who are looking to buy. And even if you aren’t looking to purchase - pass on this article to anyone you think might be in the market to do so. This is information that might benefit them greatly, and I’ll be happy to be of service to them.

Here is a brief overview of the Homebuyers Tax Credit - and its benefits - based on the new bill.

Tax Credit for First-Time Homebuyers

FTHBs (that is, people who have not owned a home within the last three years) may be eligible for the tax credit. The credit for FTHBs is 10% of the purchase price of the home, with a maximum available credit of $8,000.

Single taxpayers and married couples filing a joint return may qualify for the full tax credit amount.

Tax Credit for Current Homeowners

The tax credit program now gives those who already own a residence some additional reasons to move to a new home. This incentive comes in the form of a tax credit of up to $6,500 for qualified purchasers who have owned and occupied a primary residence for a period of five consecutive years during the last eight years.

Single taxpayers and married couples filing a joint return may qualify for the full tax credit amount.

What are the New Deadlines?

In order to qualify for the credit, all contracts need to be in effect no later than April 30, 2010 and close no later than June 30, 2010. Those in the military do have some special extensions on the timelines available.

What’s So Great About a “Tax Credit”?

The benefit of a tax credit is that it’s a dollar-for-dollar benefit, rather than a “tax deduction”, or reduction in a tax liability that would only save you $1,000 to $1,500 when all was said and done. So, if a first-time homebuyer who qualified for the entire benefit were to owe $8,000 in income taxes and would qualify for a tax credit of $8,000, she would owe nothing.

Better still, the tax credit is refundable, which means the homebuyer can receive a check for the credit if he or she has little or no income tax liability. For example, if a first-time homebuyer is eligible for a tax credit of $8,000 but is liable for $4,000 in income tax, she can still receive a check for the remaining $4,000!

Higher Income Caps

The amount of income someone can earn and qualify for the full amount of the credit has been increased.

Single tax filers who earn up to $125,000 are eligible for the total credit amount. Those who earn more than this cap can receive a partial credit. However, single filers who earn $145,000 and above are ineligible.

Joint filers who earn up to $225,000 are eligible for the total credit amount. Those who earn more than this cap can receive a partial credit. However, joint filers who earn $245,000 and above are ineligible.

Maximum Purchase Price

Qualifying buyers may purchase a property with a maximum sales price of $800,000.

Remember, the new tax credit program includes a number of details and qualifications. Call or email today if you have questions or would like to see if you can benefit from the tax credit…and email this article along to anyone else you feel it might benefit as well!

Jim Marcinkowski

Genesis Home Mortgage Corp

239-936-4232 Direct

239-985-4486 Fax

239-826-6400 Cell

Apply online at www.jimnfi.com.

Confidentiality Notice: The documents in this transmission contain confidential information belonging to the sender, which is legally privileged. The information is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution, or the taking of any action in relation to the contents, is strictly prohibited. If you have received this facsimile and/or email in error, please notify the sender immediately and destroy the document(s

While most media outlets were giddy about the news and started the hype that the recession is behind us, it’s important to remember that there’s more to the economic data than just the headlines.

The temporary “Cash for Clunkers” program has now expired, but was a big part of last quarter’s GDP gain. If we remove it from the total, the reading would have been a more modest 1.9%. But there is even more to the rise in the latest GDP number that is just temporary…

Also bolstering the economy has been the $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit - which is set to expire at the end of this month. Many home buyers have been taking advantage of this program - and wisely so.

New Home Sales were reported last week, showing a 7.5-month supply of inventory. While that number is slightly worse than last month’s 7.3 reading, it’s still a big improvement from where we were in January. Back in January, inventory levels reached a high of 12.4-month supply! The improvement in housing inventories has been due in large part to the $8,000 First Time Homebuyer Tax Credit, which is set to expire on November 30.

There is a real possibility of an extension of this program through a proposed Bill, but it is not yet a certainty. The extension Bill still must be reconciled between the House and Senate, and then voted on for final approval. Under the current extension proposal, sales with signed purchase agreements by April 30th that close before June 30^th, 2010 would qualify for the credit.

Another positive element would be the possible addition of $6,500 tax credit for other primary home purchasers, meaning the tax credit would no longer be limited only to first-time homebuyers. There is also a possibility that qualifying income limits could increase from $75,000 to $125,000 for singles, and from $150,000 to $250,000 for joint tax filers.

I will be keeping an eye on this for you, so stay tuned.

Jim Marcinkowski

Genesis Home Mortgage Corp

239-936-4232 Direct

239-985-4486 Fax

239-826-6400 Cell

Confidentiality Notice: The documents in this transmission contain confidential information belonging to the sender, which is legally privileged. The information is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution, or the taking of any action in relation to the contents, is strictly prohibited. If you have received this facsimile and/or email in error, please notify the sender immediately and destroy the document(s

I was recently in a development in South Ft. Myers doing a Visual Chinese drywall inspection. I was very saddened to discover that this very nice complex was suffering from the effects of the chemicals associated with Chinese drywall. I spent some time there speaking with residents of this development and found out that many of the units were being rented. I talked to one owner that recently moved his tenant out at his expense. He informed me that there were many empty units in the development.

As you can see the development that I did the visual Chinese Drywall Inspection was Avalon Preserve. Feel free to go to my blog at my website at www.mermininspections.comand click on the blog button which will take you to the INSPECTOR’S CORNER. Look for the “From the Inspector” posts and you will find all the previous Chinese Drywall update posts. You will find pictures of the visual evidence found in the unit I inspected in Avalon Preserve.  You will also see all the other corners that are made available for guests to write postings. There is a Realtor’s Corner that I allow Realtors to write interesting posts. Just send a post to me at jacob@mermininspections.comand I will look it over and if it fits into the whole concept of separate corners I would be happy to post it. I am looking for current events of the real estate business that you feel would be of interest to Realtors and sellers and buyers. No listing please, they will not be posted. Be looking of a Jacob Mermin Inspections monthly newsletter. It will cover all types of inspections.

                                                      These pictures are common visual evidence of the effects of the chemicals associated with Chinese drywall. Solid copper ground wires in a electrical outlet changes to black. Chrome plumbing fixtures become black, corroded and pitted. Copper air conditioning lines will turn black as well as the evaporator coil. And you will get blackening on the edges of a bathroom mirror.

I have seen these effects all over SW Florida and it always effects people. I have done these inspections just before a closing and feel very bad because their dream home is no longer a good investment. Every time I have to show my clients this kind of visual evidence they are sad at first and then they shake my hand and thank me for saving them thousands of dollars. When I hear this it makes me feel better and I realize I am doing what I am meant to do. I do full service home inspections that include a Chinese drywall inspection. I tell everyone that I meet no matter what get a home inspection before you commit to purchasing a home.

Jacob Mermin CHI/CMI/EPA Type ll

The housing market continues to show signs of stabilization, and although home prices are not about to spike higher, the decline certainly seems to have subsided. Existing Home Sales came in better than expectations, reaching their highest level in two years, as you can see in the chart below. And while the inventory of unsold homes remains lofty, it was reported at its best level in a year. In addition, while Housing Starts and Building Permits both came in slightly below expectations, they did rise in July - another sign of stabilization in the housing market. New Home Sales data will come out this Wednesday, so indeed we will soon find out if home buyers are coming out to buy those new built homes. With home loan rates still at exceptionally low levels - it presents a great opportunity to buy. Do let me know if you or one of your friends, family, neighbors or coworkers would benefit from learning more about buying a home in today’s market.

Jim Marcinkowski

Mortgage Consultant

Genesis Home Mortgage

239-826-6400 Direct

239-985-4486 Fax

Confidentiality Notice: The documents in this transmission contain confidential information belonging to the sender, which is legally privileged. The information is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution, or the taking of any action in relation to the contents, is strictly prohibited. If you have received this facsimile and/or email in error, please notify the sender immediately and destroy the document(s).

All-natural Kangen water is more than just drinking water!

Enagic, the 32-year-old Japanese company behind the Kangen Water System, has created an incredible water filtration device that produces water that can be used in multiple ways. That’s because the Kangen Water system allows you to control the pH level of the water it creates. Just read on to learn more about what all you can do with this flexible water system.

	Strong Kangen water: This type of water has a pH of 11.0 plus.  It’s ideally used for cleaning food, dishes, cutting boards, and even getting out tough stains and grime in and around your kitchen.
	Kangen water: With a pH of 8.0-10.0, this type of water is perfect for drinking and healthy cooking.  It works to restore your body to a more alkaline state, which optimizes health.  In return, it boosts your immune system and other bodily functions making you less susceptible to illness.
	Clean water: Strictly for drinking, this water has a pH of 7.0.  It’s formulated so that it is absorbed into the body quickly.  Therefore, it’s the best type of water to use if you have to take any medications.  It’s also the best water to use for baby formula.
	Acidic water: This slightly acidic water has a pH of 6.0-4.0.  It’s terrific to use for gentle cleaning and beauty care.  Use this water to cleanse your face and hair.  You can also use it in the rinse cycle of your laundry.  In addition, it’s great for washing glass surfaces and removing dirt from hardwood floors because it never leaves any kind of sticky residue, which is often the case when using commercial chemical cleaners.
	Strong Acidic water: This water has a pH of 2.7 or lower and makes for an incredible disinfectant.  In fact, in 2002, in accordance with the Food Hygiene Law, it was even approved for the use of disinfecting food products.  Use Strong acidic water to sanitize kitchen utensils, countertops, etc. to keep areas safe and free of germs.

Imagine never having to buy bottled water or household cleaners again! As you’ve seen Kangen Alkaline Ionized Water Systems provide you a holistic alternative for so many day-to-day household needs.  Using Kangen water will not only improve you and your family’s health, it will also end up saving you money over time, and it’s eco-friendly.

Change your water, change your life!  Visit our website to learn more about the amazing Kangen Alkaline Ionized Water Systems.  Just imagine what it could do for you!
–
All the best,

Martin Bjornson
Preventive Health Promoter
Cape Coral, Fl.
(239) 945-7072

www.MJBYourBodyIsWater.com

I believe that laws governing the HVAC industry are very important. These laws protect the homeowner in Florida. It amazes me that so many air conditioning contractors do not pull permits on their air conditioning and ductwork installations. What amazes me more is that the homeowner doesn’t care or doesn’t know that these permits need to be pulled and posted on the home in a place that can be seen from the street. This not pulling permits epidemic that has infected the air conditioning business in SW. Florida comes from the small mom and pop operation to the large corporate contractor. There are companies that sometimes pull permits and sometimes don’t. When the home is off the beaten path there is a good chance that a permit is not pulled. It costs about $100.00 considering the cost of the permit and the cost to post it to do business legally.

It is mind boggling that the County and City building departments do not have an advertising campaign to let homeowners know that it is the law that a permit must be pulled and posted for air conditioning and ductwork installations. Why don’t contractors go to the trouble of pulling and posting permits? One reason is that it can be a long ordeal at the building department to apply for these permits. It is a process that could be made easier and quicker but that is secondary to the requirement of following the law.

I believe that the companies that are not pulling permits are not doing the best work possible for the homeowner. When you pull a permit the contractor becomes responsible for any code violation issues that are at the home prior to the air conditioning installations. For example if the prior contractor who put in the previous air conditioner removed a portion of a roof strut to make that air handler fit in the attic it is the responsibility of the new contractor to fix that problem when they install the new unit. The present contractor has to bring the home to code with regards to their installation. The most important reason for pulling and posting a permit is that the work will be inspected by the appropriate building department to make sure that the job is safe and is up to code. Hopefully the code violations caused by previous contractors who did not pull a permit will be discovered by the building inspector. There are a few homeowners that have done previous work themselves that does not meet code. They do not want a permit pulled in fear that this work will be discovered. In my opinion there is no excuse for not pulling a permit. Homeowners should want the work they are paying for to be to code.

Many homeowners want the cheapest price possible and do not really care if it is done to code. I learned something recently that really made me think. I heard a statistic from the National Better Business Bureau. It stated that there were more than 10 million complaints last year against contractors. 80% of these complaints were filled against contractors who submitted the lowest bid. This means that homeowners are doing business with companies that are doing the cheapest work. I wonder how many of those companies did not pull permits on those jobs.

I am aware of many air conditioning companies that do not pull and post permits for air conditioning systems and ductwork. In my HVAC design work I will not do business with these companies when I represent one of my clients. I supervise each job and insist that these companies pull permits. I am aware of one local air conditioning company that has pulled less than 10 permits for air conditioning installations in the last two and a half years. I know of approximately 200 of their customers that permits were not pulled. This company is under investigation by all  the local building departments and the State of Florida and I am not at liberty to disclose the name of the contractor or the homeowners names. As soon as this information is public knowledge I will be reporting it in this blog.

Here is something I have heard, “Mrs. Jones since you already have an air conditioner I don’t have to pull a permit on your job, only when you don’t have air conditioning do we have to pull a permit.” Do not let contractors lie to you. If they are not pulling a permit it could mean they are cutting corners because they know that the building department is not going to do an inspection and will not see those short cuts that could be going against codes.

Remember if you do not see a permit posted on your house when the job is completed the contractor is breaking the law. Unfortunately the homeowner is also responsible for this permit and could also be liable for any fines the building departments may levy. It is your property and it is your family. Do not be apart of a code violation or a safety issue that could threaten your investment or your loved ones. I am a certified home inspector, mold inspector, air quality inspector, and air conditioning technician. I have seen problems during my inspections that I would not wish on anyone. Do not be a statistic or become a news report because shoddy work has affected your home or family.

Stand up for yourself with your contractors.

Jacob Mermin CHI/CMI

www.mermininspections.com

jacob@mermininspections.com

239-243-7322

It’s a quiet week ahead when it comes to scheduled economic reports, but that doesn’t mean the volatility will quiet down. Keep a look out on Thursday for the Existing Home Sales Report for a read on the housing market. Last week showed a decent Housing Starts number, so it will be interesting to see if Existing Home Sales shows some good news for the Housing Market.

Also on Thursday, another Initial Jobless Claims report will be released. Last week, first time claims for unemployment benefits dropped by 47,000 to the lowest level since January. However, the reading is somewhat distorted by shifts in the timing of auto plant shutdowns. Usually plants would shut down in July, meaning last week’s unemployment claims number would usually have been higher, but the shutdown process was accelerated due to the bankruptcies of GM and Chrysler. Therefore, the seasonal adjustment makes this number look rosier than it really is.

In addition, earnings season continues with important reports from Legg Mason, Coca Cola, Dupont, Apple, Wells Fargo, Pepsi, eBay, and Xerox among others…and if these reports are good, Stocks could continue to improve, at the expense of Bonds and home loan rates.

Remember: Weak economic news normally causes money to flow out of Stocks and into Bonds, helping Bonds and home loan rates improve, while strong economic news normally has the opposite result. Bonds and rates worsened on the heels of a rally in Stocks. I’ll be watching to see if Bonds can remain above key support, which would help home loan rates stabilize. As always, I encourage you to give me a call to discuss how the current rate environment might benefit you.

Jim Marcinkowski

Mortgage Consultant

8695 College Pkwy.

Suite 2440

Fort Myers, FL 33919

239-936-4232 Office

239-826-6400 Cell

239-985-4486 Fax

Confidentiality Notice: The documents in this transmission contain confidential information belonging to the sender, which is legally privileged. The information is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution, or the taking of any action in relation to the contents, is strictly prohibited. If you have received this facsimile and/or email in error, please notify the sender immediately and destroy the document(s).

Help your body heal itself holistically!

The human body is capable of amazing things. For example, it’s designed to automatically protect itself from illness and disease. Sometimes it can fight off these even without the aid of prescription drugs. However, for the best immune system possible, the body must be in optimal health.
Unfortunately, many people are living with a body that is not performing at its peak. This can be due to such things as chemicals, processed foods and beverages, and stress, which can damage a body’s natural defense system. That’s why so many of us are feeling fatigued on a daily basis and battling sicknesses all too often.

Kangen water helps ward off the harmful effects of acidity. The buildup of acids within the body can be caused by many factors, such as: Unhealthy foods Dehydration Pollution Stress

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Want to learn more? Please visit

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