Regional Inspection Differences (with Will Misegades)

In this episode of the Structure Talk podcast, hosts Reuben Saltzman and Tessa Murry welcome Will Misegades from Redfish Inspections in Houston, Texas. They discuss the unique challenges of home inspections in hot and humid climates, the merger of Redfish Inspections with Magnolia Home Inspections, and the importance of a strong leadership structure in running a successful inspection business. Will shares insights from his diverse background in construction management and the evolution of his company, including the impact of local housing stock and insurance challenges on home inspections. They highlight the prevalence of asphalt shingles in Houston, the issues with stucco, and the implications of HVAC systems in attics. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding moisture dynamics in different climates and how it affects building durability. In this conversation, Will Misegades also explains the unique foundation care required in Texas due to clay soil and the common plumbing materials used in the area. The conversation emphasizes the critical role of home inspections in identifying potential issues before they escalate.

Takeaways

The importance of networking in the home inspection industry.
A scarcity mindset can hinder growth and collaboration.
Merging businesses can lead to new opportunities and growth.
Leadership teams can effectively run a business without owner involvement.
Understanding local housing stock is crucial for effective inspections.
Insurance challenges are becoming more prevalent in older homes.
The quality of building materials significantly affects longevity.
Hot and humid climates present unique challenges for home inspectors.
Collaboration and open communication are key in business partnerships.
The inspection industry can benefit from a board of directors model. 90-95% of residential roofs in Houston are asphalt shingles.
Insurance policies often undervalue roof replacements.
The housing industry lacks incentives for quality materials.
Stucco is problematic in humid climates like Houston.
Crawl spaces are less common; slab foundations are prevalent.
HVAC systems are primarily located in attics in Houston.
Moisture management is crucial in southern climates.
Mold can develop quickly if moisture issues are not addressed.
Open-cell spray foam is preferred for insulation in humid areas.
Home inspectors should always check for hidden leaks in closets. Mold issues are prevalent in new neighborhoods due to HVAC inadequacies.
Texas homes often require unique foundation care due to clay soil.
Homeowners should water their foundations during dry seasons.
Proper air exchange systems are becoming necessary for new construction.
HVAC systems must be sized correctly to manage humidity levels.
Plumbing issues with PEX are not common in Texas.
Home inspections are crucial for identifying potential problems early.
Insurance companies are starting to reject older roofs.
Energy efficiency improvements can lead to new HVAC challenges.
Understanding the age and type of roofing can impact insurance coverage.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Holiday Reflections
02:04 Meet Will Misegades: Background and Journey
07:16 The Merger of Redfish Inspections and Magnolia Home Inspections
10:24 Business Operations and Leadership Structure
12:12 Typical Housing Stock in Houston
17:51 Insurance Challenges and Building Quality
19:47 Roofing Materials and Their Lifespan
22:43 Siding Choices and Their Implications
25:05 Crawl Spaces vs. Slab Foundations
27:16 Attic Conditions and HVAC Systems
32:32 Moisture Management in Construction
38:31 The HVAC Dilemma: Mold and Air Quality Issues
47:21 Foundation Challenges in Texas Homes
50:30 Plumbing Concerns: PEX and Other Issues
51:29 HVAC Systems: Heating and Cooling Solutions