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Hiring a general contractor can feel confusing and overwhelming—especially if you’ve never tackled a remodel, repair, or major home project before. In this episode, we break it all down so homeowners and home buyers know exactly what to expect before they sign a contract.

I’m joined by licensed general contractor Michael Fucci, owner of The Proud Crowd Inc., who walks us through what a general contractor actually does and how the hiring process works from start to finish. Michael explains how general contractors coordinate and manage all the skilled trades involved in a project—including framers, electricians, plumbers, drywallers, and more—and why that coordination is critical to keeping a job on schedule and within scope.

We also dive into the less-talked-about (but extremely important) topics such as contractor licensing and license limitations, liability insurance, and workers’ compensation—what they mean, why they matter, and how they protect homeowners from unnecessary risk. If you’ve ever wondered who is responsible when something goes wrong on a job site, this episode clears it up.

Whether you’re planning a remodel, dealing with repairs after a home inspection, or simply want to be a more informed homeowner, this conversation will give you the knowledge you need to hire a general contractor with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.

🎧 A must-listen for homeowners, first-time buyers, and anyone considering hiring a contractor for their home.

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🟢 If you are in the Los Angeles area and are in the process of buying a home I am available to inspect it for you. You can Schedule Inspection Online 24/7
https://www.homeinspectionauthority.com/

John Laforme
Certified Home Inspector
Home Inspection Authority LLC

Former President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter
Former Vice President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter

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first-time homebuyer’s emotional rollercoaster — from panic to potential — when they see an abandoned house they just bought.

Part 1 

First time home buyer Jason Land walks out of his first showing because it was a cluttered old home with overgrown vegetation even after i told him Don't Panic! Jason shares his emotional experience and we discuss how to best use his home inspection report.

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🟢 If you are in the Los Angeles area and are in the process of buying a home I am available to inspect it for you. You can Schedule Inspection Online 24/7
https://www.homeinspectionauthority.com/

John Laforme
Certified Home Inspector
Home Inspection Authority LLC

Former President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter
Former Vice President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter

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John Laforme and YC with SoCal Seismic Foundation discuss the pros and cons of CMU (concrete masonry unit), brick and River rock foundations. They note that many older CMU foundations are hollow and difficult to retrofit, while brick foundations are often unreinforced and non retrofit-able. They emphasize the importance of inspecting for anchor bolts and rebar, which indicate a foundation's structural integrity. They also discuss the high cost of foundation replacements, averaging $85,000, and the challenges of dealing with historical homes. The conversation highlights the need for proper training and education for inspectors and the importance of working with specialists for foundation repairs.

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🔴 Please Subscribe To My YouTube Channel to receive updates on the video version of the podcasts and hundreds of real home defect videos I find during actual home inspections as well as how to maintain your home videos:
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🟢 If you are in the Los Angeles area and are in the process of buying a home I am available to inspect it for you. You can Schedule Inspection Online 24/7
https://www.homeinspectionauthority.com/

John Laforme
Certified Home Inspector
Home Inspection Authority LLC

Former President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter
Former Vice President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter

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The posts and piers under your home support the foundation and floor structure of your house. They help distribute the weight of the home evenly to the ground, preventing sagging, shifting, or structural failure. Specifically, they support:

John Laforme and YC from SoCal seismic construction discuss the importance of posts, piers, and beams in home foundations. They explain that these interior elements support the floor joists and walls, and can face issues like spalling, deterioration, and misalignment, similar to foundation problems. They highlight common defects such as undermining due to plumbing work, settling due to moisture, and water intrusion causing rot. The average cost to replace a post and pier is around $400, depending on accessibility and other factors. They also discuss the pros and cons of different foundation types and the comprehensive inspections conducted during retrofitting.

1. Step-by-Step Process:
   1. Assess the Damage
   • Inspect the post and pier for signs of rot, cracks, or shifting.
   • Check if only the post needs replacing or if the pier itself is damaged.
2. 2. Provide Temporary Support
   • Place a hydraulic jack under the beam near the damaged post.
   • Slowly lift just enough to relieve pressure on the damaged post (do not over-lift to prevent structural damage).
   • Insert temporary support (jack stands or a temporary wood beam).
3. 3. Remove the Damaged Post & Pier
   • If the post is wood, cut it out carefully with a saw.
   • If the pier is cracked or sinking, dig it out and remove any debris.
4. 4. Install a New Pier (if needed)
   • Dig a hole below the old pier (usually 18-24 inches deep, depending on soil conditions).
   • Pour a concrete footing and let it cure for at least 24-48 hours.
   • Place a concrete pier block or pour a new pier using a sonotube.
   • Ensure the pier is level and aligned properly.
5. 5. Install a New Post
   • Cut a new pressure-treated post to the correct height.
   • Secure the post to the new pier using a metal post base.
   • Attach the top of the post to the bea

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🔴 Please Subscribe To My YouTube Channel to receive updates on the video version of the podcasts and hundreds of real home defect videos I find during actual home inspections as well as how to maintain your home videos:
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🟢 If you are in the Los Angeles area and are in the process of buying a home I am available to inspect it for you. You can Schedule Inspection Online 24/7
https://www.homeinspectionauthority.com/

John Laforme
Certified Home Inspector
Home Inspection Authority LLC

Former President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter
Former Vice President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter

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John Laforme and YC of SoCal Seismic discuss foundation issues such as efflorescence and spalling. Efflorescence is white mineral deposits from moisture intrusion, while spalling is concrete crumbling. They emphasize the importance of proper foundation inspections and testing, such as the pen test, to assess the sturdiness of foundations. A foundation replacement can cost around $85,000. They also highlight the impact of expansive soil, which expands and shrinks with moisture, causing cracks. Proper ventilation and drainage are crucial to prevent moisture issues. They also discuss the use of structural-grade plywood for cripple wall bracing and the importance of understanding building fundamentals for home inspectors.

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Listener Feedback Is Always Welcome and Appreciated.
Is there a particular topic I have not covered on the show that you want to hear?

You can become a supporter of the show by clicking this link below, become a supporter and get a shout out on the next podcast episode.
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Please feel free to email me what type of topics you are interested in as well as any other tips to improve your listening experience. [email protected]

🔴 Please Subscribe To My YouTube Channel to receive updates on the video version of the podcasts and hundreds of real home defect videos I find during actual home inspections as well as how to maintain your home videos:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXzxEH5J8y5EW1lZ3LtDB0A?sub_confirmation=1

🟢 If you are in the Los Angeles area and are in the process of buying a home I am available to inspect it for you. You can Schedule Inspection Online 24/7
https://www.homeinspectionauthority.com/

John Laforme
Certified Home Inspector
Home Inspection Authority LLC

Former President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter
Former Vice President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter

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Seismic retrofitting your foundation is crucial if you live in an earthquake-prone area. Here’s why it’s a smart investment:

1. Protect Your Home from Structural Damage

• Many older homes were not built to modern seismic codes and can suffer severe damage or even collapse during an earthquake. Retrofitting strengthens your foundation and connections to prevent shifting or cracking.

2. Enhance Safety for You and Your Family

• A stronger foundation means less risk of walls, roofs, or chimneys collapsing during a quake, reducing the chance of injury or entrapment.

3. Increase Property Value

• A retrofitted home is more attractive to buyers and insurers. It can boost resale value and make your home more marketable.

4. Lower Insurance Costs

• Some insurance companies offer discounts on earthquake insurance for retrofitted homes since they’re less likely to suffer severe damage.

5. Reduce Repair and Replacement Costs

• The cost of repairing earthquake damage can be far higher than the cost of retrofitting. Strengthening your foundation now can save you thousands later.

6. Stay in Your Home After a Quake

• If your home is severely damaged, you may be forced to relocate during repairs. A retrofitted home is more likely to remain livable after an earthquake.

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Listener Feedback Is Always Welcome and Appreciated.
Is there a particular topic I have not covered on the show that you want to hear?

You can become a supporter of the show by clicking this link below, become a supporter and get a shout out on the next podcast episode.
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Please feel free to email me what type of topics you are interested in as well as any other tips to improve your listening experience. [email protected]

🔴 Please Subscribe To My YouTube Channel to receive updates on the video version of the podcasts and hundreds of real home defect videos I find during actual home inspections as well as how to maintain your home videos:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXzxEH5J8y5EW1lZ3LtDB0A?sub_confirmation=1

🟢 If you are in the Los Angeles area and are in the process of buying a home I am available to inspect it for you. You can Schedule Inspection Online 24/7
https://www.homeinspectionauthority.com/

John Laforme
Certified Home Inspector
Home Inspection Authority LLC

Former President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter
Former Vice President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter

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John Laforme and YC from SoCal Seismic Construction House Bolting discuss foundation issues, emphasizing the commonality of cracks in raised foundations. YC explains that vertical cracks are typically caused by improper drainage and can be repaired with epoxy injection and metal straps. Horizontal cracks, however, indicate foundation failure due to rebar issues. They highlight the importance of proper drainage and rain gutters to prevent foundation problems.

 Contact Information
SoCal Seismic House Bolting
323-770-9611
https://www.ycbuilder.com/

Vertical Cracks

• Common Causes:
  • Settlement of the foundation.
  • Shrinkage of concrete as it cures.
  • Minor shifts in the soil beneath the foundation.
• Are They a Problem?
  • Small, hairline vertical cracks (less than 1/8 inch wide) are generally not a serious concern and are considered a normal part of a building's aging process.
  • Larger vertical cracks, or those that widen over time, may indicate settlement issues or excessive pressure from expanding soil or water.
• When to Worry:
  • The crack widens or shows displacement.
  • Water leakage occurs through the crack.
  • The crack appears suddenly after extreme weather or seismic activity.

Horizontal Cracks

• Common Causes:
  • Lateral pressure from soil outside the foundation, especially in areas with high clay content or frost heaving.
  • Hydrostatic pressure caused by excessive water accumulation around the foundation.
  • Poor drainage or waterproofing.
• Are They a Problem?
  • Horizontal cracks are typically more concerning than vertical ones because they can indicate serious structural stress, such as bowing or bulging foundation walls.
  • Cracks wider than 1/4 inch or those accompanied by inward movement of the wall may signal a risk of collapse.

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Listener Feedback Is Always Welcome and Appreciated.
Is there a particular topic I have not covered on the show that you want to hear?

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Please feel free to email me what type of topics you are interested in as well as any other tips to improve your listening experience. [email protected]

🔴 Please Subscribe To My YouTube Channel to receive updates on the video version of the podcasts and hundreds of real home defect videos I find during actual home inspections as well as how to maintain your home videos:
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🟢 If you are in the Los Angeles area and are in the process of buying a home I am available to inspect it for you. You can Schedule Inspection Online 24/7
https://www.homeinspectionauthority.com/

John Laforme
Certified Home Inspector
Home Inspection Authority LLC

Former President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter
Former Vice President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter

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James Walsh Explains what Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) is and how important it is to file before the 12/31/24 deadline. If you own a business in the United States do not delay and file today with link below.

James has created a website to help you with filing your BOI
https://boifilings.com/

Click link below to watch the YouTube version of this episode.
https://youtu.be/r7gfkBV8tWk

Filing your Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) before December 31, 2024, is essential due to compliance requirements set by the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), which is enforced by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). Here’s why you need to file before this deadline:

1. New Reporting Requirements under the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA)

The CTA was enacted to increase transparency in corporate ownership and prevent illicit activities like money laundering, tax evasion, and fraud. The act requires most U.S. corporations, LLCs, and similar entities to report their beneficial owners to FinCEN. A beneficial owner is any individual who directly or indirectly exercises substantial control over the company or owns at least 25% of its ownership interests.

2. Deadlines for Filing

• Existing Entities (Formed before January 1, 2024): Must file their BOI report by December 31, 2024.
• New Entities (Formed on or after January 1, 2024): Must file within 30 days of formation or registration.

This means if your business was established before 2024, you need to submit your BOI report by the end of 2024. For newer entities, the filing must occur within a month of their establishment.

3. Avoiding Penalties

Failure to file your BOI on time can result in severe penalties, including:

• Fines: Up to $500 per day for non-compliance.
• Criminal Penalties: In some cases, failure to report can lead to criminal charges, with fines up to $10,000 and even imprisonment.

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🔴 Please Subscribe To My YouTube Channel to receive updates on the video version of the podcasts and hundreds of real home defect videos I find during actual home inspections as well as how to maintain your home videos:
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🟢 If you are in the Los Angeles area and are in the process of buying a home I am available to inspect it for you. You can Schedule Inspection Online 24/7
https://www.homeinspectionauthority.com/

John Laforme
Certified Home Inspector
Home Inspection Authority LLC

Former President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter
Former Vice President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter

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In this podcast I am joined by Oreoluwa Babatunde Co-Founder & Head of Software @ UplinkRobotics LLC

John Laforme and Ore Babatunde discussed the latest developments in robotics for home inspections, including drones, rovers, crawl bots, and camera technology. They explored potential applications such as navigating tight spaces and providing detailed images. Later, they discussed starting a robotics company and potential uses in search and rescue operations. They discussed designing a customized RC vehicle for home inspections and improving a handheld inspection camera. Lighting was emphasized as crucial for camera functionality.

Contact Information:

https://www.uplinkrobotics.com/

(307) 225-9210

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Please feel free to email me what type of topics you are interested in as well as any other tips to improve your listening experience. [email protected]

🔴 Please Subscribe To My YouTube Channel to receive updates on the video version of the podcasts and hundreds of real home defect videos I find during actual home inspections as well as how to maintain your home videos:
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🟢 If you are in the Los Angeles area and are in the process of buying a home I am available to inspect it for you. You can Schedule Inspection Online 24/7
https://www.homeinspectionauthority.com/

John Laforme
Certified Home Inspector
Home Inspection Authority LLC

Former President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter
Former Vice President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter

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John Laforme and Ron King discuss the effects of hard water on homeowners, They emphasize the need for proper evaluation and recommendations for water treatment systems, highlighting the importance of testing water quality and evaluating plumbing system tolerance. Ron also discuss's water quality standards and regulations set by the EPA and local water providers, arguing that these standards should balance consumer preferences with what providers can deliver.

• Homeowners can check their local water quality report or request a water test from Culligan to determine hardness levels.
•  John will refer homeowners with hard water questions to contact Ron for an evaluation of their home and recommendation of an appropriate treatment system.
• Ron King explains his experience and expertise in the water filtration industry.
• Customers in Southern California experience hard water, leading to hair and skin issues.
• Click link below to watch Youtube version of this episode.
• https://youtu.be/2tT5k19kgKY

Contact Ron King For water testing and filtration installation:
Office 818-271-1106
email [email protected]

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Listener Feedback Is Always Welcome and Appreciated.
Is there a particular topic I have not covered on the show that you want to hear?

You can become a supporter of the show by clicking this link below, become a supporter and get a shout out on the next podcast episode.
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Please feel free to email me what type of topics you are interested in as well as any other tips to improve your listening experience. [email protected]

🔴 Please Subscribe To My YouTube Channel to receive updates on the video version of the podcasts and hundreds of real home defect videos I find during actual home inspections as well as how to maintain your home videos:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXzxEH5J8y5EW1lZ3LtDB0A?sub_confirmation=1

🟢 If you are in the Los Angeles area and are in the process of buying a home I am available to inspect it for you. You can Schedule Inspection Online 24/7
https://www.homeinspectionauthority.com/

John Laforme
Certified Home Inspector
Home Inspection Authority LLC

Former President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter
Former Vice President of CREIA Mid Valley Chapter

Thanks For Listening