In this episode, host Rob Claus welcomes Bethany Messier from CoStar Group, the world leader in commercial real estate data and analytics. CoStar is widely recognized for having the most comprehensive database of CRE information across the U.S. and Canada and is the parent company of LoopNet, Homes.com, Apartments.com, Land.com, and Matterport.

CoStar’s tools are widely used by commercial property inspectors for property research, proposal development, and pre-inspection preparation. Their data helps inspectors understand a property’s history, ownership, tenancy, and market context. This supports ROI-driven business development and leads to better proposals and preparation before arriving on-site. 

In this episode, Bethany and Rob discuss how CoStar’s platform supports business development for inspectors, including targeting the right clients, identifying opportunities, and building a sustainable pipeline of commercial property inspection work. 

They also highlight CCPIA’s exclusive partnership with CoStar, which gives CCPIA members customized onboarding and support to help grow their inspection business. Visit CCPIA.org to learn more about the partnership.

Watch the YouTube video to see a live CoStar platform demo and how inspectors are using it in practice. 

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

➡️ Visit the November Email Newsletter Here

➡️ 35% Off Training Through Nov. 30th! Use Code: 35BlackFriday

This month’s issue breaks down the 2025 multifamily market and what it means for inspectors. Get the key trends, inspector takeaways, and a free shareable report you can use in your own client outreach.

You’ll also find new CCPIA resources, including guidance on inspecting FAA obstruction lighting, an online course on inspecting building exteriors, and materials on growing your business through partnerships and approaching large, complex properties.

To close, we recap upcoming CCPIA training dates, virtual roundtables, and events, including in-person classes in Indianapolis and Los Angeles, and a virtual class covering how to inspect all building systems. Great to prepare for the certification exam.

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

👋 Hello, commercial property inspectors! In this month’s newsletter, you’ll find inspection headlines, CRE market insights, and training announcements, including:

• Profitable service add-ons
• Must-know procedures for electrical inspections
• Zoom courses and hands-on training held nationwide
• CRE industry regulatory news that keeps you informed on what’s happening (and gives you client conversation starters)

Links mentioned in the episode: 

• New revenue stream: Phase I ESAs 
• Hot demand: Four core inspection services for CRE capital planning
• Confidence builder: Electrical inspection procedure guide and video demo
• Staying up-to-date: Subscribe to the monthly email newsletter  

🤝 Thanks for reading and being part of the CCPIA® community. Together, we lead Building Excellence.

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

August 2025 Episode of the Commercial Property Inspectors Roundtable Hosted by CCPIA® is out now!  This month’s roundtable covers internet marketing, managing cost per lead, ensuring prompt payments, and navigating large project acquisitions. Get valuable insights to help grow your business!

To attend an upcoming meeting, visit: http://ccpia.org/training-calendar/

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

Episode #24: Learn why fire door inspections matter for commercial property safety and liability.

In this episode, host Rob Claus welcomes special guest Lori Greene, Manager of Codes and Resources for Allegion. With nearly 40 years in the door and hardware industry, Lori is the industry's foremost expert on fire doors and fire door assemblies. Allegion is a global security company with approximately 40 brands, including the well-known Schlage brand.

Tune in to hear Rob and Lori discuss:

• Fire door fundamentals 
• Identification and compliance
• Real-word impact of consequences of insufficient fire doors
• Annual fire door inspection requirements
• Industry resources

Helpful Links for Commercial Property Inspectors:

• Fire Door Inspection Online Course for Swing, Siding, and Rolling Doors
• Fire Door Locations: Types and Inspection Guidelines for Buildings 
• Exit Door and Fire Doors Inspection Video
• Fire Door Inspections Reporting: Tips and Tools
• Life Safety Inspection Online Course for Commercial Property Inspectors

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

Hear how the R-410A phaseout is reshaping commercial HVAC systems and what it means for property inspections, with your host Lance Coffman. 

Episode #3 Highlights:

- R410A manufacturing stopped January 1, 2025
- Repair costs following R-22's path
- New A2L refrigerants require complete system replacement, not retrofits
- Document refrigerant type on every data plate during inspections
- Equipment over 10 years old faces immediate replacement decisions
- Frame findings as capital planning, not emergencies
- Maintenance history reveals leak-prone systems worth replacing
- Local codes for A2L safety vary
- Biggest HVAC shift in 20 years requires proactive client education

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

We recently connected with CCPIA® member Tony Christoforou, who discussed how his well-established commercial inspection business has evolved into something greater—thanks to collaboration and a dedication to learning from each project and client experience.

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

Tune in to the free monthly virtual meeting, where inspectors nationwide gather to exchange ideas, discuss business development strategies, and explore industry opportunities. This month is packed with insights about clients, contracts, and insurance coverage. 

Special guests from the leading provider of Errors & Omissions (E&O) and General Liability insurance for inspection companies joined us for the second half of the meeting.

To attend an upcoming meeting, visit: http://ccpia.org/training-calendar/

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

Host Lance Coffman breaks down how institutional capital is driving faster deals, larger portfolios, and new expectations for commercial property inspectors.

Learn what sets private equity (PE) clients apart, how inspection workflows are changing, and what it takes to succeed in this high-stakes, data-driven environment.

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

Dry cleaners may look like simple storefronts, but they often present serious safety challenges tied to fire risks, health concerns, and environmental hazards.

In this episode, we cover:

• Long-term environmental and safety concerns from current, former, and neighboring dry cleaning operations
• Solvent use and how it ties into fire code classifications and environmental risks
• When dry cleaner sites may warrant a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment, and why many trigger a Phase II
• Fire and life safety issues, including extinguishers, egress, maintenance, spill containment, and storage of flammable/combustible materials
• Common ventilation concerns and requirements, plus real-world examples of poor vapor control
• Key ComSOP inspection points connected to dry cleaner risks
• What to document, and where to look, during a commercial property inspection

Learn more about inspecting dry cleaners in these readings: 

• Dry Cleaners: What Inspectors, Buyers, and Property Managers Should Know
• Inspecting Dry Cleaner Properties: Fire and Life Safety Risks
• Inspecting Dry Cleaner Properties: Health and Environmental Risks
• Dry Cleaner Property Inspection Checklist

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

Host Lance Coffman breaks down how environmental factors, emissions, and natural disasters affect commercial properties—and why it’s critical for building and business owners to plan ahead rather than scramble after failures. 

The discussion includes capital planning, equipment life cycles, and tenant transitions as ways to manage cost, timing, and scope. Ending with insights for commercial property inspectors on how to stay shape in the ever-evolving commercial real estate landscape. 

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

This roundtable covered key industry updates, inspection challenges, and business opportunities for inspectors.

4th Quarter Sales Ideas:

Brainstorming of sales initiatives for the upcoming fourth quarter. Historically, this time of year sees increased demand for commercial inspections, making it a key opportunity to drive revenue.

Software Needs:

John Ajinga shared details about his upcoming inspection software designed for commercial use. The launch is expected on August 1st.

Time-Saving Tactics:

Discussion on workflow improvements, including capturing site photos efficiently and completing reports off-site. Inspectors compared their average time spent off-site finalizing their reports.

AI Integration:

Discussion on the emerging role of AI tools, including which ones are currently useful and which features are gaining the most traction in the industry.

Reporting Layout:

Review of report layout tips, such as the importance of customizing layouts to each client type and how to present findings in a way that enhances clarity and value.

Client Types:

Comparison on notes for the range of client types they work with and how their expectations can differ depending on industry, project type, or experience level. Discussion on how the Understanding Commercial Property Inspection Client Types Online Course and Path to Winning Commercial Clients Fast-Track Course help inspectors establish effective processes and communication skills.

Estimates & Client Filtering:

Recurring issue was flagged: losing clients due to unclear qualification or follow-up practices. The group discussed improving engagement strategies, refining how clients are filtered, and adjusting pricing conversations. Discussion on how How to Determine Commercial Inspection Prices and Write Proposals and Path to Winning Commercial Clients course can help.

Conferences for Commercial Real Estate Professionals:

Discussion on the value of attending conferences to represent their company and whether such events are effective for marketing and client acquisition.

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

The Commercial Property Inspectors Roundtable Meeting is a monthly Zoom hosted by CCPIA® for inspectors across the nation to talk about business and professional development.

This month’s roundtable featured special guests Jon Ajinga and Jeff Womelsdorf of InspectorPrime, a commercial property inspection report software platform. They led a live demonstration and Q&A session highlighting how the system is specifically designed to support commercial property inspections.

CCPIA® members receive an exclusive discount on the commercial property inspection reporting platform: https://ccpia.org/inspectorprime-repo...

To attend an upcoming meeting, visit the training calendar: https://ccpia.org/training-calendar/

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

The Commercial Property Inspectors Roundtable Meeting is a monthly meeting hosted by the Certified Commercial Property Inspectors Association (CCPIA®) for inspectors across the nation to gather and discuss business development opportunities and strategies. To attend an upcoming meeting, visit the Commercial Property Inspection Training Calendar to register.


MAY 13, 2025

ROUNDTABLE HIGHLIGHTS:

This month’s roundtable was led by Rob Claus and packed with insights about marketing, reporting, and growth strategies in commercial property inspections.

• Starting Your Career:  A new member asked about the best way to get started in commercial property inspections. The advice shared ranged from how to build building inspection skills to looking into ancillary service offerings, like ADA/accessibility surveys, sewer scope inspections, and cost estimating for repairs, maintenance, and repairs. 
• Report Writing: A question came up about how to report serious structural issues that could pose a safety risk. Inspectors emphasized tips from how to provide clear documentation to providing strong recommendations for further evaluation or action.
• Choosing the Right Software: Selecting reporting software that aligns with the ComSOP and fits personal workflow preferences was a common challenge. Peer feedback was shared on platforms that support commercial-specific features.
• Final Word: The commercial property inspection industry continues to evolve. Whether you're refining your reports, expanding your service offerings, or improving visibility, focus on consistency, education, and strong client communication.

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

Building Your Business with CCPIA® is a monthly video and podcast series featuring leading voices in the field. Each episode offers practical tips and insights into commercial property inspections, breaking down key trends and educational topics. It’s perfect for inspectors looking to grow and succeed.


April 18, 2025  — What happens when a builder-turned-inspector can’t find software that fits commercial work? He builds his own—and it’s changing how inspections get done.

In this episode of Building Your Business with CCPIA®, host Rob Claus welcomes special guests Lucas Kirsch, founder of Twenty20 Inspections and Inspectagram Software, and Tyson Saelzer, a CCPIA® Certified Commercial Property Inspector since 2022. Some of the key insights and practical takeaways include: 

• From Builder to Business Owner: Learn how Lucas transitioned from building custom homes and commercial spaces to founding a thriving inspection that spans Canada and the U.S.
• Hiring Former Athletes: Find out why Lucas looks for athletic backgrounds when building his team and how drive, discipline, and teamwork carry over into the field.
• Expanding into Commercial: Hear how Twenty20 Inspections broke into commercial property inspections with large-scale inspections and strong relationships with CRE professionals. Tyson shares how one conversation with a commercial broker turned into a booming line of business.
• Built for Speed: Discover how Lucas created Inspectagram—a fully mobile inspection software with CCPIA® ComSOP templates, intuitive workflows, AI features, and a format that’s built for modern clients and multi-unit properties. 
• Scaling Smart: Get a behind-the-scenes look at how this team handles huge projects—like 80-unit inspections in a day—using strong culture, smart systems, and tech-forward efficiency.

Real Talk About the Industry: Rob, Lucas, and Tyson dive into collaboration vs. competition, the evolving role of inspectors, and how CCPIA® training and inspection SOPs are raising the bar for the entire industry.

Inspectagram is available at the Apple Store and offers an exclusive discount to CCPIA® members — access the discount, view sample reports, and schedule a demo. 

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

The Commercial Property Inspectors Roundtable Meeting is a monthly meeting hosted by the Certified Commercial Property Inspectors Association (CCPIA®) for inspectors across the nation to gather and discuss business development opportunities and strategies. To attend an upcoming meeting, visit the Commercial Property Inspection Training Calendar to register.


APRIL 10, 2025

ROUNDTABLE HIGHLIGHTS:

This month’s roundtable was led by Lance Coffman and packed with insights about marketing, service offerings, and growth strategies in commercial property inspections.

PPC Marketing:
Participants shared their experiences with Google Ads and pay-per-click campaigns, including keywords.

Cost-to-Cure and Service Expansion:
Cost-to-cure tables are emerging as a high-value add-on. Tools like Repair Pricer help scale, but many are building in-house templates for better accuracy.

Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs):
A few inspectors are now offering Phase I ESA services through partnerships, noting it’s a great opportunity— though more intensive than typical add-ons.

Postcards and Digital Brochures:
Postcards, flipbooks, and short digital brochures are popular for sharing with prospects, offered through CCPIA’s Logos and Marketing Design Services.

Getting Started in Commercial:
For newer inspectors, the advice is clear: Start simple with basic building inspections, then build into ADA/accessibility surveys, sewer scopes, and cost estimates.

Understanding Client Types:
Inspectors shared how to identify client goals — whether they’re buying, leasing, or managing — and tailor the report (debt report, equity report, or disposition report) accordingly.

Final Word:
The commercial property inspection industry is evolving. Whether you're refining your report format, improving online presence, or expanding services— consistency, education, and client communication are key.

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

The Commercial Property Inspectors Roundtable Meeting is a monthly meeting hosted by the Certified Commercial Property Inspectors Association (CCPIA®) for inspectors across the nation to gather and discuss business development opportunities and strategies. To attend an upcoming meeting, visit the Commercial Property Inspection Training Calendar to register.


MARCH, 11 2025

ROUNDTABLE HIGHLIGHTS:

This roundtable covered an in-depth discussion on strategies for closing more deals, adapting service offerings, and overcoming sales objections. 

• Increasing Closing Rates: How can inspectors increase their proposal conversion from 48% to 80%? Insights on pricing, overcoming objections, and structuring tiered service options.
• Walk-Through Agreement: A potential game-changer for budget-conscious clients by offering a lighter inspection without a full report.
• Getting to the Decision-Maker: Strategies for bypassing gatekeepers and ensuring your expertise is seen and valued.
• Providing Value in Commercial Inspection: The industry is shifting toward comprehensive service packages rather than à la carte options. How can inspectors streamline their processes and structure offerings to drive referrals and business growth?
• Building Client Trust: The role of speciality consultants in strengthening client relationships and securing repeat business.

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

Building Your Business with CCPIA® is a monthly series hosted by Rob Claus, CCPIA’s Director of Education. Each episode features industry leaders sharing tips and insights on commercial property inspections, plus solo episodes where Rob covers key trends and updates. Perfect for inspectors looking to grow and succeed!

MARCH 13, 2025 — In this episode of Building Your Business, Rick Francis, owner of 4 Site Building Inspections and several other inspection companies in Southeastern Wisconsin, shares how he successfully transitioned from residential to commercial property inspections. With a background in residential inspections and a Certified Master Inspector (CMI)® designation, Rick took a strategic approach to growing his business and positioning himself as a trusted name in the industry.

Key Highlights: 

• Purchased His Commercial Business: Rick purchased the commercial side of a retiring inspector’s business, leveraging its strong reputation while rebranding under his own company. Learn how he has navigated this process. 
• The Role of CCPIA in His Success – Rick credits CCPIA for providing the training he needed to confidently take on commercial projects. He found the in-person 3-Day Introduction to Commercial Property Inspections class to be a real game-changer.
• Why the ComSOP Matters: With most of his clients focused on the final report rather than attending the inspections, Rick emphasizes the importance of following the ComSOP. 
• More Freedom & Flexibility – Transitioning to commercial inspections has given Rick more control over his schedule, allowing him to spend more time with his family compared to the long days and multiple jobs required in residential inspections.

Tune in to see how Rick, in such a short time, has built his strong and successful commercial inspection company.

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

Building Your Business with CCPIA® is a monthly series hosted by Rob Claus, CCPIA’s Director of Education. Each episode features industry leaders sharing tips and insights on commercial property inspections, plus solo episodes where Rob covers key trends and updates. Perfect for inspectors looking to grow and succeed!

FEBRUARY 25, 2025 — In this episode of Building Your Business, Drew Thacker, owner of Ariel Inspections and Engineering in Dallas, explains how thermographic inspections can transform services offered by commercial property inspectors. With a background in aerospace, stealth technology, and infrared imaging, Drew demonstrates that thermography isn’t just about scanning buildings— it’s a new business model with endless applications.

Key Takeaways:

• Expert Background & Innovation: Drew’s journey began at NASA, Rockwell International, and General Dynamics. His experiences laid the groundwork for his pioneering work. He started with roof inspections using drones and advanced cameras to detect issues, then evolved to comprehensive heat mapping of entire buildings.
• Cutting-Edge Thermography in Action: Discover how thermography pinpoints problems from roof leaks to electrical panel inefficiencies, using both drone-mounted and handheld infrared cameras to capture precise temperature differentials.
• Real-World Savings: Hear compelling examples where targeted thermographic surveys saved clients millions by pinpointing exact problem areas— without costly, full-scale repairs.
• Diverse Applications Beyond Real Estate: This technology isn’t just for properties on the market. Drew demonstrates its powerful applications in industrial settings, motor controls, septic system location, feedlot and water tank maintenance, refrigeration systems, drainage design, and overall preventative maintenance.

Tune in for practical insights on creating new revenue streams and enhancing your inspection practice!

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

The Commercial Property Inspectors Roundtable Meeting is a free monthly meeting hosted by the Certified Commercial Property Inspectors Association (CCPIA®). Participants discussed insurance inspections, multifamily inspections, and other revenue opportunities for their business. To register for an upcoming meeting, visit Commercial Property Inspector Training Calendar

Highlights from the Roundtable: 

This roundtable covered key industry updates, inspection challenges, and business opportunities for inspectors.

• Insurance Inspections on the Rise: Changes in insurance policies are increasing demand for commercial property inspections, particularly for older buildings. Some carriers now require four-point inspections. 
• Expanding Business Through Strategic Networking: Insights on securing repeat work from commercial agents and insurance brokers by providing reliable inspection services.
• Legal Considerations for Inspectors: A discussion on handling depositions and protecting yourself legally when inspection reports are used in lawsuits.
• Maximizing Efficiency in Multifamily Inspections: Tips on optimizing multifamily unit inspections, including setting client expectations, streamlining data collection, and managing report writing efficiently.
• Upcoming Professional Inspectors Convention: Inspectors were invited to attend the Professional Inspectors Convention in Orlando from February 16-18, 2025. CCPIA® will have a booth for attendees to stop by, along with six workshops focused on commercial property inspections and a networking dinner event.

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

Building Your Business with CCPIA® is a monthly series hosted by Rob Claus, CCPIA’s Director of Education. Each episode features industry leaders sharing tips and insights on commercial property inspections, plus solo episodes where Rob covers key trends and updates. Perfect for inspectors looking to grow and succeed!


DECEMBER 18, 2024 —  In this episode of Building Your Business, Rob Claus hosts Toby Thério and Kevin Labonté, founding members of Group Inspect in Quebec, Canada. They share their journey from independent inspectors to building a multi-inspector, multi-location firm with a strong focus on commercial property inspections. 

Tune in to learn about: 

• Group Inspect’s Dual Locations: Discover how Group Inspect operates across Quebec, with teams in Montreal and Quebec City focusing on residential and commercial inspections.
• Industry Backgrounds: Hear how Toby and Kevin transitioned from engineering and military careers to become leaders in the property inspection industry.
• Adapting to Change: Learn how Kevin is developing a training program to prepare inspectors for new Quebec multi-family inspection legislation and the evolving standards for inspection reporting.
• Navigating Sales in Two Countries: Explore the similarities and differences between Canadian and U.S. inspection markets, including the shared opportunities for growth and unique bilingual reporting requirements in Quebec.
• Memorable Projects: Dive into stories from large-scale inspections, such as 140-unit apartments, historic schools, and hidden attic apartments.
• Collaboration and Innovation: See how Group Inspect leverages teamwork, bilingual software, and AI tools to deliver high-quality reports while supporting inspectors.
• Why Go Commercial: Hear the advantages of expanding into commercial inspections, from market potential to long-term business growth.

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

The Commercial Property Inspectors Roundtable Meeting is a monthly meeting hosted by the Certified Commercial Property Inspectors Association (CCPIA®) for inspectors across the nation to gather and discuss business development opportunities and strategies. To attend an upcoming meeting, visit the Commercial Property Inspection Training Calendar to register.

Participants discussed ancillary services and prepping for spring marketing by evaluating their services, pricing, and marketing.

Highlights from the Roundtable:

Transitioning from Residential to Commercial
Inspectors shared tips for transitioning from residential to commercial property inspections, including: 

• Using a DBA under your existing company can streamline operations while distinguishing your brand.
• Leveraging your residential experience but adapting to the distinct requirements and client expectations in the commercial sector

Expanding Revenue Streams
Inspectors discussed the value of diversifying services. The main ancillary services discussed include:

• Insurance inspections
• Maintenance inspections
• Specialty inspections (i.e., balcony inspections and drone inspections) 

Cost-to-Cure Reporting Insights
A key topic was the approach to cost-to-cure reporting. Should inspectors include a detailed cost table or simply add estimated costs as comments without aggregating them? Inspectors shared tips on sourcing reliable data and how offering cost estimates can set you apart from competitors.

Marketing for the Spring Season
With the new year approaching, inspectors highlighted the importance of refining marketing strategies by conducting a market analysis, evaluating pricing and services, and engaging with clients and referral sources with specialized offerings.

To register for an upcoming meeting, visit the Commercial Property Inspectors Roundtable Schedule.

Post-Workshop Resources for Commercial Property Inspectors:

• Find An Inspector
• Market Analysis
• Competitive Analysis Spreadsheet
• CCPIA® In-Person Training Calendar

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

The Commercial Property Inspectors Roundtable Meeting is a monthly meeting hosted by the Certified Commercial Property Inspectors Association (CCPIA®) for inspectors across the nation to gather and discuss business development opportunities and strategies. To register for an upcoming meeting, visit the Commercial Property Inspection Training Calendar.

NOVEMBER 15, 2024 — This month, Rob Claus led a workshop on developing pricing strategies for commercial property inspections. The session provided guidance for inspectors looking to establish or refine their fee structures in today's competitive market.

Key topics covered included:

• Four distinct pricing models with practical examples
• Essential factors for developing an effective fee structure
• A comprehensive breakdown of inspection business expenses
• Methods for conducting market and competitive analysis
• Interactive Q&A addressing participants' specific scenarios

The workshop highlighted how successful pricing strategies must balance multiple factors, including operational costs, market conditions, and desired profit margins.

Both CCPIA® members and non-members were welcome to attend, making this valuable information accessible to the broader commercial property inspection community. View our training calendar for upcoming in-person classes and online events.

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

Ensuring your website generates leads 24/7 while you focus on inspections.

In this episode, host Rob Claus welcomes Paige Wiese, founder and CEO of Tree Ring Digital, a Denver-based marketing agency specializing in high-performance websites and digital strategies for service-based businesses. With over 16 years helping businesses strengthen their online visibility, Paige has worked extensively with the inspection industry through her long-standing relationships with InterNACHI and CCPIA, where she's helped develop digital best practices and resources that inspectors actually use.

In This Episode:

• The Two-Form Strategy: Stop losing leads with confusing contact forms. Paige explains why your "Request an Inspection" form and general contact form should be completely separate, and how this simple change helps you capture jobs before competitors who make clients play phone tag.
• The Residential Marketing Trap: Inspectors transitioning to commercial often make a critical mistake—they completely drop their residential messaging when business is good. Paige reveals why this kills your search rankings and how to balance both markets without diluting your commercial positioning.
• Who Really Owns Your Website?: Paige shares real examples of inspectors who lost hundreds of five-star reviews when switching software, couldn't access their own websites after a vendor disappeared, and watched domain names expire, costing $2,500 just to buy back a $25 asset. She explains why knowing who controls your logins, reviews, and customer data affects both daily operations and business sale value.
• The Name Search Test: Forget worrying about ranking for "commercial inspector near me" at first. Paige explains why your priority should be what appears when someone types your business name into Google, and how referral-based businesses die when prospects can't validate your credibility online.
• AI as Your Marketing Research Assistant: Paige reveals an unexpected way to use AI that has nothing to do with writing content. She explains how inspectors can leverage AI to understand what clients really want and preemptively answer their questions before they even ask.

🔗 Interested in learning more or working with Tree Ring Digital? Access the free Digital Asset Assessment Checklist on their website.

🔗 Related Resources for Commercial Property Inspectors: 

• Sales Funnels for Commercial Property Inspection Companies and Their Sales and Operations Teams Article 
• Optimizing Sales Funnel Efficiency and Removing Customer Friction Course 
• Commercial Property Inspection Marketing Resources Library
• Getting Started as a Commercial Inspector: Determining Your Business Structure Article 
• Branding Considerations for Commercial Property Inspection Companies Article and Branding Guide

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

Building Your Business with CCPIA® is a monthly video series hosted by Rob Claus, Director of Education. Each episode features special guests from across the field, offering insights and tips for navigating the commercial property inspection industry.
 
November 15, 2024 — In this episode of Building Your Business, host Rob Claus sits down with Bob Hintze and Mark Wahl, two of the four Managing Directors of Waypoint Property Inspection, LLC., with offices in Tampa and Boynton Beach, Florida. They share insights on business growth, their industry experience, and the value of collaboration. 

Tune in to learn about:

• Waypoint Property Inspection: Their operations across Florida, with offices on both coasts and a shared commitment to top-tier inspections. 
• Industry Backgrounds: How Mark and Bob transitioned from construction, leadership, and risk management into inspections.
• Breaking into Commercial Property Inspections: How CCPIA® education and ComSOP standards helped shape Waypoint’s approach to commercial work.
• Collaboration and Growth: How teamwork, strong client relationships, and partnerships with local inspection companies helped Waypoint become a leader in Florida's inspection industry.
• Large-Scale Projects: Success stories, including inspections for warehouses, shopping centers, and RV parks.
• Why Go Commercial: The specifics on profitability, efficiency, and reduced stress of focusing on commercial properties.

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

In this episode of Building Your Business, host Rob Claus sits down with Nick Gromicko, the founder of CCPIA®, InterNACHI®, and multiple other successful ventures. Nick is widely recognized as a dedicated advocate for the inspection industry, a market disruptor, and a seasoned entrepreneur. He has authored or co-authored over 25 inspection books, hundreds of inspection-related articles, tools, and professional development resources. 

This is an episode you don’t want to miss! Nick shares his experiences in building businesses, investment strategies, and tips for residential and commercial property inspectors. He also offers valuable tips for inspectors looking to grow their careers in commercial property inspections.

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

The Commercial Property Inspectors Roundtable Meeting is a free monthly meeting hosted by the Certified Commercial Property Inspectors Association (CCPIA). Participants shared their insights on ancillary services, regional market conditions, and new education this month. To register for an upcoming meeting, visit https://ccpia.org/training-calender/

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

We recently had the opportunity to connect with CCPIA member KC Bartley, the owner of Professional Home Inspections based in Kingsport, Tennessee. Our discussion included his approach to adding commercial property inspection services to his residential inspection business, along with his advice and future goals.

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

In this video, I delve into the crucial interview process for commercial inspections, highlighting the key steps and strategies involved. I emphasize the importance of thorough research, effective communication, and offering valuable ancillary services to enhance the inspection fee. Viewers are encouraged to focus on being the solution to clients' issues and to approach the sale with a psychology-driven mindset. Action requested: Pay close attention to the interview process and consider implementing the outlined strategies in your commercial inspections.

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

The Commercial Property Inspectors Roundtable Meeting is a free monthly meeting hosted by the Certified Commercial Property Inspectors Association (CCPIA). This month, participants shared their insights on regional market conditions, insurance limits, and effective marketing strategies for growing their businesses. To register for an upcoming meeting, visit https://ccpia.org/training-calender/

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

The Commercial Property Inspectors Roundtable Meeting is a monthly meeting hosted by the Certified Commercial Property Inspectors Association (CCPIA) for inspectors across the nation to gather and discuss business development opportunities and strategies. 

This session focused on market updates, inspection protocols, and industry trends for commercial property inspectors. Participants shared their insights on regional market conditions, specific inspection requirements, and effective marketing strategies for growing their businesses. Key points included the significance of client-based marketing over realtor referrals, the need for SEO optimization, and the benefits of sharing visual content online.

To register for an upcoming meeting, visit the Commercial Property Inspectors Roundtable Schedule.

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

In this episode of “Building Your Business,” host Rob Claus interviews Ian Schroff, an expert graphic designer from InterNACHI®. The discussion focuses on some of the best practices and five key elements that all marketing collateral must have, as well as design pitfalls and things to avoid. His experience lies in creating inspection-related marketing collateral for both residential and commercial property inspectors. The main discussion points include:

• InterNACHI® and CCPIA®
  • InterNACHI® offers free design services to their members
  • Members only pay for printing and shipping.
  • CCPIA® members who are also InterNACHI® members can have their CCPIA® logos and credentials added to collateral designed by InterNACHI®.
  • Access design services through InterNACHI’s website and order forms or Inspector Outlet.
• Ian shows the five “golden rules” of any design
  • Understand Your Audience: Tailor marketing materials to the target audience.
  • Keep It Simple: Avoid overwhelming the audience with too much information.
  • Hierarchy: Highlight the most important information first.
  • Colors and Visuals: Use appropriate colors and images to reinforce the message.
  • Repetition and Consistency: Maintain a consistent brand identity across all materials.
• Ian shows examples of effective marketing pieces for commercial property inspection companies.
• Design Pitfalls and Things to Avoid
  • Avoid overcrowding information and using low-quality images.
  • Be mindful of color choices to ensure they convey the right message.
  • Ensure marketing materials stand out and are memorable.
• InterNACHI’s upcoming Professional Inspectors Convention
  • Ian and his team will be presenting and available for consultations.
  • The convention is scheduled for October 10-12, 2024, in Orlando, Florida.

Don’t miss out on the latest trends and expert analysis in the real estate market. Listen to it on podcast format (Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Podcasts, etc.). Subscribe now and stay informed!

Helpful Links for Commercial Property Inspectors:

• InterNACHI® Marketing Services
• InterNACHI® Marketing Contact
• InterNACHI’s 2024 Professional Inspectors Convention
• Inspector Outlet

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

The Commercial Property Inspectors Roundtable Meeting is a monthly meeting hosted by the Certified Commercial Property Inspectors Association (CCPIA) for inspectors across the nation to gather and discuss business development opportunities and strategies. This month we discussed:

• How to help determine your square foot pricing
  • Type of building being inspected - Warehouse, office, etc.
  • Size - does the pricing change as the building increases in size?
  • Offering different inspection packages to help win more inspections
• Marketing
  • Overcoming the  smaller market mentality
  • Should you develop a separate commercial website?
  • Casting a wider net to non-traditional referral sources
• Getting in front of Realtors instead of buyers
  • How to get the word out
  • Networking
  • Google ad campaigns
  • Using the clients to get to the Realtors

Links discussed:

https://ccpia.org/what-is-seo-for-commercial-property-inspectors/

https://ccpia.org/the-basics-of-ppc-advertising/

https://ccpia.org/common-mistakes-when-adding-commercial-inspections-to-your-existing-website/

https://ccpia.org/commercial-inspectors-claim-and-clean-up-directory-listing-2/

https://ccpia.org/getting-started-in-commercial-property-inspections-selling-commercial-inspections/

https://ccpia.org/getting-started-in-commercial-property-inspections-selling-commercial-inspections/

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

In this episode of “Building Your Business,” host Rob Claus interviews Levi Nelson, an expert logo designer from InterNACHI®. The discussion focuses on the significance of logos in marketing and building a business identity for commercial property inspectors. The main discussion points include:

• Importance of Logos
  • Logos are crucial for first impressions and branding.
  • Logos must meet the goal and service scope of a business.
  • Logos should look professional to help in building trust and credibility with commercial clients who expect a high level of professionalism and expertise.
• Live Demonstration by Levi
  • Levi shares his screen to show the questionnaire and discusses its components for the design process.
  • He describes the process of creating logos, from concept to completion, using real examples from his work.
• Examples of Various Logos
  • Levi shows that logos should be modern and clean cut for commercial property inspection businesses.
  • Levi walks through examples of different logo styles: modern versus classic, emblem logos, wordmark logos, and pictorial logos.
  • Each style’s advantages and limitations are discussed, particularly in terms simplicity and clarity, symbolism and relevance, and avoiding unnecessary details.
• Technical Aspects of Logo Design
  • The logo’s design should appeal to the intended commercial audience and be appropriate for the industry.
  • Importance of scalability: Logos need to be recognizable and clear at any size.
  • Challenges with certain design elements like drop shadows and complex fonts which may not print well or look good on digital platforms.
• Strategic Logo Design Decisions
  • Discussion on choosing the right logo style to match business goals and audience.
  • Importance of a logo that doesn’t limit the business scope, allowing for flexibility in services offered.
• Practical Tips and Conclusion
  • Levi provides practical advice on ensuring logos effectively represent the business.
  • Discussion on the need for professional input in logo design to avoid common pitfalls and ensure effective branding.

Helpful Links for Commercial Property Inspectors:

• InterNACHI® Marketing Services
• Transitioning From Residential to Commercial Inspections
• Branding Considerations for Commercial Property Inspection Companies

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

➡️ Visit the October Email Newsletter Here

This month’s episode introduces CCPIA’s new comic series, beginning with The Consultant’s Lens. It's a quick, visual look at how a single client call can shape two entirely different inspection approaches. From there, we dive into what it means to think like a consultant instead of just a service provider.

You’ll also hear about the Tramex Dec Scanner, a non-destructive roof moisture tool that helps inspectors expand services and strengthen their reports, and our new SBA-Compliant Business Plan Generator, designed to help residential inspectors transition into commercial property inspections and access small business funding opportunities.

Plus, we highlight insights from Commercial Assets Explained, covering how tenant mix, key systems, and ownership and lease structures connect the physical condition of a property to its financial performance.

To close, we recap upcoming CCPIA training dates, virtual roundtables, and events, including Inspectorsgiving and our CoStar ROI-driven business development session in December.

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

Join us for a conversation with Christian Adams about Repair Pricer, a product for residential and commercial inspectors to provide repair cost estimates and cost-to-cure services. Tune in to learn more! 

Discussion Points: 

• Origins and Development of Repair Pricer
• Transition from Residential to Commercial Cost Items
• User Experience and Report Presentation
• Precision and Reliability of Cost Estimates
• Efficient 48-hour Turnaround Time
• Exclusive Benefits for CCPIA Members

Visit Repair Pricer Offers Discount for CCPIA Members for information about the exclusive discount. 

Don’t miss out on the latest trends and expert analysis in the real estate market. Listen to it on podcast format (Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Podcasts, etc.). Subscribe now and stay informed!

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

Join us for a review of the 2023 real estate market and an insightful look forward to 2024. In this episode, we sit down with Director of Education, Rob Claus, to analyze various market reports and discuss key trends in the commercial real estate sector.

Reviewing 2023:

• Office Space: Vacancy rate at 14%
• Multi-family: Increased by 7.5% and finished strong, with 38% of all investor money allocated to multi-family properties
• Retail Properties: Dropped by 4.1%, with large mall spaces continuing to decline while local neighborhood and strip malls outperformed and grew
• Industrial Properties: Remained the leader in the commercial real estate sector

Looking ahead to 2024:

• Office Spaces: Expected to underperform
• Multi-family: Anticipated to perform even better than in 2023 due to rising interest rates keeping potential home buyers in the rental space longer
• Retail Properties: Expected to remain stable, with neighborhood and strip centers projected to grow while malls continue to decline
• Industrial Properties: Expected to grow by 5% again over 2023

Find more insights and resources mentioned in this episode:

• Inspecting Multi-family: Inspecting Multi-family: https://ccpia.org/ins​​pecting-multifamily-properties/
• Organizing a Multi-family Inspection Report: https://ccpia.org/how-to-organize-a-multi-family-inspection-report/
• Pricing Multi-family Inspections: https://ccpia.org/multi-family-dwelling-inspection-fee-matrix/
• Pro Convention 2024: https://www.nachi.org/convention24/

Sources Used:

• NAR Commercial Real Estate Market Insights: https://www.nar.realtor/commercial-real-estate-market-insights/december-2023-commercial-real-estate-market-insights
• NAR Metro Market Report: NAR Metro Market Report: https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/research-reports/commercial-real-estate-metro-market-reports
• NAR Local Market Report: https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics/research-reports/local-market-assessments
• NAR Commercial Economic Outlook: https://www.nar.realtor/presentations/november-2023-commercial-and-economic-outlook
• NAR Commercial Market Outlook: https://www.nar.realtor/presentations/us-cre-capital-markets-update

Don't miss out on the latest trends and expert analysis in the real estate market. Subscribe now and stay informed!

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

This episode features a conversation between Rob Claus (CCPIA, Joe Denneler (Elite MGA), and Benn Garrison (Elite MGA) about professional liability insurance for commercial property inspectors. 

Elite MGA Website: https://www.elitemga.com/

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

We recently had the opportunity to connect with CCPIA member Tony Escamilla, the owner of Villa Property Inspections based in Claremont, California. We discuss his journey in the inspection industry, and he provides some helpful insights those entering the space. 

Read the full member spotlight: https://ccpia.org/meet-ccpia-member-tony-escamilla/

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

This month's roundtable was led by Rob Claus and delivered practical insights on essential inspection tools, safety equipment, professional presentation strategies, and emerging service opportunities for commercial property inspectors.

To attend an upcoming meeting, visit: http://ccpia.org/training-calendar/

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

Government contracts aren't just for big companies with specialized certifications.

In this episode, host Rob Claus sits down with Mike Dunne, owner of Dunne Inspection Services in Cheyenne, Wyoming and a CCPIA® member since the organization's inception. Mike has built a multi-inspector firm serving a three-state region across Wyoming, Colorado, and Nebraska. His journey from solo residential inspector to running a company securing six-figure government contracts offers practical insights for inspectors ready to scale beyond typical client relationships.

In This Episode:

• The Three-Inspection-Per-Day System: Mike reveals how hiring inspection assistants transformed his operation during COVID, cutting inspection time in half while maintaining quality. The secret wasn't just having help—it was how he strategically divided the work between inspectors and assistants.
• Why Local Employees Outperform Overseas VAs: Mike refuses to use call centers or overseas virtual assistants, and it's not about patriotism. He explains the unexpected business advantage that appeared when a 17-year-old summer employee brought in more referrals than any marketing campaign ever did.
• From Zero to Six Figures on Government Contracts: After two years on SAM.gov with no results, an engineering firm called asking if Mike could video 20,000 feet of sewer mains on an Air Force base. He had no idea what they were talking about but said yes anyway. Hear how that single "yes" turned into ongoing six-figure contracts.
• The Subcontractor Advantage Nobody Talks About: Mike shares why he never bids as a prime contractor and how being a sub-of-a-sub actually opens more doors. From unfired pressure vessel inspections to asbestos surveys, he explains his philosophy of taking work he's never done before and figuring it out after saying yes.
• The Unexpected Competition in Small Markets: In Cheyenne, Mike doesn't compete against other inspection companies. His real competition is electricians, roofers, and HVAC companies who formed partnerships claiming to do "inspections." Hear how this shaped his entire business strategy and why his service area eventually shrunk as he grew.
  
  

Related Resources for Commercial Property Inspectors: 

• CCPIA® Commercial Property Inspector Mentor Program 
• Commercial Property Inspectors: Who They Are and Who Hires Them
• SWOT Analysis for Commercial Property Inspection Companies
• Business Development Resources for Commercial Property Inspectors
  
  
  

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

SEPTEMBER 2025 HIGHLIGHTS: 

This month’s roundtable was led by Rob Claus and packed with insights about internet marketing, cost per lead, accounts receivable, and large project acquisition in commercial property inspections.

To attend an upcoming meeting, visit: http://ccpia.org/training-calendar/

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

With the OBBBA law now in effect, property owners and investors face new incentives and deadlines, and inspectors have a bigger role than ever. We’re covering that first in this month’s audio newsletter.

Then, we’re highlighting: 

• Emergency power system inspections. See inspection video and checklist. 
• Inspection scope strategies based on due diligence and risk tolerance. Learn the methodology. 
• Inspection tool and equipment guide for rolling out new services. Get the tool guide and planner. 
• Top inspector tech story. See what’s coming to InterNACHI’s free agreement system. 

Additional resources: 

• Subscribe to CCPIA’s monthly email newsletter. 
• Register for InterNACHI's Inspectors Convention in Dallas, held over Oct. 16-18, 2025. Hotel discount ends Sept. 25. 
• See upcoming online and hands-on training calendar.

🤝 Thanks for reading and being part of the CCPIA® community. Together, we lead Building Excellence.

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!

In this episode, host Rob Claus sits down with Ian Dolby, a commercial property inspector from southwestern Michigan who brings an unusual background to the industry. With experience in construction, real estate, and senior-level investment banking in mergers and acquisitions, Ian shows how diverse professional experience creates competitive advantages in commercial inspections.

Helpful Links for Commercial Property Inspectors:

• Commercial Property Inspector Mentoring
• Pricing and Proposals for Securing the Job Course
• Understanding Commercial Property Inspection Client Types Course
• Tool Guide for Commercial Property Inspectors + Free Checklist
• Risk Tolerance and Due Diligence in Commercial Property Inspections

Watch or listen (anywhere, anytime, and any way you like). Visit ccpia.org to browse the video library!