Saving Lives with Chicago Porch Standards!

13 Chicagoans were killed when their seemingly sturdy, well built back porch collapsed on a summer day in 2003. Many of the victims were buried under the debris from the collapsed porch for over an hour, unable to move or free themselves from the mounds of people and wood piled on top of them. A few emerged from this tragedy with scratches and bruises. For 13, however, this tragedy was a fatal one.

Family and friends of the victims were mortified when they discovered that this catastrophe was 100% preventable. An analysis of the porch by 48 Hours Investigators found that it was illegally built without a City of Chicago Building Permit. Further investigation found multiple deficiencies in the porch’s construction such as undersized beams and small screws that weakened the porch’s overall integrity and led to its collapse.

It is imperative that developers follow all City Code and Building Standards when constructing homes and other properties. Failure to do so may lead to injuries, or worse, more deaths.

As a licensed home inspector you will be trained to pinpoint deficiencies, such as those that contributed to the collapse of this porch, and aide in holding developers accountable for constructing safe properties.

On Tuesday, July 28, 2009 7pm-9pm Tomacor Incorporated will be holding a seminar entitled “New Opportunities for Income as a Licensed Home Inspector.” In this open-house seminar the porch standards that could have saved these 13 lives will be discussed. Tom Corbett, renowned home inspector, respected instructor, and national speaker will discuss opportunities for home inspectors in construction standards, contractor work, property management, and in the banking industry.

This interesting and informative seminar has limited seating! Reserve your spot today by emailing nwilliams@tomacor.com

Comments