NWFA Expo 2026

Pre-Expo Symposium (Room W224 A-H)

Symposium attendees will attend all three symposium sessions. Attendees will be divided into three groups that rotate to each session, ensuring a small group environment that encourages participation.

Data Collection: Building Defensible Inspection Reports-W224 AB

Instructor: Jon Namba

Accurate, well-documented data is the foundation of every credible inspection report. This session is designed to help hardwood flooring inspectors strengthen their data collection process to ensure their findings and conclusions are accurate and defensible. Participants will learn best practices for gathering and documenting evidence in the field, including how to take supporting photographs and recordings, conduct thorough interviews with involved parties, and obtain relevant claim history. This session also covers how to select the correct testing procedures and achieve accurate and repeatable test results that support the final conclusions.

Report Writing: Understanding Audience and Purpose-W224 EF

Instructor: Cathy Duncan, EZ Report Writing

Learn how to turn inspection data into clear, factual reports that stand up to technical and legal scrutiny. This session walks participants through the two foundations of effective report writing: audience and purpose. Learn about audience-focused writing, eliminating opinion-based language, proper report structure, and separating observations from conclusions. This session helps inspectors reduce liability and produce professional, defensible reports.

Legal Considerations: Ethics and Litigation Readiness-W224 GH

Instructors: Barbara Dunn & Billy Simmons

Learn how to protect yourself legally during the inspection process and what to expect when serving as an expert witness. Through real case studies, this interactive session discusses applying the Inspector Code of Conduct as a professional safeguard, avoiding common legal pitfalls, and building long-term credibility in claims and litigation. Inspectors will gain a clearer understanding of their legal exposure and responsibilities as technical professionals.

Additional registration required. Pre-Expo Symposium includes lunch. Each participant will receive six (6) CCU credits. For more information on registering for the Pre-Expo Symposium, please visit our Rates and Registration page.