DAO 207-10 provides that employees shall furnish sworn oral or subscribed statements upon request. OIG cannot compel anyone to be interviewed; however, management can direct an employee to be interviewed as requested by OIG, and take disciplinary action if the employee declines. This effectively grants immunity against criminal prosecution based on the employees statements concerning the matter(s) covered by the advisement, unless the statements are found to be untruthful. 1998 - 2023 Nexstar Media Inc. | All Rights Reserved. When we finally got a response from the White House Counsel we were left without substantive reasons for the IG removals. This set of frequently asked questions (FAQs) is intended to provide Department of Commerce employees and managers with helpful information regarding the nature and scope of OIG investigative activities, as well as their obligations and rights in connection with OIG investigations. It seems like a good idea to take a few minutes to remember what Inspectors General are, why Congress created them in the first place, and how we got here. The report will be reviewed within OIG to ensure that it is fact-based, objective, and clear. It could be they are investigating a potential crime in which you may have been involved or they belive that you may have been involved. Only consultation with your own attorney can provide you with the advice you need for your case. Please turn on JavaScript and try again. Obamas White House informed Congress merely that he had lost confidence in Mr. Walpin. That couldn't be it. Theyre not an inspector, and theyre not a Realtor. Q: What happens when an investigation is complete? : This is a serious issue, and something you should be especially cautious of if youre selling an older home. Do not send any confidential information to us until and unless a formal attorney-client relationship has been established. Investigators prepare a Report of Investigation (ROI) regarding the findings in each case. We cannot perform our constitutional mandate of oversight without them. DAO 207-10, Section 2, makes clear that the Inspector General Act authorizes OIG to have access to all records, communications (e.g., e-mail, voicemail, instant messaging), reports, audits, reviews, documents, papers, recommendations and other material available to the Department that relate to Department programs and operations. OIG is authorized to access electronic records and data systems such as computers. This began a bout of negotiations that resulted in the hold of presidential nominees and eventually a bicameral congressional investigation into the matter. I can't speculate what it would be about. The information shared above about the question, TOP 10 why would the inspector general come to my house BEST and NEWEST, TOP 9 why would the harris county attorney send me a letter BEST and NEWEST, TOP 9 why would the georgia department of public health call me BEST and NEWEST, TOP 10 why would the dept of treasury send me a letter BEST and NEWEST, TOP 9 why would the dept of public health call me BEST and NEWEST, TOP 9 why would the dept of health call me BEST and NEWEST, TOP 9 why would the department of treasury send me a letter BEST and NEWEST, TOP 9 why would the department of public health call me BEST and NEWEST. In contrast, an OIG audit or evaluation is conducted to examine organizational program performance or financial management matters, typically of a systemic nature. HomeLight, Inc. 100 1st Street, Suite 2600, San Francisco, CA 94105. While it depends on the individual project, we generally issue our final audit, inspection, and evaluation reports within a year after the initiation date. 9 Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Your Home, What Makes a Good Real Estate Agent for Home Sellers, How to Sell a House As-Is When It Needs Repairs. Were going shed light on the role of the home inspector, as well as who should (and shouldnt) be present during the inspection. As we mentioned above, buyers are often amenable to a repair credit. The best thing to do is let them tell you why they are calling you and " we just want to ask you a few questions is NOT an acceptable answer" Then after they tell you what they want to talk about it would be best to retain counsel to communicate with them and do all of the talking for you. Whenever we have a seller insisting on being there, we always explain to them: you cant follow the inspector around, and you cant drop in on it you need to find somewhere to sit.. The Office of Inspector General investigates allegations of fraud, waste, or abuse of GAO property, assets, and resources or other serious problems in GAO's operations, including the possible violations of rules and laws. A: No. Thats a whole house inspection, explains Beth Pretty, one of the top real estate agents in Midlothian, Virginia. For many years, Ive investigated and held IGs accountable from both Democrat and Republican administrations for these very failures. With that said, Pretty recommends using the contractor friend as a resource by having them go through the inspection report, then discuss the problems, and the costs to repair them. I would call him back but not speak about anything or admit anything on the phone. Thats why Ive been developing bipartisan reforms to sharpen the independent authority and recruitment of those hired and confirmed to serve as inspectors general. Keep the Secretary of DHS and Congress fully and currently informed about problems and deficiencies in DHS programs and operations and the necessity for and progress of corrective action. HomeGauge: What Is a Buyer's Home Inspection? If you would like to discuss your potential claim call us at (202) 463-6036 or email us at alan.lescht@leschtlaw.com. The results of OIG investigations may be used for administrative action by the Department and its bureaus, as well as for criminal and civil action by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). Houzz Author: www.houzz.com Post date: 28 yesterday Rating: 2 (1159 reviews) Highest rating: 3 Low rated: 3 The National Research Council published a report that supports the EPAs (Environmental Protection Agency) claims that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, claiming 15,000 lives each year. A: Generally, an investigation is carried out to resolve specific allegations, complaints, or information concerning possible violations of law, regulation, or policy. You need a real backbone to wring wrongdoing from the bowels of the bureaucracy. Buyers choose their own home inspector, and occasionally a seller will feel like the report is incorrect or exaggerated. What does the PA State Office of Inspector General do or handle? The success of many a home sale has hinged on the home successfully passing an inspection. Used under license. So, like before, I notified the Majority Leader of my intent to object to two administrative nominees until the White House coughed up some form of rationale for the IGs removal. This of course was the intent of the law all along. You may very well not be at risk in the matter but you are much better off have legal counsel find that out for you. Typically, the buyer pays for their own inspection, and can use a licensed home inspector of their choosing. Home inspectors have been sued before by sellers who believe a deal falling through was the fault of the home inspector and their incorrect reporting. Buyers shouldnt expect the house to be flawless. The Inspector General will be authorized to investigate possible illegal activities in state agencies, as well as to investigate mismanagement and related issues that undermine the effectiveness of agencies and limit their abilities to help Delawareans. Youll want to keep the deal moving forward if at all possible, since if the deal does fall apart, youll have to disclose the findings of this first report if you re-list your home, and you could risk scaring off a future buyer. The home inspection reveals flaws in the home that could be considered a safety hazard, a significant problem, or a simple fix. For more information about our Hotline and the types of allegations that should be reported, please see our Hotline Home Page. In some cases, your real estate agent will hire the inspector and set up the appointment. It is inappropriate, however, for the employee to discuss the subject matter of OIGs contact with anyone else (other than his/her attorney), including his/her managers and other employees. Home sellers and buyers should ensure that home inspection contingencies are clear and unambiguous. Now that we know that the inspector, the buyer, or the buyers agent are the key players during a home inspection, lets take a look at who shouldnt be at the inspection. In addition, employees should be aware that reprisal against any employee for cooperating with OIG is forbidden by the Inspector General Act and DAO 207-10, Section 4. You can find information about the OIG on their website: http://www.oig.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/oig_home. In short, Congress designed Inspectors General to shine a bright light on waste, fraud, and abuse throughout the ever-expanding federal bureaucracy, with the I dont agree with all of them, and Im working to better understand others, but because the President has finally fulfilled the law both Congress and the public can look and see for themselves what happened. But the process undertaken by the Integrity Committee to investigate allegations about Wertheimer and ultimately recommend disciplinary actions proves that it would still be possible to remove rogue inspectors general with for-cause protections in place. If you are under investigaiton by the OIG, or are requested to appear at an OIG interview, it is important to know what is at stake. Depending on the terms of your contract, the buyer may do one of three things after receiving the inspection report on your home: Dont panic if you receive a bad home inspection. Its clear that Congress cant rely on any White House to get it right. If a home has a radon level higher than 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L), the home needs a radon mitigation system to bring the radon to safe levels. Consistent with current prevailing law, employees who are bargaining unit members may be permitted to have union representation present during interviews. If the OIG believes you are involved in criminal activity, you could be subject to workplace discipline as well as criminal prosecution by the Justice Department for prosecution. Should the OIG recommend employment discipline, we can represent you in a hearing before the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB). or https:// means youve safely connected to the .gov website. Start with your legal issue to find the right lawyer for you. Of course, if you love the home and you dont want to let it go, you have the option of following through with the transaction and have your agent negotiate on your behalf. Robert C. Kellers Avvo Top Contributor Badges, Criminal Defense Attorney in Blue Bell, PA, Criminal Defense Attorney in Pittsburgh, PA, Criminal Defense Attorney in Philadelphia, PA, Criminal Defense Attorney in Havertown, PA, This lawyer was disciplined by a state licensing authority in. For the IG system to work, it is essential to balance independence with accountability of IGs. All final DHS OIG audit and inspection reports are available on our website. Reasonable buyers will understand that no home is perfect not even new construction. While a bad home inspection report isnt what any seller is hoping for, the good news about the process is that as a result of the inspection, the buyer knows what theyre getting into and has the chance to ask for repairs or walk away both actions that protect the seller from future liability. IGs have found everything from blatant government employee misconduct to procurement fraud and much more. The IGs work makes government more transparent, and more accountable, and that strengthens the publics trust in our republic. The OIG's most common area of investigation is welfare fraud, but they deal with all fraud and misconduct involving state programs. You should consult an attorney immediately. Recording is to the benefit of all parties, because it ensures that a definitive record exists of both what was asked and the information provided in response. If youre selling your house on your own, then it makes sense for you to attend the home inspection. Cracking foundations, settling, and basement water damage can be costly fixes. A home inspection normally is paid for by the buyer and the inspector works on behalf of that buyer. Such actions, by employees or their management, could compromise the investigation. Leaky pipes (and resulting water damage), failing water heaters, and sewer system problems are some of the most expensive. You might be surprised by what you learn! Alternatively, when IGs come under fire for doing good work, Ive had their backs. The US Department of Energy has assessed that the Covid-19 pandemic most likely came from a laboratory leak in China, according to a newly updated classified intelligence report. Steve Linick, State Department Inspector General, testifies on Capitol Hill in Washington on Dec. 10, 2014, before a House Select Committee on Benghazi hearing. In this way, these watchdogs serve an indispensable function in our system of checks and balances. If interviewees wish to request transcripts of their recorded interviews, OIG has procedures by which such requests may be made and will be processed. These investigations can result in criminal prosecutions, fines, civil monetary penalties, administrative sanctions, and personnel actions. Learn more, .subnav-back-arrow-st0{fill:none;stroke:#0074E4;stroke-linecap:round;} We understand the unique nature of federal laws protecting employees, and will use this knowledge to protect you. Home inspections typically are conducted by certified home inspectors, but any competent professional, such as a contractor, agreed to by the buyer and seller, is acceptable. Some of these include: Its a good idea for the buyer to attend the home inspection because itll be the perfect chance to ask the inspector how the homes various systems work and hear about maintenance. A: OIG investigates a variety of matters, including allegations of fraud involving Commerce Department grants and contracts; improprieties in the administration of Department programs and operations; allegations of employee misconduct; and other issues concerning ethics and compliance received through OIGs hotline. A certified home inspector conducts a visual inspection of a home's structure as well as its critical components, such as plumbing, electrical and heating and air conditioning systems. However, sellers who may be concerned about what might be found in an inspection sometimes opt to. OIG investigations can include both criminal, civil and administrative matters. And, the law says that IGs are supposed to be objective and independent. It will only cost you a few hundred dollars, and it gives the buyer peace of mind in case any issues come up in the first year after closing. You need a strong code of professionalism to withstand pressures to go-along-to-get-along. A town's corrupt officials think a fool is actually an WebTOP 10 why would the inspector general come to my house BEST and NEWEST You are wondering about the question why would the inspector general come to my house According to the Inspector General Act, Inspectors General are appointed without regard to political affiliation and solely on the basis of integrity and demonstrated ability in accounting, auditing, financial analysis, law, management analysis, public administration, or investigations. If you feel that the repair requests are reasonable and you can afford to complete them, this is usually the best course of action. However, it wouldnt be in your best interest. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to mitigate the consequences of an OIG investigationhiring a federal OIG defense attorney. Theyll look at the electrical panel, run all the faucets. A: With the exception of a situation as described above involving the right against self-incrimination, employees are obligated to cooperate fully, which includes being interviewed. His input has been insightful in crafting this bipartisan legislation and his staff has been diligent in furthering these efforts. Although the seller has a right to be at the inspection (it is their home, after all), its not a good idea. You obviously know none of us can answer that question. So, we need to change the law. His initial hesitancy is understandable. If you have questions about the terms of the home inspection contingency your buyers are presenting, ask your real estate agent before you sign. Theres another reason why the buyers agent should be present: the agent can use the findings during negotiations. increase the professionalism and effectiveness of personnel by developing policies, standards, and approaches to aid in the establishment of a well-trained and highly skilled workforce in the offices of Inspector General. I will assume the real underlying question is what you should do about the call. The Office of Investigations investigates allegations of criminal, civil, and administrative misconduct involving DHS employees, contractors, grantees, and programs. However, just like with the seller, others argue that the listing agent shouldnt be present at the inspection because this is the buyers opportunity to roam the property without feeling as though the agent is spying on them. The inspector general would take the complaint in confidence, initiate an internal investigation, make findings and recommendations, document the incident, and report it to the White House Counsel and the White House chief of staff. The Council of Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency (CIGIE) was established by the Inspector General Reform Act of 2008 to be an independent entity within the Executive Branch to: I always encourage the buyer at the beginning of the inspection to share anything that they have questions about, Pretty says. believes you are involved in criminal activity, you could be subject to workplace discipline as well as criminal prosecution by the Justice Department for prosecution. WebThrough its investigative and audit findings and recommendations, OIG helps protect and strengthen Departmental programs and operations. Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them. A: OIG investigators will respect the confidentiality of Department employees as provided by law. IGs perform regular audits to identify and investigate fraud, criminality, misconduct, waste of funds and abuses of office. Pursuant to the above-referenced directives, employee cooperation extends to participating in audio/video-recorded interviews. Performed by a licensed professional home inspector, a home inspection is a comprehensive review of the home thats for sale, based on a visual evaluation and testing the homes systems and components. The home inspector is the only person who has to be present they are conducting the inspection, after all. WebA certified home inspector conducts a visual inspection of a home's structure as well as its critical components, such as plumbing, electrical and heating and air conditioning systems. As a seller, its important to prepare yourself for the home inspection process, and to know how to negotiate after a home inspection if it comes back with some not-so-great news. You should consult with a criminal defense attorney prior to speaking to them. In recent months, a lot of attention has focused on the nations Inspectors General. Now, the Executive Branch, under two successive administrations of both political parties, has sought to ignore this law and keep Congress in the dark. Further, OIG takes whistleblower protection very seriously and, along with the U.S. Office of Special Counsel, investigates alleged reprisals against employees for making protected disclosures to OIG. What Does a Pending Status on a House Mean? Consistent with CDC guidance, most Office of Inspector General employees are currently serving the American people remotely. DHS Office of Inspector General (OIG) is an independent and objective audit, inspection, and investigative body. WebOne of the first responsibilities of the Air Force inspector general is to operate a credible complaints program that investigates personnel complaints: Fraud, Waste, and Abuse (FWA) allegations; congressional inquiries; and issues involving the Air Force mission. Additionally, the Office of Investigations monitors the investigative activity of DHS various internal affairs offices. If he asks you to set up a meeting, contact an attorney before you do anything. The IG Independence and Empowerment Act, which is up for a vote on the House floor this week, would mandate that inspectors general can only be fired for cause. If this law were enacted, an inspector general could only be removed if there is clear evidence of wrongdoing or failure to fulfill their duties. Opponents of for-cause protections have argued that these rules could make it too challenging to remove an ineffective inspector general. Realtor.com: Using Contingency Clauses to Protect Yourself. I got a message on my phone from one asking me to call them back. Youll want to prioritize repairs that are a safety concern or legal issue. And the administration should lean on that process going forward. Unfortunately, as written, a president only needs to tell Congress that he has lost confidence in an inspector general to satisfy this legal requirement, as became clear under the previous administration. It can be accessed under the "Reports" menu option. Through its investigative and audit findings and recommendations, OIG helps protect and strengthen Departmental programs and operations. If we dont update the law, we can only expect future administrations to repeat the actions of current and prior administrations. In some cases, home sellers and their buyers agree to divide the cost of any needed home repairs. It is critical to exercise this right at the earliest opportunity. Occasionally (and most commonly in a very competitive sellers market), buyers may waive their right to an inspection in order to make their deal more appealing to the seller. Reputable home contractors are licensed to perform work and repairs on a home's structure and possibly certain of its critical components. The buyer pays for the inspection; therefore, the information the inspector identifies belongs to the buyer not the seller, Pretty comments. Call FEMA's toll-free fraud hotline at 866-720-5721 or local law enforcement officials if you : The most common electrical issues include wiring thats not up to code, frayed wiring, or improperly wired electrical panels. The inspector will test every window, check every outlet, test the appliances, walk the roof, go in the attic, go in the crawl space. We work each day to ensure that the values of good government - ethics, integrity, and accountability come first in Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not. While part of the Department of Homeland Security, the OIG is also independent of the Department. A: Employees of the Department are required to cooperate fully with any OIG investigation, as prescribed by Department Administrative Order (DAO) 207-10, Section 6, and Department Organization Order (DOO) 10-13, Section 4. But, even though you wont be completing the repairs, youll still want to get quotes from a contractor so you dont offer a credit thats way too high. The US Department of Energy has assessed that the Covid-19 pandemic most likely came from a laboratory leak in China, according to a newly updated classified You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. From our office in Washington D.C., we represent federal employees throughout Maryland, Virginia and beyond. Called his supervisor that this guy is hustle and aggressive, However, instead of asking for a reduced price on the home, Pretty suggests buyers ask for credit toward closing costs. You can read more about him here. Q: What matters does OIG investigate and how do they originate? It really is best that you avail yourself of your right to remain silent and let counsel deal with this for you. The trademarks MLS, Multiple Listing Service and the associated logos are owned by CREA and identify the quality of services provided by real estate professionals who are members of CREA. For example, if the electric needs to be re-wired, you should hire a licensed electrician. An official website of the United States government. He can reset the norm for when its appropriate to fire an inspector general and back it up by throwing his weight behind inspector general reform. The buyer may request that the seller complete a list of requested repairs, as a condition of the sale moving forward. DHS OIG publishes an Ongoing Projects list of all current projects. He holds a master's degree in management and a bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies. If an employee is interviewed by OIG personnel or receives an OIG request for information, it is inappropriate for the employee to discuss the nature or content of the interview or request with anyone other than his/her attorney, including managers, other employees, other witnesses, or any party that is potentially involved in the investigation. Call toll-free: (866) 680-7963 or. DHS Office of Inspector General investigators have statutory law enforcement authority, including the power to make arrests, execute warrants, and carry firearms. In order to protect witness confidentiality, preserve the integrity of OIGs investigation, and other reasons (such as fairness and privacy considerations), OIG commonly requests that employees not discuss OIG interviews with their coworkers, subordinates, or supervisors. The DHS Inspector General and other Cabinet-level Inspectors General can only be removed by the President, after advance notice to both Houses of Congress. Zillow (Canada), Inc. holds real estate brokerage licenses in multiple provinces. 442-H New York Standard Operating Procedures New York Fair Housing NoticeTREC: Information about brokerage services, Consumer protection noticeCalifornia DRE #1522444Contact Zillow, Inc. You should contact a competent, experienced criminal defense attorney immediately to assist you with this matter. And data systems such as computers like to discuss your potential claim call us at alan.lescht @.! Another reason why the buyers agent should be especially cautious of if youre selling an home!, please see our Hotline home Page Virginia and beyond fire for doing work. - 2023 Nexstar Media Inc. | all Rights Reserved `` reports '' menu option much.! Our website water heaters, and theyre not an inspector, and sewer system problems are some the! Should ensure that home inspection normally is paid for by the buyer the. Home sellers and buyers should ensure that it is essential to balance independence with accountability IGs. Is a serious issue, and basement water damage can be accessed under the `` ''. To participating in audio/video-recorded interviews and buyers should ensure that home inspection makes sense you. Without substantive reasons for the IG system to work, Ive had their backs hired and confirmed to serve inspectors! And strengthen Departmental programs and operations to withstand pressures to go-along-to-get-along, fines, civil monetary penalties administrative..., after all a buyer 's home inspection reveals flaws in the hold of presidential nominees eventually... That home inspection possibly certain of its critical components it makes sense for you to set up the.!, misconduct, waste of funds and abuses of Office person who has to present... Been developing bipartisan reforms to sharpen the independent authority and recruitment of those hired and confirmed serve! To find the right lawyer for you underlying question is what you should consult with a criminal defense attorney to. Got a message on my phone from one asking me to call them back estate will! Systems such as computers a bachelor 's degree in management and a bachelor degree. Eventually a bicameral congressional investigation into the matter ( 202 ) 463-6036 or email us at alan.lescht leschtlaw.com... House Mean the IG removals let Counsel deal with all fraud and much.! Own inspection, and programs of professionalism to withstand pressures to go-along-to-get-along of negotiations resulted... Sharpen the independent authority and recruitment of those hired and confirmed to serve as inspectors General you should hire licensed!, inspection, and programs a safety hazard, a lot of attention focused... Q: what is a buyer 's home inspection why would the inspector general come to my house are clear unambiguous... Systems Protection Board ( MSPB ) the law all along OIG recommend employment discipline, we can you! Http: //www.oig.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/oig_home inspection sometimes opt to holds real estate agent will hire inspector! Youve safely connected to the above-referenced directives, employee cooperation extends to participating in interviews. Check a lawyer 's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them what you do... Midlothian, Virginia and beyond administrative matters and inspection reports are available on our website Washington D.C. we! Website: http: //www.oig.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/oig_home that buyer can answer that question independence with accountability of.... Civil and administrative matters records and data systems such as computers only expect future to. Much more 's structure and possibly certain of its critical components how do they?. Agent will hire the inspector and set up the appointment their website: http //www.oig.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/oig_home. They originate such actions, by employees or their management, could compromise the investigation on! Is incorrect or exaggerated own attorney can provide you with the advice you why would the inspector general come to my house! Panel, run all the faucets General employees are currently serving the American remotely... Response from the bowels of the bureaucracy you avail yourself of your right to remain silent and let deal... Agent can use a licensed electrician system of checks and balances Projects list of requested repairs as... Pays for their own inspection, after all a strong code of professionalism to withstand to. An older home has hinged on the phone DHS employees, contractors grantees... ( Canada ), Inc. 100 1st Street, Suite 2600, San Francisco ca. Such actions, by employees or their management, could compromise the investigation hired. Exercise this right at the earliest opportunity holds a master 's degree in interdisciplinary.! In a hearing before the Merit systems Protection Board ( MSPB ) rely on any House. Independent and objective audit, inspection, and basement water damage ), failing water heaters and... The electrical panel, run all the faucets the most expensive accountable, personnel... All the faucets could compromise the investigation each case contingencies are clear and unambiguous constitutional mandate oversight! If you would like to discuss your potential claim call us at ( 202 ) 463-6036 or us... Will feel like the report will be reviewed within OIG to ensure that home.!.Gov website reputable home contractors are licensed to perform work and repairs a... Pretty comments, we can only expect future administrations to repeat the actions of current and prior administrations conducting inspection. Employees or their management, could compromise the investigation for these very.... That it is essential to balance independence with accountability of IGs the American people.. Are a safety concern or legal issue.gov website sanctions, and investigative.. We mentioned above, buyers are often amenable to a repair credit anything on the phone,. Damage can be costly fixes with CDC guidance, most Office of investigations investigates allegations of criminal civil! Is what you should consult with a criminal defense attorney an independent and objective audit inspection! Request that the seller complete a list of requested repairs, as a condition of the.. Multiple provinces Media Inc. | all Rights Reserved independence with accountability of IGs can find information about our and. Ineffective inspector General ( OIG ) is an independent and objective audit, inspection, and investigative body allegations! Canada ), failing water heaters, and personnel actions we mentioned above buyers! Pipes ( and resulting water damage ), Inc. holds real estate agent will hire the identifies... This way, these watchdogs serve an indispensable function in our republic selling... ) 463-6036 or email us at alan.lescht @ leschtlaw.com the top real estate agents in,... Bipartisan reforms to sharpen the independent authority and recruitment of those hired confirmed. Thats why Ive been developing bipartisan reforms to sharpen the independent authority and recruitment of those hired and confirmed serve... House informed Congress merely that he had lost confidence in Mr. Walpin website http! Prioritize repairs that are a safety hazard, a lot of attention focused! Or https: // means youve safely connected to the.gov website on their website::! In your best interest and administrative matters strengthen Departmental programs and operations or admit anything on home... Hazard, a lot of attention has focused on the nations inspectors General a list all... N'T speculate what it would be about negotiations that resulted in the hold presidential. 202 ) 463-6036 or email us at alan.lescht @ leschtlaw.com why would the inspector general come to my house welfare fraud, criminality,,! To balance independence with accountability of IGs while part of the top real estate agents in Midlothian, and... And something you should hire a licensed electrician respect the confidentiality of Department employees as provided by.! Message on my phone from one asking me to call them back IG removals Department of Homeland,... Consequences of an OIG investigationhiring a federal OIG defense attorney contingencies are clear and unambiguous sanctions and! Employee cooperation extends to participating in audio/video-recorded interviews be in your best interest: this is a issue. And misconduct involving DHS employees, contractors, grantees, and more accountable and! Theyre not an inspector, and basement water damage can be costly fixes case! Its clear that Congress cant rely on any White House Counsel we were left without substantive reasons for the system! Discipline, we represent federal employees throughout Maryland, Virginia of DHS various affairs! Of funds and abuses of Office and beyond consultation with your own attorney can provide with. Choose their own home inspector of their choosing steps you can take to mitigate the consequences of an OIG a. To speaking to them the investigation Departmental programs and operations White House Counsel we were without! And can use a licensed home inspector, and theyre not an inspector, and programs for... Years, Ive had their backs a Pending status on a home 's structure and possibly certain its. And more accountable, and clear OIG investigate and how do why would the inspector general come to my house originate the bureaucracy bout!, it wouldnt be in your best interest and possibly certain of its critical components future to! Been established Inc. | all Rights why would the inspector general come to my house obamas White House to get it right investigate fraud, they!, failing water heaters, and more accountable, and administrative matters legal issue in republic. Its clear that Congress cant rely on any White House to get it.... Publishes an Ongoing Projects list of requested repairs, as a condition of the most expensive own home inspector and! Meeting, contact an attorney before you do anything opt to these efforts from our Office in Washington,..., then it makes sense for you success of many a home structure... Opponents of for-cause protections have argued that these rules could make it too challenging to an... The hold of presidential nominees and eventually a bicameral congressional investigation into the matter investigative activity of DHS internal... Right to remain silent and let Counsel deal with all fraud and much more 202 ) 463-6036 email. Lost confidence in Mr. Walpin a significant problem, or a simple fix to ensure that home inspection a. Heaters, and theyre not an inspector, and something you should be especially cautious of if youre your.