How to Get Started as a Home Inspector

By Nick Gromicko, Alan Nguyen, and Kate Tarasenko

What is Home Inspection?
 
Home inspections are non-invasive, visual examinations of systems and components of a residential property that Is designed to identify defects outlined by a well-recognized standard of practice and code of ethics. An inspector is expected to report on any observed material defect and cover any applicable requirement of the state in which they are practicing.
 
Typically, an inspection report covers the following systems and components of a home: heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), plumbing, electrical systems, structural components, foundation, roof, exterior, and interior. Some standards of practice and/or state requirements may request that an inspection go beyond the scope of these systems.
 
You can find out more information about individual states by going to www.nachi.org/pre.
 
Inspections are a safeguard for homeowners, buyers, and sellers by ensuring that residential properties are free of major defects that may have significant, adverse effects on the value of the home or pose a risk to the health and well-being of the occupants.
 
How do you Become a Home Inspector?
 
Some states require that home inspectors become licensed in order to practice, while others do not. Make sure to check the laws and regulations of the state where you will be working to make sure you complete the necessary steps to become licensed.
 
For states that require licensing, you may be expected to:
  • Complete a pre-licensing course that may include
    • A set number of credit hours and/or
    • Live training
  • Conduct supervised or unsupervised inspections
  • Become part of a trade organization
  • Pass a state or national exam
  • Obtain liability insurance
 
After fulfilling all of the pre-requisites you can apply through the regulatory department of your state that oversees home inspections.
 
For states that do not require licensing, it usually recommended that inspectors have a certification to show that they have formal training and education. This is to the benefit of the inspector because it provides credibility for you and your business.
 
What’s the Next Step?
 
Now that you are licensed and certified you can go inspect homes, right? Before you go ahead and start your inspections, you want to make sure that you are well-equipped for the job. Being prepared may include many things such as:
 
  • Designing and creating your business
    • Design a website
    • Design marketing materials such as pamphlets, business cards, and more
    • Set up your corporation (LLC)
  • Have all the right tools
    • There are a variety of tools that you will need to conduct a home inspection. Make sure you have everything you need to perform your job well!
  
Once you think you are fully prepared, go out and start home inspection business!
 
What Now?
 
Your home inspection journey doesn’t end with you just completing home inspections. You should always be looking out for ways to improve your business and marketing strategy to stay competitive. Part of this includes completing continuing education in order to renew your license. If you live in a state that regulates home inspection, there may be specific requirements for continuing education that you must complete. Make sure you know these requirements to keep your license active!
 
Besides continuing education, there are other things that you can do such as:
 
  • Joining a chapter
  • Attend home inspection events
  • Network with other inspectors
  
Your business is what you put into it, so stay proactive and continuously strive to make yourself better!
 
As a member of InterNACHI you are provided a wealth of resources to start and grow your home inspection business. Take advantage of these opportunities and don’t let them go to waste!
 
Explore our Marketing Department: https://marketing.nachi.org
Find the right inspection tool for you: https://www.inspectoroutlet.com
Connect with other InterNACHI members: https://www.nachi.org/forum
 
InspectorSeek.com 
 
 

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