A home inspector is an expert who reviews homes for buyers. Their primary duty is to check properties to ensure they’re safe and in good condition.
If you’re interested in becoming a real estate inspector, there are steps you can take to enter this profession.
Firstly, you need to acquire the necessary education. This involves completing a high school diploma or equivalent. Then, you’ll need to undergo training to become familiar with the various aspects of home inspection.
Next, gaining experience is essential. Many aspiring inspectors work under experienced professionals to learn the ropes. This hands-on experience is invaluable in understanding the intricacies of the job.
After gaining sufficient knowledge and experience, you’ll need to obtain certification. Different regions have different requirements, so it’s important to research and fulfil the criteria set by the relevant authorities. Continue reading to learn more.
Who Is A Home Inspector?
A home inspector is a real estate professional responsible for evaluating a property on behalf of the buyer and creating a detailed report about its condition.
The inspector thoroughly examines the property, identifying both major and minor issues. This includes assessing the home’s structure, electrical systems, HVAC, plumbing, and roofing for any problems that might not be immediately visible during a regular walkthrough.
Although a home inspection is not mandatory, many mortgage lenders insist that buyers undergo one. The inspection report plays a crucial role in negotiations. Upon reviewing the findings, potential homeowners can negotiate with the seller to cover repair costs, request a reduction in the property price, or even decide not to proceed with the purchase.
Becoming a professional home inspector requires individuals to complete relevant education courses and certification programs from an accredited provider. After completing the necessary education, they must pass a licensing exam to demonstrate their qualifications and expertise in inspecting homes.
What Does A Home Inspector Do?
Home inspectors assess various aspects of a property to ensure its safety and functionality. One crucial element they inspect is asbestos, checking crawl spaces and roofs for its presence, as its removal is essential.
Structural integrity is also a focus, with inspectors examining foundations, supports, roofs, flooring, and walls for any issues like water damage or compromised structures that could lead to significant problems.
The electrical system is thoroughly examined, including outlets and panels, to identify any faulty wiring. Fire safety is another critical aspect, with inspectors verifying if a building adheres to fire safety codes by checking for multiple exits and functioning smoke detectors.
Heating and cooling systems are inspected for proper functionality, absence of radon emissions, and compliance with building codes.
Inspectors diligently search for infestations of wood-destroying organisms such as termites, aiming to prevent damage to the property. Plumbing is not overlooked, as inspectors assess pipes, faucets, water heaters, septic tanks, sewer lines, and gutters to ensure the overall plumbing system is in good working order.
This comprehensive examination ensures that potential issues are identified early, promoting the overall safety and well-being of the property.
Also Read: Is Real Estate Investment Trusts A Good Career Path?
How to Become a Licensed Home Inspector
To become a home inspector, you need certain qualifications and licenses. If you’re interested in a career as a licensed home inspector, there are specific steps you should follow.
1. You Need Home Inspection Training
Beginning with home inspection training is the first step towards becoming a certified home inspector. However, before you can get your license, you might need more education. Home inspection involves understanding engineering basics and running a customer service-oriented business. To improve your chances of success in this field, it’s important to take prelicensing courses in both areas.
If you already have some background in engineering, you should consider taking additional training courses. These courses can help you delve deeper into specific aspects of home inspection, such as differentiating between residential and commercial properties. Additionally, you may benefit from hands-on field training alongside a certified home inspector.
It’s worth noting that in some states, online courses may not be accepted as valid for meeting home inspector training requirements. Therefore, it’s crucial to enrol in in-person courses for your training hours.
By investing time and effort into comprehensive training and education, you can enhance your skills and knowledge, ultimately becoming a reputable and successful home inspector.
2. You Need to Know The State Requirements for Home Inspectors
Every state has its own rules for becoming a home inspector. The rules are called licensing requirements. They tell you what you need to do to become a professional home inspector.
You need to study for a certain number of hours to become a home inspector. In some states, you only need sixty hours of education. But in other states, you might need up to 400 hours.
Different states have different exams. Some states require you to pass a national exam. Others might have a local exam. Passing these exams helps you become certified as a home inspector.
Before you start studying online, you should know your state’s requirements. This is important so you don’t waste time studying the wrong things. Make sure you understand what you need to do to become a home inspector in your state.
3. You Need to Obtain Your Certification as a Home Inspector
To become a certified home inspector, you need to meet the education requirements and then take the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE). This exam assesses your knowledge of standards of practice, property inspection, professional responsibilities, and code of ethics.
It is important to note that not all states mandate the NHIE for obtaining a home inspector license; some have their state-specific exam.
Meeting the educational prerequisites is the first step toward certification. Once completed, you can proceed to take the NHIE. This examination is designed to evaluate your understanding of various aspects such as standards of practice, property inspection techniques, professional responsibilities, and adherence to a code of ethics.
It is crucial to recognize that the NHIE is not a requirement in all states for acquiring a home inspector license. Some states have their individualized exams, so it’s essential to be aware of and fulfil the specific requirements of the state in which you plan to practice as a certified home inspector.
Also Read: 15 Best Free Real Estate Courses Online with Certification
4. Safeguard Your Home Inspection Career with Insurance
As a home inspector, it’s vital to have insurance. This protects you from making mistakes and unexpected problems. You need to be insured to keep your certification. There are two main types of insurance you should consider: General Liability insurance and Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance.
General Liability insurance helps if someone gets hurt or their property is damaged while you’re working. For instance, if you accidentally break something in a client’s home, this insurance can cover the costs.
Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance is crucial for protecting against mistakes you might make during inspections. If a client sues you for missing a critical problem with a home, this insurance can help cover legal costs and any damages awarded.
Without insurance, you could face serious financial problems if something goes wrong. Even the most careful inspectors can make mistakes, and clients may take legal action if they feel you’ve missed something important.
By investing in insurance, you’re safeguarding your business and your livelihood. It’s a necessary expense that provides peace of mind and ensures you can continue working without worrying about potential legal issues.
5. Start Your Career as a Home Inspector
Becoming a certified home inspector opens up two main paths: starting your own business or joining an existing one. Each option comes with its special perks. If you choose to join an established home inspection firm, you’ll tap into their existing client base and build relationships with real estate agents. This could mean immediate work and less hustle to find clients.
On the other hand, starting your own business gives you the freedom to build your connections with real estate professionals and set your work hours. You’ll have the flexibility to run the business according to your preferences and schedule.
