The requirements to become a residential installer vary depending on the materials or equipment that you install as well as the laws in the jurisdiction where you hope to work. In some cases, you can be hired to perform installations without any prior training or credentials. On the other hand, the installation of some products, such as heating and air-conditioning units, may require you to obtain a contractor's license or certification. As this type of work requires you to enter people's homes, some employers and licensing boards may also require you to pass a background check before you can become a residential installer.
Think about which types of building materials or appliances you want to work with. If you are interested in construction work, you may wish to install flooring or drywall. Another option is to install appliances, such as washing machines or stoves. Once you have decided on your area of interest, you should check local laws to determine whether you will need a license or certification to become a residential installer. If you don't, you may be able to get an entry-level position with a company that will provide you with on-the-job training. You may find, however, that your job prospects improve if you can show that you have some prior education or experience in a technical, construction, or mechanical field when you submit your application.
Various jurisdictions regulate some trades and may require you to obtain professional credentials or licensing to become a residential installer. This means that you may need to undergo a licensing or certification process. You may also need to join a labor union. To receive professional certification, you will typically need to complete some type of training program or apprenticeship before taking a comprehensive certifying exam. If you need to be licensed, you will likewise need to complete an educational program or apprenticeship before submitting a licensing application to a government agency for scrutiny and approval. In some cases, you may be able to work without a license under the supervision of a licensed professional.
Some employers and licensing boards are very concerned about public safety and require anyone who wants to become a residential installer to pass a criminal background check. Laws regarding these checks vary by jurisdiction, but you may find that if you have a criminal record your ability to get a job as a residential installer is limited by your background. If you do have a criminal history, you should check with potential employers or a licensing commission before embarking on a training program to learn a trade that you may have difficulty getting permission to practice.
