We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Education

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

How do I Obtain a Home Inspector License?

Sheryl Butterfield
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 2,640
Share

Obtaining a home inspector license can be the start of a new career or a way to earn extra money. Home inspection is a required part of today's home-buying process. The home inspection industry has experienced increased growth over the past decade. This growth has opened up a number of avenues for earning a home inspector license.

Multiple options, however, require a careful review of certification techniques. Typically, home inspectors become licensed, then affiliate with a professional association. The license may also be obtained through that association. These groups, however, vary greatly in requirements to obtain and keep a home inspector license.

Some certifications can be obtained simply by completing an application then paying a fee to a company. Other professional organizations have much more stringent requirements. Companies that offer home inspector licenses in one day or one week are most likely skimping on education quality. To obtain a home inspector license that carries credibility in the home inspection industry, count on many hours of study and field work.

In the United States, the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) is recognized by professionals and legislators as highly credible. Obtaining a home inspector license through ASHI involves completing a certain number of paid inspections and passing two exams. Home inspectors can also earn certification at community colleges or real estate schools. These are most beneficial for those who learn best in a classroom setting.

For learners who enjoy self-paced home study, online courses with a distance training company or career school are a better fit. Quality self-study courses may take over 400 hours to complete. Local or regional laws may require home inspectors to complete continuing education courses throughout their career.

Areas of study usually include construction methods and regulations. Communities maintain varied and ever-changing building codes that residential buildings must meet. Obtaining a home inspector license also requires knowledge of home interiors and exteriors, and a qualified home inspector should understand major home systems. Generally, courses cover electric, heating and air conditioning, and plumbing systems.

Once a home inspector earns a license and gains entrance to an association, requirements to remain a member must be considered. For example, ASHI home inspectors must complete continuing education hours every two years to keep their certification. Other associations have no membership fulfillment requirements.

Newly licensed home inspectors must weigh association membership upkeep against industry credibility and reputation. Overall, expect to study, learn by doing inspections, then continue to stay abreast of industry and state regulations. Many home inspectors work for themselves, so knowledge of local self-employment guidelines can help with running a home inspection business.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Sheryl Butterfield
By Sheryl Butterfield
Sheryl Butterfield, a freelance writer in Denver, Colorado, is dedicated to addressing contemporary issues in her work. With a keen interest in environmental conservation and renewable energy technologies, Sheryl crafts informative articles that educate and inspire readers. She also provides practical advice for parents navigating the challenges of raising teenagers, drawing from her own experiences and research.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Sheryl Butterfield
Sheryl Butterfield
Sheryl Butterfield, a freelance writer in Denver, Colorado, is dedicated to addressing contemporary issues in her work....
Learn more
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/how-do-i-obtain-a-home-inspector-license.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.