5 Ways to Become a Certified Home Inspector

Do you have your sights set on becoming a certified home inspector? Everything you need to become a successful professional in your chosen industry rests at your fingertips. In fact, you will discover that there are several ways to become a home inspector.

Working as a home inspector is perfect for the person who hates the thought of sitting at a desk all day, and it is ideal for the person who strives to work independently in a technically-minded field. Still interested? This guide will help you determine which steps you may need to take to work in a field about which you are passionate.

1 – Review Your State’s Guidelines on Home Inspector Regulation

Each state has its own guidelines for becoming a home inspector. While some states have few regulations, others check everything from your age to your criminal history.  Understanding your state’s guidelines will clue you in on which of the next steps mentioned are necessary for your particular state.

2 – Join the American Society for Home Inspectors

One great way to become a certified home inspector is to begin living the lifestyle. The American Society of Home Inspectors, also known as ASHI, hosts valuable resources for the home inspection professional. The organization offers meetings where you can learn first-hand from home inspectors via discussion sessions where you can ask questions.

This method is great for a person who lives in a state with little regulation regarding certification for inspectors and who already has construction knowledge.

 3 – Work with a Home Inspection Firm

If you are not seeking the opportunity to own a business, you might opt to begin working with a home inspection firm. Perhaps you might not begin working as a home inspector but instead gradually move up the ladder as you learn more about the industry you’ve selected.

This option allows you to find and settle into a niche. A home inspection firm may allow you to focus on residential, commercial, or multi-family dwellings depending on what is available to you. You may find that you have a passion you never knew existed.

 4 – Take and Pass a State Examination

Some states require that home inspectors are certified, which typically requires passing a licensing examination. Make sure to bring a certificate of course completion in addition to identification necessary to take the test. You also need to pay a certification fee.

 5 – Take and Pass Home Inspection Courses

Even if educational courses are not required to take the home inspector examination, you are wise to take them anyway. In some cases, the coursework may be all you need to work in your state. These courses aim to prepare you for the challenges you may face in the industry.

Many states accept ICA School’s program that prepares you to become a certified home inspector. Even after you have your license, the courses can help you keep your home inspection knowledge sharp. Enroll now to get started on your new career path.