California is one of a few states that doesn’t license home inspectors. But that doesn’t mean inspectors are free to do whatever they please. The California Trade Practice Act, which was enacted in 1996, sets forth regulations that inspectors must abide by. If an inspector belongs to the California Real Estate Inspector Association (CREIA), one…
DetailsWouldn’t it be great if an inspector could do a home inspection and then help the client by doing some of the repairs on the side? In theory, a service like that sounds like a win-win situation. It would attract a lot of business for inspectors, and customers could kill two birds with one stone…
DetailsIf you ask members of the American Society of Home Inspectors, also known as ASHI, they’ll probably tell you that ASHI is the way to go. But you can expect the same type of answer from the members of any home inspection association, whether it’s a national organization or one at the state level. So,…
DetailsSo you’re thinking about becoming certified home inspector? That’s great! It also means there’s a lot to learn. Even for contractors with years of experience building and renovating houses, home inspecting is different. Here’s a quick primer on what home inspecting is and what it isn’t. Home Inspections and Appraisals are Different Plenty of homeowners…
DetailsMold. Just the word can strike fear into the hearts of homeowners far and wide. It’s regarded as irritating and dangerous and can indicate a lurking problem inside a home. Mold can indicate water damage and cause breathing problems. How can one little spore cause so much trouble? Here’s what a certified home inspector needs…
DetailsDelaware recently instituted new requirements that govern the home inspection industry. The path to licensure appears to be slightly different from the requirements in other states. The Division of Professional Regulation offers two primary options, including a type of on-the-job training and formal education. If you’re thinking about a career switch to home inspections, here’s…
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Plenty of new home inspectors open a new business every year, but not all of them succeed. According to the Small Business Administration (SBA), the earliest years are the most precarious. But that doesn’t have to spell doom for your home inspection business. What separates those who thrive from those who hang on for…
DetailsIf you’re like many people, you probably think home inspectors need a background in construction or a related field. It does help, but it’s by no means necessary. Certified home inspectors come from many different backgrounds. Although the industry is rather male dominated, women are staking their claim and coming up quickly through the ranks.…
DetailsThere’s no single path to becoming a home inspector. Every state is slightly different. Fortunately, Illinois makes it simple. From learning about the industry to stepping out with your new license, each gain is a step toward a brand new career. Here’s how it’s done. Choose the Right Home Inspection Education Program According to Illinois…
DetailsYou’ll find plenty of outdated 2-prong outlets and inoperable 3-way switches throughout your career as a certified home inspector. However, some wiring defects are cause for immediate concern and quick intervention. What merits an ASAP fix? Here are 5 electrical issues that shouldn’t wait. #1: Overlamping at Light Fixtures While not technically a wiring defect,…
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