Being a home inspector comes with a flexible schedule and a decent salary, which makes it an attractive career for a variety of people. Whether you’re just getting started in the field or looking to switch from a related profession, becoming a home inspector doesn’t have to be a job in and of itself. Here’s a look at how to become a home inspector.
Is Being a Home Inspector Right For You?
Just because you’re a plumber or electrician doesn’t mean you have what it takes to be a home inspector—but you’re well on your way. Being a home inspector requires general knowledge of a whole house, rather than knowledge about a specific part of a house. If this isn’t what you want, you might consider providing specialty inspections, such as for pools or HVAC.
However, having at least some knowledge of construction is going to make it a lot easier. Particularly in states that don’t require classwork to set up a business, it’s important to have a realistic idea of what you do and don’t know about the structural integrity of homes. What you say is going to impact the way people spend thousands of dollars; whether they buy a house, if they are able to sell it for as much as they anticipated, and if they spend a lot of time and money in repairs.
Requirements
Requirements can differ vastly depending on what state you live in, which also means just because you were a home inspector in one state that you can be in another. Research the exact requirements to be a home inspector. Maybe you just need a sign, but most likely you’re going to need to take a few classes, pass an exam or two, and get a license before starting an apprenticeship (or some combination thereof).
Some states require a few dozen hours in a classroom, others have no classroom requirements; some states require passing a series of tests, others require several hours of onsite training. Even after you pass the test, you should be prepared to spend a few hours each year continuing education. This will keep you fresh and up-to-date on the knowledge necessary to your new trade. Additionally, you can take extra classes and pick up specific certifications so you can provide specialty inspections as well.
Joining Societies
If your state doesn’t require licensing, it can be hard to get started with no way to prove you know what you’re doing. Regardless, it’s a good idea to look into joining the American Society of Home Inspectors or the National Association of Home Inspectors. ASHI and NAHI can help you get certified and will add your name to their list of respectable home inspectors on their website. It’s also a great way to network and let customers find you. If you would rather work through a company than have to wear several different hats as a business owner, you can find one through these organizations.
