How To Become A Home Inspector

If you've been considering entering the field of professional home inspection, you may be curious as to the process required to become a licensed home inspector. While you will receive all the necessary training needed to receive your home inspector's licensing and certification, it does help to already possess some knowledge and background experience in construction related fields.
                 
However, you should also realize that any type of construction related background is not sufficient enough to understand the many factors involved in home inspection, often related to extended use of a home and its subsequent deterioration. That does not mean that brand new homes are likely to be free of any defects. 

The first step in learning how to become a home inspector is to examine your background to adequately determine how any previous training and experience might help benefit you in the field of home inspection. ASHI Certification typically requires a combination of formal training and experience in engineering or construction as being ideal. However, you may also be completely new to the field or perhaps looking for a career change. If this is the case, you find it more difficult, but not impossible, in learning how to become a home inspector.

The next step in discovering the process of how to become a home inspector is realizing that home inspection is very challenging, and a very serious profession. You will need to learn how to recognize an incredible amount of conditions and defects that can affect a home. The ability to observe minute details and recognize dangerous conditions, as well as the ability to communicate effectively with your clients, is essential.

General Home Inspection Services:

Appliances: Dishwasher, range and oven, built-in microwaves and garbage disposal.

Electrical: Main panel, circuit breakers, types of wiring, grounding, exhaust fans, receptacles, ceiling fans, light fixtures and smoke detectors.

Exterior: Wall covering, landscaping, grading, elevation, drainage, driveways, fences, sidewalks, fascia, trim, doors, windows and lights.

Garage: Slab, walls, ceiling, vents, entry, firewall, garage door and openers.

HVAC and Components: Water heaters, furnaces, air conditioning, duct work, chimney and fireplace.

Plumbing: Identification of pipe materials used for potable, drain, waste and vent pipes. including condition of toilets, showers, sinks, faucets and traps.

Roof / Attic: Framing, ventilation, type of roof construction, flashing and gutters.

Structure: Walls, ceilings, floors, roof and foundation.

Additional Home Inspection Services:

Indoor air quality, termites, well water, septic system, swimming pools / hot tubs, lead, asbestos, radon and condominium inspections.