Thinking about becoming a licensed home inspector?
The home inspection industry remains consistently in demand, with real estate transactions happening daily. According to the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), nearly 77% of homebuyers opt for an inspection before finalizing their purchase.
But how do you get started?
Each state has specific licensing requirements, but the process generally includes education, gaining hands-on experience, and passing the National Home Inspector Examination. I’ve created a step-by-step guide.
Key Takeaways
- Start with Education: Complete home inspection training, earn your certification and pass the National Home Inspector Exam to start your journey.
- Gain Field Experience: Work under licensed home inspectors to meet your state’s requirements for supervised inspections and develop essential skills.
- Secure Your License: Submit your application, meet state-specific licensing requirements, and obtain general liability insurance for your protection.
- Build a Thriving Career: Market your services to real estate agents, homeowners, and industry professionals to establish yourself in the field.
- Stay Current with Education: To stay competitive and up-to-date on industry changes, maintain your license with approved continuing education courses.
Level 1: Education and Training
The first step to becoming a home inspector is getting the right education. This ensures you have the foundational knowledge to pass required exams and perform inspections confidently.
Step 1: Meet Basic Requirements
To start, you’ll need to successfully complete high school or earn a GED. This is the minimum requirement for most states and allows you to enroll in home inspection courses.
Step 2: Enroll in Home Inspection Training
Home inspection training is a critical part of this process. Many states require you to complete specific coursework before you can apply for a home inspector license. These courses teach you:
- How to inspect structural systems, plumbing, electrical systems, and HVAC systems.
- The essentials of creating a detailed and professional inspection report.
- Preparation for the National Home Inspector Examination, which is required in most states.
You can take home inspection courses online or in person, depending on your preference. Look for programs approved by your state’s licensing board or a national home inspection association. Check out my review of Inspection Certification Associates, one of the top recommended home inspection courses online.
Step 3: Obtain Your Home Inspection Certification
Most states require an official home inspection certification as part of their licensing requirements. This certification is proof that you’ve completed the necessary coursework and are ready to move on to the next steps.
Step 4: Pass the National Home Inspector Examination
The National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE) is the gold standard for home inspectors. It tests your knowledge of inspection procedures, safety guidelines, and state-specific regulations. Study guides and practice tests can make this step more manageable.
Tips for Level 1
- Confirm your state’s educational requirements. Some states mandate a set number of hours or specific topics for your training.
- Ensure your home inspection training program prepares you for the NHIE and helps you meet certification requirements.
- Start researching liability insurance early—it will be required later.
Level 2: Gaining Experience
Once you’ve completed your education and earned your home inspection certification, it’s time to gain hands-on experience in the field.
Step 1: Work Under Direct Supervision
In many states, aspiring home inspectors must complete real estate inspections under the guidance of a licensed professional. This hands-on experience builds practical skills, gaining industry knowledge and learning how to navigate real-world inspection scenarios.
- You’ll participate in unpaid field-based inspections.
- You’ll practice writing detailed inspection reports for real estate agents and homeowners.
Step 2: Fulfill Your State’s Field Requirements
Certain states mandate a set number of supervised inspections or training hours as part of the licensing process for home inspectors. For example, Texas requires 40 inspections under a licensed inspector, while other states, like Florida, do not have a set number.
Step 3: Network with Industry Professionals
While gaining experience, make connections with real estate agents, other home inspectors, and homeowners. These relationships can lead to mentorships, future referrals, and valuable industry insights.
Tips for Level 2
- Keep track of every inspection you complete under supervision. This documentation is often required when applying for your license.
- Observe how licensed inspectors handle communication and prepare reports.
- Research general liability insurance and errors and omissions insurance during this phase. These policies protect you from financial risks and are required in most states.
Level 3: Obtaining Your Home Inspector License
This is the final step! Once you’ve completed your training and gained experience, you can submit your application, meet state requirements, and officially begin your career as a licensed home inspector.
Step 1: Submit Your Application
To get licensed, you’ll need to provide proof that you’ve met all educational and experience requirements. This usually includes:
- A completed application.
- Proof of your home inspection certification.
- Documentation of supervised inspections.
- A passing score on the National Home Inspector Examination.
- Payment of any licensing fees (typically via money order or online payment).
Be sure to check your state’s licensing services for specific mailing information and requirements.
Step 2: Obtain General Liability Insurance
General liability insurance coverage is a must-have for licensed inspectors. It protects you from potential claims during inspections. Many states also require errors and omissions insurance to cover mistakes in your inspection reports.
Step 3: Launch Your Career as a Licensed Home Inspector
With your home inspector license in hand, you can officially start inspecting homes! This might include:
- Marketing your services to real estate agents and homeowners.
- Registering your business with your state.
- Scheduling inspections and delivering professional reports.
Step 4: Stay in Good Standing
To keep your home inspection license active, you’ll need to complete approved continuing education courses. These ensure you stay up-to-date on industry changes and best practices.
Tips for Level 3
- Use a checklist to ensure your application is complete and avoid delays.
- Compare insurance providers to find the best general liability and omissions insurance for your needs.
- Track your license expiration date and complete continuing education well before it’s due.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Licensed Home Inspector?
Here’s a typical timeline for becoming a licensed home inspector:
- Education and Training (3–6 months)
- Complete home inspection courses and earn your home inspection certification.
- Pass the National Home Inspector Examination.
- Gaining Experience (6–12 months)
- Perform supervised real estate inspections under a licensed inspector.
- Obtaining Your License (1–3 months)
- Submit your application, provide proof of certification, and obtain general liability insurance.
The process usually takes 1–2 years in total, depending on your state and how quickly you complete each step.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a licensed home inspector is a rewarding journey that opens doors to a flexible and in-demand career. With the right education, hands-on experience, and proper licensing, you’ll be well-equipped to help homebuyers make informed decisions and build trust in the real estate market.
The key to success is taking it step by step—start with a high-quality training program, gain field experience, and meet your state’s licensing requirements. Once you’re licensed, focus on networking, marketing your services, and staying up to date with industry changes through continuing education.
Ready to take the first step? Enroll in a home inspection training program today, and begin your path toward a thriving career in home inspection!
FAQ
In Florida, you must complete 120 hours of state-approved education, pass the Florida Home Inspector Exam, submit fingerprints for a background check, and make sure you have liability insurance before applying for your license.
Getting a home inspector license isn’t hard if you follow the steps: complete training, gain experience, and pass the required exams.
In Pennsylvania, you need to complete 120 hours of education, pass the National Home Inspector Exam, and join a national home inspection association.
In Arkansas, it typically costs $1,000–$2,000, including education, exam fees, licensing fees, and liability insurance.
Home inspectors generally make $300–$500 per house, depending on location, home size, and market demand.
