For most people, buying or selling a home is one of the most significant financial decisions they’ll make in their lifetime. As a home inspector, your clients put a great deal of trust in you: after all, they’re relying on your expertise to help them understand the value, safety, and security of the home they’re considering investing in. With so much on the line in the home buying process, establishing credibility is paramount. While requirements for home inspector credentials vary on a state-by-state basis, obtaining home inspector credentials and certifications is one of the clearest ways to establish credibility and build trust with current and potential clients.
Importance of Home Inspector Credentials
State Licensing
Home inspector credentials and license requirements vary on a state-by-state basis. Not all states require home inspectors to be licensed, and the process to become licensed also varies between states. States that do require licensing often have stringent requirements, including passing an exam, completing a certain number of training hours, and maintaining continuing education credits. The first step to becoming a home inspector is to learn about the licensing requirements for your state to ensure you have the appropriate education, training, and experience.
Unregulated States
It’s wise to consider obtaining additional credentials or certifications whether or not your state regulates home inspector licensing. However, if you live in a state that doesn’t regulate home inspector licenses, establishing your credentials through other means is even more important. Home inspectors in regulated states often have to take and pass an approved examination, such as the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE), before they are awarded a license. But you can study for and take the NHIE even if your state doesn’t require it. Doing so can certify you for additional trainings and certifications that will demonstrate your expertise to clients.
Certifications
No matter what your state’s requirements are, obtaining certifications from reputable organizations can set you apart from the competition. Two of the most recognized certifying bodies for home inspectors are the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) and the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI).
ASHI Certification
The American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) is one of the best-known organizations in the home inspection industry. ASHI certification is highly regarded and demonstrates a commitment to high standards and ongoing education.
Requirements for ASHI Certification
To become ASHI certified, inspectors must do the following:
- Pass the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE)
- Complete a minimum of 250 paid home inspections that meet or exceed ASHI’s standards
- Submit proof of compliance with ASHI’s Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics
- Participate in continuing education to maintain certification
InterNACHI Certification
The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) offers comprehensive certification programs that are widely recognized across North America.
Requirements for InterNACHI Certification
InterNACHI certification requirements include the following:
- Passing the InterNACHI Online Inspector Examination
- Joining InterNACHI
- Completing the InterNACHI Code of Ethics Course
- Completing the InterNACHI Standards of Practice Course
- Submitting four mock or actual inspection reports for review
- Completing ongoing continuing education courses and activities
- Signing the enrollment agreement
Home inspectors who complete the steps above are awarded the Certified Professional Inspector (CPI) certification and credential and are considered an InterNACHI Certified Home Inspector.
Additional Certifications
Obtaining ASHI and InterNACHI certifications is just a starting point. If you’re looking for more ways to grow your business and establish your credibility, InterNACHI offers more than 60 inspector certification and credential options you can pursue as a way to help your home inspection business stand out. Certifications you can learn about through InterNACHI include the following:
- Certified Chimney Inspector
- Indoor Air Quality Inspector
- Certified Mold Inspector
- Certified Septic System Inspector
- Certified Home Energy Auditor
- Certified Pool and Spa Inspector
- Mobile Home Inspector
- Aging in Place Professional
- And many more
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