Full course descriptions for all states here

Inspection career and job function

A home inspector will evaluate a property for homes, in order to provide an honest appraisal of the condition of the house before a real estate transaction. This home inspection evaluation is not the same as a property value appraisal. An inspector will carefully assess the home for foundation health or problems, electrical, plumbing and more. The home inspection report will include a detailed listing of all areas in the property itself and an evaluation. The form will include recommendations on whether to replace or repair items and an analysis on the severity of the problem.

A buyer of a home should always hire a qualified home inspector before purchasing. Home inspection is a high demand profession because of the need to have this service performed on almost any property that is bought or sold.

Home Inspection is one of those businesses where the majority of the people who look to get involved will work for themselves.

Career and business

Training for on-the-job work is a major part of beginning a successful Home Inspection Career, but understanding how a business works can be just as important. Be sure to develop a business plan, have adequate capital, and use a good accountant! As with any self owned business, you will want to develop referrals, have relationships with real estate attorneys, brokers and banks. I know when I bought my home, one of the things I asked our real estate attorney was "Do you know a good home inspector?". An established home inspector does not rely on advertising. He or she relies on word of mouth and referrals from people in the industry.

A home inspector is a vital part of real estate business today. Proper inspection of a home prior to a completed transaction is necessary. It is a cyclical business (moves with the market) to real estate, but the best thing is - it is not price sensitive. If the Real Estate market declines, but transactions continue - the home inspector still gets his jobs.

Training

Proper home inspection training is very important. We are dealing with properties, buyers and sellers of large amounts of money AND most the important factor - Safety!

Inspectors will examine electrical systems, wires, outlets, frayed connections. Not being properly trained in this area can be very dangerous. Not just for you, but for the new owner that may be unprepared for faulty or aged electrical trouble for instance. Other areas include: Plumbing and piping, exterior trouble spots like rotting or compromised framing, plywood and roof trouble.

Home Inspectors must be schooled and trained in identifying potential health hazards such as asbestos tiles and shingles, mold in the walls or under carpeting and floors and lead. Appliances like dishwashers, washing machines and dryers are also examined. It is the inspectors ultimate responsibility to complete an accurate and very detailed report of the homes condition.

Home Inspector School online

Choose your state and begin learning online on how to become a home inspector. Each state course will offer full training and exams to test the student. There is no license required, however training by a school provider to learn the home inspection business is required. Once the course is completed, you will have the tools to begin this rewarding career part time or full time.

Online school curriculum includes: