Home Inspection Certification VS. License

What is the difference between a home inspection license and a certificate

This article will explain some of the differences, both real and perceived, between a home inspector license and home inspection certification.

A home inspection is a visual inspection of the systems and components in a house and is normally performed prior to the close of a real estate transaction (before a house is bought/sold).  Realtors in many states are required by law to suggest that you get a certified/licensed inspector to perform a home inspection before you buy a home.  Some insurance companies and mortgage companies are also requiring home inspections.

Home Inspector Socieites:
The home inspection field is not new.  ASHI, the American Society of Home Inspectors, is the oldest home inspection society in the US.  They have been around since the 1970's.  There are now 4 major non-profit home inspector societies in the country.  ASHI, NSHI, NAHI, and NACHI.  Each society has its own requirements for membership which include verification of training or certification, practical requirements (e.g. field inspections), insurance requirements, etc.  Non-profit society memberships are generally more desirable to realtors, banks, and home buyers because profitting from a high number of members is not the main goal of these societies.  These societies are more likely to ensure that their members perform inspections that meet their standards of practice and abide by their code of ethics.

Home Inspector Licensing:
Many states in the US have enacted legislation that requires home inspectors to be licensed in the state where they are going to be performing inspections.  In states like these, it is not only important to obtain a license to perform inspections, it is required by law.  Many inspectors in these states maintain membership in national societies as well as maintain their license because many of the requirements are similar.  In states that don't have licensing requirements, a society membership along with certification from a respected organization becomes more important.

Home Inspector Certification:
Since there are some states that do not have legislation requiring inspectors to be certified, many home inspectors desire to become certified prior to performing home inspections.  Home Inspector certification courses teach inspectors what items need to be inspected as part of a home inspection as well as how to inspect these systems and components, and how to report their findings to clients.  There are many certification organizations for home inspectors and it is important to verify the credentials of each certifying body to gain some insight into the credibility of the organization.

Certification organizations like home inspectors can maintain affiliations with home inspector societies.  Some certification organizations are also approved by insurance companies and in states where there are licensing requirements, the home inspector certification organization may need to obtain approval from a state board.  When choosing an inspector or choosing a certification organization, it is important to review their credentials and choose one with multiple society affiliations and industry approvals. 

Some of the links below will help you on your quest to find a certified or licensed home inspector or to become certified and licensed as an inspector yourself.

HOME INSPECTION SOCIETIES:
ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors)
http://www.ashi.org

NSHI (National Society of Home Inspectors)
http://www.nshi.us

NAHI (National Association of Home Inspectors)
http://www.nahi.org

HOME INSPECTOR CERTIFICATION ORGANIZATIONS / SCHOOLS:
Professional Home Inspection Institute
Professional Home Inspection Institute - Training & Certification

Comments


Anonymous

Home Inspector Training Advice

I took PHII's home inspection school training in the past and I was impressed with the quality of the instruction. I found many training choices, but I ultimately made my decision based on that school's reputation and its trained inspectors on staff. It is true that a home inspection clause is a part of virtually every modern residential real estate transaction. About 24 hours after an offer is accepted, the buyer's real estate agent calls the buyer(s) and asks if they need help setting up a home inspection. If the buyer says yes, the agent usually recommends several home inspectors and even calls the inspectors in advance to find out who is available during the 7-10 day inspection period designated in the sales contract. This is important because there is a limited window to perform the inspection during the contract. Home inspectors who answer the phone are going to get the business, which is why I use a professional scheduling service so that calls never just go to voice mail (nothing is worse at turning people off). I also took the Professional Home Inspection Institute's marketing course and found it very helpful in determining how to market my business and how to build strong relationships with realtors. Although virtually anyone can become a home inspector, only the ones who really understand the value and benefit of good relations with realtors, and even with other inspectors, will have the best success. You have to understand that as a home inspector, you are one piece of a very important financial transaction, but you are still only "one" piece, and you have to approach your job with professionalism, class, and humility. Your client is #1 and you are in the business of helping people.

Last edited Jul 26, 2008 4:13 PM
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