Home inspectors need comprehensive and efficient training due to their important position in the real estate industry. Licensing and regulation are required in many areas. In the US, ASHI and International Association of Certified Home Inspectors set standards for training. Training programs are available online and in-person, and knowledge in construction, report writing, and business management is helpful. In Canada, the BPCPA and National Certification Program are licensing authorities, while in the UK, the BRE regulates home inspectors.
Home inspectors occupy a very important position in the real estate industry, which means that training needs to be comprehensive and efficient. In many areas, a home inspector’s report must be submitted before a bank will approve a home loan. Because of the great responsibility that rests with home inspectors, many states and nations now regulate the training and licensing of these agents. A person who wants to learn how to become a home inspector must first learn about the licensing requirements in their area and then look for a training program that is approved and respected by businesses and individuals alike.
In the United States, the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), as well as the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, set the standards for training home inspectors. ASHI expects candidates to complete training and fieldwork, as well as requiring business experience. There are basically prerequisites for the program. They prefer candidates with formal education in backgrounds such as architecture or construction management. Engineering is another degree that works really well for a person who would like to become a home inspector.
There are many home inspector training programs available to students, and some of them can be completed without leaving your home. Online and correspondence courses are a popular choice for many people, although a physical classroom environment is probably best for those who need more guidance. Training costs are generally low and do not require financing or loans to cover tuition.
Training in other areas of expertise is very helpful and sometimes necessary depending on location. These knowledge areas include writing reports, knowledge or experience in construction, and understanding how to run a business. As a home inspector you must be able to write well as very detailed reports need to be submitted. These reports can prevent accidents, injuries and even death, so being able to communicate and write well is an absolute must. A background or at least experience in writing is very helpful.
A solid understanding of renovation construction is very important. Homes tend to go through changes and repairs over the years, and inspectors need to recognize these changes and how they affect the home. Since many home inspectors run their own businesses, it is important to be mindful of business but at the same time keep the customer first because it is their investment and safety that the home inspector is responsible for.
All of this isn’t necessary, but it’s helpful for a home inspector to be familiar and comfortable with before training to become a home inspector. Becoming a licensed or certified home inspector is very difficult and sometimes not possible if these aspects are not understood.
In Canada, an individual wishing to become a home inspector must consult with the Consumer Protection and Business Practices Authority (BPCPA), which is the regulator of licensed home inspection programs in British Columbia. The National Certification Program for Canadian Home and Property Inspectors is another licensing authority with which Canadian applicants can obtain a license. Other organizations in Canada include the Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors (CAHPI) and the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI).
Applicants in the UK need to consult the Building Research Establishment (BRE) to find out about training and licensing to become a home inspector. A UK license is required and home inspectors are regulated to ensure the quality and high standards of this industry are met.
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