Becoming A Certified Home Inspector Is More Than One Might Think
Hiring a home inspection company is vital during the home buying process. However, you might wonder, "do I have what it takes to inspect the home myself in order to save money on the inspection?" If that sounds like you, it is important to realize that property inspectors have to go through extensive training in order to become a certified home inspector. Read more to learn more about the training involved to obtain a home inspection certification.
A Certified Home Inspector Is Required To Take 120 Hours Of Coursework
Before a person can even think about getting their state license to be a home inspector, they must complete a state approved home inspection course. In the state of Florida, there is a website specifically for those interested in becoming home inspectors. Any courses must be approved by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
Approved courses are 120 hours and are designed to prepare those entering the field to become property inspectors. Additionally, the coursework contains real world challenges that are designed to help students problem solve real cases. That way they are fully prepared on how to handle challenges when they come up at an actual home inspection.
Topics covered include extensive training in HVAC systems, gas, electric, plumbing, roofing and more. Candidates will know how to recognize potential problems with these areas. They also learn how to write contracts and the details that go into them. Lastly, students are given training on state regulations, code enforcement and laws.
A person can not take a state license exam if they have not taken any training or coursework that is approved by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation. That being said, always make sure your home inspector has the proper license and training background.
InterNACHI is a good place to start in order to find a legitimate licensed home inspector. Their website can be a source of education for the consumer as well. Any unlicensed home inspector running a scam will show up here.
As the largest professional organization for property inspectors in the United States, InterNACHI provides several state approved courses for the future certified home inspector to take. Becoming a member can also provide many benefits and discounts to those once they have received their license.
Getting A Property Inspection License
Once a student has completed their 120 hours of coursework, they must pass the state exam to obtain their property inspection license. Luckily, InterNACHI offers additional training that help students prepare for their exam, including practice tests.
For potential candidates, the exam must be taken in person at one of four state approved testing centers. The test costs $125 and must be completed in one hour. Candidates must obtain a minimum score of 70% to pass the test. If the candidate fails the test, they must retake the exam and pay the $125 fee again.
Once a candidate has successfully passed the exam, they will receive proof of completion. At this point, a candidate still needs to apply for a license. In order to obtain their license, the proof of exam completion must be presented to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation along with an application. As part of the license application, the applicant must also pay a $230 application fee. Lastly, they will need to be fingerprinted and pass a background check.
Solid Rock Inspections Group Only Hires Certified Home Inspectors
After completing all training, passing the background check and obtaining their certified home inspector license, individuals may begin working as property inspectors right away. However, it doesn't end there. As a state licensed home inspector, it is strongly advisable to pursue continuing education in order to keep your license up. to date. Plus, state and local code enforcement changes on a regular basis. Continuing education helps inspectors stay on top of these regulations.
It is important to understand that our property inspectors at Solid Rock Inspections Group undergo extensive training to provide our clients a valuable service. If you are buying a home and need an inspection, call us at (727) 386-8627 or contact us on our website here. All our inspectors are licensed and certified. We look forward to help you learn about one of the largest investments you'll ever make.