What Is Home Inspection?
Home inspection is a professional service focused on examining the condition of a home’s major systems and components. Home inspectors evaluate visible and accessible areas of a property and provide clients with a report describing significant findings and potential concerns.
A typical home inspection may cover the home’s structure, roof, exterior, plumbing, electrical system, heating and cooling systems, insulation, ventilation, interior components, and other major elements.
Home inspection is different from repairing a home. Inspectors identify and report conditions; they generally do not perform the repairs themselves.
The profession combines construction knowledge, observation, documentation, communication, and problem-solving. Licensing and certification requirements vary by state, and some states regulate home inspectors while others do not.
Home Inspector:
Home inspectors are regulated by the Oklahoma CIB Home Inspector Board.
Basic Requirements:
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Minimum age of 18.
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Complete a state-approved 90-hour home inspection training program.
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Pass the National Home Inspector Examination (NHIE).
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Submit application along with required liability insurance coverage.
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What Does Home Inspection Include?
How Can Home Inspection Training Help Me?
Home inspection training can help you develop the construction knowledge, observation skills, reporting abilities, and professional practices needed to work toward a career in residential property inspection.
- Understand home systems
- Develop inspection skills
- Improve documentation
- Build communication skills
- Prepare for state requirements
Important: Home inspectors can encounter electrical hazards, unstable structures, ladders, roofs, crawlspaces, attics, mold, pests, and other potentially hazardous conditions. Inspectors should follow appropriate safety procedures and recognize when a condition requires a qualified specialist rather than attempting to investigate beyond the inspection's scope.
Residential Systems
Inspectors examine accessible components of a home such as the roof, exterior, interior, foundation/structure, electrical system, plumbing, heating, cooling, insulation, ventilation, and other major systems within the scope of the inspection.
Inspection & Troubleshooting
Home inspectors look for visible signs of damage, deterioration, improper installation, safety concerns, and other conditions that may require further evaluation or attention.
Reporting & Communication
After the inspection, the inspector documents findings in a professional report and communicates observations to the client. Clear reporting helps clients understand the condition of the property and determine what questions or follow-up evaluations may be appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to what people ask us most.
Q: Do I need a license to become a home inspector?
It depends on the state. Some states require home inspectors to be licensed, while requirements differ regarding education, examinations, experience, continuing education, and other qualifications. Before starting work, check the requirements of the state where you intend to practice.
Q: What does a home inspector actually inspect?
A standard home inspection typically examines visible and accessible major components of the property, which may include the structure, roof, exterior, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, interior, insulation, ventilation, and other systems. The exact scope depends on the applicable standards and the inspection agreement.
Q: Do I need construction experience?
Not necessarily. Construction experience can be valuable because it helps you understand building systems and common defects, but some people enter home inspection through dedicated training and education. The exact requirements depend on the state.
Q : Can I start my own home inspection business?
Yes. Home inspectors can potentially operate independently or establish their own inspection company. However, state licensing, business registration, insurance, reporting standards, and other requirements may apply.
Home Inspection Schools & Training Programs
Mr. 6T note: Home inspection is regulated differently across the United States. Some states require a specific approved education program, exam, field experience, or license. Students should always verify the current requirements with their state’s licensing or regulatory agency before enrolling.