Becoming a Home Inspector

The field of home inspection is a booming one. Most home buyers or lenders require that a home be inspected prior to sealing a deal on it. However, becoming a home inspector takes more than having knowledge about homes and home repair. The field of home inspection is an involved one that requires self motivation, small-business smarts, great people skills, and a desire to continue your education.

Do You have what it Takes?

Because you may be running your own home inspection business or working within a small home inspection firm, being able to plan and maintain a good schedule and keep yourself motivated is a must. A typical work week for a home inspector is far from typical. You may often work when your clients are off work or on weekends. There may be times when you work a 12-hour day. It all depends on what works best for your clients.

Being savvy in small business operation is helpful if you are running the business on your own or if you are working within a small home inspection firm. A small firm will require everyone to give a little more to help the business and their careers succeed. Your work and how you conduct yourself will reflect upon the firm and determine its success.

If you decide to go it alone, setting up a sole-proprietor business is relatively easy in most states. Many states do have regulations for home inspectors to follow and you will need to do your research to make sure you are running a legitimate business. There will be paperwork to deal with, as with any small business, and you will need to promote your business and get your name out to home buyers, real estate agents and lenders.  

Because you will be dealing with many people, having great communication, people and customer service skills is required. You will have daily interactions with clients, real estate agents, lenders and other inspectors. You will be helping people make one of the biggest decisions of their lives. Being patient with clients as they ask questions and being able to explain technical details in easy-to-understand terms is important. After an inspection is completed, you will review your findings with your clients, and prepare and deliver a written report quickly.

Because house systems change with technological advances, continuing your education is necessary to keep yourself and your clients well informed. The field of home inspection keeps you on your toes, but if you love home construction, home improvement and the latest and greatest in home gadgets, then you will enjoy your continuing eduction.

Ready to get Started?

If you decide that becoming a home inspector is right for you, then you need to learn the ins and outs of the job. There are many online courses available from respected organizations to help get you started. These courses can cost from $500 to $2,500 depending on how extensive the course is. Some of these online courses will offer you the opportunity to join professionals in your area in inspections so you can get hands-on experience. Most people in the field say this is the best kind of education as you will see first-hand what it takes to be a home inspector.

You may be able to find in-person courses in your area that will give you the education you need as well as provide you with state-specific rules and allow you to make contacts. You may also find a firm with which you can begin your career.

After getting your education, passing the tests and getting your license (if your state requires it), you will want to join one or more home inspection associations. These associations offer benefits including:

• continuing education classes and seminars
• an advertising tool because of the high standards to which members must adhere
• newsletters, discussion forums and other materials to aid home inspectors
• local connections if there are local chapters

If you don't like being tied to a desk, love working with people and like to help people make informed decisions about one of the biggest financial decisions they will make in their lives, then a career in home inspection may be for you.