What does a home inspector do?
Home inspectors carry out inspections of homes, apartments, town homes, condominiums, and manufactured homes that are newly built or previously owned. They examine the condition including the structure, features, and systems. They examine the quality of the structure, foundation, condition of the interior and exterior, attached structures (carport or garage) and the plumbing, electrical, and heating and cooling systems. They look for building code violations, cracks, damages, malfunctions, and other things that would need to be repaired. They take notes and report their findings and sometimes include photographs or diagrams.
Home inspectors are typically hired either right before a purchase offer or as a contingency to an existing sales contract. Sometimes home inspectors complete inspections for homeowners who want to assess their home’s condition before putting it up for sale.
What kind of training does a home inspector need?
Home inspectors need at least a high school diploma. Many employers seek out candidates with some formal training. Many home inspectors have associate or bachelor degrees in home inspection or related field. Most employers provide on the job training on the building codes and standards as well as inspection practices.
Many states require home inspectors to be certified or licensed. Requirements vary by state, but typically include a minimum education requirement, related work experience, passing a written examination, and purchasing liability experience. Certification or licensure renewal is usually required every few years. Home inspectors must also complete continuing education courses.
What are the prospects for a career as a home inspector?
Employment of home inspectors is projected to grow faster than average for all professions, increasing 18% from 2006 to 2016 (1). The constant increase in home construction and a growing population will drive job growth.
Job prospects should be great especially for home inspectors with advance education and specialty and extensive experience. Some job openings will occur from the need to replace home inspectors who retire or leave the field for other reasons.
How much do home inspectors make?
As of September 2009, the average annual salary for home inspectors is $45,000. Average salaries vary greatly on the location, company, experience, and benefits (2).
A career as a home inspector is a great choice for individuals interested in making sure homes meet all safety requirements. Home inspectors must be have good physical fitness and be able to thoroughly inspect homes. They must have a good eye and detail orientation to be able to spot even the smallest imperfection. Home inspectors must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills and be able to effectively explain their reports to clients.
