It takes more than just an interest in home improvement to become a home inspector in Washington State. Becoming a home inspector requires a combination of education, experience, and certification. Follow these steps to become a qualified home inspector in the state of Washington.
Step 1: Education and Experience
The state of Washington requires home inspectors to have a minimum of three years of experience in the construction industry. This experience should include the planning, construction, and maintenance of residential and commercial buildings. Experience in fields such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and engineering is also beneficial.
In addition to experience, aspiring home inspectors must also meet the educational requirements. Washington State requires home inspectors to earn a certificate in home inspection from an approved program. Some of the approved programs include the American Home Inspectors Training Institute (AHIT), the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), and the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI).
Step 2: Certification
Once applicants have met the education and experience requirements, they must obtain certification from the Washington State Department of Licensing. To receive certification, applicants must:
- Complete the Washington State Home Inspection Exam
- Submit a copy of their certificate from an approved home inspection program
- Submit a completed Home Inspector Application Form
- Pay the certification fee
Once the application is approved, applicants will be issued a home inspector certificate. The certificate must be renewed every two years.
Step 3: Professional Designations
Washington State does not require home inspectors to obtain a professional designation, but it is highly recommended. Professional designations are awarded by organizations such as the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) and the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI). The designations demonstrate a higher level of expertise and professionalism.
In order to obtain a professional designation, applicants must have experience inspecting a certain number of homes as well as passing a series of examinations. The number of required inspections and exams varies by organization.
Step 4: Continuing Education
Washington State requires home inspectors to complete a minimum of 15 hours of continuing education each year in order to renew their certification. The continuing education courses must be approved by the Washington State Department of Licensing.
It is important for home inspectors to stay up to date on the latest trends and technologies in the home inspection industry. Continuing education courses can help inspectors stay on top of the latest developments and ensure they are providing the best service to their clients.
Conclusion
Becoming a home inspector in Washington State requires a combination of education, experience, and certification. Applicants must have at least three years of experience in the construction industry and earn a certificate from an approved home inspection program. They must then pass the Washington State Home Inspection Exam and submit a Home Inspector Application Form to the Department of Licensing. Professional designations are also recommended. Once certified, home inspectors must complete 15 hours of continuing education each year to maintain their certification. Following these steps will help aspiring home inspectors become qualified and certified to practice in the state of Washington.
